Snorkeling requires very little actual swimming. Simply floating on the sea's surface, with your snorkel and mask strapped on, you can enjoy all of the underwater sights below. As you gain confidence, you can begin to practice the "flutter kick," using your legs to propel yourself through the water.

Snorkeling is a rewarding but potentially dangerous activity in which drowning is an inherent risk. Even competent swimmers can tire in the water and should consider wearing a flotation device or swimming aid. For snorkelers, this means either a life jacket or a snorkeling vest.

When you go snorkeling, you need to be able to see clearly to enjoy the experience and stay safe. Though you cannot wear glasses with a snorkel mask, people who wear glasses can use several different methods to seeing clearly in the water.

Snorkel masks allow you to see clearly underwater, enabling you to admire fish, coral reefs and other sea creatures. Snorkel masks require the same cleaning and maintenance as scuba diving masks.

Snorkeling enthusiasts will find many fascinating places to view the underwater world of Florida’s Gulf Coast. The west coast is lined with beaches and barrier islands in the relatively calm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. And from St.