By Patrick M. Lind
Clearwater
beach is a popular tourist city on the west coast of Florida on the Gulf of
Mexico. Tourists relish in the beauty of more than 2.5 miles of white sand. The subtropical climate gives Clearwater Beach almost-perfect weather year-round. One of the most popular tourist activities in Clearwater Beach is snorkeling.
When to Snorkel
Snorkeling season in Clearwater Beach usually runs from the end of February until the beginning of September.
Chartered Groups
There are many chartered snorkeling outings in Clearwater Beach that range in price, duration and difficulty. Check for the option that works best. Some charter groups are Capt. John's Scuba Dive Clearwater, Diving Clearwater and Dream Catcher Explorations (see Resources).
Nonchartered
Snorkeling in Clearwater Beach is easy without a chartered group. Many of the most beautiful underwater sites are easily accessible without a boat or professional guide. Use caution when snorkeling without a guide: Use the buddy system, and always inform someone of where you are going and when you expect to return.
Reefs and Wildlife
When snorkeling, you can expect to see a wide variety of fish and wildlife. Stingrays and turtles are common, along with the occasional dolphin. Brightly colored fish and sponges can be found in the coral reefs just off the coast.
Equipment
Snorkeling equipment can be rented or purchased at many places along the beach. Because snorkeling is a popular activity, finding the equipment to do so is easy.
Resources
About the Author:
Patrick M. Lind has been freelance writing since 2007 and has worked as an editor and journalist for ChicagoSporting.com. He received a Master of Arts in history from the University of Amsterdam in the Netherlands and has traveled extensively throughout the United States, Europe, Asia and Middle East.
