Discover 7 of the best places for snorkeling in Alabama, according to Big 7 Travel

Gulf Shores
Time to dive in. (Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism/Facebook)

Just because it’s August, doesn’t mean the summer fun is over. Strap on those goggles and get ready to explore the beauty that lies beneath. Find out what travel publication Big 7 has named Alabama’s top snorkeling spots.

1. The Whiskey Wreck—Gulf Shores

Located just past the sandbar, plunge into the shore and discover stunning marine life, beautiful landscapes and unique hidden crevices. Here you can see about 10-15 feet in front of you at any given time. Big 7 coins this dive as a “rather thrilling snorkeling session”.

2. Romar Beach—Orange Beach

Romar Beach 2 5D68Fd9C 5056 B365 Abf132F124Fb6B17 5D68Fbd55056B36 5D68Fe02 5056 B365 Ab88C01E5F2E2Aaa
Romar Beach. (Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism)

At Romar Beach you’ll find an artificial snorkeling reef made of a concrete and limestone reef system. Catch a glimpse at the nautical marine life that live in the area.

3. The Jetties at Alabama Point—Orange Beach

For a shallow water snorkeling experience like no other, head to The Jetties at Alabama Point. Marine life you may encounter includes crabs, Black Sea urchins, octopuses, stingrays, sea nettle jellyfish and maybe even…sharks. *cue Jaws theme song*

4. Paddle Wheeler—Gulf Shores

Explore the realms of Paddle Wheeler, a sunken paddle-wheel-propelled-boat in Gulf Shores. Big 7 notes that not many people actually visit this site, so you’re bound to find an abundance of cool marine life!

5. Poseidon’s Playground—Gulf Shores

279803081 5443049289059625 7030386167590317477 N
A breathtaking view. (Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism)

True to its name, this snorkeling spot features a statue of Poseidon. According to Big 7, this reef also includes handprints of actors Nicholas Cage, Cody Walker (brother of the late Paul Walker) and film director Mario Van Peebles.

  • Location: south of Perdido Pass on the eastern edge of the R.V. Minton Artificial Reef Zone
  • Website

6. Perdido Key Snorkel Reef—Orange Beach

While not technically in Alabama, Perdido Key is located right outside Orange Beach waters. Discover many species of tropical fish and sea turtles just below the surface. Big 7 recommends visiting this site when sea conditions are calm, as visibility can increase to 30 feet.

7. Gulf State Park Pavilion—Gulf Shores

Gsp Pavillion Min B32B52F05056B36 B32B549F 5056 B365 Abf08A70388658C4
The Pavilion. (Gulf Shores and Orange Beach Tourism)

Big 7 recommends Gulf State Park Pavilion to beginners and young snorkelers. It’s a safe and calm site where you can discover octopus, crabs, worms, saltwater catfish and more.

Looking for more fun on the Gulf Coast? We’ve got you covered:

Want more stories like this delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for our FREE newsletter.

Gabby Gervais
Gabby Gervais
Articles: 223