Updated: December 30, 2025
Snorkeling at St. Pete Beach puts you face-to-face with tropical fish, sea turtles, manatees, and massive sand dollar populations in shallow, crystal-clear waters. Three prime locations—Egmont Key State Park, Shell Key Preserve, and Fort De Soto Park—offer easy access to Florida's best underwater treasures without expensive gear or training.
During my first snorkeling trip at St. Pete Beach, I felt like I'd jumped into a saltwater aquarium. The clarity of the water around Pass-a-Grille let me swim alongside schools of tropical fish just a few feet below the surface.
Snorkeling is a sport for all ages. Plus, it doesn't cost much and requires little to no training. Just strap on fins, pull on a mask and snorkel (which can be purchased at tons of area stores or rented) and prepare to be amazed. You may see dozens of varieties of tropical fish, as well as conch, sand dollars, crabs, scallops, sea turtles, starfish, sting rays and manatees. There are several areas that are consistently ranked as the best snorkeling spots in St. Pete Beach.
Egmont Key State Park Photo: Courtesy of Visit St. Petersburg Clearwater Florida
Egmont Key State Park is a popular hotspot for snorkeling, exploring and soaking in history. The water is shallow and clear, making this a 328-acre island a great spot to see the treasures beneath the water's surface.
The island and the surrounding waters are part of a National Wildlife Refuge which houses the most substantial sea turtle breeding grounds in Pinellas County. The ruins of Fort Dade (built during the Spanish-American War in 1898) and a working lighthouse that's more than 150 years old also call this island home. To get there, you can take the Egmont Key Ferry from the Bay Pier inside Fort De Soto Park to the island or reserve a spot on one of several charter boats that offer tours of the area.
Shell Key Island Photo: Courtesy of Visit St. Petersburg Clearwater Florida
Shell Key Preserve is also a favorite for snorkeling fans. This 1,800-acre island is known for its abundant sand dollar population, which draws shellers and snorkelers year-round. The warm, calm waters make snorkeling here some of the best in Florida. Catch the Shell Key Shuttle from Pass-a-Grille or one of many private excursions for a short ride to the island.
Shell Key Island Photo: Courtesy of Visit Florida Florida
Fort De Soto Park is another gem for snorkelers and is easy to drive to via the Pinellas Bayway. With its turquoise water and sparkling sand, you'll see why it earned a spot on TripAdvisor's Top 25 Beaches in the United States in 2024. North Beach is the most popular area to snorkel as it's water is calm, clear and shallow. There is also plenty of parking and space to spread out.
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After your snorkeling adventures on Florida's Gulf Coast, consider extending your beach getaway to Alabama's shores. Vacation Homes Collection offers beautiful Gulf Shores rentals perfect for families who want more time exploring warm Gulf waters and pristine beaches.
