If you’ve never been snorkeling before, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure; especially here in Destin, Florida, where emerald-green waters, soft white sand, and vibrant marine life make it one of the best snorkeling destinations in the country.
At Pelican Adventures, we help first-time snorkelers feel comfortable, confident, and excited from the moment they step aboard. Whether you’re a total beginner or just haven’t snorkeled in a while, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before diving into your first underwater adventure.
🏝️ 1. What Is Snorkeling, and Why Destin Is the Perfect Place to Try It
Snorkeling is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to explore life beneath the surface, no scuba certification or heavy equipment needed. All you need is a mask, snorkel, and fins, and you’re ready to float effortlessly above coral reefs, fish, and other marine creatures.
Destin is famous for its crystal-clear, shallow waters and calm conditions, making it ideal for beginners. The East Pass jetty area and nearby sandbars offer gentle currents and incredible visibility, so you can see everything from colorful tropical fish to curious crabs and the occasional sea turtle.
🐠 2. What You’ll See on a Pelican Adventures Snorkeling Tour
Every trip is a little different, that’s part of the fun! On a Pelican Adventures snorkeling trip, you might encounter:
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Schools of sergeant majors, angelfish, and sheepshead
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Brightly colored starfish and shells resting along the sea floor
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Gentle dolphins swimming near the boat
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Crystal-clear views of the rock jetty and sea grass beds
Our crew knows all the best spots and will take you to areas teeming with life, away from crowds and boat traffic.
🧰 3. What to Bring (and What’s Provided)
At Pelican Adventures, we provide all your snorkeling gear, including mask, snorkel, fins, and flotation vests, all sanitized between uses.
Here’s what you should bring:
✅ Swimsuit (a rash guard or swim shirt is great for sun protection)
✅ Sunscreen (reef-safe only, please!)
✅ Towel and dry clothes for after your trip
✅ Underwater camera or GoPro if you’d like to capture the memories
✅ Gratuity for your crew, they’ll make sure your trip is smooth and fun!
🧜♀️ 4. Tips for First-Time Snorkelers
Feeling a little nervous? Totally normal! Here are a few quick tips to help you feel confident in the water:
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Practice breathing through your snorkel while floating face-down near the boat before you swim off.
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Relax and move slowly; the calmer you are, the better your visibility and the more wildlife you’ll see.
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Use your fins gently to glide; big kicks will just stir up sand.
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Don’t touch coral or marine life. Look, don’t grab!
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Listen to your crew’s instructions, they’re there to help you have fun safely.
Our guides are patient, friendly, and love introducing new snorkelers to the underwater world. You’ll feel like a pro in no time.
🌞 5. Why Choose Pelican Adventures for Your First Snorkeling Trip
Pelican Adventures has been a trusted name in Destin water excursions for over 20 years, offering snorkeling tours, parasailing, fishing, and dolphin cruises, all from our private marina on the Destin Harbor.
When you book a snorkeling tour with us, you’re not just signing up for a boat ride, you’re getting:
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A guided, family-friendly experience in calm, shallow waters
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All equipment provided (just bring yourself and a smile!)
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A knowledgeable crew who knows the best snorkeling spots
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Combo packages if you want to add parasailing or dolphin watching
We take pride in creating unforgettable memories for families, couples, and first-timers alike.
📅 Ready to Dive In?
If you’re planning your first snorkeling adventure, there’s no better place than Destin, Florida and no better crew than Pelican Adventures.
👉 Book your snorkeling tour today and see why locals and visitors alike call it one of the most exciting things to do on the Emerald Coast!