Anyone who has seen Pixar's animated classic, Finding Nemo, will know the underwater world is brimming with captivating sights. While the aquatic purist may claim that these sights can only truly be appreciated from a depth of 100 feet, there is still a great deal to be seen from the shallows.
While taking up scuba diving takes a high level of training and a substantial monetary commitment, snorkeling is an activity available to anyone who procures a mask. Skimming the surface of the water and staring downward, all you need to do is propel yourself idly with the aid of flippers.
While the quintessential snorkeling spot in Australia is undoubtedly the Great Barrier Reef, Sydney boasts several more modest coves that are appropriate for anyone eager to submerge themselves.
Although Bondi Beach is Sydney's most famous beach, the crowds and surf do not lend themselves to snorkeling. The more isolated ridges of
North Bondi would be the optimal location.
For anyone interested in coming face-to-face with a
blue grope, it may be time to visit
Clovelly. Located in the Eastern Suburbs, Clovelly is arguably the most popular snorkeling spot in Sydney.
Sydney's northern suburbs enjoy a variety of snorkeling locations. The entire coastline, stretching from
Manly Beach to
Palm Beach, possesses the sheltered shallows and gentle swells that are ideal for snorkeling.
For anyone uncomfortable with the notion of driving to an undiscovered beach and taking to the waves, companies such as
Pro Dive Drummoyne offer a range of snorkeling tours, with costs ranging from $89 to $199 per person. Similarly,
Sydney Community College provides a more cerebral approach, running ProDive workshops in Coogee.
