The 8 Best Snorkeling and Diving Spots in Greece

December 16, 2024 4 min

Greece is a dream destination for both snorkeling and diving enthusiasts. With its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and a mix of ancient and natural wonders beneath the surface, the country offers something for everyone. Whether you prefer the relaxing drift of snorkeling or the depth and thrill of scuba diving, Greece’s coastlines have you covered.

Let’s explore the top snorkeling and diving spots, catering specifically to both types of underwater explorers.

What you need to know about snorkeling in Greece

What is diving and snorkeling in Greece like?

Snorkeling in Greece offers calm, clear waters, teeming with vibrant fish and shallow reefs that are easily accessible from beaches and bays. The warm Mediterranean waters provide excellent visibility, making it easy for snorkelers to spot marine life near the surface, including colorful fish, sponges, and unique rock formations.

Diving in Greece opens up even more possibilities. Greece’s underwater world includes shipwrecks from antiquity and World War I, submerged caves, and volcanic rock formations. The depths offer incredible biodiversity, with everything from turtles and seals to octopuses and vibrant coral gardens.

No matter your preference, Greece’s combination of rich history and marine beauty makes it a destination like no other.

When is the best time to dive or snorkel in Greece?

For Greek snorkeling and diving, the ideal time to visit is between May and October, when water temperatures range from 68°F to 81°F. This period offers optimal conditions for visibility and marine life activity.

For snorkelers, calmer seas and warm temperatures make for a comfortable experience, while divers will appreciate the clear, warm waters that make deep dives more enjoyable.

The cooler months from November to April are best left to experienced divers, as sea conditions can become more challenging for casual snorkelers. For the best snorkeling in Greece, stick to the warmer months.

Best Snorkeling Spots in Greece

1. The Blue Caves, Zakynthos

The Blue Caves in Zakynthos offer a unique snorkeling experience with dazzling blue waters reflecting sunlight from the cave walls. These shallow caves are home to vibrant marine life like fish, sponges, and coral, all easily visible near the surface. Easily accessible from the shore, they’re a stunning spot for a peaceful snorkel.

2. Stingray Bay, Rhodes

For a truly unique snorkeling experience, Stingray Bay in Rhodes offers the chance to swim alongside friendly southern stingrays in shallow, clear waters. The bay is perfect for families or anyone wanting an up-close encounter with these gentle creatures, along with schools of small fish that add to the vibrant underwater scene.

3. Skinaria Beach, Crete

If you’re wondering where to snorkel in Crete, get to know the lesser-known gem, Skinaria Beach. This location is perfect for snorkelers looking to avoid crowds. With excellent visibility, you can see octopuses, starfish, and a range of Mediterranean fish in the rocky outcrops close to the shore. The calm and peaceful waters make it an ideal spot for relaxed exploration.

4. Myrtos Beach, Kefalonia

The stunning Myrtos Beach on Kefalonia offers crystal-clear waters and a diverse array of fish close to shore, making it a great spot for snorkeling. The beach’s white pebbles reflect the sunlight, adding to the visibility underwater and creating a magical, bright blue backdrop for snorkelers.

Best Diving Spots in Greece

1. HMHS Britannic, Kea

For experienced scuba divers, the HMHS Britannic wreck is a bucket-list dive. As the sister ship to the Titanic, this shipwreck sits over 400 feet below the surface near the island of Kea. Although this deep dive is only suitable for advanced divers, the marine life and historical significance make it an unforgettable experience. You can do some shallow dives in the surrounding waters, boasting vibrant marine life and great visibility.

2. Elephant’s Cave, Crete

Elephant’s Cave near Chania, Crete, is a hidden gem for advanced divers. This underwater cave features remarkable rock formations—stalactites, stalagmites, and even fossilized elephant remains. Its depth and intricate passages make it a thrilling dive for those eager to explore.

3. Amphorae Reef, Paros

For divers with an interest in history, Amphorae Reef near Paros offers a unique opportunity to explore an underwater archaeological site. Ancient amphorae, remnants of Greek trading ships, are scattered across the sea floor, creating an extraordinary scuba dive that combines history with marine life. This site is suitable for intermediate divers.

4. The Wall, Chios

The Wall in Chios offers Greece scuba diving with a challenge; advanced divers will love this dramatic drop-off along the coastline. This spot offers stunning visibility and a variety of larger marine species like groupers, barracudas, and even the occasional sea turtle. The sharp underwater cliffs provide an exhilarating experience for those seeking deeper dives.

Other things to do in Greece

When you’re not exploring Greece’s stunning underwater world, there are plenty of activities on land to enjoy in this part of the Mediterranean.

Visit Ancient Ruins: Explore Greece’s rich history by visiting iconic archaeological sites like the Acropolis in Athens or the ruins of Knossos in Crete.

Island Hopping: Sail between the beautiful Cyclades or Ionian Islands, where you can relax on secluded Greek beaches or discover picturesque villages.

Savor Greek Cuisine: After a day in the water, enjoy authentic dishes like fresh seafood, moussaka, and souvlaki at a local taverna by the sea.

From exploring ancient history to savoring local flavors, Greece offers endless ways to unwind after a day of snorkeling or diving.
Ready to explore Greece’s underwater wonders? Charter a yacht with The Moorings and experience these incredible snorkeling and diving spots your way.