Tropical paradise adventures frequently include reef snorkeling, which allows glimpses into the beautiful, colorful world beneath the ocean’s surface. If you want to snorkel during your upcoming Hawaii trip, keeping safety precautions in mind ensures a successful outing. Below are snorkeling safety tips to be mindful of. 

How to Stay Safe During a Reef Snorkeling Adventure

1. Maintain Your Distance From All Marine Life & Coral 

Breaking off a piece of coral as a souvenir is illegal in Hawaii, as reefs are vital parts of ocean ecosystems. Doing so can also cut your skin, since many types of coral are sharp, which could attract sharks. Stay a good distance away from the reef and wildlife, including sea turtles, manta rays, and fish. Trying to interact with wildlife causes them stress, which can result in bites or stings because they are scared. It is also unlawful to touch sea turtles and other marine life in Hawaii. 

2. Snorkel With at Least One Other Person

Enjoying reef snorkeling with other people helps everyone in the group stay safe, especially if some members are not skilled swimmers or have never snorkeled before. Take at least one person with you on all snorkeling trips in case of issues like exhaustion and injury. It’s an even better idea to schedule a snorkeling tour, since guides are present to monitor you and other participants.  

3. Keep Up With the Forecast

Water activities during stormy weather are never recommended, due to strong currents. Stay aware of the forecast in the days leading up to your excursion, and change the date if you do not feel comfortable with the weather conditions for any reason. Should you get caught in a current despite your best efforts, swim perpendicular to it rather than against it to exit the water safely. Swimming against the current tires you out quickly. 

4. Avoid Alcohol 

Hydrating prior to your reef snorkeling excursion avoids dehydration symptoms that can affect your safety, including muscle cramps, confusion, and dizziness. Stick to drinking fresh water and refrain from drinking anything dehydrating, such as coffee, alcohol, and soda. Alcohol is particularly detrimental, since it impairs judgment. 

For a reef snorkeling trip you’ll always remember, contact Kona Ocean Adventures in Kailua, HI. Offering a variety of water activities, including private charters and manta ray snorkeling, team members at this local business are well-versed in Hawaii’s waters and make safety a top priority. Call (808) 930-9861 or visit the website today to book your tour. View clips from the latest tours on Facebook.