Have you ever wondered what the world looks like below sea level? Curious to catch some underwater views? If you're like me, I love seeing the world through a different perspective. Mountains, oceans, glaciers, jungles -- all these different scenes are high on my bucket list, but when asked which scenery I prefer, my answer is quick: beach trip? I'm in. I LOVE the ocean. Okay, let's back up -- I have a loving yet sometimes hesitant relationship with the ocean. I think it provides one of the most peaceful backdrops for escape. I can't tell you the countless moments of solitude I've enjoyed walking along the crashing waves. Hearing the sound of the water hitting the shore. Smelling that salty water as you walk barefoot in the sand. Visually catching the perfect sunset as the sun disappears beyond the waves. All of these moments leave me mesmerized at the Creator behind this view.
Peaceful. Calming -- yet exhilarating.
If I'm honest, the mystery below those murky waters sometimes makes me catch my breath. Will I see something dangerous? What's really beyond what I can't see? The vastness and mysterious beckon of these crashing waves is what causes my heart to skip a beat. It's an adventure.
Let me show you my adventures beneath those powerful waves in one of my favorite countries to explore - JAMAICA.
If you've ever thought about taking up the hobby of snorkeling, let these pictures inspire you. If you've been fearful to strap on goggles and fins and dive into an environment you're not so sure of -- let me show you how peaceful it really is beneath the sea.
LOCATION: Runaway Bay, Jamaica //Keep scrolling to discover my top three reasons why I love snorkeling in Jamaica!
WHAT I LOVE ABOUT SNORKELING IN JAMAICA: 1. Warm waters >> Obviously, the more shallow the water, the warmer it will be. Since there are reefs present around the perimeter of the Caribbean, there are more shallow spots which allow for the water to be slightly warmer than let's say, San Francisco. In Jamaica, the average daytime temperatures are in the 80s with nighttime temperatures in the upper 60s and 70s. It's not freezing when you step into the Caribbean Sea -- and for that, I'm thankful.
2. Lots of reefs>> There are several reefs present around the shoreline of Jamaica, which makes it a perfect spot to snorkel. I have had several conversations with locals in Jamaica about the presence of sharks <<okay, it's a fear!>> in the Caribbean Sea, and they have pointed out the large presence of reefs around the resorts we have stayed. It's true -- these reefs keep the larger fish away. One great way to know if there is a reef near you is to look at the waves. Are you seeing these waves make a "white cap" look several feet away from the shoreline? That same appearance of the waves crashing onto the sand is what waves look like when they hit rocks. If you are seeing this out a bit into the ocean, then there is more than likely a reef several yards from the shore. Most of the time, if you dive under water, you can see the reef set up as almost a boundary. If you are nervous, you can always check with the hotel staff of where you are staying. They can point out safer boundaries or the best spot to spot the best underwater views. Another positive side of having reefs: you'll see lot of fish around those reefs! The coral reefs are an attraction to most of the fish, as they can find food and refuge among the reefs. You will want to explore those reefs without touching them or bumping into them. Coral reef can be very sharp and cut you very easily. Jamaica has a ton of these reefs, and they are beautiful!
3. Safe views>>
Most of these underwater pictures were taken in a very deep part of the ocean. We traveled by boat, and the bottom of the ocean was at least 10-15 yards below us. We had life preservers and were with a travel guide. Deeper water, means bigger fish. However, a top item about snorkeling in Jamaica is that you do not always have to travel into deeper water to see more beautiful fish. The prettiest, brightly colored fish tend to stay around those coral reefs. In shallow water, you can get right up into the reefs to check out these fish. You can see this in just about any part of Jamaica right off the shore.
Look below for a video of my exploring off the coast of Bahia Principe in Runaway Bay, Jamaica. Make sure to check out my social media page for more adventuring videos -- I would love to share them with you!
GET OUT AND EXPLORE. Try something new -- you might even love it!
