If you are a lover of snorkelers and looking for the perfect destination to explore the underwater world. You might be wondering whether the Maldives or Singapore is the better option. Both destinations have outstanding attractions and adventures to offer, but which one is better for snorkeling?
In this article, we will compare the two destinations and help you decide which one is the best fit for your snorkeling adventure.
The Maldives: A Snorkeler’s Paradise

The Maldives is a tropical paradise made up of over 1,100 coral islands located in the Indian Ocean. The crystal clear waters of the Maldives are home to some of the most beautiful and diverse coral reefs in the world. Making it a top destination for snorkelers and divers alike.
- One of the most famous activities in the Maldives is snorkeling, and for good reason.
- With visibility reaching up to 30 meters. You can explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, such as colorful fish, sea turtles, and even reef sharks.
- The Maldives is also home to some of the largest manta ray and whale shark populations in the world, making it a dream destination for snorkelers and divers.
- Some of the best snorkeling locations in the Maldives include Air Atoll, Baa Atoll, and South Male Atoll.
- These atolls offer a variety of snorkeling experiences, from shallow lagoons to deeper drop-offs, providing opportunities to explore a wide range of marine life.
Other than snorkeling, the Maldives delivers other water activities, such as surfing, diving, and kayaking. With its pristine beaches and clear waters, the Maldives is a popular destination for relaxation and luxury resorts.
Singapore: A City-State with Snorkeling Opportunities

Singapore, on the other hand, is a small city-state located in Southeast Asia. While it may not be as well-known for snorkeling as the Maldives. It still offers great opportunities to explore the underwater world.
- One of the ultimate snorkeling destinations in Singapore is the Sisters Islands Marine Park, a coral reef located just a short boat ride from the city-state.
- Here, you can snorkel in beautiful clear waters and encounter a variety of marine life, including seahorses, coral, and fish.
- Pulau Hantu, another island off the beach of Singapore, is another widespread snorkeling spot.
- Here, you can explore a variety of coral formations and marine life, including octopuses, cuttlefish, and reef sharks.
Read Also – The Best Places in Singapore 2023
In addition to snorkeling, Singapore offers a variety of city attractions, such as shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. The city-state is also known for its cleanliness and safety, making it a great destination for families and solo travelers.
Which One is Better for Snorkeling? Maldives or Singapore
While both destinations offer great opportunities for snorkeling, the Maldives is generally considered the better option for serious snorkelers. The crystal clear waters, energetic coral reefs, and various marine life complete it a top destination for aquatic exploration.
Singapore, on the other hand, offers more of a city experience with some snorkeling opportunities. While it may not have the same level of underwater beauty as the Maldives, it still offers a great way to experience the underwater world while enjoying the city’s other attractions.
Best Places in Maldives and Singapore for Snorkeling 2023 – 2024
The Maldives and Singapore are both known for their beautiful waters and incredible snorkeling opportunities. Given below you will encounter the best spots to snorkel in the Maldives and Singapore.
Best Snorkeling Spots in the Maldives

- Baa Atoll, Maldives
Baa Atoll is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and home to some of the most vibrant coral reefs in the Maldives. Snorkelers can hope to see plenty of oceanic life, including sea turtles, colorful fish, and even whale sharks.
The Hanifaru Bay in Baa Atoll is particularly famous for its annual gathering of whale sharks and manta rays.
- Ari Atoll, Maldives
It is another widespread snorkeling spot in the Maldives, known for its beautiful clear waters and various marine life. Snorkelers can investigate the vibrant coral reefs and swim alongside sea turtles, sharks, and a variety of tropical fish.
Some of the best snorkeling spots in Ari Atoll include Fish Head and Maaya Thila.
- South Male Atoll, Maldives
South Male Atoll is a popular snorkeling spot known for its colorful coral reefs and clear waters. Snorkelers can hope to see the different types of marine life, including sea turtles, reef sharks, and schools of colorful fish.
The Cocoa Thila and Guraidhoo Corner are two of the best snorkeling places in South Male Atoll.
Best Snorkeling Spots in Singapore

Singapore may be known more for its city attractions than its snorkeling, but it still offers some great opportunities to explore the underwater world. Here are some of the best places to snorkel in Singapore:
- Sisters Islands Marine Park
Sisters Islands Marine Park is a popular snorkeling destination in Singapore, located just a short boat ride from the city-state.
The park is home to a variety of coral reefs and marine life, including seahorses, reef sharks, and colorful fish.
Snorkelers can also explore the park’s intertidal zones and spot starfish, crabs, and other marine creatures.
- Pulau Hantu
Pulau Hantu is another popular snorkeling spot in Singapore, known for its clear waters and vibrant marine life.
Snorkelers can encounter a variety of coral shapes and marine creatures, including reef sharks, octopuses, and cuttlefish.
The island is located just a short boat ride from Singapore’s mainland and is a great option for a day trip.
- Lazarus Island
Lazarus Island is a lesser-known snorkeling spot in Singapore, but it offers some great opportunities to explore the underwater world.
The island is home to a mixture of coral reefs and marine life, such as butterflyfish, clownfish, and parrotfish.
The clear waters also create a splendid spot for swimming and lounging on the beach.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision between the Maldives and Singapore will depend on your tastes and priorities. If you are looking for a reliable snorkeling adventure, the Maldives might be the better option. However, if you want to combine snorkeling with a city experience, Singapore could be a great choice.
Read Also:
6 thoughts on “Which is better Maldives or Singapore for snorkeling?”