What to Wear Snorkeling
What the tour provides
A mask, snorkel and fins are provided on every tour listed on this site. The mask seals around your eyes and nose. The snorkel is a J-shaped tube that lets you breathe face-down. The fins slip on your feet and let you move efficiently. On cold-water tours (Silfra), the operator provides a drysuit.
What you wear underneath
A rash guard is a tight-fitting long-sleeved shirt made of nylon or spandex. It serves two purposes: it protects your skin from sun damage (even with sunscreen) and it reduces stings from jellyfish or coral. I have worn one in tropical water for years. It is not mandatory, but it is one of the smartest things you can pack.
Reef-safe sunscreen is non-negotiable
Many reefs ban sunscreen containing oxybenzone or octinoxate because these chemicals damage coral and harm fish. A reef-safe sunscreen avoids these. Apply it before you enter the water and reapply after your tour. The sun reflects off the water and catches the top of your head and shoulders even when you feel like you are in shade.
The jewellery rule
Leave all jewellery at shore. Rings can get caught on gear or coral. Necklaces and bracelets can snag. Watches and sunglasses fall off or break. I have seen a guide dive down to retrieve a dropped wedding ring; it is not worth the stress. Pack it in your hotel safe.
On swimsuit colour and patterns
The myth is that bright yellow or shiny items draw sharks. The evidence is weak. There is no strong empirical data showing that swimsuit colour meaningfully changes shark risk on a guided reef snorkel. Wear whatever feels good. That said, high-contrast and shiny items do attract curious fish, so if you prefer to observe without being noticed, a neutral colour works better.
What not to wear
- Regular sunglasses (they fall off or break — leave them).
- Cotton clothes (they stay wet and uncomfortable; bring synthetic or wool).
- Jewellery of any kind.
- Sunscreen with oxybenzone (it damages reefs).
Bring a microfiber towel. It is light, packs small, and dries fast. The hotel towels are often heavy and take forever to dry.
Check tour dates and gear details
The simplest way to join a guided snorkel is through GetYourGuide — a live guide, all gear included, and free cancellation on most tours.
Frequently asked questions
Are mask, snorkel and fins provided?
Yes, on all the tours on this site. They are standard included gear. You do not need to bring or rent your own.
Do I need a rash guard?
Not required, but it is recommended. It protects your skin from sun and reduces jellyfish stings. A thin nylon rash guard packs small and makes the experience much more comfortable.
What sunscreen is reef-safe?
Reef-safe means it avoids oxybenzone and octinoxate. Brands like Neutrogena Ultra Sheer, CeraVe, and Stream2Sea are reef-safe. Always reapply after your tour.
Does swimsuit colour affect shark risk?
No. There is no strong empirical data that colour changes shark risk on a guided reef snorkel. Wear what you like. (High-contrast and shiny items do attract curious fish, so neutral colours are better if you prefer to observe discreetly.)