Make A Splash! Snorkeling in Washington

MAKE A SPLASH!

SNORKELING IN WASHINGTON

Story & Photos by Dylan Hanson Design by Katie Jo Stewart

Snorkeling is a great way to explore new places and see beautiful sea life up close.

Washington has a variety of places to snorkel and discoveries to be made.

Snorkeling requires a simple set up and it’s a great way to go on new adventures.

PLACES TO SNORKEL IN WASHINGTON:

• Olympic View Marina • Shine Tidelands State Park • Edmonds Underwater Park • Illahee State Park • Mukilteo State Park • Sunrise Beach Park • Rosario Beach • Alki Beach Park • Titlow Beach

GEAR FOR A SIMPLE SETUP:

• Mask - make sure it fits your head before purchasing. • Snorkel - find one with a comfortable mouthpiece. • Fins - loose fins are the worst so you want to make sure you find one that are • comfortable but won’t slip off and sink to the sea floor.

TIPS:

GEAR FOR COLDER WATER:

• Wetsuit - finding the right wetsuit size can be frustrating at times but just be patient. • Gloves - if you have bad circulation these are a lifesaver, especially in colder water. • Boots - these are great especially when exiting from rougher terrain. • Hood - this along with everything else you should be ready to go! • If you’re taking your mask off temporarily, put it around your neck. In stronger currents, the waves can knock your mask off if it’s sitting on your forehead.

• Be conscious of not making contact with sea life and terrain especially when using your fins.

• Don’t go on an empty stomach but be conscious of what you eat beforehand.

• Come hydrated and make sure to drink lots of water.

ADDITIONAL GEAR:

• Towels - a must have for obvious reasons but the microfiber ones are the best. • Blankets - help yourself warm up after a snorkel trip in colder water. • Hand Warmers - also good to have just in case. • Mesh Bag - consolidating everything into a smaller space helps when traveling with multiple pieces of gear. • Waterproof Phone Case - snap some shots while you’re exploring and you can share them right after! • Underwater Camera - capture video and new memories. The GoPro Hero 9 seems to be a good standard. • If water gets in your mask, first take a breath from your snorkel. Then press the top of your mask firmly against your forehead at a slight angle.

Blow a breath of air through your mask to clear the water out and quickly seal the mask back on your face.