Snorkeling has been around for literally thousands of years. In Hawaii, people have been using a form of snorkeling to go fishing and for recreation for nearly as long. For people living and visiting Hawaii, snorkeling can be a great way to enjoy underwater creatures for a very small price.

Snorkeling gear is one of those activities that allows you to purchase gear for cheap like $20, or for a lot, like$200. You can usually find a good set of snorkel, mask, and fins for less than $60. If you are vacationing in Hawaii you’ll probably want to pack your own snorkel and save a few dollars. Gear can be expensive at a lot shops in the islands.

Snorkel Mask

You’ll need to buy a snorkel mask that fits your face structure. All masks are different and you should definitely try on your mask before you purchase it. This can be one of the most frustrating things about snorkeling. If your mask is always filling up with water or fogging you won’t have any fun at all.

You may also want to invest in a better mask that has glass with anti-fogging capabilities. There’s no use going snorkeling if you can’t see any of the fish or reef.

Snorkel

The snorkel is also important to you enjoying your experience. Although if you want to hold your breath you can probably do this just the same, a good snorkel can allow you to keep your face looking down in the water for a long time, even in choppy water.

Some snorkels come with splash guards. This is just a piece of convoluted plastic attached to the end of the snorkel mask that keeps water out of the breathing spout while you may be in rougher water. This can be a very nice addition if you don’t want to be drinking salt water all day long.

Snorkel Fins

There are all types of snorkel fins. Long ones, short ones, rounded ends, adjustable straps, closed bottom, etc. You can spend hundreds on a good set or you can buy cheap ones that will do the same job.

If you’re not planning on snorkeling but once a year, you probably don’t need the extremely expensive fins. However, theres something to be said for more expensive fins. They’re usually a lot more comfortable. You’ll need to try the snorkel fins on as well before you buy them. There’s nothing worse than getting a pair of fins that just kills your feet after 10 minutes of swimming around. What a way to cut your snorkel short.