BEST SPOTS TO SNORKEL IN ENGLEWOOD, MANASOTA KEY, VENICE AND BOCA GRANDE, FLORIDA
We have found the top p laces to snorkel around Englewood, Venice and Boca Grande. There are not that many spots since there is not a lot of structure for the fish.
There are however a few places where you can see more than just sand. The best two (2) places to snorkel around Englewood, FL is Caspersen Beach in Venice and Gasparilla Island State Park (Boca Grande).
We did include a few other options as well and included some YouTube Videos.
BEST PLACE TO SNORKEL IN VENICE
CASPERSEN BEACH
Caspersen Beach is very close to Englewood and has some pretty good snorkeling. There are five (5) little jetties that stretch out from the beach about 100 ft.
To get there, you have to drive towards Venice Pier and then head south. Parking can be an issue on the weekends (like anywhere). The shoreline is a bit rocky, but you can find a sandy entrance.
This places is a perfect snorkeling spot for beginners. Depending on the time of year, you will see Snook, Mangrove Snappers, Sergeant Majors, Sheepshead and crabs.
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TOP SPOT TO SNORKEL IN BOCA GRANDE
GASPARILLA ISLAND STATE PARK
There is some good snorkeling on the southwestern tip of Gasparilla Island (Boca Grande). There are two (2) spots that have some structure for snorkeling.
The first spot is right along the sea wall, where rocks protrude into the gulf. The second spot is along the old pier that moves out in an "L" shape.
Due to a strong current, you are not allowed to swim on the very southern end.
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SNORKELING THE TRESLTES
IN PLACIDA/BOCA GRANDE
There is an old railroad trestle that spans the Placida Sound, from Placida to Little Gasparilla Island (Boca Grande).
Although you can probably get there by kayaking or swimming/snorkeling, it best to go by boat. There is also a sandbar next to it where boats anchor and have some fun in the sun.
Some places by the trestles are not that deep while others are about 10-12 foot deep. You can find mangrove snappers, sheepshead, porcupine (puffers) and spadefish.
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SNORKELING THE GASPARILLA LIGHTHOUSE
BOCA GRANDE
There is a small reef just off shore from the lighthouse on Gasparilla Island. The reef is about 500 feet from shore so its a good idea to have a dive buoy, so you don't get hit by some passing boat.
This snorkeling spot is in about 12-14 feet of water. If the current is strong, it can be a challenge. Since its a little deep, you should go when the water is super clear so you can see all the way down. There is a bunch of rocks and sea grass in the area. Lots of sheepshead during the winter but visibility and cooler water temps are a drag. Summertime with East winds is the best time to go.
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