Snorkeling is the art of swimming at the surface of a body of water while equipped with a diving mask, a shaped tube called a snorkel, and usually swimfins. In cooler waters, a wetsuit may be necessary. A combination of these tools enables the snorkeler to observe underwater attractions for extended periods of time with little effort.

Snorkeling is a popular recreational activity, particularly at tropical resort destinations. As an activity, Snorkeling is also employed by scuba divers when near the surface, and search and rescue teams may snorkel as part of a water-based search.

The primary attraction of snorkeling is the opportunity to observe underwater life in natural settings like coral reefs and their inhabitants, such as fish, cephalopods, starfish, sea urchins, and mollusks. Snorkeling in sandy areas may allow sighting of rays and various flatfish, while jellyfish, shrimp, sea turtles, various types of sea cactus and other species can be spotted while in the ocean.