Top Scuba Diving & Snorkeling Locations in Austin, Texas, United States
1. Barton Springs Pool
A historic, spring-fed swimming pool in Zilker Park offering crystal-clear water perfect for snorkeling and observing unique aquatic life.
- Natural Environment: Spring-fed pool provides a natural habitat for diverse aquatic life.
- Year-round Activity: Pool stays at a constant 68-70 degrees, allowing for year-round snorkeling.
- Centrally Located: Conveniently located in the heart of Austin within Zilker Park.
2. Hamilton Pool Preserve
A natural pool created by the erosion of an underground river, offering a unique diving and snorkeling experience.
- Unique Landscape: 60-foot high dripping grotto adds to the scenic beauty.
- Limited Access: Reservations required for entry, ensuring a less crowded experience.
- Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities to spot rare birds, bats, and various plant species.
3. Lady Bird Lake
Urban lake located in downtown Austin offering opportunities for scuba diving with underwater sculptures.
- Underwater Art: Sculpture Art Scuba (SAS) program installs various pieces of artwork beneath the lake's surface.
- Central Location: Located in downtown Austin, easily accessible by car or public transportation.
- Scuba Training: Offers opportunities for scuba diving lessons and certification.
4. Blue Hole at Wimberley
A refreshing swimming hole featuring crystal-clear waters and stunning natural surroundings ideal for snorkeling.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by towering cypress trees, scenic bluffs, and limestone formations.
- Limited Parking: Parking may be limited during peak seasons; plan ahead for a more enjoyable experience.
- Wildlife Encounters: Opportunities to encounter various aquatic and terrestrial wildlife, including beavers and armadillos.
5. San Pedro Spring
A pristine swimming hole offering crystal-clear waters and a cave to explore during snorkeling.
- Cave Exploration: Explore the small but scenic underwater cave within the spring.
- Family-friendly: Shallow waters and gentle currents make it suitable for families with children.
- Remote Location: Located in a less developed area, providing a more secluded experience.
6. Gruene Lake
A peaceful lake offering opportunities for scuba diving with sunken treasures and underwater vegetation.
- Sunken Treasures: Historical artifacts and vehicles submerged to create a unique diving experience.
- Remote Location: Located in a quiet, rural area providing a more secluded experience.
- Dive Operators: Local dive operators offer guided dives and equipment rentals.
7. Emma Long Metropolitan Park
A park offering opportunities for snorkeling in the Lake Austin portion of the Colorado River.
- Lake Austin: Diverse aquatic life and underwater vegetation within Lake Austin.
- Recreational Amenities: Picnic areas, volleyball courts, and playgrounds make it a great day out for the family.
- Boat Launch: Boat launch available for those wanting to explore further.
8. McKinney Falls State Park
A state park offering a swimming area ideal for snorkeling and exploring underwater life.
- Swimming Hole: The Onion Creek offers a refreshing swimming hole for snorkeling.
- Hiking Trails: Numerous hiking trails to explore the park's scenic beauty.
- Historical Landmarks: Two waterfalls with historical grinding mills nearby.
9. Medina Lake
A beautiful lake offering opportunities for scuba diving and snorkeling with underwater vegetation.
- Underwater Vegetation: Plentiful aquatic plants provide a unique habitat for various aquatic life.
- Remote Location: Located in the Texas Hill Country, providing a more secluded experience.
- Dive Operators: Local dive operators offer guided dives and equipment rentals.
10. Inks Lake State Park
A state park offering a crystal-clear lake perfect for snorkeling and observing diverse aquatic life.
- Crystal-clear Waters: Clear waters provide excellent visibility for snorkeling.
- Camping Opportunities: Numerous camping sites available for an extended stay.
- Hiking Trails: Scenic hiking trails offer opportunities to explore the park's beauty.
11. Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park
A nature park offering a lake for scuba diving and snorkeling with underwater vegetation.
- Underwater Vegetation: Plentiful aquatic plants provide a unique habitat for various aquatic life.
- Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities to spot bald eagles, golden-cheeked warblers, and other rare birds.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided nature tours for a more educational experience.
12. Cedar Creek on Reimers Ranch
A picturesque swimming hole offering opportunities for snorkeling and exploring underwater life.
- Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by beautiful limestone cliffs and scenic bluffs.
- Limited Access: Access may be limited during peak seasons; plan ahead for a more enjoyable experience.
- Swimming Hole: The refreshing swimming hole offers a great spot for snorkeling.
13. Pedernales Falls State Park
A state park offering a river ideal for snorkeling and exploring underwater life.
- River Snorkeling: The Pedernales River provides an opportunity for river snorkeling.
- Camping Opportunities: Numerous camping sites available for an extended stay.
- Hiking Trails: Scenic hiking trails offer opportunities to explore the park's beauty.
14. Krause Springs
A beautiful natural spring-fed pool offering excellent opportunities for snorkeling.
- Natural Environment: Spring-fed pool provides a natural habitat for diverse aquatic life.
- Year-round Activity: Pool stays at a constant 68-70 degrees, allowing for year-round snorkeling.
- Music Events: Occasional music events and festivals held on site.
15. Jacob's Well
A unique swimming hole featuring a collapsed cave system perfect for snorkeling.
- Collapsed Cave System: Explore the unique underwater cave system.
- Limited Access: Reservations required for entry, ensuring a less crowded experience.
- Wildlife Spotting: Opportunities to spot rare birds, bats, and various plant species.