New divers say that snorkeling is like opening the door to another world. The thousands of strange species of aquatic life are both wondrous and alien. If you have not snorkeled before, you may be cautious about the experience, but it is not difficult, and the marvels of the ocean remove any lingering anxiety you may feel about mastering this new activity. Before you dive in, be aware of these valuable snorkeling tips for beginners.

3 Snorkeling Tips for New Divers

1. Check Your Gear

For safety and efficiency, make sure you check your equipment before you dive. The mask should fit snugly but comfortably, and it should not leak. The rubber skirt should create a watertight seal against your face. The fins should likewise fit comfortably, but tightly enough, that they won't fall off in the water. You should also be able to walk in them. Furthermore, check the snorkel to ensure that it is the appropriate length. It should let you submerge your whole head but still breathe through it. For best results, the snorkel should have a silicon lip shield to prevent water from entering the mouthpiece.

2. Learn Defogging

The whole point of snorkeling is to enjoy the view. If your mask is all fogged up and blinding you to the wonders of the sea, it defeats the purpose of your adventure. Defog your mask regularly by swirling water against the inside. Don't touch the glass with your fingers; if it becomes grimy, clean it with a toothbrush and a small amount of toothpaste and rinse with hot water. You can also purchase defogging gel—a drop of baby shampoo also works—which you apply to the inside with a clean cloth.

3. Practice Breathing

It can be disconcerting learning to breathe while underwater. It takes practice to keep the snorkel infeed above water level. Breathe in and out through the mouthpiece; if you exhale into the water, you create bubbles and obstruct your view. Stay calm, breathe deeply, and practice in more tranquil water, like a pool or a shallow inlet, if you're feeling wary. You need to be comfortable with this before you snorkel so that you can focus on the wonders around you.

If snorkeling sounds like fun to you, contact Twogood Kayaks Hawaii in Kailua, HI. They have served Oahu for more than 35 years. They rent snorkeling equipment and offer paddleboard, bike, and kayak rentals at affordable rates. They will provide expert advice, to beginners and experts alike, on how to best take advantage of your snorkeling opportunity. They also offer guided tours of the island departing from Kailua and Lanikai beaches. Visit their website to learn more about the company or call (808) 262-5656 to book a tour or reserve equipment.