Rollaboard Travel - Tips on Traveling Light

By: Alexine

One of the most sought after attractions around the world are natural coral reefs. They are home to many exotic sea creatures and lots of colorful fish. People travel long distances to visit these remarkable places. Here are countries where you can find some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. Whether you dive, snorkel or are just looking to take a boat tour, anyone can enjoy one of these coral reefs.

Africa

Seychelles is home to some of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. This cluster of islands is located off the east coast of Africa out in the Indian Ocean. If you are looking for multiple reefs in one place then this is the vacation spot for you. Here you will find one of the finest atolls in the world Aldabra Atoll along with Ste Anne Marine National Park.

Asia

Surrounded by several bodies of water, Indonesia is home to many beautiful coral reefs. The three most popular are Raja Ampats, Nusa Tenggara Island Reefs and Napoleon Reef.

India has one of the most beautiful ocean oases, the Andaman Sea Reefs. These clusters of coral reefs are some of the most diverse in the world. There is an abundance of fish, large sea creatures and even crocodiles.

The Philippines is home to the Tubbataha Reefs which shelters hundreds of beautiful sea creatures. These reefs are very popular because of their unique variety of coral and the diving and snorkeling is very accessible.

Japan has some of the largest coral in the world and the Shiraho Lagoon Reef has over one hundred species of coral. This reef is right off shore so you will not have to go far to explore this beautiful masterpiece.

Caribbean

The Bahamas has two of the best coral reefs in the world, San Salvador and The Great Bahama Banks. San Salvador is just a few yards off the shores of the beautiful island of Watling and is a diver’s paradise. The Great Bahama Banks is an old and slow growing coral reef that has both clear water and ancient coral skeletons.

If you are looking to snorkel with your children then the Curacao Underwater Park at Jan Thiel Bay in Netherlands Antilles is the place to go. It has miles of clear and calm water full of beautiful coral and underwater species.

With ship wrecks abundant, the Anegada Reef in the British Virgin Islands is a great place to explore. Bring your favorite underwater camera while you dive to document the amazing sights.

Central America

Belize has many gorgeous coral reefs to explore with your friends and family. The most popular is the Belize Barrier Reef, which is one of the largest in the world. The island of Caye Caulker is a small island that is part of the Belize Barrier Reef and perfect for snorkeling.

Two wonderful places in Mexico to dive are off the shores of Cancun and Cozumel. If you travel to Cancun in the Yucatan Peninsula be sure to visit the Great Mayan Reef. This is the second largest reef in the world. Also Cozumel is surrounded by beautiful coral reefs including Paso del Cedral Reef and The Palancar Reef.

South Pacific

Australia is known for the largest coral reef in the world, the Great Barrier Reef. This reef is home to many exotic species that are not found anywhere else in the world. Also if you are a historic diver then do not forget to explore the S.S. Yongala shipwreck as it is quite a site.

When traveling to the exotic islands of Fiji do not miss out on exquisite soft coral reefs in the Namena Marine Reserve. This reef is home to more than four hundred coral species and whales during breeding season in the summer.

Pick Your Place

Now that you have more places to choose from around the world it should be easy to find a beautiful coral reef to explore. Be sure to allow time for sightseeing and other fun activities when you make the long haul half way around the world.