📍 Aegean Beauty Beneath the Surface

Kos is surrounded by the breathtaking Aegean Sea, offering excellent visibility, calm waters, and a diverse underwater world. Here’s why the island is a dream come true for snorkelers and divers:

✔ Crystal-Clear Waters: Visibility ranges from 20 to 40 meters, making it easy to explore marine life.
✔ Mild Water Temperatures: Ranging from 18°C in spring to 26°C in summer, ideal for long dives.
✔ Diverse Marine Life: Expect to see octopuses, sea turtles, colorful fish, and even dolphins.
✔ Rich Underwater History: Explore ancient ruins, submerged shipwrecks, and volcanic rock formations.
✔ Diving Centers for All Levels: Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, Kos has certified diving schools to guide you.

📍 Marine Life & Underwater Landscapes

Kos’ diverse underwater world features everything from volcanic rock formations to ancient shipwrecks. Here’s what you can expect:

✔ Colorful Fish & Marine Life: Parrotfish, moray eels, groupers, and even sea turtles.
✔ Hidden Caves & Rock Formations: Many snorkeling spots feature natural caves and tunnels.
✔ Shipwrecks & Ruins: Explore ancient relics submerged beneath the sea.
✔ Reef Systems & Coral Gardens: Some areas around Kos boast thriving coral colonies.

💡 Tip: The southern coast and nearby islets offer the best variety of underwater landscapes.

📍 Where to Find the Clearest Waters and Richest Marine Life

For those who prefer to stay close to the surface, Kos has some of the most accessible snorkeling locations in Greece. These spots feature shallow reefs, calm waters, and plenty of fish, making them ideal for both first-timers and experienced snorkelers.

🌊 Agios Stefanos Beach

✔ Why It’s Great: Crystal-clear water, snorkel-friendly rocky areas, and the chance to swim to Kastri Islet.
✔ Marine Life: Small schools of fish, starfish, and sea urchins.
✔ Best Time to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.

✔ For Beginners: Stick to Paradise Beach, Agios Stefanos, and Pserimos Reef.
✔ For Experienced Divers: Try The Plane Wreck, Bubble Cave, or deeper reefs.
✔ For Family-Friendly Fun: Head to Paradise Beach or Agios Stefanos for calm waters.

📍 What to Bring for the Best Experience Underwater

Before you head out into the Aegean, make sure you have the right snorkeling or diving gear. Many diving centers and beach rentals provide equipment, but if you want the best experience, consider bringing your own.

🌊 Snorkeling Gear Checklist

✔ Mask & Snorkel – A high-quality, anti-fog mask with a dry-top snorkel ensures clear visibility and easy breathing.
✔ Fins – Help you swim effortlessly and improve control in the water.
✔ Rash Guard or Wetsuit (Optional) – Protects against sunburn and cooler water temperatures.
✔ Waterproof Bag – To keep phones, keys, and other valuables dry.

💡 Pro Tip: Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment.

📍 How to Stay Safe While Exploring the Aegean

Even in the calm waters of Kos, safety should always come first. Follow these essential safety tips to make your snorkeling or diving trip stress-free.

✔ Snorkeling Safety Tips

✔ Always snorkel with a buddy – Never go out alone, even in shallow waters.
✔ Be aware of currents – Some areas have stronger currents, so stick to designated snorkeling zones.
✔ Stay hydrated – The sun and saltwater can cause dehydration quickly.
✔ Know your limits – Don’t push yourself too hard; take breaks when needed.

💡 Pro Tip: Wear a bright snorkeling vest so boats and other swimmers can spot you.

📍 Finding the Right Tour for Your Skill Level

Kos has numerous snorkeling and diving operators, but how do you pick the right one? Here’s what to consider:

🏝️ Choosing a Snorkeling Tour

✔ Beginner-friendly locations – Tours should take you to calm waters with plenty of marine life.
✔ Small group sizes – Avoid overcrowded tours for a better experience.
✔ Eco-friendly operators – Choose companies that follow marine conservation practices.

💡 Best Snorkeling Tour Locations:
✔ Pserimos Reef – Great for spotting sea turtles and colorful fish.
✔ Therma Beach – A unique mix of hot spring waters and snorkeling.
✔ Agios Stefanos Beach – Perfect for beginner snorkelers.

✔ Snorkeling & diving in Kos are best enjoyed with the right equipment & preparation.
✔ Stay safe by following essential snorkeling & diving tips.
✔ Book a guided tour with reputable, certified professionals.

For those looking to take their diving adventures in Kos to the next level, the island offers a range of advanced diving experiences that provide thrill, mystery, and conservation efforts. From exploring deep-sea wrecks to the eerie beauty of night diving and supporting marine conservation, advanced divers will find plenty of exciting underwater challenges.

📍 Help Protect Kos’ Marine Environment

Kos is actively involved in marine conservation efforts, and eco-diving allows visitors to contribute to protecting the ocean.

🌊 Participate in Underwater Cleanup Dives

✔ Why It’s Important: Help remove plastic waste and fishing debris.
✔ Best Places to Join: Several diving centers in Kos Town organize clean-up events.
✔ Who Can Join? All certified divers are welcome to participate.

💡 Pro Tip: Choose eco-certified diving operators that practice responsible tourism.

✔ Explore fascinating wreck dives, from WWII aircraft to sunken ships.
✔ Experience the magic of night diving with unique marine encounters.
✔ Give back to the ocean with eco-diving and marine conservation efforts.