Phil Foster Park: Guided Snorkel Tour with Videos & Snacks

Summary

Swim with rays and reef fish at Phil Foster Park guided by locals

You’ll float through coral reefs at Phil Foster Park with a local guide who knows every hiding spot for rays and octopus. Expect real conversation, lots of fish (some curious, some shy), snacks after swimming, and free underwater videos to keep as proof you actually saw that eel. It’s relaxed but never boring — perfect if you want to feel part of Florida’s wild side for an afternoon.

What’s the experience like?

Li handed me my mask right on the sand at Phil Foster Park, grinning like he’d already seen what I was about to see. He grew up here — you can tell by the way he talks about the currents, like they’re old friends. There was this moment before we even got in the water when he pointed at the bridge pylons and said, “That’s where the octopus hides if you’re lucky.” I laughed because I honestly didn’t expect to hear “octopus” in Florida, but hey.

The water felt cooler than I thought it would — not cold, just enough to make my skin tingle. We kicked out maybe 50 meters from shore, and suddenly there were these clouds of tiny fish flickering around us. I kept trying to follow one bright blue one (no idea what it was called), but it darted away every time my shadow passed over. Li would tap his snorkel against his hand and point out things I never would’ve noticed: a little ray half-buried in the sand, a starfish wedged under some coral. At one point he waved us over quietly — there was a moray eel poking its head out. Honestly, that thing looked like it had opinions about us being there.

I liked how nobody rushed anything. We floated above grassy patches where sunlight made weird patterns on the bottom, and sometimes you could hear distant boat engines or just your own breathing through the snorkel. After a while my hands got wrinkly and salty; I didn’t care. Back on shore Li had towels ready (which was nice because my arms were goosebumpy), plus fruit and chips for everyone. He even sent us video clips after — there’s one of me flailing around when a school of fish zipped past my face. Still makes me laugh.

I keep thinking about that feeling when you first look down through your mask and realize how much is going on under there — all these creatures living their lives right below people fishing off the pier or walking their dogs above. It’s weirdly grounding. If you want a day trip snorkeling at Phil Foster Park that’s easygoing but full of surprises (and yeah, includes pickup if you need it), this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided snorkel tour at Phil Foster Park

• Arrive at Phil Foster Park
• Receive snorkel equipment and sunscreen
• Join certified local dive guide
• Swim through coral reefs and ocean bottom
• Observe tropical fish, rays, starfish, and more
• Learn about marine life behaviors and anatomy
• Enjoy snacks and drinks provided
• Receive complimentary video clips of tour

Top questions

How long is the guided snorkel tour at Phil Foster Park?

The tour lasts approximately 2 to 2½ hours from start to finish.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on this tour?

Yes, all masks, snorkels, fins, buoyancy devices, and towels are included; wetsuits can be rented for $10 each.

Are snacks or drinks included during the Phil Foster Park snorkel tour?

Yes, bottled water and small snacks like fruit or granola bars are provided after swimming.

Is this guided snorkel tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s designed for beginners but still enjoyable for experienced snorkelers too.

Will I get photos or videos from the snorkeling experience?

You’ll receive complimentary video clips from your tour to remember your experience.

Is transportation available or do I need to get myself to Phil Foster Park?

The tour includes pickup options; public transportation is also nearby if needed.

Can wheelchair users join this snorkeling tour?

Yes, all areas are wheelchair accessible including transportation options.

What’s included

Your day includes all top-quality snorkel gear (mask, fins, buoyancy devices), sunscreen and towels for drying off afterward; wetsuits are available for rent if you want them warmer. You’ll get bottled water plus snacks like fruit or chips after swimming ends — and free underwater video clips sent later so you don’t have to worry about filming anything yourself before heading home.