Ballintoy Harbour offers a varied snorkelling environment featuring a combination of sandy patches and rocky reefs. The seabed is characterised by kelp-covered rock formations and submerged gullies, particularly in the area west of the harbour wall. This site is accessed via a shore entry. Water temperatures at this location fluctuate between 8C and 14C throughout the year. Due to the nature of the rocky terrain and variable conditions, this site is best suited to those comfortable with shore-based entries in a temperate marine environment.

Elephant Rock is a volcanic stack located west of Ballintoy Harbour, featuring a nearby limestone arch. The underwater topography consists of dramatic rock walls and deep crevices. This site is suitable for advanced divers and snorkellers due to strong currents, rip currents, and potential surf. Access is via the shore, with depths ranging from 0 to 10 metres and an average depth of 5 metres. Water temperatures remain cool, fluctuating between 8C and 14C throughout the year, necessitating appropriate thermal protection. Divers should be aware of entanglement hazards in this environment. Parking and a cafe are available near the site.

Portbraddan, located at the western end of White Park Bay, provides shore access to rocky outcrops and kelp-covered reefs. This site is suitable for intermediate divers and snorkellers, with depths starting at 4 metres. The area is generally sheltered compared to nearby open beaches, though surf can be a hazard. Water temperatures range from 8C to 14C throughout the year. Parking is available for visitors. The site is well-suited for exploratory snorkelling along the shoreline, where the rocky topography supports a kelp forest environment.

Kinbane Head offers shore-based snorkelling near the ruins of Kinbane Castle. Access to the water is via a steep path leading down the cliffs to the old fisherman's pier. The site is characterised by white limestone reefs and kelp forests. Water temperatures at this location vary throughout the year, ranging from 8C in March to 14C between August and October. Due to the nature of the terrain and the coastal environment, this site is best suited for intermediate snorkellers. Snorkellers should be prepared for variable conditions typical of the Northern Ireland coastline.

Dunseverick Harbour in Strangford Lough offers a sheltered shore entry point for snorkelers. The site features deep pools and gullies, with the seabed dropping sharply beyond the harbour wall into a field of cobbles and boulders. Water temperatures at this location range from 8C in March to 14C between August and October. Species recorded around this area include harbor and gray seals, various crab species, sea stars, brittle stars, and jellyfish. Snorkelers should be aware that conditions vary at this site, which is rated 3 out of 5 for snorkeling activities.

The Slough is a deep natural inlet in Strangford Lough, characterised by basalt rock ledges that provide access to deep water. This site functions as a sheltered swimming pool, making it suitable for intermediate divers and snorkellers. Entry is via the shore, though users should be aware of potential hazards including cold water, surf, and rip currents. Water temperatures range from 8C to 14C throughout the year, necessitating appropriate thermal protection. Species recorded around this area include harbour and grey seals, various jellyfish, common lobsters, crabs, sea hares, sea stars, and snails. Facilities at the site include parking, toilets, and showers.

Dunseverick Cove, also known as Castle Beach, is a small sandy site situated beneath the ruins of Dunseverick Castle in Strangford Lough. The topography consists of shallow rocky reefs flanking the beach, interspersed with seagrass beds. This site is suitable for beginners, with depths ranging from 0 to 10 metres and an average depth of 5 metres. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of mild currents, potential surf, and cold water temperatures between 8C and 14C. Species recorded around this area include seals, catsharks, various crustaceans, and jellyfish. Access is via the shore, with parking available nearby. Typical dives last approximately 30 minutes.

Portbraddon Slipway provides shore access to a marine environment featuring a mix of reef and artificial reef structures. Located at the western end of White Park Bay, the site transitions from a rocky shoreline into a sandy seabed. Divers and snorkellers can explore depths ranging from 4 to 10 metres. Conditions at this site are variable, with moderate currents, surf, and potential rip currents present. The site is suitable for beginners, though caution is advised regarding water conditions. Facilities including parking and toilets are available near the slipway.