Minerstown is a shallow reef site located in Strangford Lough, offering an accessible shore entry for both divers and snorkellers. The topography consists of rocky outcrops and honeycomb worm reefs, providing a varied underwater landscape. Depths at this site range from 2 to 10 metres, with an average depth of 6 metres. Conditions can vary, with moderate currents and potential surf. Due to the water temperatures, which range between 9 and 15 degrees Celsius, thermal protection is required. The site is suitable for beginners, with typical dives lasting around 60 minutes. Hazards to be aware of include entanglement, strong currents, and surf.

Rossglass Beach in Strangford Lough offers a relaxed shore-entry snorkelling experience suitable for beginners. The site features an expansive beach with numerous rock pools and shallow channels that become exposed at low tide. Divers and snorkellers can explore depths ranging from 1 to 5 metres, with an average depth of 3 metres. Conditions are generally mild, though visibility varies between 3 and 10 metres. Water temperatures remain cool, fluctuating between 9C and 15C throughout the year. Species recorded around this area include various crabs, sea stars, brittle stars, and occasionally larger marine life such as seals or octopuses. Be aware of jellyfish, which are a known hazard in these waters.

Keel Point is situated at the mouth of the Dundrum Inner Bay channel within Strangford Lough. This shore-entry site is rated for intermediate snorkelers due to the tidal nature of the channel. Water temperatures fluctuate between 8C and 15C throughout the year, requiring appropriate thermal protection. The area is a known haul-out site for a large colony of seals, which are frequently observed swimming in the channel during high tide. Snorkelers should be mindful of the currents associated with the bay entrance when planning their visit.

The Water Rock in Strangford Lough is a shallow reef and artificial reef site suitable for beginners. Access is via a shore entry at the slipway of the historic stone pier. The site is shallow, with depths ranging from 0 to 5 metres and an average of 2 metres. It is best explored at high tide, as the harbour dries out significantly at low water. Conditions include mild currents and visibility between 3 and 10 metres. Species recorded around this area include gray seals, curled octopus, wrasses, catsharks, squat lobsters, common lobsters, sea slugs, gurnards, orange-clubbed nudibranchs, giant jellyfish, flatworms, conger eels, crabs, and sea stars. Hazards include entanglement and low visibility.

Killough Harbour near Coney Island is a sheltered marine site located within Strangford Lough. The topography features a combination of sandy areas and rocky ledges surrounding the island, providing a protected environment for snorkellers. Water temperatures in this region fluctuate between 9C and 15C throughout the year. Access to the water is via the shore, making this a suitable location for beginners. The site is rated 3/5 for snorkelling, offering a calm setting for exploring the local underwater terrain.

Water Rock is a prominent rocky outcrop located at the entrance to Killough Bay in Strangford Lough. This site features underwater reefs characterised by mixed algae and dense kelp forests. Divers and snorkellers can explore depths ranging from 2 to 18 metres. Access is by boat, as the site is situated 400 metres from the shore. Conditions include moderate currents and water temperatures between 9C and 15C. Species recorded around this area include grey seals, curled octopus, wrasses, conger eels, catsharks, and various crustaceans such as common lobsters and squat lobsters. Due to boat traffic, divers should exercise caution during their 45-minute dives.

Newcastle Harbour Slipway provides a shore entry point at the southern end of the Newcastle promenade. This site features a kelp forest habitat and is suitable for beginners, with depths typically ranging between 1 and 3 metres. The environment is sheltered, making it a practical location for snorkelling. Divers and snorkellers should remain aware of boat traffic in the vicinity of the harbour walls. Facilities including parking, toilets, and showers are available for visitors. The water temperature varies throughout the year, ranging from 8C in March to 15C during the summer months. A typical session at this site lasts approximately 45 minutes, with mild currents present.

Phennick Point in Strangford Lough offers a sheltered environment for snorkelling, featuring rocky inlets, a sandy seabed, and scattered boulders. This site is well-suited for beginners due to the protection from wind and mild tidal currents. Snorkellers can expect depths ranging from 1 to 3 metres, with an average of 2 metres. Visibility varies between 2 and 8 metres. Access is via the shore, and the site is equipped with nearby facilities including parking, toilets, showers, and equipment rental. Be aware of boat traffic in the area and the risk of hypothermia due to water temperatures ranging from 9 to 15 degrees Celsius.