Skaneateles Lake is a long, narrow freshwater lake located in the Finger Lakes region of the United States. Divers can explore underwater rock walls and the wreck of the Ossahinta. The site is suitable for beginners and offers both shore and boat access. Visibility in the lake varies, typically ranging from 1 to 12 metres. As a freshwater environment, the site features a variety of local fish and plant life. Divers should be prepared for variable conditions typical of a large inland lake.

Staghorn Cliffs in Skaneateles Lake features a massive Devonian-era fossilized coral reef embedded within the shale cliffs. Divers and snorkellers can observe horn coral fossils, known as Rugosa, both within the rock face and scattered across the lake floor. The site is accessible only by boat and is suitable for intermediate divers. Depths range from 2 to 10 metres. Visibility is variable, typically starting at 6 metres. Water temperatures fluctuate significantly, with summer surface temperatures reaching 16 to 24°C, while spring and autumn temperatures can drop to 3 to 5°C. A thermocline typically forms at approximately 10.7 metres, creating colder conditions below.

Taughannock Point features an underwater delta where the outwash of Taughannock Creek extends nearly a quarter-mile into Cayuga Lake. Snorkellers can explore the shallow, rocky shelf surrounding this point, which reaches depths of 2 to 5 metres with an average of 3 metres. This site is suitable for beginners and offers shore access. Conditions include mild currents and visibility typically ranging from 2 to 3 metres. Water temperatures vary significantly by season, requiring appropriate thermal protection. Divers and snorkellers may encounter various temperate freshwater fish and invertebrates typical of the region. Be aware of boat traffic, cold water, and low visibility when planning your visit.

Deep Run Park on the eastern side of Canandaigua Lake offers a shore-entry dive featuring a gradual slope. Divers can explore rock formations and a water intake pipeline that serves as a focal point for the site. Depths range from 2 to 24 metres, making it accessible for beginners, though the site is deep. Conditions vary, with visibility typically between 4 and 12 metres and mild currents. Facilities at the park include parking, toilets, showers, changing rooms, a rinse station, and a cafe. A dive shop, boat charter, and guided tours are also available to support local diving activities.

East Shore Park in the Finger Lakes offers accessible shore entry into the shallow, rocky shelves of Cayuga Lake. This freshwater site is suitable for beginners, with depths ranging from 2 to 6 metres and an average depth of 4 metres. Visibility is generally limited to 2 to 3 metres. The environment supports various temperate freshwater fish and invertebrates typical of the region. Divers and snorkellers should be aware of the risks associated with cold water, particularly in early spring when temperatures can drop to freezing. Parking is available on-site for convenience. The area is also popular for searching for lake stones and fossils along the shoreline.

Skenoh Island in the Finger Lakes offers a unique geological snorkeling experience. The site is notable for the presence of oncolites, or water biscuits, which are rare, round limestone rocks found across the shallow sandy bottom. Snorkellers can explore this freshwater reef environment at depths ranging from 1 to 7 metres, with an average depth of 4 metres. Visibility typically fluctuates between 6 and 12 metres, and the site experiences moderate currents. Access is possible via both shore and boat, though a boat is required to reach the island, which sits 180 metres from the shore. The habitat supports various temperate freshwater fish and invertebrates.