All over the world, there are iconic pieces of art and acts of nature that are just waiting to be explored... The problem is that many of them are actually underwater. This might not even be a problem for some, though, and if you're one who tends to act more like a fish than a human on land (we're thinking The Little Mermaid-style), then these destinations might just be for you. Not all of them require hardcore scuba gear and skills to find and many of them lie just under the surface. Some of these underwater locations hold wrecks that sit just below the surface, perfectly observable to the human eye without one needing to get in the water at all.
Anything found under the waves gives off an aura of mystery and illusion and that's half the fun of exploring them. If this sounds like it's right up your alley, start with these.
Museum Of Underwater Art In Australia
This project by Jason deCaires Taylor is about a two-hour boat ride from the Queensland coast and sits near the Great Barrier Reef. Therefore, just getting there is an adventure in itself and full of sights that you'll love every second of. The project was started as a means to encourage the growth of marine life and plants as the Great Barrier Reef currently faces bleaching, and it's a unique tribute to nature while speaking volumes about the significance of the reef.
Underwater Military Museum In Japan
The Underwater Military Museum can be found along the coast of the Red Sea in Jordan and all of this military equipment was sunk intentionally. Each piece of military machinery was sunk in such a way that it resembles a battle on the seabed floor, serving as a unique way to get a glimpse into Japan's military history.
Florida Keys Shipwreck Trail
This trail is 120 miles long and while it would take one a fairly long time to explore it all, it's a fun project to dive down to in sections. The oldest ship in the Spanish fleet of wrecks dates back to 1733, and the newest is the USS Vandenberg missile tracker, with modern-day capabilities that are pretty incredible to see up close.
Underwater Post Office In Vanuatu
The Underwater Post Office is a less serious and more whimsical underwater trip but it's one that many people absolutely love. This unique post office can be found in Vanuatu and while it's fun to see a post office in an unusual place, it's even more fun when you realize that it's actually a full-functioning government building. Visitors can drop off their waterproof postcards and postal workers will actually send them out.
Shipwreck Of The Sweepstakes In Canada
This is one shipwreck that requires no dive equipment or even a pair of snorkel goggles to see. The Shipwreck of the Sweepstakes is one of many wrecks that can be found in the Great Lakes, but this one is unique to Lake Huron in Ontario. This schooner-style ship sunk in 1885 and is still in a miraculous condition to this day, and that's not even the most unique thing about it. The ship sits just below the surface and on a clear day, visitors will be able to see it without even getting into the water. It's eerie but cool at the same time and for those who want an even closer look, glass-bottom boat tours are also an option.
Piccaninnie Ponds In Australia
Piccaninnie Ponds is an incredible location for divers but also for snorkelers, as the water remains clear to a depth of about 131 feet. That means those without diving experience can appreciate the beauty that lurks just beneath the surface of the water, all the way down into the 115-foot canyon that sits deep in the pond. Those who are scuba diving can explore what's called The Cathedral, which is a grand underwater cavern in the same location.
Silfra Fissure In Iceland
Iceland isn't the first destination many people think of when it comes to diving or snorkeling but Silfra Fissure is a unique exception to these normally frigid waters. The Silfra Fissure is the location where two continental plates meet and their ridgelines are plainly visible thanks to the mix of spring water and melted glacial water. The most exciting thing about the fissure is that each year, the crevice widens and moves by about two centimeters, which means the landscape can differ from year to year. It's also a haven for local marine life and plant life, making it a colorful and beautiful place to swim.