Are you ready to capture those incredible underwater moments on your next snorkeling trip? The GoPro Hero 5 Black is a fantastic camera, known for its ruggedness and versatility. While it’s waterproof straight out of the box, getting the absolute best GoPro Hero 5 for snorkeling often means pairing it with the right accessories or considering an upgrade for truly epic footage.
Snorkeling is all about experiencing the vibrant marine world up close. To ensure your camera is ready for the crystal-clear waters and sun-drenched reefs, you’ll want equipment that’s durable, reliable, and helps you get stunning shots without a hitch. We’ve dived deep to find the top cameras and essential accessories that will transform your GoPro Hero 5 into an underwater powerhouse, or suggest fantastic alternatives if you’re looking to upgrade your aquatic photography game.
Let’s explore the gear that will make your underwater memories truly pop!
Product Reviews
1. GoPro HERO13 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60
While your trusty GoPro Hero 5 still holds its own, if you’re looking for the ultimate upgrade to capture your snorkeling escapades, the GoPro HERO13 Black is in a league of its own. This isn’t just an action camera; it’s a cinematic tool designed for creators who demand the best. With its best-in-class 5.3K60 video, legendary durability, and new HB-Series Lenses, it promises to deliver breathtakingly vivid and sharp footage of all your underwater discoveries. It’s an investment that truly pays off in image quality and ease of use, making it arguably the best option available now for any serious snorkeling enthusiast.
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Key Features:
- Best-in-class 5.3K60 video resolution for stunning clarity.
- Legendary GoPro durability, ready for any adventure.
- New HB-Series Lenses for enhanced optical performance.
- More powerful battery for extended shooting sessions.
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Pros:
- Unrivaled video quality for professional-grade snorkeling footage.
- Extremely robust and reliable in marine environments.
- Advanced features for creative control.
- Excellent battery life means less worry about running out of power.
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Cons:
- Premium price point compared to older models or just accessories.
- Might be overkill for casual snorkelers.
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User Impressions: Users rave about the HERO13 Black’s incredible image quality and rock-solid stabilization, noting how it captures details and colors beautifully underwater. Many find the new lens system a game-changer for clarity.
2. FitStill 148FT/45M Waterproof Housing for Go Pro Hero 7 Black/Hero 6 Black/Hero 5 Black/Hero HD (2018)
If you already own a GoPro Hero 5 (or a Hero 6, 7 Black, or 2018 Hero) and want to take it deeper and protect it even better, this FitStill Waterproof Housing is an absolute must-have. While the Hero 5 is waterproof to 33ft (10m) on its own, for serious snorkeling, diving, or simply peace of mind in choppier waters, this housing offers superior protection down to an impressive 148ft (45m). Its larger, thicker design and flat glass lens ensure maximum image sharpness, preventing distortion that can sometimes occur with curved housing lenses, making it an ideal companion for the best GoPro Hero 5 for snorkeling experience.
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Key Features:
- Specifically designed for Go Pro Hero 7 Black/ Hero 6 Black/ Hero 5 Black/ Hero HD (2018).
- 0.4″ Bigger and 35% Thicker than standard housings for enhanced durability.
- Large Flat Glass Lens delivers maximum image sharpness above and below water.
- Made from excellent PMMA material.
- Waterproof up to 148FT/45M, ideal for diving, surfing, and snorkeling.
- Upgraded waterproof sealing ring and tight buckle to prevent leaks.
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Pros:
- Significantly extends the waterproof depth rating of your Hero 5.
- Flat lens ensures undistorted, clear underwater footage.
- Provides extra physical protection against drops and impacts.
- Easy to install and securely seals your camera.
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Cons:
- Adds bulk to the camera.
- Not compatible with Hero 7 Silver/White editions (important to note for multi-GoPro owners).
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User Impressions: Customers love the robust build and the peace of mind this housing provides. Many highlight the improved clarity of their underwater shots thanks to the flat lens, calling it an essential accessory for any water-based activity.
3. FitStill Waterproof Monopod Floating Hand Grip for Go Pro HERO13/HERO12/HERO11/HERO10/HERO 9/HERO 8/HERO 7/HERO 6/HERO 5/HERO(2018) /4/3/HERO 4K/Session/Max,DJI Osmos Action 5 Pro/4/3/2/1,Geekpro,YI Action Cameras and Other Action Cameras.
Even the best GoPro Hero 5 for snorkeling setup isn’t complete without a reliable way to hold onto it in the water. This FitStill Floating Hand Grip is a universal hero, compatible with virtually all GoPro models, including your Hero 5. Its primary superpower? It floats! No more frantic dives to the seabed if your camera slips from your grasp. Beyond buoyancy, the non-slip EVA grip ensures a tight and comfortable hold, even when wet, helping you stabilize your shots and capture those perfect angles of marine life. It’s compact, lightweight, and truly indispensable for carefree snorkeling.
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Key Features:
- Super compatibility with a wide range of action cameras, including all GoPro models (HERO13 down to HERO3).
- Floating body keeps your camera on the water surface, preventing loss.
- EVA non-slip grip handle for a secure and comfortable hold in wet conditions.
- Acts as a camera stabilizer for smoother footage.
- Pocket-sized and lightweight (7 inches tall, under 80 grams).
- Mount tilts 180 degrees for increased shooting possibilities.
- Package includes hand grip, 1/4″ screw adapter, thumb screw, and wrist strap.
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Pros:
- Prevents your valuable GoPro from sinking, a huge peace of mind.
- Provides a stable grip, reducing shaky footage.
- Comfortable to hold for extended periods.
- Highly versatile, compatible with many camera models.
- Compact and easy to pack for travel.
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Cons:
- Doesn’t extend like a traditional selfie stick (designed for stability and floating).
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User Impressions: Users universally praise this grip for its excellent flotation capabilities and secure, comfortable handle. It’s often described as an “essential” piece of kit for any water-based GoPro activity, making it much easier to hold and aim the camera.
4. GoPro HERO12 Black – Waterproof Action Camera with 5.3K60
If you’re on the hunt for the best GoPro Hero 5 for snorkeling but are open to a significant upgrade that promises even more spectacular visuals, the GoPro HERO12 Black is a top contender. It builds on GoPro’s legendary reputation with incredible image quality, boasting 5.3K video resolution and stunning 27MP photos. What really sets it apart for snorkeling is its new High Dynamic Range (HDR) for both videos and photos, which ensures vibrant, true-to-life colors and incredible detail even in challenging underwater lighting with shadows and bright spots. Coupled with Emmy Award-winning HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization, your snorkeling footage will look buttery smooth, no matter how much you’re moving.
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Key Features:
- High Dynamic Range (HDR) for both videos (5.3K & 4K) and photos, capturing subtle details in diverse lighting.
- Unbelievable Image Quality: 5.3K video (91% more resolution than 4K) and 27MP photos.
- Emmy Award-Winning HyperSmooth 6.0 Stabilization for incredibly smooth footage.
- Rugged + Waterproof to 33ft (10m) right out of the box.
- Water-repelling lens cover helps eliminate flare and artifacts.
- Includes Enduro Rechargeable Battery, Curved Adhesive Mount, Mounting Buckle + Thumb Screw, USB-C Cable.
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Pros:
- Superior video and photo quality with HDR for unparalleled underwater detail and color.
- Market-leading image stabilization ensures incredibly smooth footage, even in choppy water.
- Built-in waterproofing is convenient for shallow snorkeling without a case.
- Legendary GoPro durability for peace of mind.
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Cons:
- Premium price tag.
- Requires an additional housing for deeper dives beyond 33ft (10m).
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User Impressions: Reviewers are consistently blown away by the HERO12 Black’s video quality and stabilization. The HDR feature is frequently mentioned as a game-changer for capturing realistic and vibrant scenes, especially beneficial for the varied lighting found underwater.
5. GoPro Hero – Compact Waterproof Action Camera with 4K
For those who started their search looking for the best GoPro Hero 5 for snorkeling and want something similar in simplicity but with modern 4K capabilities, this compact GoPro Hero (likely the Hero 2018 or an entry-level subsequent model) is an excellent choice. It harks back to the Hero 5’s straightforward, rugged design philosophy but brings 4K video recording to the table. It’s tiny, super-light, and incredibly easy to use, making it perfect for casual snorkelers who just want to point, shoot, and capture stunning underwater memories without fuss. It’s a great balance of performance and accessibility, ideal as a direct replacement or a first GoPro for water adventures.
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Key Features:
- Tiny by design and easy to use.
- Features a rugged super-light design.
- Simplified controls for straightforward operation.
- Captures video in 4K resolution.
- Waterproof (depth likely similar to Hero 5, around 33ft/10m).
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Pros:
- Excellent balance of portability and performance with 4K video.
- User-friendly interface, great for beginners or quick shots.
- Rugged and waterproof, ready for immediate snorkeling action.
- More affordable than the flagship models.
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Cons:
- Might lack some advanced features found in the Black editions (like HyperSmooth 6.0, HDR, higher frame rates).
- Still requires an additional housing for deeper snorkeling or diving.
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User Impressions: Users appreciate this model for its “grab-and-go” convenience and surprisingly good 4K video quality for its size and price point. It’s frequently recommended for families and casual adventurers who prioritize ease of use and durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Is the GoPro Hero 5 waterproof without a case for snorkeling?
A1: Yes, the GoPro Hero 5 Black is natively waterproof down to 33 feet (10 meters) without any additional housing. This makes it perfectly suitable for most shallow snorkeling activities right out of the box.
Q2: Why would I need a waterproof housing if my GoPro Hero 5 is already waterproof?
A2: While the Hero 5 is waterproof, an external waterproof housing (like the FitStill option reviewed) offers several benefits:
* Deeper Dives: It allows you to take your camera significantly deeper, often up to 150-200 feet (45-60 meters), which is essential for scuba diving but also provides extra safety for deeper snorkeling spots.
* Enhanced Protection: It provides an extra layer of physical protection against scratches, bumps, and accidental drops, especially important in rocky or crowded waters.
* Flat Lens: Many housings come with a flat lens, which helps eliminate distortion that can occur with the GoPro’s built-in curved lens underwater, leading to clearer, sharper footage.
Q3: What’s the best setting for capturing snorkeling footage on my GoPro Hero 5?
A3: For the best GoPro Hero 5 for snorkeling footage, try these settings:
* Resolution: 1080p at 60fps or 2.7K at 30/60fps (if available and preferred for higher detail).
* Field of View (FOV): Wide or SuperView captures more of the scene.
* Protune: Turn it on for more control over color and sharpness in post-production.
* White Balance: Set to “Native” or use a custom setting for underwater (e.g., 5500K-6000K for shallow water, or use a red filter).
* Color Profile: “Flat” for more editing flexibility, or “GoPro Color” if you want vivid colors directly from the camera.
* Stabilization: Turn on if available (Hero 5 has basic stabilization).
Q4: Do I need a red filter for snorkeling with my GoPro?
A4: For snorkeling, especially in deeper or clearer waters, a red or magenta filter can significantly improve your footage. Water absorbs red light, making underwater videos appear blue or green. A filter corrects this color shift, bringing back vibrant reds, oranges, and natural skin tones. For shallow, bright conditions, it might not be strictly necessary, but it makes a big difference in deeper areas.
Q5: What’s a floating hand grip and why is it useful for snorkeling?
A5: A floating hand grip is a buoyant handle that attaches to your GoPro. Its main purpose is to prevent your camera from sinking if you accidentally drop it in the water. It also provides a more stable and comfortable way to hold your GoPro, helping to reduce shaky footage and allowing you to get better angles of marine life without your fingers getting into the shot. It’s a highly recommended accessory for the best GoPro Hero 5 for snorkeling safety and convenience.
Q6: Should I upgrade from my Hero 5 to a newer GoPro model for snorkeling?
A6: If you’re generally happy with your Hero 5 and its capabilities, adding a good waterproof housing and a floating grip might be all you need for an excellent snorkeling experience. However, upgrading to a newer model like the HERO12 or HERO13 Black offers significant improvements in video resolution (5.3K vs. Hero 5’s 4K), advanced image stabilization (HyperSmooth), better low-light performance, and often superior color processing (HDR). If budget allows and you want the absolute best quality footage with cutting-edge features, an upgrade is definitely worth considering.
Q7: How do I prevent fogging inside my GoPro housing when snorkeling?
A7: Fogging inside your waterproof housing is usually caused by temperature differences and humidity. To prevent it:
* Anti-fog inserts: Place small anti-fog inserts inside the housing (often reusable).
* Open the housing in a dry environment: Avoid opening it in humid air.
* Ensure seals are clean: Even a tiny piece of lint can break the seal.
* Acclimatize: Let the camera and housing sit in the environment for a bit before closing it if there’s a significant temperature change.
