We are taking a trip to Ambergris for the first time this fall. We are big snorkelers but we don't dive, so I'm wondering if any snorkeling is possible from the beach. We are going to take a few snorkeling tours while we're there, but we prefer to go at our own pace so I'm hoping we will be able to find a few good spots that do not require a guide.

I'm also wondering how realistic it is to go snorkeling in a kayak...it is only 1/2 mile or less to the reef, and i'm a pretty experience kayaker so that's not a big distance, but I'm wondering how easy this really is, and if the reef offers good snorkeling throughout its entire length.

We're considering staying at Tranquility Bay for these reasons, since I have read that it is one of the only places with legitimate snorkeling right off the beach.

Any suggestions or comments would be appreciated!