Best Budget-Friendly Photo Gear for Snorkeling and Beach Adventures
Because getting the shot shouldn’t mean draining your savings.
Whether you’re floating over coral gardens in the Maldives, exploring tide pools in the Pacific Northwest, or chasing sunset surf breaks in Bali — one thing’s for sure: the right photo gear makes your ocean adventure way more memorable.
After countless days in salty air and sandy coves, we’ve learned that the best underwater and beach photography gear doesn’t have to be expensive — it just has to work. From action cams to phone housings, these are the tools that help us capture magic without maxing out a credit card.
Here’s our go-to list of budget-friendly cameras and accessories for unforgettable beach, boat, and underwater moments — tried, tested, and travel-approved.
Other Posts You Might Find Helpful:
GoPro HERO13 Black
This is the gold standard for underwater adventuring on a budget. The GoPro HERO13 Black is waterproof up to 33 feet right out of the box (no case needed), and it captures stunning 5.3K video and 27MP stills with rock-solid image stabilization.
Why we love it:
It’s built for abuse — saltwater, sand, knocks, drops — and it keeps filming. The new HyperSmooth 6.0 stabilization is buttery-smooth, even when you’re kicking through choppy waves. We also love the dual screens for framing ourselves or the reef, and the upgraded Enduro battery gives you more time in the water.
Shop Here: Best GoPro for Snorkeling
Telesin Dome Port — For Epic Over/Underwater Shots
Those dramatic half-above/half-below photos you see on Instagram? That’s a dome port at work. The Telesin Dome Port fits over your GoPro lens and allows you to easily capture those iconic split-view shots of the reef below and the sky above.
Why we love it:
It levels up your GoPro shots massively without costing a fortune. The pistol grip makes it stable and easy to handle in the water. We’ve used it to shoot fish below and palm trees above — and the results are always a hit.
Shop Here: Telesin Dome for GoPro
DJI Osmo Action 5 — Low-Light Hero for Underwater Moments
If you’re snorkeling in cloudy water, shaded lagoons, or late afternoon light, this is the action cam that handles it all. The DJI Osmo Action 5 (successor to the Action 4) is waterproof to 59 feet and known for excellent low-light performance — making it perfect for deeper or moody environments.
Why we love it:
It competes directly with GoPro in quality and features but often comes in at a better price point. The RockSteady 3.0+ stabilization is excellent, and the color quality underwater is surprisingly true-to-life.
Shop Here: DJI Osmo Action 4 for Snorkeling
SeaLife SportDiver Housing — Turn Your Smartphone Into a Dive Camera
Already have a recent iPhone or Android? Skip buying a second camera and just turn your phone into a pro-level underwater shooter with the SeaLife SportDiver housing. It’s built tough and lets you shoot crisp underwater photos and videos with your phone’s native camera app.
Why we love it:
No sketchy universal cases here — this is legit dive-grade housing. The vacuum-sealed design gives you peace of mind, and the oversized buttons are actually usable underwater (even with gloves). We’ve captured some of our best reef shots this way.
Shop Here: Best Underwater Phone Case
Skog Å Kust DrySåk — Keep Your Gear Safe on the Beach
Your camera setup is only as good as the dry bag protecting it. Whether you’re hopping on a boat or just laying in the sand, the Skog Å Kust DrySåk is our go-to for keeping photo gear, phones, and snacks completely dry and sand-free.
Why we love it:
It’s rugged, stylish, and actually works. Welded seams and a roll-top closure keep everything dry, even when we’re getting splashed on ferries or wading to shore. Bonus: the external zip pocket is great for sunscreen, lens cloths, and quick-grab items.
Shop Here: Skog Å Kust DrySåk for Beach and Boat Days
Floating Wrist Strap — So You Don’t Lose Your Camera
It’s the cheapest insurance policy you’ll ever buy. These simple straps attach to your GoPro or waterproof phone housing and keep your gear floating if you drop it. (Which, trust us, happens more than you’d think.)
Why we love it:
We’ve lost one too many sunglasses to the sea to make that mistake with cameras. These come in bright neon colors, are comfy on the wrist, and have literally saved us from disaster more than once.
Shop Here: Floating Strap for Waterproof Cameras
Bonus Add-Ons for Better Beach Days
Sometimes it’s the little things that make your gear life easier and your adventures more fun:
• Microfiber quick-dry towel — For drying off your gear and yourself post-snorkel.
• GoPro floating grip — Doubles as a stabilizer and keeps your camera buoyant.
• Waterproof pouch for phones/cards — Bring essentials with you into the water without worry.
Final Thoughts
Underwater photography is one of the best ways to relive your adventures — and with the right budget gear, it’s more accessible than ever. Whether you’re snorkeling with whale sharks, paddling into a golden sunset, or exploring tide pools with the kids, the gear above will help you capture it all without spending a fortune.
From travel-light content creators to casual vacation memory-makers, these picks have served us well in dozens of locations around the world.
Still deciding what to pack?
Explore all our [Gear Guides] — or drop us a note with your dream snorkel destination. We’re always planning our next swim.