Sorry for the off topic, closet match I could find. Are there any local places where a newbie could snorkel around here safely?
Many of the big hotels have pools. You could give them a try.
You could also go looking for change at the bottom of the pool and lazy river at Splash Zone at the JICP. When visiting as a kid with my summer camp, I used to do that until I had enough to buy a cup of DipnDots.
Otherwise, the water is usually too murky and doodoo brown for snorkeling.
pool can get you started, but if you dont mind driving there are several spring rivers in florida worth a trip. a quick google search should give you plenty of choices