Waterproof cameras are necessary for people who like to cover the scene, and the ation, in all sorts of weather - adventrue sports, trail hikes, and other outdoor excitements of all kinds. Of course, there is the GoPro, but that is in the genre of action cameras. 

Moreover, a GoPro camera will not take still photos as well as a compact camera will. The GoPro's fixed wide-angle lens make things look especially small in the pictures unless you’re really close to them. 

Although most all-eather rugged, waterproof cameras may not be that well known for great image quality, really good waterproof cameras do manage this nifty two-in-one feat.

The best waterproof camera: Olympus TG-4 (all weather protection, great image quality)

The second best waterproof camera: Panasonic DMC-TS6 (good for video)

The best affordable waterproof camera: Canon PowerShot D30