It’s no secret that Belize tops the avid diver’s bucket list. Exploring the warm turquoise seas along the Belize Barrier Reef, diving the pristine waters of three remote atolls, and daring to descend 100 feet into the Blue Hole-first discovered by Jacques Cousteau- are just a few of the possibilities. The lucky ones will also scuba dive with whale sharks in season.

Most divers new to Belize stay on the norther caves for their proximity to the mainland, and because Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker offer short boat rides to the Barrier Reef. This means being able to sleep in after a night out, and still squeezing in two dives the next day.

Others head for one of Belize’s three atolls. Sitting well outside the reef, these cool rings offer the most unspoiled conditions, and the greatest variety of marine life. Belize’s top three underwater sites are also found here-prepare to dive, and dive all day long, in the most vibrant environment you could imagine. It’s no exaggeration to say that you shouldn’t visit Belize without exploring at least two of these atolls. Lighthouse Reef’s Blue Hole, where hammerheads roam, and Hold Moon Caye National Monument are a must, while Turneffe’s The Elbow is legendary with its steep drop off filled with gorgonians, snappers, and Goliath groupers. The most remote of all, Glover’s Reef Atoll is the ultimate in pristine and diverse marine environments, offering over 20 sites with sharks, eels, rays and other tropical critters, with good visibility even on poor weather days.

On the south coast of Belize Placencia and Hopkins offer solid dive options, and also include easy access to a plethora of inland adventures. From jungle trekking to river boat rides, zip lining, cave-tubing, and hiking Maya sites, these are ideal destinations for families, or for couples with a non diving partner.

Keep us in the loop if you would like us to help you plan your Belize Adventure!