When you think of diving in Belize, images of turquoise waters and vibrant coral reefs probably come to mind—and for good reason. Belize is home to some of the most incredible underwater experiences in the world, from the legendary Great Blue Hole to the sprawling Belize Barrier Reef.
For divers, it’s nothing short of paradise, offering everything from gentle coral gardens to dramatic wall dives that drop into the abyss.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your perfect Belize dive trip, from top locations and marine life highlights to practical travel tips and insider advice. Let’s dive in!
Belize Diving Highlights
- Dive iconic sites like the Great Blue Hole and Half Moon Caye Wall.
- Encounter diverse marine life, including sharks, rays, turtles, and whale sharks.
- Explore the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest in the world.
- Enjoy warm waters and excellent visibility year-round.
- Choose from shore dives, liveaboards, or remote atoll expeditions.
Why Choose Diving in Belize as Your Next Adventure?
Belize isn’t just a beautiful destination above water—it’s also a world-class haven for divers. Here’s why you should consider diving in Belize for your next adventure:
Geography and Environment
Belize boasts a unique blend of Caribbean charm and unspoiled natural beauty. Its coastline is dotted with hundreds of islands, or “cayes,” that serve as gateways to the pristine Belize Barrier Reef. Stretching for over 190 miles, this reef is the second-largest in the world and offers a variety of dive sites, from shallow coral gardens to deep underwater sinkholes like the Great Blue Hole. Belize’s geography provides divers with spectacular opportunities for underwater exploration.
If you’re interested in learning more about the unique geography of the area, check out the Belize Tourism Board’s official site.
Marine Biodiversity
The waters of Belize are teeming with marine biodiversity. You’ll encounter over 500 fish species, including groupers, barracudas, and angelfish, as well as larger marine animals like nurse sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Belize is also one of the few places in the world where you can dive with whale sharks during their seasonal migration (March–June). Diving in Belize means coming face to face with some of the most diverse marine life on the planet.
Global Popularity
Belize has earned its place as a top diving destination thanks to its incredible underwater attractions, particularly the Great Blue Hole, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Divers from around the globe travel here to experience its unmatched visibility, warm waters, and thriving marine ecosystems. Diving in Belize truly offers something for everyone—whether you’re seeking a thrilling dive or a relaxing exploration of coral gardens.
The best places to scuba dive in Belize
Ambergris Caye
Easily the most popular dive destination in Belize. It offers access to many of the best dive sites Belize offers, including the Great Blue Hole, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and Lighthouse Reef Atoll.
Caye Caulker
This sleepy island town offers quick access to the Belize Barrier Reef as well as easy access to Turneffe Atoll, Lighthouse Reef Atoll, and the Blue Hole.
Belize City
Belize City offers mainland access to many popular dive sites like the Barrier Reef, the Blue Hole, as well as the Turneffe and Lighthouse Reef Atoll.
The Atolls
The Atolls offer some of the best diving you will find in Belize. Because of there remote access, most of the dive sites are pristine and unnamed.
Placencia
Located in Southern Belize, Placencia has superb diving on the Southern Barrier Reef and is quickly becoming popular for its seasonal whale shark encounters.
Hopkins
Hopkins is also located on the southern coast of Belize. Here you can explore the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, the largest marine reserve in Belize.
Top 5 Dive Sites in Belize
Belize is home to some of the world’s most spectacular dive sites, ranging from iconic geological wonders to thriving coral reefs teeming with marine life. Here are the top five dive sites you can’t miss during your visit.
The Great Blue Hole (Lighthouse Reef Atoll)
This is Belize’s most famous dive site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This massive underwater sinkhole, measuring over 300 meters across and 125 meters deep, offers a truly unique diving experience. As you descend, you’ll encounter stalactites formed thousands of years ago and spot reef sharks and other large marine species circling the depths. Due to its depth and open-water conditions, it’s best suited for experienced divers.
What to Expect:
- Descend into a deep blue abyss with towering stalactites.
- Encounters with reef sharks, nurse sharks, and blacktip sharks.
- Depths that are best suited for advanced and experienced divers.
- There is minimal marine life beyond larger species, but stunning underwater geology.
- Excellent visibility for enjoying the dramatic underwater scenery.
Hol Chan Marine Reserve (Ambergris Caye)
Located near Ambergris Caye, Hol Chan Marine Reserve is one of Belize’s most accessible and vibrant dive sites. With depths of around 30 feet, this site is ideal for beginners and seasoned divers alike. The marine reserve is home to an abundance of colorful fish, coral reefs, and the famous Shark Ray Alley, where nurse sharks and rays swim freely, providing an unforgettable underwater encounter.
What to Expect:
- Shallow waters with depths around 30 feet, perfect for new divers.
- Encounters with nurse sharks and rays at Shark Ray Alley.
- Vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and crustaceans.
- Excellent snorkeling opportunities alongside scuba diving.
- Warm, calm waters ideal for relaxed underwater exploration.
Half Moon Caye Wall (Lighthouse Reef Atoll)
This stunning wall dive at Lighthouse Reef Atoll is a must-see for any diver. The site features a dramatic drop-off where the reef gives way to the open ocean, creating a breathtaking underwater landscape. Divers can expect to see reef sharks, groupers, turtles, and an array of smaller reef fish, as well as lush coral formations. The nearby Half Moon Caye, a protected island sanctuary, adds to the allure of this spectacular site.
What to Expect:
- Spectacular wall diving with views of the open ocean.
- Sightings of reef sharks, turtles, and groupers.
- Vibrant coral formations, including large sponges and fans.
- Crystal-clear visibility showcasing the rich marine biodiversity.
- A peaceful diving experience in a less crowded location.
Turneffe Elbow (Turneffe Atoll)
Turneffe Elbow is a favorite among advanced divers due to its strong currents and exciting drift dives. Located at the southern tip of Turneffe Atoll, this site attracts schooling fish such as jacks and snappers, as well as barracudas, reef sharks, and even the occasional hammerhead. The dynamic underwater environment, coupled with vibrant coral reefs, makes this dive site truly unforgettable.
What to Expect:
- Thrilling drift dives with fast-moving currents.
- Schools of jacks, snappers, and barracudas.
- Encounters with larger predators like reef sharks and occasional hammerheads.
- Beautiful coral structures and diverse reef ecosystems.
- A chance to spot pelagic species in deeper waters.
Gladden Spit (Placencia)
For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Gladden Spit near Placencia is the place to be. This site is famous for seasonal whale shark encounters, which occur during the full moons of March through June when snapper spawn attracts these gentle giants. Divers can also explore the surrounding reef, which is home to an array of colorful marine life, including rays, eels, and reef fish.
What to Expect:
- Seasonal whale shark sightings during snapper spawning events.
- Warm, clear waters with good visibility.
- Encounters with a variety of reef fish, rays, and eels.
- Opportunities for photographers to capture unique underwater moments.
- A chance to witness the fascinating snapper spawning phenomenon.
How to Dive Belize?
Diving in Belize offers unparalleled access to some of the most breathtaking underwater ecosystems in the world. Whether you prefer the convenience of shore diving, the adventure of liveaboards, or all-inclusive packages that cater to every detail, there’s an option for every diver. Here’s how you can make the most of your diving experience in Belize.
Liveaboard vs. Shore Diving
Belize offers both shore diving and liveaboard options, each with distinct advantages.
Liveaboard Diving: Liveaboards are the best choice for accessing remote dive sites, such as Lighthouse Reef, Turneffe Atoll, and the Great Blue Hole. With liveaboards, divers can enjoy multiple dives a day, pristine locations far from crowded shores, and the convenience of having accommodations, meals, and dive gear all in one place. Liveaboards also allow for night dives and early-morning explorations, maximizing underwater time.
Shore Diving: Shore diving is ideal for those who prefer flexibility and a mix of diving and land-based activities. Staying in popular destinations like Ambergris Caye or Placencia gives you access to dive shops offering daily trips to nearby reefs and marine reserves. Shore diving is also a great way to explore local culture, restaurants, and beaches between dives.
Best Dive Resorts in Belize
Belize is home to numerous dive resorts that cater to divers of all experience levels, offering everything from convenient access to prime dive sites to luxurious accommodations. Here are five of the best dive resorts in Belize that guarantee an unforgettable diving holiday.
Ramon’s Village Resort (Ambergris Caye)
Ramon’s Village Resort is a luxurious beachfront property on Ambergris Caye, just minutes from the Belize Barrier Reef. Its on-site dive center makes planning your underwater adventures a breeze.
Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort (Hopkins)
Hamanasi is a boutique eco-resort located in the village of Hopkins, offering a combination of world-class diving and inland adventures.
Turneffe Island Resort (Turneffe Atoll)
This private island resort provides access to some of Belize’s most pristine and remote dive sites, including the Elbow.
Huracan Diving Lodge (Lighthouse Reef Atoll)
Huracan Diving Lodge is a boutique dive resort situated on Long Caye in the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, offering exclusive access to some of Belize’s most famous dive sites.
Isla Marisol Resort (Glover’s Reef Atoll)
Isla Marisol Resort is located on Southwest Caye, part of the Glover’s Reef Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The resort offers a unique opportunity to explore one of the most pristine and remote atolls in Belize.
Top Liveaboards in Belize
For divers seeking the ultimate underwater adventure, liveaboards in Belize offer unparalleled access to the country’s most remote and pristine dive sites. These floating dive resorts allow you to maximize your dive time while exploring the beauty of Belize’s atolls, reefs, and the famous Great Blue Hole. Here are the top liveaboards in Belize:
Belize Aggressor III
The Belize Aggressor III is one of the most popular liveaboards in the region, offering luxury and convenience for avid divers.
- Routes and Itineraries: This liveaboard focuses on the Turneffe Atoll, Lighthouse Reef Atoll, and the Great Blue Hole. Trips typically last 7 nights, with up to 27 dives offered per trip.
- Accommodation: Comfortable staterooms with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and ocean views.
- Highlights: Night dives, encounters with reef sharks and eagle rays, and visits to Half Moon Caye Wall.
- Unique Features: All-inclusive dining and beverages, including local beer and wine, and a sundeck with a hot tub for relaxation.
Belize Aggressor IV
A sister vessel to the Aggressor III, the Belize Aggressor IV provides a similarly high-end diving experience with added capacity and features.
- Routes and Itineraries: Similar to the Aggressor III, focusing on Turneffe Atoll, Lighthouse Reef Atoll, and other key sites.
- Accommodation: Spacious cabins with modern amenities, accommodating up to 20 divers.
- Highlights: Access to the Great Blue Hole and pristine reef systems, with highly trained dive guides leading each dive.
- Unique Features: Nitrox is available for certified divers, and the vessel has underwater cameras to capture marine life.
Top Dive Shops/Operators in Belize
Belize is renowned for its professional and eco-conscious dive shops that offer exceptional service and access to some of the world’s best dive sites. Here are five of the top dive shops and operators to consider for your underwater adventures.
Amigos Del Mar (Ambergris Caye)
Amigos Del Mar is one of Belize’s most established dive operators, based in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye.
- Specialties: Excursions to the Great Blue Hole, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and Shark Ray Alley.
- Reputation: Known for excellent customer service, experienced guides, and a well-maintained fleet of boats.
- Unique Features: Offers advanced dive training, including specialty courses for deep diving.
Belize Pro Dive Center (Ambergris Caye)
Located on Ambergris Caye, Belize Pro Dive Center is a PADI 5-Star facility that caters to divers of all levels.
- Specialties: Custom dive packages and certification courses.
- Reputation: Praised for its friendly staff, small group sizes, and personalized service.
- Unique Features: Eco-conscious practices, including reef-safe diving techniques and conservation programs.
Seahorse Dive Shop (Placencia)
Seahorse Dive Shop is a family-owned and operated dive center located in Placencia.
- Specialties: Seasonal whale shark diving at Gladden Spit and trips to Silk Cayes and Laughing Bird Caye.
- Reputation: Known for its professional staff, safety standards, and intimate knowledge of Placencia’s marine environments.
- Unique Features: Offers tailored experiences for small groups, ensuring a personalized and uncrowded dive.
Frenchie’s Diving (Caye Caulker)
Frenchie’s Diving is a well-respected dive operator located on the relaxed island of Caye Caulker.
- Specialties: Dive trips to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, the Blue Hole, and Turneffe Atoll.
- Reputation: Known for its welcoming atmosphere, experienced dive masters, and attention to safety.
- Unique Features: Offers PADI certification courses and eco-friendly dive practices.
Marine Life in Belize
Belize’s waters are teeming with marine biodiversity, offering divers encounters with vibrant coral reefs and iconic species.
Key Species
Expect to see nurse sharks, reef sharks, rays, sea turtles (green, hawksbill, loggerhead), and colorful reef fish like parrotfish and angelfish. Belize is also home to stunning coral formations and sponges.
Seasonal Highlights
Whale Sharks: Best seen March–June at Gladden Spit during full moons.
Turtles: Active during nesting season, May–September.
Snapper Spawning: Late spring attracts larger predators.
Rare Finds
Keep an eye out for endangered Nassau groupers, West Indian manatees, and elkhorn and staghorn corals, thriving in Belize’s marine reserves.
Diving Conditions in Belize
Belize offers some of the most favorable diving conditions in the Caribbean, making it an ideal destination for divers of all skill levels. From warm water temperatures to excellent visibility, here’s what you need to know about diving conditions in Belize.
Water Temperature and Visibility
The waters of Belize remain warm and inviting throughout the year, with temperatures ranging between 79°F (26°C) in winter and 84°F (29°C) in summer. Visibility is often exceptional, typically ranging from 60 to 100 feet (18 to 30 meters) and exceeding 150 feet (45 meters) at some of the outer atolls.
Current and Surge
Currents in Belize are generally mild, especially along the barrier reef, making it great for beginner and intermediate divers. However, sites like Turneffe Elbow and Gladden Spit can experience stronger currents, offering thrilling drift dives for more experienced divers.
Best Time of Year for Diving
Dry Season (November–May): This is the peak diving season, offering calm seas, optimal visibility, and pleasant weather.
Wet Season (June–October): While there’s a higher chance of rain, diving conditions remain good. Whale shark sightings occur during the wet season, particularly around the full moons of March–June.
Seasonal Highlights
Belize’s diverse marine life and conditions make it a year-round destination, but timing your visit can enhance your experience. For instance, spring offers whale shark encounters, while summer and fall bring vibrant coral spawning events.
With consistently warm waters, outstanding visibility, and a range of dive environments, Belize provides excellent conditions for divers seeking unforgettable underwater experiences.
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Belize Facts Sheet | |
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Belize Weather |
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Belize Water | Avg Temp: 27°C/81°F |
Currency | Belize Dollar |
Language | English, Spanish, Belizean Creole |
Time Zone | UTC-06:00 No Daylight Savings |
Electricity | Electric Volts: 110V/220V |
Diving Conditions in Belize
Belize offers some of the most favorable diving conditions in the Caribbean, making it an ideal destination for divers of all skill levels. From warm water temperatures to excellent visibility, here’s what you need to know about diving conditions in Belize.
Water Temperature and Visibility
The waters of Belize remain warm and inviting throughout the year, with temperatures ranging between 79°F (26°C) in winter and 84°F (29°C) in summer. Visibility is often exceptional, typically ranging from 60 to 100 feet (18 to 30 meters) and exceeding 150 feet (45 meters) at some of the outer atolls.
Current and Surge
Currents in Belize are generally mild, especially along the barrier reef, making it great for beginner and intermediate divers. However, sites like Turneffe Elbow and Gladden Spit can experience stronger currents, offering thrilling drift dives for more experienced divers.
Best Time of Year for Diving
Dry Season (November–May): This is the peak diving season, offering calm seas, optimal visibility, and pleasant weather.
Wet Season (June–October): While there’s a higher chance of rain, diving conditions remain good. Whale shark sightings occur during the wet season, particularly around the full moons of March–June.
Seasonal Highlights
Belize’s diverse marine life and conditions make it a year-round destination, but timing your visit can enhance your experience. For instance, spring offers whale shark encounters, while summer and fall bring vibrant coral spawning events.
With consistently warm waters, outstanding visibility, and a range of dive environments, Belize provides excellent conditions for divers seeking unforgettable underwater experiences.
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How to Get to Belize?
Getting to Belize is pretty straightforward, with convenient international flights and domestic travel options that make it easy to reach the country’s top dive destinations. Here’s a guide to help you plan your journey.
International Flights
Belize’s primary entry point is Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE), located in Ladyville, just 10 miles from Belize City. Major airlines like American Airlines, Delta, United, and Southwest offer direct flights from cities such as Miami, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, and Los Angeles. Flights from Canada and Europe often connect through U.S. hubs, while regional carriers like Tropic Air and Maya Island Air provide connections from nearby countries like Mexico and Honduras.
Entry Requirements
Most visitors, including those from the United States, Canada, and the European Union, do not require a visa for stays of up to 30 days. A valid passport with at least six months of validity is required. Be sure to check for updated COVID-19 or health-related entry protocols before traveling.
Domestic Transportation
Once in Belize, several options are available to reach your diving destination:
- Domestic Flights: Tropic Air and Maya Island Air offer quick flights from Belize City to popular locations like Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and Dangriga.
- Water Taxis: Water taxis connect Belize City to Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, providing a scenic and cost-effective way to travel.
- Car Rentals: Renting a car is ideal for exploring inland destinations or driving to southern locations like Placencia.
- Shuttle Services: Shared or private shuttles are available for transport between major hubs and dive resorts.
Best Routes for Divers
- For Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker: Take a domestic flight or water taxi from Belize City.
- For Placencia: Opt for a domestic flight to Placencia Airport or a shuttle for a scenic drive.
- For Atolls and Remote Cayes: Book a liveaboard or arrange transport with a dive shop that services these areas.
Traveling to Belize is both convenient and rewarding, offering seamless connections to the country’s incredible dive locations. Whether by air, sea, or road, getting there is part of the adventure!
Other Things to Do in Belize
Besides diving, Belize offers many exciting activities showcasing its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Here are the top 10 activities to experience during your visit:
Snorkeling
Explore Belize’s shallow reefs, where you can swim alongside nurse sharks, rays, and colorful fish at spots like Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, and the Silk Cayes.
Visit Mayan Ruins
Discover ancient history by exploring Belize’s incredible Mayan archaeological sites, including Xunantunich, Altun Ha, Caracol, and Lamanai, each offering stunning architecture and insights into Mayan culture.
Relax on the Beaches
Unwind on Belize’s beautiful beaches, such as those in Ambergris Caye, Placencia, or South Water Caye, where white sands and turquoise waters create the perfect tropical escape.
Hiking and Jungle Exploration
Trek through lush jungles in areas like the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, home to jaguars, waterfalls, and scenic trails, or the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve for its unique terrain and caves.
Wildlife Watching
Belize is a biodiversity hotspot. Join tours to spot manatees, howler monkeys, tropical birds, and even crocodiles. The Belize Zoo and Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary are excellent starting points.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
Glide through Belize’s calm coastal waters, mangroves, or lagoons on a kayak or paddleboard, perfect for both adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Explore Caves
Experience the unique adventure of cave tubing or spelunking in Belize’s vast cave systems, such as Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave), Barton Creek Cave, or St. Herman’s Cave.
Island Hopping
Charter a boat or join a tour to hop between Belize’s picturesque cayes, such as Tobacco Caye, Caye Caulker, and Laughing Bird Caye, each offering its own charm and activities.
Cultural Experiences
Immerse yourself in Belizean culture by visiting Garifuna communities in Dangriga or Hopkins, where you can enjoy drumming, dancing, and traditional cuisine.
Food and Nightlife
Savor Belize’s delicious local cuisine, including fresh seafood, rice and beans, and fry jacks. In lively towns like San Pedro and Placencia, enjoy vibrant nightlife at beach bars, featuring live music and Caribbean cocktails.
With its mix of adventure, history, and relaxation, Belize is more than just a diver’s paradise—it’s a destination that offers something for everyone to enjoy.
Conclusion
Belize is a diver’s dream, offering some of the most incredible underwater experiences in the world. From the awe-inspiring Great Blue Hole to the vibrant Belize Barrier Reef and the secluded atolls, every dive here is a unique adventure. With year-round warm waters, exceptional visibility, and abundant marine life, it’s no surprise that Belize ranks among the top scuba diving destinations globally.
Beyond diving, Belize offers so much more—stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, lush jungles, and vibrant cultural experiences that create a well-rounded vacation for all types of travelers. Whether you’re an experienced diver seeking thrilling deep dives or a beginner exploring coral gardens for the first time, Belize offers something special.
So, pack your gear, book your trip, and get ready to dive into one of the most unforgettable adventures of your life. Don’t forget to share your diving stories and experiences—we’d love to hear about your time exploring the wonders of Belize!