Belize offers islands and remote atolls for diving and snorkeling, from Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker to the Great Blue Hole and UNESCO reef sites.
Belize, in Central America, is known for combining natural wonders, Maya heritage, and a vibrant culture. Along its coastline, hundreds of islands and cayes create settings for diving, snorkeling, and slow-paced отдых. In addition, the Belize Barrier Reef shapes much of the country’s island experiences.
From developed hubs to quiet, nature-first hideaways, Belize delivers more than standard Caribbean itineraries. While some places focus on nightlife and services, others prioritize isolation and biodiversity. As a result, the destination stands out for eco and adventure travel.
Ambergris Caye: tourism hub near the reef
Ambergris Caye is presented as Belize’s largest, most popular, and most developed island. San Pedro, its only town, concentrates restaurants, bars, and diving operators. In addition, golf carts are the main form of transport, reinforcing the laid-back Caribbean feel.
Because of its proximity to the Barrier Reef, the island works as a key launch point for water excursions. Popular sites include the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, where visitors can swim with nurse sharks and rays. This way, Ambergris Caye blends high-end infrastructure with a relaxed atmosphere.
Caye Caulker: “Go Slow” and authentic island rhythm
A short boat ride away, Caye Caulker is famous for its “Go Slow” motto. Smaller and calmer, it offers a bohemian, accessible vibe for travelers seeking a slower pace. However, it remains a strong base for water activities and reef outings.
After Hurricane Hattie in 1961, the island was split into two parts. The area known as The Split became a social hub with bars and swim spots. Next, many visitors use the island as a starting point for dives, including trips toward the Great Blue Hole.
Placencia and the southern cayes: nature and seclusion
The Placencia Peninsula is a mainland destination with golden-sand beaches. At the same time, it serves as a gateway to smaller, more preserved southern cayes. In this way, the area appeals to travelers looking for seclusion and closer contact with nature.
The text highlights opportunities to dive with whale sharks near the Gladden Spit Marine Reserve. Among the islands mentioned, the Silk Cayes are described as small white-sand cayes suited for picnics and snorkeling. Laughing Bird Caye is listed as a National Park and UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its ring reef and seabird refuge.
The Great Blue Hole: Belize’s signature dive site
Not an island, but still the most emblematic feature of Belize’s island region, the Great Blue Hole sits at Lighthouse Reef Atoll, around 70 km off the coast. It is a nearly perfect circular marine sinkhole, measuring over 300 meters across and about 125 meters deep.
The site is famous for underwater formations such as stalactites and stalagmites. On the other hand, the dive is recommended for experienced divers. As a result, it remains one of the world’s most iconic deep-dive destinations.
Offshore atolls: remote reefs and UNESCO protection
Belize is described as one of the few Caribbean destinations with true offshore coral atolls. The main ones listed are Turneffe Atoll, Glover’s Reef Atoll, and Lighthouse Reef Atoll. This way, the country offers experiences built around preservation and marine biodiversity.
Turneffe Atoll is presented as the largest and closest to the mainland, with inner lagoons and fish nursery areas. In addition, it is noted for fly-fishing and wall diving conditions. Glover’s Reef Atoll is more remote and preserved, features a \(128\ \text{km}^2\) lagoon, holds UNESCO World Heritage status, and is associated with rustic lodging and exceptional diving.
Lighthouse Reef Atoll is described as the easternmost of the three and home to the Great Blue Hole. Next, additional international-standard dive spots complete the route. Finally, Belize’s mix of islands, cayes, and offshore atolls supports travel styles ranging from lively hubs to quiet, preserved escapes.
How to get there
From Brazil, flights are available on Copa Airlines via Panama, the airline’s hub.
From the United States, there are flights via Miami and Dallas with American Airlines.
There are also routes via Houston with United Airlines and from Atlanta with Delta Air Lines.