With direct access to the thriving coral reefs of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef - the second-largest barrier reef system in the world - Belize is an incredible destination for scuba enthusiasts. Divers can immerse themselves in a dazzling underwater world, coming face-to-face with majestic whale sharks, graceful sea turtles and schools of eagle rays as they glide effortlessly through the turquoise depths.
Stretching for hundreds of kilometres, the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is a true hotspot for marine life, boasting an incredible diversity of dive sites that cater to all skill levels. From near-vertical walls encrusted in a kaleidoscope of corals to patch reefs interspersed with sandy channels and gently swaying seagrass beds, the diving in Belize is exceptional, to say the least.
With over 500 species of fish, 60 species of coral and 350 species of molluscs calling this region “home”, the marine life of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is nothing short of astounding. Critically endangered species such as sea turtles and goliath groupers can be found here, together with the largest population of manatees in the western Caribbean. Belize also hosts one of the world's largest known aggregations of whale sharks and seeing these massive creatures in their natural habitat is not to be missed.
In this article, discover what makes Belize such a special diving destination as we explore 5 of its top dive spots. Whether you want to explore the picturesque island of Ambergris Caye or venture to remote Glover’s Reef, we’ve got you covered. Accompanying our list of the best places to dive in Belize are accommodation recommendations, all of which will see you in the heart of all the diving action.
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Ambergris Caye
With white sand beaches stretching as far as the eye can see, Ambergris Caye is a tropical paradise. This idyllic island is home to Belize's oldest marine protected area, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, which encompasses several unique ecosystems ripe for discovery. Snorkellers and divers can immerse themselves in the reserve's fringing coral reefs or drift through the sheltered mangrove forests that line the coastline.
The crown jewel of the reserve is the world-famous "Shark Ray Alley", a shallow sand flat where schools of nurse sharks and Southern stingrays congregate. After the sun goes down, the waters surrounding Ambergris Caye come alive with a dazzling display of bioluminescence - millions of tiny glowing microorganisms that cast an otherworldly neon blue glow.
Best places to stay in Ambergris Caye
From its charming beach cabanas to its whimsical treetop suites, every aspect of this Belize dive resort exudes an enchanting vibe. It’s an ideal escape for those looking to unwind and reconnect, all while indulging in the height of comfort and service. When you’re ready to explore below the water’s surface, the onsite divemasters will whisk you away to the reefs that lie just offshore.
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in Ambergris Caye
A beautifully decorated suite at Portofino Beach Resort in Ambergris Caye (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Embraced by a tropical garden, Ramon's Village Resort overlooks a stunning expanse of sugar-white coral sand. From the moment you arrive, the charming, thatched-roof villas and bungalows at this Belize dive resort evoke a sense of rustic luxury, seamlessly blending traditional Belizean architecture with modern comforts. In addition to a world-class dive centre, Ramon’s boasts an indulgent spa, a refreshing swimming pool and a variety of dining and drinking establishments.
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in Belize
Sunset from the dock of Xanadu Island Resort in Belize (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Drawing inspiration from Samuel Coleridge's famous poem "Kubla Khan," this Belize dive resort will transport you to a world of exotic wonder. It offers ample opportunities to explore the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, whether by joining a guided dive excursion or simply snorkelling at your leisure. Xanadu Island Resort is deeply committed to sustainable practices that benefit the local people and environment, with eco-friendly facilities and community outreach programs.
Best places to dive in Belize
Lighthouse Atoll
This isolated atoll faces the open expanse of the Caribbean Sea, with sheer drop-offs that descend over a thousand metres below the surface. It is in this dramatic, oceanic environment that visitors are most likely to catch a glimpse of the larger marine life that inhabits Belize’s offshore waters, such as the graceful reef sharks that patrol the perimeter of Lighthouse Atoll.
Not to miss is the legendary "Great Blue Hole" - a colossal, 300-metre wide and 125-metre deep collapsed limestone cavern that was formed thousands of years ago. Divers venturing into this almost perfectly circular sinkhole will encounter dramatic overhangs, submerged stalactites and a distinct thermocline that separates the warm surface waters from the cold, nutrient-rich depths below.
While larger marine life is scarce within the confines of the "Great Blue Hole" itself, curious reef sharks and the occasional bull shark have been known to investigate the perimeter, lured by the possibility of an easy meal. For those willing to make the journey out to this remote oceanic outpost, Lighthouse Atoll offers a truly unforgettable window into Belize's astounding marine wonders.
Turneffe Atoll
Situated just a short boat ride from the mainland, Turneffe Atoll is home to stunning geological formations and a vast array of marine life. Scuba diving here will see you rewarded with awe-inspiring encounters, from the presence of eagle rays gliding overhead in graceful squadrons to massive moray eels lurking within crevices.
Turneffe Atoll also teems with schools of shimmering jacks and snappers congregating along the reef's edge and is one of the best places to spot tarpon, one of Belize's most celebrated fish. Those with a keen eye will also be delighted to spot delicate seahorses and peculiar white-spotted toadfish, as well as an impressive array of sea slugs and industrious cleaner shrimp.
One of Turneffe's most renowned sites is known as "The Elbow," where the reef takes a dramatic twist and plunges into dizzying drop-offs. For experienced divers, it offers unforgettable experiences that showcase the sheer geological dynamism of this remarkable underwater world.
Best places to stay near Lighthouse Atoll and Turneffe Atoll
Located just off the coast of Belize City, Shaka Caye is a private oasis where guests can bask in the lap of luxury. This exclusive resort, accessible only by boat, sits on its own secluded island and features just a handful of beachfront villas. Offering all-inclusive packages, Shaka Caye is the ideal Belize dive resort for guests who want to pay once and then not think about money but simply enjoy their vacation.
Sustainable dive resorts in Belize
An aerial view of Shaka Caye in Belize (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Glover’s Atoll
As the most remote and least visited of the country's coral atolls, Glover’s Atoll lies nearly 50 kilometres offshore from the town of Placencia. Those who make the journey here are rewarded with some of the most uncrowded dive sites in Belize, if not the entire Caribbean region.
The atoll's near-vertical walls plunge dramatically into the inky blue depths, their surfaces dotted with caverns, overhangs and other fascinating formations. Towering pinnacles, some reaching heights of over 30 metres, rise towards the water's surface, with parrotfish, angelfish and countless other fish species darting between the coral.
The proximity of Glover’s Atoll to the Bartlett Trough - a deep ocean trench stretching all the way to the Cayman Islands - means that larger pelagic creatures like whale sharks and reef mantas are frequent visitors. When diving here, you should keep one eye trained on the blue water beyond the reef, as you never know what may suddenly appear.
Best places to dive in Belize
Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve
Located just off the coast of Placencia, Gladden Spit is renowned as the premier whale shark hotspot in Belize. Between the months of March and June each year, these gentle giants make their way to this unique underwater ecosystem to take advantage of a natural phenomenon - the synchronised spawning of around 30 fish species.
Drawn by the abundance of nutritious fish eggs and larvae, large numbers of whale sharks can be spotted in the waters around Gladden Spit and the Silk Cayes Marine Reserve. This creates an unparalleled opportunity for divers and snorkellers to encounter these magnificent animals in their natural habitat. To maximize your chances, it's best to time your visit around the new moon when the fish spawning reaches its peak.
Aside from its whale shark sightings, the Silk Cayes Marine Reserve protects some of the healthiest parts of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, largely due to its elevation and the good quality of the water here. The area’s sandy beaches also serve as nesting sites for hawksbill turtles and seeing these critically endangered creatures is a highlight of any visit.
Best places to stay near Glover’s Atoll and Gladden Spot
Located just a short boat ride from the shores of Placencia, King Lewey’s is a tropical island haven on the edge of Silk Cayes Marine Reserve. It features charming bungalows with private bathrooms and spacious verandas that hang over the Caribbean Sea, as well as a grill-style restaurant serving freshly caught seafood. When you’re not out diving, snorkelling and fishing, you can unwind with a massage or body scrub at the onsite spa.
Best eco-friendly dive resorts in Belize
An aerial view of King Lewey's Island Resort in Belize (photo courtesy of Expedia)
Featuring just a handful of well-appointed villas, Caribbean Beach Cabanas is an adults-only Belize resort in picturesque Placencia. This self-catering property boasts a prime beachfront location and breathtaking sea views from all of its accommodations. You can take advantage of the complimentary bicycles to explore the surrounding area, then retreat to the tranquility of a child-free space.
Best places to dive in Belize
Best time to dive in Belize
The peak tourist season in Belize is from December through April when the weather is at its driest and most pleasant. During these months, daily temperatures average a comfortable 26°C (78°F), with refreshing breezes that can occasionally pick up into more powerful gusts, particularly in the afternoons and evenings.
This is an ideal time to dive in Belize as the calm, clear waters offer excellent visibility of up to 30 metres (100 feet). Water temperatures remain remarkably stable, fluctuating only slightly between 27-30°C (80-86°F), so a lightweight shortie or skinsuit is typically all that's needed to stay comfortable underwater.
The rainy season runs from June through November, bringing daily downpours and an increased risk of hurricanes between August and October. This can lead to lower visibility due to coastal runoff, as well as choppier surface conditions. But for those willing to brave the weather, the rewards can be great - May in particular is an excellent time to visit as whale sharks are migrating through the area.
FAQs about diving in Belize
Does Belize have good scuba diving?
With over 400 islands dotting its Caribbean coastline, Belize is home to one of the longest unbroken barrier reefs in the world. The waters here are renowned for their exceptional clarity (and warmth), creating ideal conditions for scuba enthusiasts of all skill levels. While the Blue Hole (a massive underwater sinkhole) is undoubtedly Belize's most iconic dive site, there is so much more to discover, including historic shipwrecks, underwater caves and canyons, as well as the unique mating rituals of groupers.
What is the best time of year to scuba dive in Belize?
The best time to visit Belize is from December to April, when the weather is relatively dry and temperatures hover around 26°C (78°F). This season is perfect for diving, as the calm and clear waters provide visibility of up to 30 metres (100 feet) and the water temperatures are consistently warm, ranging from 27-30°C (80-86°F). April to June is whale shark season.
From June to November, Belize experiences its rainy season, which brings daily showers and a heightened risk of hurricanes, especially from August to October (the warmest months). This can result in reduced visibility and rougher surface conditions. If you want to see groupers mating, time your dive trip to Belize in October or November.
Do I need a wetsuit for diving in Belize?
During the warmer months, many divers find that a lightweight dive skin is sufficient to keep them comfortable. A 3mm wetsuit, whether in the form of a shorty that covers the torso and arms or a full-length suit, can provide an extra layer of insulation that helps retain body heat, making for a more comfortable diving experience in the cooler months. Most dive centres and resorts in Belize rent wetsuits if you don’t want to bring your own.
How much experience do you need to dive in Belize?
The amount of experience you need to dive in Belize depends on where you want to dive and how deep you want to go. Many dive resorts in Belize offer Open Water certification courses, with training done on shallow coral reefs and sandy bottoms. If you want to explore deeper dive sites, such as the legendary Blue Hole, it’s best to have an Advanced Open Water certification. This will allow you to descend to 40 metres (130 feet), rather than the 30 metres (100 feet) cap for Open Water divers.