There’s a reason why Belize remains one of the most visited countries in Central America. In fact, The Lovers Passport has it at the top of their list when it comes to adventures like diving and hiking. You may have heard of the Belize Barrier Reef, but are you aware of the best spots for dving? Since the New Year is approaching, you may join the trend of adding some new items to your bucket list. If your top goals include thrill, new-found memories, and never-before-seen marine creatures, Belize checks all those boxes. This year, let Captain Jak’s, one of Placencia’s top tour operators, be your guide to these bucket-list dive destinations. Here are the best diving destinations to explore when in Belize.
South Water Caye Marine Reserve
Paddle boarding is an easy way to pass the time on South Water Caye. Photo by Duarte Dellarole
As Belize’s largest marine reserve in the Stann Creek District, South Water Caye offers a diverse underwater ecosystem that’s a dream for marine biologists and casual divers alike. With its coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangroves, this site provides a sanctuary for countless marine species. The calm waters and exceptional visibility make this reserve perfect for beginners and experienced divers. Many children enjoy the surface-level snorkeling adventures but PADI-certified visitors marvel at the reserve’s vast underwater world. Expect to encounter eagle rays, nurse sharks, and large schools of colorful fish as you navigate through coral-covered canyons.
The Silk Cayes
Located within the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve, the Silk Cayes are a small cluster of islands surrounded by dazzling coral gardens and teeming with marine life. Also off the coast of Stann Creek, this diving spot is fairly easy to get to, and hard to leave because of all the fun it provides! You’ll likely spot turtles, reef sharks, and even the occasional dolphin, making the experience truly memorable. For a real treat, visit during snapper spawning season (spring to summer) when whale sharks make their grand appearance. With Captain Jak’s you’ll have three spots to explore on their Silk Cayes Tour. First up is the Silk Cayes, then the famous “White Hole,” and lastly, Turtle Alley. With a traditional Belizean lunch in between these dives, your day will be full of everlasting memories.
Glover’s Reef Atoll
Diving Glover’s Reef. Image by ©MLoewen
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Glover’s Reef Atoll is a diver’s paradise known for its stunning underwater topography. This atoll is considered one of the most intact reef ecosystems in the region and one of the best diving destinations ever. With over 700 patch reefs and endless drop-offs, this site is perfect for wall diving. You could swim for an entire day and still have lots to see for a multiple-day diving excursion. Glide along parrotfish, groupers, and vibrant corals, with the chance to spot pelagic species like barracudas and jacks. Captain Jak’s leads you to plunges up to 70 feet in depth! For a truly diverse diving experience, Glover’s Reef Atoll never disappoints.
The Great Blue Hole
Of course, no dive list in Belize—or the world—is complete without the Great Blue Hole, one of the most iconic underwater sinkholes on the planet. Jacques Cousteau famously called it one of the top diving sites in the world, and for good reason! This 400-foot-deep circular sinkhole is truly an otherworldly experience. While the marine life here is more subdued, the geological formations are breathtaking. As you sink deeper into deep-blue waters, discover stalactites, stalagmites, and the shadows of history. Enjoy three diving trips into the Blue Hole with an amazing lunch at Half Moon Caye when diving with Captain Jak’s.
Similar: This Placencia-Based Tour Operator Also Offers Scuba Courses
2025 is the year to chase your underwater dreams, and there’s no better place to do it than Belize. With Captain Jak’s leading the way, you’re guaranteed a safe and thrilling adventure. And of course, crossing these best diving destinations off your bucket list would be an interesting conversation starter for years to come! Are you ready to delve deep into Belize’s underwater world?
Featured Photo by Brian F (TripAdvisor)
