Belize’s Lighthouse Reef is one of Conde Nast Traveler’s 28 Most Beautiful Places in the Caribbean. Listed alongside the pristine beaches of the Cayman Islands, Saint Lucia’s awe-inspiring Pitons, and energetic Old Havana, this impressive atoll holds its own.
Most famous for the Great Blue Hole, Lighthouse Reef boasts steep dive walls and colorful reef gardens. Because of this, divers from all over the globe come year-round to explore the Belize’s sapphire waters.
“But even if you don’t feel like diving into the unknown, you can still enjoy the Lighthouse Reef’s snorkeling sites, colorful fish and birds, and sandy islands covered in coconut trees,” reads the CNTraveler article.
About Lighthouse Reef
The Lighthouse Reef Atoll is located on the easternmost part of the Belize Barrier Reef. Some 30 miles long and 8 miles wide, it is a bird-watcher’s paradise, a diver’s dream destination, and a remote island getaway all in one.
At its center lies its main attraction, the Great Blue Hole. At 400 feet deep and an astounding 984 feet wide, it likely formed when the roof of a network of submerged caves cave collapsed. Almost perfectly circular, the Blue Hole’s deep cobalt waters, a stark contrast to the surrounding shallow sea, can even be seen from space. And down below, divers can explore stalactites and stalagmites, formed tens of thousands of years ago, along with an array of marine wildlife.
Image via Wouter Naert on Unsplash
The Blue Hole is only accessible to experienced divers. But, luckily, there are a number of amazing diving (and snorkeling) spots located in the surrounding area. Not feeling up to getting in the water? Lighthouse Reef is also home to a number of small coral islands. That includes the iconic Half Moon Caye. White sandy beaches and lush vegetation make it a great place for taking in the beauty of nature’s creation.
Half Moon Caye Natural Monument. Photo courtesy Belize Audubon Society
With such scenic views and spectacular dives, it’s no surprise that Lighthouse Reef is ranked among the most beautiful places in the Caribbean.
Read Conde Nast Traveler’s full list, written by Caitlin Morton, here. Feature Image courtesy Belize Audubon Society
