When thinking of where to go diving in Belize, there are plenty of places to consider as Belize is home to the second-longest barrier reef in the world. The Barrier reef hugs Belize’s coastline, making it a top destination for diving, snorkeling and marine adventures.
The coastal village of Placencia, located in the South of Belize, is a destination to consider for your marine adventures.
This sandy peninsula, with a laid back ambiance, makes for the perfect base for marine excursions. You can check into one of the many beachfront properties like Turtle Inn or Umaya Resort and spend your days exploring the vibrant life of the Belize Barrier Reef. There are pristine offshore islands and cayes not too far from the coastline making for an incredible day out. Laughing Bird Caye and the Silk Cayes Marine Reserve, are the two most popular inner reef hotspots for diving and snorkeling to be considered when down South.
Photo Courtesy: Jaguar Adventure Tours and Travels
Laughing Bird Caye
Laughing Bird Caye National Park, receiving its name from the laughing gulls which once nested on this now-submerged atoll, is a popular dive site. It is located just 11 miles of the coast of Placencia. 1.8 acres in size, this beautiful national park offers spectacular wall dives and ocean drop-offs perfect for advanced divers to explore the diverse marine environments.
The Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve (GSSCMR)
The Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve, roughly an hour away from the mainland is a popular diving destination home to very healthy and diverse marine life. This private reserve measures roughly 25,000 acres, with spectacular marine environments. Three prominent land bodies make up the reserve. 3 uninhabited islands, the North Silk, Middle Silk, and South Silk Cayes. The Crystal clear waters that surround these cayes are also a favorite for snorkelers.
All year sightings at both sites include spotted eagle rays, barracudas, turtles, southern stingrays, several shark species and abundances of fish and vibrant coral.
A day out diving at one of these sites is roughly $150 USD for a two-tank dive. Snorkelers can also join on these trips for roughly $90 – $100 USD per person. Between activities, you can enjoy a beach BBQ and the sunshine.
Looking to venture further, on the outer reef, Glovers Reef atoll and South Water Caye are other dive sites to consider.
Written by Louise Roe
