Belize snorkeling and diving is world-renowned thanks to spectacular waters, marine life, and local culture. For an affordable tropical getaway rich with underwater adventures, look no further.
Ambergris Caye, Belize
After flying direct from Chicago into Belize City, we took a quick flight over to Ambergris Caye, which is the country’s largest island. For a smaller, less-crowded alternative, catch a charter over to Caye Caulker, a quieter car-free island. Back on Ambergris, the island-city of San Pedro has plenty of options for accommodations. Do like the locals and rent a few bikes or a golf cart to get around during your stay.
Snorkeling in Belize
Day 1: Hol Chan Marine Reserve
We spent a day with Belize Diving Adventures snorkeling through Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and then swimming through Shark Ray Alley. The local crew took us out on a large catamaran. We saw a rare group of spotted eagle rays, schools of tropical fish and even got to swim with nurse sharks.
Day 2: Spearfishing & Free Diving
Day two, we went out with Under Da Sea Adventures armed with plenty of sunblock. Our guides grew up spearfishing these same waters, so they came with plenty of experience. They taught us how to hunt for fish, lobster, and even conch—the large snails that live inside the big, beautiful, spiral shells. We made fresh conch ceviche on the boat, then docked at a smaller nearby island to cook up lunch with what we had caught.
Out of the water, we enjoyed the laid-back vibe of the island, the tropical flora, and the kindness of the locals. We kayaked along the beach, ate (too many) banana pancakes, and even enjoyed fireworks from a dock on New Year’s Eve.
Looking for more beach-vacation ideas? Check out our article on Yelapa, Mexico.
All photos by Tobey Schmidt Photography
Best Time to Visit Belize
Belize is a year-round tropical destination, so there’s never a bad time to visit. This trip happened in late December/early January, during the dry season which spands roughly from November to April. The summer wet season sees more rain and humidity but also lusher vegetation.
Things to Do in Belize
If you’re not into snorkeling or diving, there are still plenty of spectacular things to do in Belize. Boat tours and catamarans are a great way to be on the water without being in it. Belize also has marvelous Mayan ruins as well stunning beaches and local culture.
Great Blue Hole Belize
The Great Blue Hole is one of if not the most famous attraction in Belize located on the Lighthouse Reef Atoll about 50 miles offshore. Most people looking to visit take day trip boat tours from the northern coast of Belize near Ambergris. Alternatively, you can take a seaplane tour for panoramic aerial views of the 1,000-foot wide ocean anomoly. Since this is such a popular thing to do in Belize, be sure to book your excursion well in advance.
