For too long Belize has remained the best kept secret in the Caribbean. Belize lies 700 miles south of Miami on the east coast of Central America in the heart of the Caribbean Basin, Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula to the north, bordering Guatemala to the west and south, and flanked by the Caribbean Sea to the east. It’s greatest length is 174 miles, its greatest width is 68 miles. The population is estimated at 200,000. This English speaking country is democratic, free of terrorists, rebels and local unrest. Of great interest to divers is the fact that offshore lies the second largest barrier reef in the world, extending over 185 miles; three major atolls each ringed by a coral perimeter of at least 50 miles, plus the world’s largest and most renowned Blue Hole, first explored by Jacques Cousteau. Inside the barrier reef there are 450 emerald green cayes of which only a few are inhabited.

Diving Highlights: Although visibility along the Barrier Reef can get poor (20-30’) during high winds, diving on the lee of the atolls usually guarantees visibility in excess of 100.’ You’ll see jacks, tarpon, barracuda

Weather: November to January are traditionally the coolest months; May to September are the warmest. Mountain temperatures are several degrees cooler than at the coast.

Average Air Temp: Day: 79° F Night: 68° F

Water Temp: 79° - 84° F

Belize diving is highly diverse and the diving experience is mainly dependent upon your specific location within this complex offshore area. Scuba diving opportunities along the barrier reef feature a profusion of colorful tropicals and macro creatures existing along healthy coral reef systems and dropoffs. The farther offshore atolls provide the opportunity to fully experience the very best of Belize’s dropoffs, large pelagic marine life and invertebrates of truly impressive sizes and numbers.

Many diving professionals rate these remote atolls as among the most exhilarating underwater experiences in all of the Caribbean.

Remote Atolls
A stay on one of Belize’s remote atolls is like taking a step back in time. It is a place where childlike fantasy merges with evolutionary reality. And in the warm tropical seas off the coast of Belize, it is a place where divers can easily become active participants. Each of these resorts offers idyllic escape and limitless diving opportunities.

Ambergris Caye
A short 20 minute flight from Belize City, the resorts here offer a good combination of a relaxed holiday, a unique setting, local native nightlife, and all combined with good diving. The laid-back fishing village of San Pedro is truly representative of Manana Land, with streets of sand, several restaurants, and numerous local bars. The barrier reef is located just three-quarters of a mile off shore and with flat seas can provide a multitude of excellent dive sites. Although these sites are not as spectacular as those on the more remote atolls of Belize, they can indeed provide many days of stimulating underwater experiences and an overall enjoyable and culturally interesting tropical diving vacation.

Diving and Watersports
Located just off the world’s second largest barrier reef, excellent diving abounds in Belize. The famous Blue Hole, first explored by Jacques Coustea, is also found here. You can dive off of Ambergris Caye, or from many of the more remote Out Islands.

Adventure and Sightseeing
Discover the Mayan ruins, explore intricate caves on foot, go canoeing, or float on inner tubes through cavernous underground rivers. Spend the rest of your topside time visiting Belize’s zoos, jaguar pre- serve, and butterfly farm.

Shopping and Nightlife
Throughout the country and especially in the metropolis, you’ll find many locally produced handicrafts as well as a great diversity of dining delights.