With its crystal-clear waters, warm temperatures and incredible biodiversity, Belize offers some pretty stellar diving opportunities. And it's no surprise really, given that the country is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world. From the Outer Atolls to the Cayes, Belize's largely untouched and beautifully preserved reefs give divers the chance to witness some of the diverse and abundant corals and aquatic life in the Caribbean. Combine that with Belize's lush rainforests, rich Mayan history and postcard-perfect beaches, and you've got the perfect holiday for water babies and landlubbers alike. Feeling inspired? Read on for our shortlist of the best dive sites in Belize…
The Blue Hole, Lighthouse Reef Atoll
We're kicking off our list of the best dive sites in Belize with the iconic Blue Hole. Set near the centre of Lighthouse Reef Atoll, this UNESCO World Heritage site was formed by the collapse of an underwater cave system that began 153,000 years ago, resulting in today's world-famous marine sinkhole. At almost 1,000ft wide and over 100m deep, the Blue Hole features on many divers' bucket lists.
As you dive down into the deep blue waters, you'll be met with unique and hauntingly beautiful coral formations and cave walls. If you're a shark lover, you're in luck - the site is home to an array of species, so watch out for a hammerhead, bull or Caribbean reef shark swimming through the stalactites. Unfortunately, due to the careful planning and diving knowledge needed to take on this site, it's unsuitable for beginners, but it's a must-see for advanced divers.
Half Moon Caye Wall, Lighthouse Reef Atoll
Next up on our list is the Half Moon Caye Wall. This dive site is also located in Lighthouse Reef Atoll, about 50 miles from Belize, and is often chosen as a second dive after divers have taken on the Blue Hole. Half Moon Caye, along with the Blue Hole, is one of Belize's four Natural Monuments and is the country's oldest site for wildlife protection - so it's no wonder that it makes it onto our list of the best dive sites in Belize.
Swim through hidden tunnels formed by rocky overhangs and admire the fantastic marine life around the wall. The water has excellent visibility, so you'll be treated to clear views of climbing gorgonians, brilliant sea sponges and clusters of vibrant coral. Keep your eyes peeled as you go, because you might be lucky enough to spot a majestic eagle ray floating above your head, its spots illuminated by the sunbeams. And, if you see a grouper, try to nab a closer look - it might just be having its mouth cleaned by tiny but dutiful fish and shrimp.
The Aquarium, Glover's Reef
If you're a fish fanatic, then the Aquarium dive site is for you. Situated in Glover's Reef, the southernmost of Belize's three atolls, this site is quite remote, so we'd recommend you set aside a whole day for the trip. Make sure you meet early in the morning, as a boat from the coastal village of Placencia will take roughly two hours to get there. This might seem long, but don't let it put you off - it's a small price to pay to experience the Aquarium's renowned biodiversity.
As the name suggests, this site is a hub for marine life, and the sheer abundance of vibrant fish is what draws divers back to The Aquarium again and again. As you dive, you'll see neon tube sponges, rigid staghorn coral and shoals of colourful reef fish, including Creole wrasse and yellowtail snappers. Glide leisurely beside slow-moving sea turtles, and marvel at shimmering dolphins as they dip in and out of the water - they don't call it the Aquarium for nothing.
North Wall, Silk Cayes
20 miles east of Placencia lies the Silk Cayes, three tiny islands that form part of the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve. The protected nature of the islands means that the reefs are home to a thriving community of glistening gills and kaleidoscope coral, made all the better by the water's excellent visibility.
The site is suitable for all ability levels, so make sure your mask is squeaky clean and plunge into the crystalline ocean where you'll be met with groupers, moray eels and the occasional nurse shark. If the diving gods are looking down on you, you might even spot a whale shark as it skims through the currents.
Laughing Bird Caye
We're rounding off our list of the best dive sites in Belize with Laughing Bird Caye. This island, which is set only 11 miles from Placencia, was declared a National Park in the early nineties and boasts pristine reefs and a range of wildlife. The island's distinctive name comes from the laughing gull (a medium-sized seagulls with a laugh-like call) which used to breed on its shores. While you wouldn't see a laughing gull now, this National Park is still a designated Important Bird Area, so you're still likely to see other species as you gear up to dive.
Laughing Bird Caye's fringing reef systems (reefs that grow from the shore) mean that this dive site is great for novices and pros alike. There are a few different dive sites to choose from, so take your pick: Laughing Bird Drop Off boasts a wall coated in colourful coral, while Laughing Bird North is known for queen conch and lobsters. Once you're tired out, head back onto the shore, where you can lie back on the powdery sand and watch rainbow-coloured birds fly above your head.
