Belize Scuba Diving: Top Dive Sites & Blue Hole Experience

Belize Blue Hole - Photo by TerraMar at Flickr

Belize Scuba Diving: Top Dive Sites & Blue Hole Experience

Discover the hidden gem of Central America, Belize, a captivating travel destination that promises adventure, culture, and unparalleled underwater experiences. Belize scuba diving is a world-renowned activity that attracts divers of all skill levels to explore its stunning marine ecosystems. With the second-largest barrier reef system in the world, abundant exotic marine life, and crystal-clear waters, it’s no wonder that Belize is often referred to as a scuba diving paradise.

Get ready to dive into a world of vibrant corals, fascinating shipwrecks, and mesmerizing blue holes as we take you on a journey through the wonders of Belize scuba diving. Prepare to be captivated and inspired by the natural beauty and thrilling experiences that await beneath the surface of Belize’s turquoise waters.

Best Time to Scuba Dive in Belize

June to November Belize’s rainy season starts in late June and lasts until November. Despite this, visibility at off-shore dive sites is usually between 12-24 meters (40-80 feet). If rough boat rides don’t bother you, enjoy the best diving in Belize with fewer tourists. Water temperatures remain warm from 26-29°C (79-84°F).

You might witness the Nassau grouper mating season from October to December, as thousands of these fish gather near the cayes to mate and give birth. 

Belize Whale Shark Season

December to April By early December, the rain subsides, and water temperatures decrease slightly. Expect water temperatures in the mid-20s°C (upper 70s°F) and cooler air temperatures.

The dry season is also the peak tourist season, as travellers from colder climates flock to Belize’s sunny beaches. Belize Whale Shark Season: April, May, and June The best time to dive in Belize is April, May, or June. These months offer several advantages:

 • Reduced tourist crowds beginning in April

•   Peak visibility April to June are prime months for whale shark sightings

Scuba diving in Belize is enjoyable all year round, with warm water and visibility of 12-24 meters (40-80 feet) or more. Additionally, Belize offers year-round activities such as visiting Mayan temples, bird watching, and cave exploration.

Cost of Scuba Diving in Belize

 Caribbean Sea and the Split in Caye Caulker, Belize - Photo by Dronipcr at Flickr
Caribbean Sea and the Split in Caye Caulker, Belize – Photo by Dronipcr at Flickr

Scuba diving is popular in Belize, known for its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. The cost of scuba diving in Belize varies depending on factors such as the dive operator, the location, and the equipment needed. Here is an overview of the costs associated with scuba diving in Belize:

  • Dive Operator Fees: The cost of diving with a professional dive operator in Belize can range from $70 to $150 per dive, depending on the location and the diver’s experience level. Most dive operators offer discounted rates for multiple dives or packages.
  • Equipment Rental: If you don’t have your own scuba diving gear, rent it from a dive shop. Rental fees for a full gear set (wetsuit, BCD, regulator, and tanks) typically range from $30 to $50 per day, or you can rent individual pieces of equipment.
  • Certification Costs: If you are not already certified, you must complete a scuba diving certification course. The cost of certification in Belize varies depending on the level of certification you want to achieve, ranging from $300 to $600. This includes the cost of the course, materials, and certification fees.
  • Additional Expenses: Besides scuba diving, additional expenses may include transportation and accommodation. If you are staying at a resort, some may offer dive packages that include both accommodation and diving, which can be a more cost-effective option.
  • Total Cost: Based on the abovementioned factors, the total cost of scuba diving in Belize can range from $200 to $500 per day, depending on the location, the number of dives, and the type of equipment needed. If you want to complete a scuba diving certification course, the total cost can range from $500 to $1000. Researching and comparing prices from different dive operators and resorts is important to find the best deal.

Belize Scuba Diving Certification

Scuba training and certification are available at resorts and dive shops throughout Belize. Getting certified and taking lessons ensures you can safely explore underwater areas while following scuba diving best practices. Several recognized certifying organizations include PADI, SSI, and NAUI. Training in Belize allows students to take specialized lessons tailored to the region’s unique diving conditions.

 Scuba certification teaches you the essentials of safe diving and handling unexpected situations, opening up a world of adventure both above and below the surface. Remember that non-certified divers may be restricted from accessing certain diving areas.

Dive shops in Belize offering certification courses include:

  • Sea Star Belize
  • Beliz Dive Center
  • Scuba Daze Belize
  • Sea Sports Belize

Enrol in a certification course at any of these facilities. Once certified, you can purchase a dive package and rent or buy scuba gear from shops. Consult with a guide to help plan your diving adventure.

Marine Life in Belize Waters

While scuba diving in Belize, you can expect to encounter a variety of Caribbean reef inhabitants. These include vibrant parrotfish, inquisitive clownfish, Reef sharks, schools of snappers, and numerous grouper species. Turtles are commonly seen in Belize, allowing divers to swim alongside green sea turtles, loggerheads, and hawksbill turtles.

Manatees also frequent the Belizean reefs, and you may encounter spotted eagle rays gliding nearby. Looking out into the blue, you’ll likely see jacks, barracuda, and sharks, such as nurse sharks, Caribbean reef sharks, and lemon sharks. Hammerhead sharks might also appear, and you may even be visited by dolphins underwater!

What to Expect When Scuba Diving in Belize

Belize’s scuba diving conditions remain fairly consistent throughout the year. The rainy season occurs between June and November, but diving conditions are not significantly affected.

The Belize Barrier Reef is the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere and the second-largest barrier reef system in the world, after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. Belize suits divers of all skill levels due to its fantastic visibility, often ranging between 18-30 meters (60-100 feet). Water temperatures stay comfortable at 26-29°C (79-84°F), so a thick wetsuit isn’t necessary. Dive sites vary in depth, from shallow reefs at 5 meters (15 feet) to deeper dives at 40 meters (131 feet). ).

For those looking to go further beyond the recreational diving depths limits, Belize offers many options. Currents vary, but many sheltered spots are available for less experienced divers. Be aware that safety procedures in Belize may not be as strict as in other countries. In 2016, the Belize Tourism Board implemented a Standard Code of Practice for recreational scuba diving.

This code requires operators to have proper licenses and qualifications, adhere to safety requirements, and ensure divers have appropriate certification for their planned dives. However, some divers have reported old or faulty equipment and inadequate safety procedures. It’s crucial to research dive operators to ensure they are reputable and safe.

Divemasters may not always consider divers’ skill levels when planning challenging dives. Inquire about the dive site before committing, and ensure it aligns with your skill level and confidence. If the operator doesn’t ask about your certification or experience, avoid diving with them.

A dive buddy is essential, especially for solo travelers. It is an industry-standard, so choose another company if a dive operator doesn’t pair divers. Lastly, if you rent gear, inspect the diving equipment closely to ensure the gear is well-maintained. Always err on the safe side.

Blue Hole

The Great Blue Hole of Belize, a massive marine sinkhole, is located coast near the heart of the Lighthouse Reef, an atoll situated 70 km (43 mi) away from the mainland and Belize City. The Blue Hole is a part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1996.

This circular sinkhole measures 318 m (1,043 ft) in width and 124 m (407 ft) in depth, covering a surface area of 70,650 square meters (760,500 sq ft). It formed during various quaternary glaciation episodes when the sea levels were significantly lower. Stalactite analysis from the Great Blue Hole indicates formation periods of 153,000, 66,000, 60,000, and 15,000 years ago. As sea levels rose, the cave became submerged

Marine Life in the Blue Hole of Belize

Blue Hole Belize - Photo by Seann McAuliffe at Flicker
Blue Hole Belize – Photo by Seann McAuliffe at Flicker

It offers divers the opportunity to explore a submarine sinkhole and encounter a variety of marine life. Common species include Caribbean reef sharks, groupers, butterfly angel fish, and midnight parrotfish. Additionally, shrimp cleaning stations can be seen throughout the Blue Hole dive.

Best Diving Sites in the Blue Hole of Belize

Scuba diving in the  Blue Hole starts with a coral-covered shelf leading to a sandy incline that takes you to the Hole. Diving here can feel like venturing into a bottomless pit or journeying to the Earth’s core. Around 110 feet, the site transforms, revealing 25–50-foot stalactite formations beneath large overhangs. With motionless water and visibility reaching 200 feet, divers often spot sharks, such as hammerheads, black-tips, and Caribbean reef sharks. The guide recommends leveling off at approximately 130 feet (40 meters), and caverns will be seen.

Returning to the shallow rim of the Blue Hole, divers will find a vibrant site teeming with life. The circular reef spans nearly 1,000 feet, with coral sections occasionally breaking the water surface during low tide. Due to the site’s depth, bottom time is often shorter for most divers.

What is like to dive in Belize’s Blue Hole

Scuba diving in Belize is predictable, with the Blue Hole temperature consistently at 76°F at 130 ft depth. Shortie wetsuits or 3mm full wetsuits are common choices. April to June is the best season for scuba diving in Belize. Although June to November is the rainy season, consecutive days of rain are rare, and visibility at offshore dive sites remains unaffected. However, surface conditions might be less favourable..

Experience Level for Diving the Blue Hole of Belize

The Blue Hole’s depth exceeds the Open Water Certification limit, so it’s recommended that divers complete the Advanced Diver course before diving in Belize. Technical diving certification is required to descend the entire water column to the silty bottom, but these trips are rare and primarily limited to researchers. Advanced buoyancy experience is essential for safely levelling off at certain depths. Beginners can enjoy dive sites along the barrier reef.

Best Dive Sites in Belize 

Here is a comprehensive list of the top dive sites in Belize. They are considered as best dive sites in the world for dive trips.

"Caribbean coast of Caye Caulker, Belize - Photo by Dronepicr at Flickr"
“Caribbean coast of Caye Caulker, Belize – Photo by Dronepicr at Flickr

Shark Ray Alley

Located near Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley is one of the best dive sites it offers the chance to encounter nurse sharks and southern stingrays up close. Depths range from 5 to 15 meters, making it accessible to divers of all experience levels. Water temperatures are similar to Hol Chan, and visibility is generally 10-25 meters.

Lighthouse Reef Atoll

Besides the Blue Hole, Lighthouse Reef Atoll features several other exceptional dive sites, such as Half Moon Caye Wall and the Aquarium. Depths vary between sites but can reach up to 40 meters, making it suitable for more experienced divers. Expect water temperatures of 26-29°C and 15-40 meters visibility. The sites boast healthy coral reefs and diverse marine life, including eagle rays, groupers, and moray eels.

Turneffe Atoll

Turneffe Atoll is home to various dive sites, including Elbow and Black Coral Wall. The atoll is known for its healthy coral reefs, abundant marine life, and steep walls. Depths can reach over 30 meters, making it more suitable for intermediate and advanced divers. Water temperatures range from 26-29°C, and visibility is typically 15-30 meters.

Glover’s Reef Atoll

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is known for its pristine coral reefs and diverse marine life, including reef sharks, rays, and dolphins. Dive sites like the Long Caye Wall and Manta Reef offer depths ranging from 15 to 40 meters, catering to divers of varying skill levels. Water temperatures average 26-29°C, and visibility is usually 15-30 meters.

Mexico Rocks

Situated north of Ambergris Caye, Mexico Rocks is a shallow dive site with an average depth of 3 to 6 meters. This site is perfect for beginners and snorkelers due to its shallow depth and calm waters. Water temperatures range from 26-29°C, and visibility is usually 10-25 meters. Mexico Rocks is known for its impressive coral formations, including brain coral, elkhorn coral, sea fans, and various colourful fish species.

Tres Cocos

 Between Ambergris Caye and Mexico Rocks, Tres Cocos is another popular dive site with stunning coral formations and abundant marine life, including groupers, snappers, and moray eels. Depths range from 10 to 30 meters, making it suitable for divers of various experience levels. Water temperatures are similar to surrounding sites, and visibility is typically 15-30 meters.

South Water

Caye Marine Reserve: As the largest marine reserve in Belize, South Water Caye Marine Reserve offers a wide range of dive sites, such as Twin Cayes and Carrie Bow Caye. Depths vary between sites, catering to divers of different skill levels. The reserve is home to diverse marine life, including nurse sharks, turtles, and various fish species. Water temperatures average 26-29°C, and visibility is usually 15-30 meters.

Silk Cayes

Located within the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve, Silk Cayes offer excellent diving opportunities for divers of all experience levels. Depths range from 5 to 30 meters, and visibility is typically 15-30 meters. The area is known for its healthy coral reefs, various fish species, and encounters with nurse sharks and rays. Water temperatures are consistent with other sites in Belize, ranging from 26-29°C.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve

A popular dive site off Ambergris Caye, Hol Chan Marine Reserve features diverse marine life, including nurse sharks, stingrays, and turtles. Depths here range from 5 to 10 meters, making it suitable for divers of all levels. Water temperatures average 26-29°C, and visibility is typically 15-30 meters.

Snorkeling at the Blue Hole in Belize

If you are not a scuba diver, but want to check the Blue Hole up and close, snorkel is your best choice. Due to its remote location, snorkelers must join a guided tour operated by a licensed company. These tours often have minimum age requirements and may require snorkelers to demonstrate basic swimming skills. Additionally, it’s essential to be aware of currents and tides, as the conditions can change rapidly.

While snorkelling at the Blue Hole, you can expect exceptional visibility, often ranging from 30 to 40 meters. This allows snorkelers to observe various marine life, including reef sharks, rays, and colourful fish species that inhabit the surrounding coral reefs. The unique underwater formations of the Blue Hole, such as stalactites and limestone ledges, also add to the extraordinary experience.

For those looking for alternative snorkelling options in Belize, there are plenty of other fantastic locations to explore. Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley near Ambergris Caye offer abundant marine life, including nurse sharks, stingrays, and turtles. Additionally, the Silk Cayes and Laughing Bird Caye National Park off the coast of Placencia provide pristine coral reefs and diverse marine ecosystems, making them popular snorkelling destinations.

Conclusion

Scuba diving in Belize is an unforgettable underwater experience for divers of all skill levels. With its stunning marine ecosystems, exotic marine life, and crystal-clear waters, Belize is truly a scuba diving paradise with its turquoise waters, vibrant corals, fascinating shipwrecks, and mesmerizing Blue Hole. If it is not already on your list of dive destinations, you should seriously reconsider it.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means that DIVEMONDO may receive a small commission if you make a purchase using these links. As an Amazon Associate this website earn from qualifying purchases.

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