The appeal of Ambergris Caye as the main diving destination in Belize is that it lies close to the world’s largest blue hole and the Belize Barrier Reef System, a 186-mile (300km) portion of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. While the Blue Hole should only be dived by those with an advanced certification due to its depth, the Belize Barrier Reef is perfect for beginners. Little to no current passes over the bright coral reefs, ensuring stress-free diving.There are many dive operators to choose from on the island but if you like a quieter dive holiday, you can also dive from Caye Caulker. The majority of dives from either Caye are conducted by small to mid-size motorized boats. Another option is to explore the area on a liveaboard diving vessel to see more of the other islands and atolls.For divers headed to the Blue Hole, a $40 per day park fee must be paid before diving.

Best Scuba Diving Spots in Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye Sea Life

The large creatures often spotted during dives are friendly nurse sharks, stingrays, spotted eagle rays, and green sea turtles. Nurse sharks around Ambergris Caye are known to be rather inquisitive so don’t be alarmed to see them coming up really close. Besides that, there are many lobsters, damsel fish, barracuda and trevally.Around seagrass beds near the mangrove swamps, see queen conch, juvenile fish and also juvenile lobsters or a critically endangered manatee. Around the atolls, Nassau grouper are common and you can find some critters like nudibranch, green moray eels and lots of basslets.

How To Get There

Fly to San Pedro Airport on a short 15 minute flight from Belize on Maya Island Air or Tropic Air. There are also water taxis available from Belize City. Once on the island, you can use the ever-present golf carts to get around or the power of your own two feet. Boats are always available to ferry you to nearby reefs.