Belize is a paradise for snorkeling and diving year-round, however come September and October, the nation’s underwater world takes on an entire new stage of magic. Regardless of being the wet season, the Caribbean Sea is as vibrant as ever, providing an irresistible attract for thalassophiles. The occasional rainfall is a small worth in trade for the riveting underwater experiences you’ll discover in Belize. Whether or not you’re PADI licensed or a newbie snorkeler, there’s no scarcity of hotspots to discover. Right here’s a information to a number of the greatest snorkeling and diving spots to go to in Belize over the following few months and what you possibly can anticipate to come across beneath turquoise waves.
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Picture by the Belize Tourism Board
Positioned simply off the coast of Ambergris Caye, Hol Chan Marine Reserve is at all times buzzing with exercise. This protected space, which interprets to “little channel” in Mayan, is residence to a various array of marine life. Moreover, September and October are a good time to go to, as the hotter waters deliver sea turtles, stingrays, and nurse sharks. One of many greatest attracts to Hol Chan is Shark Ray Alley, a bit of the reserve the place nurse sharks and southern stingrays collect in massive numbers. It’s an adrenaline-pumping expertise to snorkel or dive amongst these mild creatures as they glide gracefully by way of the water. Regardless of the wet season, visibility stays glorious, and you’ll anticipate to see every little thing from colourful parrotfish to hawksbill turtles.
Glover’s Reef Atoll
Diving Glover’s Reef. Picture by ©MLoewen
For these searching for an journey, Glover’s Reef Atoll is a must-visit snorkeling and diving vacation spot. Considered one of Belize’s most pristine atolls, it boasts over 700 patch reefs, making it a snorkeling and diving wonderland. The reef’s sheltered lagoons and coral partitions are residence to an array of species, from colourful sponges and corals to noticed eagle rays and sea turtles. The wet season usually means fewer crowds, supplying you with a extra intimate and peaceable expertise within the already remoted atoll. Divers can even discover a number of spectacular drop-offs, the place the reef plunges into the deep blue, making a dramatic underwater panorama.
The Southern Belize Barrier Reef
Snorkeling the Belize Barrier Reef. Picture courtesy Duarte Dellarole Images
Do you know Belize is residence to the second-largest barrier reef on this planet? Stretching 190 miles alongside the coast of Belize, this reef is residence to numerous dive websites and snorkeling hotspots, every providing its personal distinctive underwater expertise. A few of the greatest spots, nonetheless, might be discovered within the nation’s southern area. The reef is brimming with marine life, as heat waters entice fish and different species.
Whereas September and October fall inside Belize’s wet season, this doesn’t imply your entire interval is a washout. In reality, many days are brilliant and sunny with solely temporary afternoon showers. With heat waters, thriving marine life, and fewer crowds, fall is the right time to dive into the fantastic thing about Belize’s marine ecosystems.
