Atolls and Cayes

Belize is home to three of only four coral atolls found in the entire Caribbean Sea. An atoll is a ring-shaped coral reef that nearly or entirely encircles a lagoon, often with coral islands (cayes) built up along the rim. The cayes are small, low-elevation islands formed on the surface of a coral reef or through mangrove accumulation. They are scattered throughout the reef system. The Belize atolls and cayes are world-renowned diving and snorkeling destinations, due to the spectacular marine environment of the Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Atolls

Lighthouse Reef Atoll
Home to the world-famous Great Blue Hole, a massive underwater sinkhole and UNESCO World Heritage site. It also contains Half Moon Caye Natural Monument, a protected nesting site for the Red-footed Booby birds. It is the most remote of the three atolls.

Turneffe Atoll
The largest of the three atolls, known for its extensive mangrove ecosystems, which serve as critical nurseries for marine life. It is a premier destination for diving, fly fishing, and boasts steep wall dives like "The Elbow."

Glover's Reef Atoll
Glover's Reef Atoll is a treasure, a declared marine reserve since 1987 and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its central lagoon features approximately 700 patch reefs, making it an incredible area for snorkeling, diving, and marine research. Fast boats from Dangriga make the trip in just over one hour.

The Cayes

Ambergris Caye
The largest and most developed island, stretching along the barrier reef. Its main town is San Pedro and it is the primary hub for diving and tourism in northern Belize.

Caye Caulker
Ambergris Caye's smaller, more laid-back neighbor. It has a famous "Go Slow" motto and a distinctive split in the island called "The Split," popular for swimming and socializing. It's a favorite for backpackers and budget travelers.

Tobacco Caye
This attractive five-acre palm fringed island is very popular with divers and snorkelers for its easy access to the reef wall. Some of the best diving awaits visitors only five minutes from the pristine five-acre Tobacco Caye, on the reef 10 miles east of Dangriga.

South Water Caye
South Water Caye is an amazing 15-acre coral island situated atop the barrier reef. Located just thirty minutes from Dangriga, it is found within the South Water Caye Marine Reserve—the largest marine protected area in Belize. The reserve spans 185 square miles, including all surrounding waters and islands, and allows divers to practically swim to the drop-offs from shore.

Laughing Bird Caye
Laughing Bird Caye National Park is a protected island popular for day trips, snorkeling, and diving. The island is situated on an unusually long, narrow ridge of coral reef known as a faro. This unique structure, with deep channels surrounding the caye, contributes significantly to the abundance and variety of its marine life.

St. George's Caye
Historically significant as the location of a major 1798 battle between the British and Spanish. Today, it's known for its peaceful, historic atmosphere and is a short boat ride from Belize City.