Diving and Snorkeling Belize Barrier Reef Placencia
Things To Do In South Water Caye
South Water Caye is a pristine 15-acre island nestled within the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, which is Belize's largest marine protected area. Located directly atop the Belize Barrier Reef, the island is renowned for its outstanding snorkeling and diving and its laid-back atmosphere.
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Travel Guide for South Water Caye Attractions & Activities
Snorkeling and diving
With the reef easily accessible from the shore, South Water Caye is ideal for both beginners and experienced divers. Here you can spot colorful coral formations and diverse marine life, including green moray eels, eagle rays, and sea turtles.
Wildlife viewing
In addition to underwater creatures, you may see pelicans, magnificent frigatebirds, and brown boobies. The mangroves in the reserve are a nursery for many marine species.
Relaxation
The island provides a quiet, serene atmosphere for visitors where you can relax in a hammock, enjoy the beaches, and experience beautiful sunrises and sunsets.
Kayaking and paddleboarding
Kayaking and paddleboarding offer a peaceful way to explore the clear, calm waters around the island.
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Best South Water Caye Full Day Tours
From Placencia
The island itself is an undeveloped national park and is not a departure point for other trips; rather, it is the destination for excursions from the mainland, especially from the nearby Placencia Peninsula. In Placencia you can stroll on one of the narrowest streets in Belize to shop local crafts and artwork and enjoy local cuisine with great ocean views.
Belize Barrier Reef Snorkeling and Diving Tours
The impressive Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest coral reef system in the world and offers a spectacular biodiversity. The Great Blue Hole, a giant underwater sinkhole in the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, attracts experienced divers.
Where is South Water Caye located? + Map
To get to South Water Caye you need to chartered a boat from Dangriga, Placencia, or Hopkins. The boat ride from Dangriga is approximately 40 minutes.
South Water Caye
Belize Barrier Reef
Area: 117,875 acres
FAQs About Visiting South Water Caye
How to get to South Water Caye?
To reach South Water Caye, take a flight or drive to one of the coastal towns in Belize, such as Dangriga, Hopkins, or Placencia, and then arrange for a boat transfer to the island. The island is only accessible by sea, and boat transfers are available from these mainland towns.
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