It’s official—Belize is one of the best places in the world to snorkel, and the experts at Condé Nast Traveler agree! The renowned travel publication has ranked Belize #2 on its list of the “41 Best Places to Go Snorkeling in the World”, placing it ahead of world-famous spots like Sipadan in Malaysia and Ningaloo Reef in Western Australia.
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Central America’s northernmost country is also home to the world’s second-largest barrier reef, stretching over 200 miles. Expect vibrant turquoise waters teeming with a wealth of marine life. Check off a bucket-list experience: snorkel around the perimeter, or dive into the legendary Great Blue Hole, a massive ancient sinkhole studded with eerie stalactites and reef sharks. Head to Ambergris Caye for Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Belize’s most popular snorkel destination and home to vibrant coral and friendly turtles used to the crowds. Nearby, head to Shark Ray Alley to swim with stingrays and nurse sharks.
This recognition comes as no surprise to those who’ve dipped below the surface of Belize’s crystal-clear waters. The country is home to the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest living barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With hundreds of cayes, atolls, and marine reserves, Belize offers an underwater playground teeming with colorful coral gardens, exotic fish, sea turtles, eagle rays, and even gentle nurse sharks.
Among the many incredible snorkeling sites in Belize, Condé Nast Traveler highlights Hol Chan Marine Reserve—a protected area just off the coast of Ambergris Caye. Here, snorkelers can explore “The Cut,” a natural break in the reef filled with marine life, and swim alongside rays and sharks at the famous Shark Ray Alley.
What makes snorkeling in Belize so special?
It’s not just the biodiversity or visibility—it’s the easy access. You don’t need to be an experienced diver or travel far offshore. From places like SunBreeze Hotel on Ambergris Caye, you can hop on a boat and be at world-class snorkeling sites in minutes with all tours departing from the resort dock.
Whether you’re exploring the vibrant patch reefs of Mexico Rocks, or the remote atolls like Glover’s Reef, every snorkeling adventure in Belize feels like stepping into a real-life aquarium.
Discover The Belize Barrier Reef on our Snorkel Package
