Belize is home to the second-largest barrier reef in the world. Visiting our Caribbean destination wouldn’t be complete without going on a snorkeling adventure. If you’re looking for the experience of a lifetime, this is the blog for you! Along the way, you’ll see manatees, sting rays, schools of fish, and more. Snorkeling in San Pedro, Belize, is a fun experience for all ages! After a day exploring the sea, you’ll want to try more of the top local activities. Download our Vacation Guide and unlock all the top places to visit while you’re here.
When To Go Snorkeling in Belize
With its unbelievable reef and abundance of fish and underwater life, Belize has some of the best opportunities for snorkeling in the world. The area has consistent temperatures year-round (averaging around 84 degrees on the mainland on 88 degrees on Ambergris Caye), which means it’s always the best time to hit the water! The water temperature in the ocean typically hovers around 82 degrees, which means there’s no need for wet suits.
The Best Snorkeling in San Pedro, Belize
Spend the day getting up close and personal with marine life at the best snorkeling sites in Belize!
Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley Snorkel
No trip is Belize is complete without the experience of a lifetime at Shark Ray Alley. On our half-day boat trip, we’ll bring you to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, a protected area of the Belize Barrier Reef where a natural channel joins the shallow calm waters inside the reef with the rest of the deep ocean. You’ll snorkel here for about 45 minutes with a friendly, professional marine guide. Keep your eyes peeled for stingrays, sea turtles, moray eels, hundreds of coral formations, and species of fish.
Then, we’ll set sail to our favorite part of the reserve—Shark Ray Alley. This spot is a haven for nurse sharks and southern stingrays. With our supervision, you can hop in the water and swim with these breathtaking creatures. This is a day you won’t ever forget!
Mexico Rocks Snorkel Excursion
Embark on a half-day trip to the Belize Barrier Reef and explore Mexico Rocks, one of the most popular spots for snorkel trips. Mexico Rocks is a place where anglers have historically come to clean their catch. Sealife has grown accustomed to gathering here for their yummy, daily scraps. This area has clear, calm, and shallow waters—which is perfect for snorkeling. Snorkelers will often catch sights of massive brain coral formations, sea plants, nurse sharks, green sea turtles, stingrays, dolphins, and manatees. During your boat ride, you can enjoy scenic views of San Pedro and beautiful beach homes that line the shore.
Blue Hole 3-Tank Dive or Snorkel
Treat yourself to a full-day snorkel tour to Lighthouse Reef Atoll and the infamous Great Blue Hole. The Great Blue Hole is a natural marine sinkhole that Jacques Cousteau named one of the top 10 scuba diving sites in the world. The hole measures over 900 feet across and over 100 meters deep and is surrounded by unique stalactites and stalagmites.
During this fun-filled trip, you’ll also visit the island of Half Moon Caye and check out the UNESCO World Heritage Site and red-footed booby bird sanctuary. You’ll enjoy a succulent picnic lunch on the beach and then head out for two more dives at Half Moon Wall and “the Aquarium.” This excursion is generally geared towards divers, but it’s definitely open to snorkelers as well.
Caye Caulker Sail and Snorkel
Are you up for an island-hopping adventure? Start your morning by setting sail on our spacious catamaran and head out for the Belize Barrier Reef. Throughout the day, you’ll stop at two snorkeling sites—Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley. At midday, we’ll stop at the charming fisherman’s island of Caye Caulker. Use this time to stroll the island streets, go shopping, and enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. While on the boat, we’ll treat you to complimentary rum punch, local beers, fresh shrimp ceviche, and lively music. We invite you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the views and waters surrounding Ambergris Caye.
More Adventures With Mahogany Bay
In need of another activity after snorkeling? Our area has many adventures to offer visitors. These adventures are only the beginning of the opportunities for travelers. We also have peaceful and relaxing activities to enjoy right here! Our spa offers a variety of treatments to choose from. In need of some retail therapy, visit the village and find the perfect shop to stop in and find your next treasure. No matter what you’re looking for, we have something for everyone to enjoy!
Stay at the Best Accommodations in San Pedro, Belize
Stay at the Best Accommodations in San Pedro, Belize
Belize is calling your name! It’s time to visit Belize and book the vacation of a lifetime at Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club, Curio Collection by Hilton™. Our luxurious resort offers an array of incredible accommodations. Whether you’re looking for a cozy garden cottage or a bedroom villa, we have it all! We also have onsite bars, restaurants, a coffee shop, and a private beach club! We have many opportunities for a fantastic vacation experience at Mahogany Bay Resort. Browse our accommodations and pick the perfect one for you! We can’t wait to see you in Belize!