When you’re researching the best things to do in Belize, snorkeling in Hol Chan Marine Reserve almost always pops up. This protected area faces the southern edge of Ambergris Caye and is home to fascinating coral reefs and a variety of fish that will blow your mind. When you stay with us at Mahogany Bay Resort in San Pedro, you’ll have a plethora of opportunities to explore the Hol Chan Marine Reserve in Belize.
How will you spend your time in Belize? Aside from getting up close and personal with marine life at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, you can also enjoy five-star dining, relaxing massages, a private beach, and lively bars. Learn more in our free Vacation Guide!
All About Hol Chan Marine Reserve in Belize
What Is Hol Chan Marine Reserve?
Hol Chan’s name translates to “little channel” in Mayan, which refers to a natural break in the Belize Barrier Reef. Over the years, this area became more and more popular with anglers, divers, and snorkelers. As tourism to the Cayes increased, this cut in the reef was established as a protected marine area. Today, the Belize Fisheries Department manages the reserve, and a licensed tour operator must accompany you to access it.
How Can I Visit Hol Chan Marine Reserve?
Do you want to take a trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve? It’s an experience that you won’t ever forget. When you stay with us at Mahogany Bay Resort, you can take advantage of our top-notch excursions, and we have multiple opportunities for you to explore the reserve.
Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley Snorkel
Take advantage of our most popular snorkeling excursion! This half-day boat trip is led by friendly, experienced guides that will accompany you as you snorkel through the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. They’ll take you to a part of the reserve with clear, shallow waters where you’ll snorkel for 45 minutes. Your guide will point out fascinating marine creatures, including sea turtles, moray eels, coral formations, barracuda, and more!
After this snorkel session, you’ll hop back on the boat and set sail for another part of the reserve—Shark Ray Alley. This area is home to shallow seagrass beds and a plethora of nurse sharks and southern stingrays. You can get in the water and get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. Don’t worry—the sharks and rays are very comfortable with snorkelers, and we will make sure you feel safe.
Caye Caulker Sail and Snorkel
Get ready for an island-hopping adventure! On this full-day catamaran trip, your first snorkel stop is Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and your second stop is Shark Ray Alley. Near lunchtime, you’ll arrive at the charming fishing village island of Caye Caulker, where the island theme is “Go Slow.” For approximately two hours, you’ll have the chance to go exploring, shopping, and have lunch at a local spot. Late in the afternoon, you’ll sail back to Ambergris Caye while enjoying complimentary rum punch, local beers, fresh ceviche, music, and most importantly, the gorgeous scenery at sunset.
Mexico Rocks Snorkel Excursion
Another popular snorkeling site in Hol Chan Marine Reserve is Mexico Rocks. This area is a remarkable reef filled with coral and seagrass beds. The maximum depth is only about 12 feet, giving snorkelers calm, shallow, and clear turquoise waters that make for easy exploration of massive boulder star corals and brain corals, sea plants, and an array of sea life that call these corals home. If you’re lucky, you might spot a dolphin or manatee!
Other Excursions
The fun doesn’t stop there! We offer even more adventures that take place on the water. From scuba diving in the Great Blue Hole to spearfishing for lionfish to parasailing over the barrier reef, we’ve got it all!
Book Your Trip To Belize
There’s no time to waste! It’s time to book your trip to one of the best vacation destinations in the world—Ambergris Caye, Belize. Mahogany Bay Resort is surrounded by natural beauty and offers top-notch accommodations paired with outstanding amenities. Check our availability and book your stay with us today!