The Ultimate Guide to Diving in Caye Caulker, Belize [2024]
This guide to diving in Caye Caulker will explain everything you need to know about diving in Caye Caulker, Belize. From finding the right company to booking a dive trip, and including guidelines for ethical diving, what to bring and other activities to explore in Caye Caulker, we’re here to make sure you have an ethical and responsible dive trip in Belize without compromising on the fun!
Central America has so much to do and see, but one of the most incredible experiences we had on our backpacking adventure was diving in Caye Caulker, Belize.
Whilst Belize may not be the cheapest place in Central America to get PADI certified as an open water diver (that award goes to Honduras!), there’s a whole world to discover here for certified divers.
But Caye Caulker isn’t the backpacker dive paradise of Utila, Honduras or Cozumel, Mexico. We found it hard to find much information on diving in Caye Caulker. There are a couple of blog posts out there, but none of them also answered our burning question: which dive companies practice ethical and responsible wildlife tourism? So, we’re made this Ultimate Guide to Diving in Caye Caulker to make it easier for you.
Arriving in Caye Caulker
WHY GO DIVING IN CAYE CAULKER?
Why visit Caye Caulker for diving? The answer is simple: it’s a gateway to one of the most diverse and vibrant underwater ecosystems on the planet.
The Belize Barrier Reef (also known as the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef) stretches from Mexico to Honduras. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the second largest barrier reef, after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia, and offers some of the most amazing snorkelling and diving in the world. The waters are warm, the visibility is incredible, and there’s so much to see.
Caye Caulker, a tiny jewel off the coast of Belize, is a diver’s paradise. It’s got everything going for it; sun, sea, sand, a laid-back Caribbean vibe, vibrant marine life, and tons of bars to hang out in between dives. From novice divers to seasoned pros, Caye Caulker has something to offer everyone, whether you’re exploring shallow reefs teeming with life or plunging into the depths of the famous Blue Hole.
Don’t dive? Don’t worry, we’ve got you! A snorkelling tour in Caye Caulker is the perfect alternative. You can spend the entire day floating alongside manatees, turtles, and nurse sharks without needing a dive certification at all! It’s just as good!
The Belizean Blue Hole
WAIT, WHAT’S THE BLUE HOLE?
No discussion of diving in Caye Caulker would be complete without mentioning the ultra famous world-renowned Great Blue Hole of Belize, a bucket-list dive for many.
Caye Caulker is the launching point for this colossal underwater sinkhole. At 300 metres across and 120 metres deep, the diving here is spectacular with good visibility. Descending into its depths reveals a mesmerising vertical cavern adorned with stalactites and surrounded by sharks, rays, and other species.
Unfortunately you need to be a PADI (or similar) Advanced Open Water diver to dive in the Blue Hole. You’ll get more out of your dive if you’re certified to dive to 40 metres. We only had our Open Water certification at this point, so we chose to do some more budget-friendly reef dives instead.
WHAT MARINE LIFE WILL I SEE WHEN DIVING IN CAYE CAULKER?
Belize’s waters are home to an astonishing array of marine life. From tiny seahorses to massive whale sharks, the diversity here is unparalleled.
Keep your eyes peeled for colorful reef fish darting among the corals, graceful eagle rays gliding through the water, and curious nurse sharks patrolling the sandy seabed. Turtles are a common sight in Belize, you will almost definitely get to dive alongside green sea turtles, loggerheads, and hawksbill turtles in Caye Caulker.
Manatees and Whale Sharks also visit the Belizean Reefs and you may see spotted eagle rays gliding alongside you.
Our dive in Belize: an unedited Go-Pro shot to show the real conditions (ft. Caribbean Reef Shark)
WHAT ARE DIVING CONDITIONS LIKE IN BELIZE?
Belize has great conditions for SCUBA diving year-round. Even the rainy season (June to November) has minimal impact on the conditions when diving in Caye Caulker.
The visibility is usually fantastic (up to 30 metres/100 feet). The water is warm, at a a comfortable 26-29ºC (79-84ºF), so you can just dive in your swimsuit. And there’s so much to see, from nurse sharks and reef sharks, to manatees, turtles, fish, and more!
Caye Caulker has a variety of sites of different depths, making Belize a great place for all levels of diver. Currents vary but there are lots of sheltered spots to choose from, making diving in Caye Caulker even more welcoming to beginner divers.
HOW TO FIND A COMPANY TO GO DIVING IN CAYE CAULKER?
This was something we struggled with when doing our research. I thought that diving in Caye Caulker was a super popular activity, but I could only find a handful of dive companies.
There are four dive companies in Caye Caulker, Frenchie’s, Sunrise Scuba, Scuba Sensation and Blue Wave Divers. We walked up and down the island, comparing prices and environmental practices. Eventually we settled with Frenchie’s.
Frenchie’s are the biggest dive shop on Caye Caulker. Established since 1981, they run regular trips to the Blue Hole (usually twice a week), in addition to daily trips around the closer reefs. They’re marginally cheaper than other dive shops.
And although they don’t shout about their ethical practices, we thought they were pretty solid in enforcing rules for divers, making sure that no one applied sunscreen right before the dive, that everyone understood the guidelines for swimming with wildlife, and ensuring everyone had good buoyancy to avoid damaging the corals.
We also thought that Blue Wave Divers looked like a good shout for those looking to be more environmentally responsible too. Also locally owned, they prioritise good environmental practices and have won awards for gold standard diving.
Diving in Caye Caulker
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO GO DIVING IN CAYE CAULKER?
Diving in Belize is relatively expensive compared to other popular dive destinations in Central America. We would say it was more expensive, or on a par with Mexico (Cozumel), and definitely more expensive than Honduras’ Bay Islands or Nicaragua’s Corn Islands.
Prices typically range from $70 USD to $150 USD per dive, depending on factors such as location, equipment rental, and certification requirements. Many dive shops offer package deals for multiple dives, which can help lower the overall cost of your underwater adventures. It cost us $160 USD for two boat dives.
The Blue Hole is significantly more expensive, probably due to its prestige. The price is around $300 USD for the day, which includes 2-3 dives, lunch, tax, and the Blue Hole entrance fee of $40 USD.
Top tip: Belize is quite expensive compared to other Central American countries, so we’d recommend heading down the reef to the Bay Islands of Honduras if you want to dive a lot. It’s much cheaper, and the wildlife that you’ll encounter is similar.
Diving in Caye Caulker with Frenchie’s Dive Shop
WHICH AREA SHOULD I CHOOSE FOR DIVING IN CAYE CAULKER?
#1 Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Hol Chan (meaning “little channel” in Mayan) is the oldest Marine Reserve in Belize. It’s around twelve miles away from Caye Caulker and it’s not far from Ambergris Caye, another island that’s a little more expensive and a little less backpacker-oriented. This makes it the most budget-friendly site for diving in Caye Caulker.
There’s tons of channels to explore, with abundant marine life on the reef. We saw Caribbean Reef Sharks, Nurse Sharks, turtles, and tons of fish here. Beginner divers might want to be aware that currents in Hol Chan can be stronger than in other areas.
#2 Turneffe Atoll
Turneffe Atoll is said to be one of the most biodiverse marine environments in Belize. It offers a wealth of dive sites to explore, from shallow coral gardens teeming with colourful fish to dramatic drop-offs and swim-throughs.
The unique topography means there’s so much biodiversity here, including reef sharks, eagle rays, sea turtles, and vibrant coral formations. With its crystal-clear waters, excellent visibility, and gentle currents, Turneffe Atoll provides an ideal setting for divers of all skill levels to immerse themselves in the beauty of Belize’s underwater world.
#3 Scuba Diving the Blue Hole in Belize
If scuba diving Belize’s Blue Hole isn’t on your bucket list, where have you been? It may be a few hours by boat from Caye Caulker, but the Blue Hole is renowned for its visibility and excellent diving.
The walls of the sinkhole are teeming with life, from colourful corals and sponges to an abundance of marine species. As you explore the depths, you may encounter reef sharks, bull sharks, hammerhead sharks, and even the occasional giant grouper lurking in the shadows. It’s famous for a reason, and if you have your Advanced Open Water certification, you shouldn’t miss it!
Diving in Caye Caulker
RULES TO FOLLOW WHEN YOU GO DIVING IN CAYE CAULKER
1.
Respect the wildlife: You should always keep well away from any wildlife you encounter in the water – that includes sharks, dolphins, turtles, and manatees! Never try to touch them, chase them, or ride them (yep… there are people who would try that). Let them approach you if they are curious, but you’ll probably find that they’re not bothered.
2.
Be patient: The manatees and sharks in Belize are 100% wild, and have their own behaviour and personalities. They can be playful and friendly. They can also be shy and swim away. It can be annoying when you jump in only to see that you’ve scared a manatee away but try to be patient. Seeing these animals in their natural habitat is such a privilege.
3.
Don’t use camera flash: This applies to taking photos of any animal, whether that’s on land, in the ocean, or at a zoo/aquarium. Flash photography can disturb and scare away wildlife. So switch off the the flash on your phone before you pop it in its waterproof case, and make sure you know how to do it for any other equipment, such as your GoPro too.
4.
Avoid wearing sunscreen: Caring for your skin is important. But if you’re going to go diving in Caye Caulker, you need to stay clear of the sunscreen or make sure you choose reef safe sunscreen that’s 100% biodegradable! Coral reefs are dying, species are disappearing at an alarming rate, and whilst this isn’t entirely down to your choice of sun protection, the chemicals in sunscreen are super hazardous to ocean wildlife. Wear a t-shirt instead!
You shouldn’t use any other oils or lotions either. Scientists say that environmental contaminants in your favourite skincare products can be just as damaging!
5.
Be respectful of the environment. Help to conserve the biodiversity and beauty of the reef. Don’t litter and collect any trash that you do see in the water to take back and dispose of. Never collect anything from the reef, such as shells or coral, as a souvenir. As the saying goes, ‘leave only footprints and take only photos’
Ice coffee between dives at Ice n Beans
WHAT TO PACK WHEN YOU GO DIVING IN CAYE CAULKER?
Swimwear: You’re going swimming, so best pack your swimsuit! We also recommend wearing a long-sleeved t-shirt and leggings to protect yourself from the sun.
Snorkelling gear: masks, snorkels, and fins are provided by the dive shop but if you have your own gear, feel free to bring it!
Top tip: it sounds gross, but if you spit in your goggles and then rinse them afterwards, it’ll stop them from fogging up!
Towel: You won’t need to dry off, as you’ll be in and out of the water all day. But a towel or a shirt is great to cover your shoulders whilst on the boat and help you to avoid sunburn.
Camera: You’ll want a GoPro or similar underwater camera to capture memories of all the incredible wildlife you’ll encounter!
Water Bottle: Belize is hot and humid, and you’ll be out in the sun all day, so it’s really important to stay hydrated. You should drink plenty of water before and after your dives. Keeping hydrated can also stop you getting sunburned so badly.
Snacks: Diving can be exhausting and you will burn more calories than you think. Most dive shops offer a small snack between dives, but bring more if you think you’ll need it! I’m speaking from experience when I say things are more fun when you aren’t ‘hangry’.
Extra Cash: Most tour operators will include everything (transportation, equipment, guides, and lunch) in their price, but you may wish to leave a tip if you think they did a good job. Tips are appreciated but definitely not expected!
Dry bag: Important for keeping all the stuff I just mentioned dry!
Two manatees in Caye Caulker
OTHER AMAZING THINGS TO DO IN CAYE CAULKER?
We loved Caye Caulker! This little island has such a different vibe from all the other Central American beachy locations – in the best possible way of course! The motto of Caye Caulker is “go slow”. And there isn’t a whole host of activities to tick off the list, so you kind of have to!
Really though, there isn’t much happening on this island. If you aren’t into diving, snorkelling, or relaxing, you’ll probably find it a pretty boring place. We spent 5 days in Caye Caulker and thought that was plenty to enjoy diving, snorkelling, relaxing, and the famous Sunday Funday. Here are our favourite things to do in Caye Caulker.
#1 SWIM WITH MANATEES
Belize has the most manatees of any country in Central America. If you take a snorkel tour, your chances of seeing one there in the wild are high. And, if they don’t swim away, you can also snorkel with these chill little sea blobs. Swimming alongside manatees was an incredible ethical wildlife encounter. Find out more about our experience and how you can swim with manatees in Belize here.
#2 CHILL OUT AT THE LAZY LIZARD
The Lazy Lizard, on the tip of the southern island of Caye Caulker, is one of the coolest bars on the island. Grab an ice-cold beer or soda, kick back and watch the sunset from the Split. If it’s hot, you can dive off their pier and float around in the ocean. Watch out for stingrays!
Fun fact: Did you know that the islands of Caye Caulker used to be joined? Caye Caulker was one island until a hurricane ripped through and split it into two, creating what locals fondly called ‘The Split’.
#3 RELAX IN A BEACH HAMMOCK
Embrace Caye Caulker’s laid-back island life and relax in a beach hammock, close your eyes, and listen to the waves. If your hostel doesn’t have any hammocks, head down the main street, where you can pay a couple of dollars a day to use the hammocks of larger hotels. They’re just as good!
#4 GRAB AN ICED COFFEE AT ‘ICE ‘N BEANS’
Ice ‘n Beans is one of the best spots in Caye Caulker for good coffee, breakfast, and ocean views. The staff hand out free coffee shots and mini doughnuts whilst you wait, and you can spend the morning relaxing in a hammock or a beach chair. They also have amazing Wi-Fi connection, perfect for digital nomads who need to get some work done.
#5 ENJOY SUNDAY FUNDAY
If you’re in Belize on a Sunday, you’re just in time for Caye Caulker’s best party of the week! Head to Bella’s Backpacker’s Hostel for fun games like beer pong, jenga, volleyball and water balloon fights. As the sun sets, the party continues as you jump on a bunch of little boats and cruise out, to splash, swim, and float around. With unlimited rum punch included, the $25 USD entrance is totally worth it!
THINGS TO AVOID IN CAYE CAULKER
#6 FEED THE STINGRAYS AT IGUANA REEF INN
You’ll see a lot of travel bloggers recommending feeding the stingrays at Iguana Reef Inn. Every evening at 5 pm the hotel staff feed the stingrays from their private pier. They’ll encourage you to touch and hold the stingrays as they glide through the water and even feed them by hand.
This should be a big red flag! These stingrays are wild, but their behaviour is being changed by humans, for our entertainment. If you want to see stingrays, we recommend booking onto a snorkelling or diving tour. Or just go for a swim off one of Caye Caulker’s little beaches. These guys are literally everywhere. You don’t need to support unethical wildlife practises to see them.
HOW TO GET TO CAYE CAULKER
Planning on diving in Caye Caulker? Luckily, getting to Caye Caulker is relatively straightforward, and there are several options available depending on your preferences and budget.
GETTING TO CAYE CAULKER BY BOAT TAXI
1. Water Taxi from Belize City: The easiest option is to take a water taxi from Belize City to Caye Caulker. Several companies, including San Pedro Belize Express and Ocean Ferry Belize, offer daily ferry services between Belize City and Caye Caulker. The journey takes around 45 minutes to an hour, depending on sea conditions.
2. Water Taxi from Ambergris Caye: If you’re already on the nearby island of Ambergris Caye, you can also catch a water taxi to Caye Caulker. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes to an hour
GETTING TO CAYE CAULKER BY AIR
From Belize City, you can catch a short domestic flight to Caye Caulker’s small airstrip. Maya Island Air and Tropic Air operate frequent flights between Belize City and Caye Caulker, with the journey taking approximately 20 minutes.
Honestly, there’s really no point doing this! It’s not cheap, not sustainable, and not worth the hassle!
We hope this guide helps you to plan your visit to Belize and your diving in Caye Caulker. Check out more of our Belize guides here, or head here for the rest of Central America!
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Alice
Alice is a UK travel blogger who advocates sustainable travel and being more eco-conscious on a budget. She loves coffee, her houseplants and summiting mountains.
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