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In addition to numerable Caribbean fish species, reef sharks and turtles, Belize’s barrier reef is home to the endemic whitespotted toadfish.
The most famous of Belize’s dive sites, this strange geological structure welcomes divers inside its circular depths, reaching 400 feet (124m) deep.
Just south of the city is Silk Cayes Canyon, an excellent wall dive with plenty of coral species to spy and endemic species like the grey triggerfish.
The Hol Chan Marine Reserve, established in 1979, leads divers through a cut in the Belize Barrier Reef, resulting in colorful marine life encounters.
Traditionally, this was where fishermen cleaned their catch. Nurse sharks and rays were attracted to the area and have been coming ever since.
The wet season falls from August to October. These months tend to be the warmest with average temperatures around 82 or 84°F (28 or 29°C). The wet season also offers the best surface conditions, ensuring that all sites are accessible. Rainfall, while prevalent during these months, will only impact a few hours of the day. This means that most of the day will be sunny rather than rainy. More importantly, visibility may decrease due to runoff from nearby rivers.
October and November is grouper mating season. Thousands of these fish descend on the cayes to mate and give birth to their young.
August to October is considered low season for tourism and diving in Belize. However, the diving is only slightly impacted by the rain and many would argue that this is the best time to dive in Belize. You’ll find fewer crowds and the best deals during these months.
The drier of the two seasons is from November to July. These months bring slightly cooler temperatures above and below the water. However, temperatures will only drop by a couple of degrees and most divers are still comfortable in a shorty. Surface conditions can become choppy at this time, creating limited access to the more exposed sites. With that said, from November to July, you can expect little to no rain and excellent visibility.
April to June is considered the best time to dive in Belize.
These months also coincide with peak season, so you can expect more fellow visitors than during wet season.
Huge barracuda idle near piers and docks, searching out their next meal with leering eyes. Whale sharks make their way through these waters, as well as other large creatures. Hammerheads, Lemon Sharks and Manatees are not unheard of, although you would have to be extremely lucky to see one.
On the reefs, you will find all of your favorite Caribbean specialties, jacks, angelfish, and lobster.
You are almost certain to run across a pod of dolphins if you take a boat ride, giving you a chance to watch them play and frolic. Most operators will even give you a chance to get out and swim with them!
For better readability of the table, pass into the landscape mode.
