Page 229 - Central America

best dive sites on Earth and a must for all advanced divers. The Blue
Hole is 412-foot deep and was created in pre-historic times. The ring
around the edge is actually a shallow coral reef and makes for a great
safety stop. Inside the hole, you’ll dive around the huge stalactites and
incredible natural formations. It’s a truly unique dive. Nearby is Half
Moon Caye Wall, one of the world’s most pristine reefs. Here, sheer
vertical walls start at a depth of 35 feet and amazing swim-throughs
lead you to the edge of the abyss. And don’t miss The Aquarium at
Long Caye. The clear, blue water has an abundance of colorful spong-
es, corals and marine life such as reef sharks, dolphins and turtles.
Other diving sites are Manta Wall, the Zoo, Cathedral and Half Moon
Wall. The Lighthouse Reef teems with birds, including a nesting colo-
ny of rare red-footed boobies. Under water life is also rich here, with
dolphins and other creatures. The waters off Hat Caye are great for
snorkeling.
TURNEFFE ATOLL is Belize’s largest atoll (38 miles long and 8 miles
wide) and is the closest one to the mainland. At its northern tip at
“Rendezvous Point” are three great wall dives. The wall begins at 45
feet and gradually slopes. You’ll see a variety of sponges and pristine
reefs. There is a great chance of seeing black tip sharks, dolphins, ea-
gle rays and turtles. “The Elbow” is Turneffe’s most famous site. Its a
drift dive beginning at 60 feet and leveling off at 100. Huge gorgoni-
ans create a beautiful backdrop to the marine life. It is not uncommon
to encounter reef sharks, huge game fish, an occasional whale shark,
mantas and a 14 foot hammerhead shark. And don’t miss “Majes-
tic Point” with lots of tunnels and exciting swim-throughs. As the
canyon narrows, the corals combine to create a sheer cliff in depths
between 70 and 150 feet. The best known dive sites in this atoll are:
Black Beauty, Hollywood, Jill’s Thrill, Cabbage Patch, the Elbow, The
Coral, Gorgonian Bluff, the Secret Spot, Birthday Reef, Myrtle’s Tur-
tle and Redezvous