Page 285 - Central America

of its unique location, this haven along the Coast of Belize acts as a
hub, connecting a vast network of marine activities with numerous
main-land adventure and tours. One day you could be scuba div-
ing or snorkeling and the next, you could be exploring the many
wonders of the Belizean rain forest and its Mayan Ruins and Caves.
This tiny peninsula is fun packed with adventure and actives where
ever you turn. Most visitors who come to Placencia find the hardest
thing to do is not to anything at all. There are some fantastic diving
opportunities off the coast of Placencia. Most people come to Belize
to dive the Blue Hole or sites in the north, and centres in Placencia
still do service these areas, but the hike there is quite far so you’re
better off staying closer if these are the sites you’re looking to visit.
If you have some time then it’s well worth the trip south to spend a
few days diving the reefs here.
In the Months of March, April, May, and June 2 days before the full
moon up until 10 days after the full moon whale sharks can be ob-
served at Gladden Split, Belize. Gladden Split is Located about 30
miles off the cost of Belize. What makes this place so special is that
many different species of reef…What makes diving so interesting
off Placencia in general is that it marks the change in the Barrier
Reef ’s structure from Northern Belize to the South. North of Co-
lumbus Caye, the area behind the reef is mainly flat, with extensive
grass beds and patch reefs. As you move south toward Placencia,
the reef structure transforms into a region of sink holes, pinnacles
and the extraordinary formations called faros such as Laughing Bird
Faro. A typical diving experience out of Placencia on Laughing Bird
Faro might include a morning dive at Brian’s Dropoff. This dive site,
located on the windward outer flank of the faro, provides spectacu-
lar underwater scenery and the opportunity to view eagle rays and
turtles.