WatersportsBelize ranks among the best scuba diving and snorkeling destinations in the western Caribbean. At a length of 296km (185 miles), Belize’s
Barrier Reef is the longest in the Western hemisphere and offers divers a nearly continuous wall of coral (stretching almost 224km (140 miles) from Mexico to the Sapodilla Cayes). The best developed sections of the reef are south of
Columbus Reef. Some of the best dive sites include
Lighthouse Reef, where divers can explore walls with spectacular drops of thousands of feet; and the
Blue Hole (see
Where to Go,
National Parks section). Boats
to both sites can be hired. Visitors can either arrange diving trips with an offshore resort, sign on with one of the many live-aboard boats or hire a charter boat from one of the dive resorts along the coast. Visitors should also be aware of the restrictions on the removal of coral, orchids and turtles, and on spearfishing in certain areas. Wrecks and treasures are also government-protected. For further information and a list of dive operators, contact the Belize Tourist Board (see
General Info section). Swimming is good off the Cayes and on the southeast coast, where many places have developed as diving and watersport resorts (see
Where to Go section). All kinds of fishing, including game fishing (for snapper, barracuda, marlin and bonito), can be enjoyed all year round. Belize’s 20 river systems and smaller streams are ideal for kayaking and canoeing, and trips (which usually also involve birdwatching or wildlife viewing) can be arranged via local travel agents, operators or hotels. Windsurfing is a perfect activity for the cayes. The water is so clear beneath, it may be possible to spot fish, stingrays and even dolphins as you sail. The windy season is usually from February to April.
OtherBirdwatching is popular since hundreds of bird species can be observed, particularly in the national parks - notably, the
Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary,
Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary,
Silk Grass Greek Road and the
Mountain Pine Ridge. Caving and archaeology are also popular pastimes.
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