Belize Barrier Reef

Explore the world’s 2nd largest reef

Belize Barrier Reef

Stretching nearly 190 miles along Belize's Caribbean coast, the Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest barrier reef system in the world and one of the planet's most celebrated destinations for SCUBA diving and snorkeling. Thatch Caye is just a scenic 15-minute boat ride from this incredible underwater ecosystem.

The second-largest barrier reef system in the world

Stretching 185-190 miles (300 kilometers) along Belize’s Caribbean coast

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996

Home to over 400 cayes (islands) & three offshore atolls

Supports more than 100 coral species & 500 tropical fish species

Belize Barrier Reef near All-Inclusive Private Island Thatch Caye.webp

Sea Turtle Belize Barrier Reef near All-Inclusive Private Island Thatch Caye.webp

Life Beneath The Surface

The protected waters surrounding Thatch Caye are home to thriving coral reefs and one of the world’s most biodiverse marine ecosystems. Dive or snorkel among sea turtles, rays, reef sharks, colorful tropical fish, and vibrant coral formations.

Green sea turtles, loggerheads, & hawksbills

Nurse sharks, whitetip, & blacktip reef sharks

Spotted eagle rays, southern stingrays, & even a manta ray

Brain coral, staghorn coral, elkhorn coral, & over 100 coral species

Seahorses, lionfish, parrotfish, queen triggerfish, barracuda, angelfish, grouper, yellowtail damselfish, & over 500 fish species

5-Star PADI Dive Center

Thatch Caye’s on-site 5-Star PADI Dive Center offers guided Belize SCUBA diving, snorkeling excursions, and certification courses. Led by licensed dive professionals, our team combines expert instruction with a commitment to safe, sustainable reef exploration.

SCUBA diving Belize Barrier Reef near All-Inclusive Private Island Thatch Caye.webp

Guided SCUBA Diving

Explore premier dive sites throughout the South Water Caye Marine Reserve and other renowned Belize Barrier Reef destinations.

Discover SCUBA Belize Barrier Reef near All-Inclusive Private Island Thatch Caye.webp

PADI Certifications

Try our Discover SCUBA course with no certification required, or complete your PADI Open Water certification through our referral program.

EXPLORE TOURS

Top Dive Sites In Belize

From beginner-friendly reefs to dramatic wall dives, Belize offers unforgettable underwater experiences for every skill level. Explore some of the region's most spectacular dive sites just minutes from Thatch Caye.

Long Reef

Perfect for beginner and intermediate divers, this vibrant South Water Caye wall dive features dramatic drop-offs, pristine corals, and prolific marine life.

Black Beauty

Located at Turneffe Atoll’s southern tip, this advanced wall dive is renowned for its rare black coral forests and sheer drops into sandy channels.

Coral Belize Barrier Reef near All-Inclusive Private Island Thatch Caye.webp

Discovery

Boasting a highly active ecosystem and thriving fish populations, this South Water Marine Reserve site perfectly caters to both novice and veteran divers.

Lobster hunt snorkel near All-Inclusive Private Island Belize Thatch Caye.webp

Snorkel coral Belize Barrier Reef near All-Inclusive Private Island Belize Thatch Caye.web

Snorkel Belize Barrier Reef with turtles near All-Inclusive Private Island Belize Thatch C

Snorkel Belize Barrier Reef near All-Inclusive Private Island Belize Thatch Caye.webp

Reef Snorkeling

Experience the same colors, coral formations, and marine life that make Belize famous for diving, but from the surface. Thatch Caye offers complimentary snorkeling from shore and guided reef excursions, including our unique catch-and-cook adventure.

EXPLORE

Belize Barrier Reef drone near All-Inclusive Private Island Thatch Caye.webp

Keeping Our Reef Pristine

Protecting the Belize Barrier Reef requires a shared commitment from conservation organizations, local communities, and responsible travelers. Nearby Tobacco Caye Marine Station supports reef research and education within the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, helping protect the ecosystem that surrounds Thatch Caye.

First country to ban offshore oil drilling in 2018

First country to completely outlaw bottom trawling in 2010

Seasonal fishing closures support healthy marine ecosystems

About 25% of territorial waters are protected as Marine Protected Areas

Enacted laws phasing out single-use plastics & styrofoam

Sharks in Belize Barrier Reef near All-Inclusive Private Island Belize Thatch Caye.webp

Horizon on All-Inclusive Overwater bungalow Private Island Thatch Caye.webp

Belize Barrier Reef snorkel All-Inclusive Private Island Thatch Caye.webp

Snorkeling the Belize Barrier Reef near All-Inclusive Private Island Thatch Caye.webp

Belize Barrier Reef drone Private Island Belize Thatch Caye.webp

“Truly the experience of a lifetime. The island couldn’t be any more beautiful. The location was perfect for water lovers (15 mins to the barrier reef by boat). SCUBA diving & snorkeling on the reef was very convenient! Many other guests had a great time on the fishing excursions & caught tons of fish to share with everyone. This place is so special.”

Megan L.

“We loved our first experience so much that we specifically came back to complete our SCUBA certifications. Thatch Caye made the entire certification process incredibly easy. We completed our pool training in California & finished our open water dives in Belize through their referral program. I felt comfortable, supported, & well-prepared. Why not get your certification at one of the most beautiful reefs in the world?”

Taylor I.

“Thatch Caye is definitely a destination to visit! The snorkeling excursion to the reef was incredible & a must of you here. However the Discover Scuba where you actually get to try scuba diving was by the far the best thing I have experienced on a vacation. Amazing sights underwater of the reef & sea life. If you want to experience island life this is a place to check out.”

Dave S.