About Lighthouse Atoll and Blue Hole Belize

Lighthouse Atoll is the northernmost of the three atolls in Belize. Notably, this marine reserve contains two of the four Belize Natural Monuments. Additionally, it sits about 50 miles from Belize. The atoll stretches 22 miles long and 5 miles wide, with 6 cayes hosting small diving resorts.

The 3-1/2 to 4-hour boat ride heads north inside the barrier reef to Turneffe Atoll, then crosses over to Lighthouse Atoll and the Blue Hole. Above all, the Blue Hole Belize is a famous bucket list trip. Moreover, Half Moon Caye gets rave reviews that make the long boat ride worthwhile.

The pristine waters, unique coral formations, and prolific marine life make Lighthouse Atoll a popular spot for snorkelers who want to see the best Belize has to offer. As a result, the Blue Hole and Half Moon Caye now hold designations as Belize National Monuments.

Please note, we require a minimum of 10 divers and/or snorkelers for the Blue Hole trip to be viable.

Trip Plan

First, snorkelers arrive at our dive center by 5:00 am for a 5:30 am departure. Due to the early start, we serve a complimentary continental breakfast at our dive center. Then, between snorkel excursions, we serve an authentic Belizean-style picnic lunch. The boat ride takes about 3-1/2 to 4 hours, and the trip returns around 5:00 pm. The Blue Hole snorkel tour includes three snorkel opportunities. First, we snorkel at the Blue Hole itself. Second, we stop at Half Moon Caye. Finally, after lunch, we snorkel at Half Moon Caye Natural Monument, described below.

The Blue Hole located on is one of Belize’s best-known dive sites. It was made famous by Jacques Cousteau who visited the Blue Hole aboard Calypso in 1972 to determine its depth.

The Blue Hole is actually a sinkhole that was created after the collapse of an underground cavern and cave system. Almost perfectly circular, the Blue Hole is about 1000 feet/300mt in diameter and over 400 feet/130mt deep. The circular reef area which surrounds the Blue Hole provides an attractive opportunity for snorkelers to enjoy the Blue Hole.  The coral breaks the surface in some areas at low tide.

Groups of 10 or more can book the Lighthouse Atoll and Blue Hole trip as a 6-tank overnight trip. The Elbow at the south end of Turneffe Atoll may be incorporated into the trip plan.  While snorkeling is possible, strong currents may make it challenging for some snorkelers.  

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