
Visit the Atolls, Belize
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The atolls and outer cayes are only accessible by boat, except the Lighthouse Reef Atoll and Blackbird Caye on the Turneffe Atoll, which have an airstrip. And to many, their distance from the mainland has been a blessing in disguise, as fewer visitors frequent these islands.
Diving in these areas offers nearly virgin reefs to explore. Unlike Ambergris Caye, less human impact has helped protect the coral and enchanted life just below the water's surface of the three atolls and outer cayes. Dolphins, manta rays, and manatees are commonly sighted.
Around the Atolls
To the southeast of Lighthouse Reef Atoll floats the 45-acre Half Moon Caye. With turquoise waters, rich marine life, and untouched coral, it is an ideal place for diving and snorkeling.
It is also home to Belize's first national park, the Half Moon Caye Monument, where thousands of protected red-footed booby birds and frigate birds can be viewed from observation decks.
The outer atoll at Turneffe Island is the closest to Belize's mainland, located about 25 miles east of Belize City. It is unique in that it is nearly covered with thick green mangroves with a shallow lagoon that gives shelter to a constant flow of marine life.
Diving
World class diving can be found off the extreme southern tip of the atoll, known as The Elbow. Here, enormous schools of permits, snappers, eagle rays, and groupers converge, sometimes numbering in the thousands. Fishing is also viewed as world-class by visitors to this atoll and its islands.
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Suggested itinerary featuring the Atolls
This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in the Atolls, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Places near the Atolls
- The Cayes 41 miles away
- Toledo District 50 miles away
- Orange Walk District 62 miles away
- Coastal Mainland 67 miles away
- Cayo District & Caracol 85 miles away
Photos of the Atolls
Accommodation choices for the Atolls
We’ve selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit the Atolls. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.
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Thatch Caye Resort
Thatch Caye Resort, is an all-inclusive castaway island resort offering overwater bungalows and oceanfront cabanas in Belize.
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Turneffe Island Lodge
Located in the heart of the Turneffe atoll on a 14 acre island, 35 miles off the coast of Belize, the Turneffe island resort is a wonderful place to relax.
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Turneffe Flats
Turneffe Flats is a peaceful, friendly hotel located on a private point at the north end of Blackbird Caye on the Turneffe Atoll.