Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we'll receive a commission if you purchase through our links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.
Have you been wondering about snorkeling in Caye Caulker, Belize? This is your ultimate guide on exactly how to do it!
This guide stems from my recent visit to Belize, which completed my goal of exploring every Central American country this past August.
Throughout my journeys to over 40 countries, I’ve immersed myself in various landscapes and cultures, so I am thrilled to share my Caye Caulker Belize snorkeling experience to help you plan your Belize itinerary.
Why Caye Caulker, you ask? Well, it has the largest LIVING barrier reef in the world.
And let me tell you, the snorkeling experience here is nothing short of amazing.
Belize has implemented protective measures, creating zones where fishing is off-limits, allowing marine life to thrive.
Picture vibrant coral gardens, schools of tropical fish, and an experience that goes beyond your wildest snorkeling dreams. If this is something you want to get into, keep reading!
In this comprehensive guide, I’m here to share:
- all the details on how to choose the perfect Caye Caulker snorkel tour
- what you can expect from the underwater world, including swimming with sharks
- what essentials you won't want to forget to bring
- and of course, how to plan your budget for this unforgettable snorkeling experience in Belize. #SeetheWorldSaveADollar
Let’s dive in 🙂
Planning Your Next Trip?
🤩Discover all the must-know tips before visiting Belize > Explore Belize Travel Guide
🤩Find cheap flights and get cashback > WayAway
🤩 Search for cheap rental cars > Discover Cars
🤩 Book affordable hostels > HostelWorld
🤩 Secure travel medical insurance > Safety Wing
🤩 Get the best carry-on bag > GOT Bag
🤩 Pack lighter with this > Cosy Collection Neck and Bag pillow
🤩 Explore ways to maximize hotel points > Awayz
🤩 Easily learn the local language > Babbel
🤩 Protect your online security abroad > ExpressVPN
🤩 Get the best travel shoe & travel jacket > TropicFeel
🤩 Download affordable eSim to stay connected > Airalo
Caye Caulker is a laid-back island off the coast of Belize.
The conservation efforts ensure that the sea life around Caye Caulker remains rich and abundant, offering snorkelers an exceptional experience.
The crystal-clear waters surrounding the island provide a perfect window into the mesmerizing diversity of marine species, coral formations, and underwater landscapes.
From colorful fish to majestic rays, and even some nurse sharks, Caye Caulker promises an unforgettable snorkeling experience, but you need to know where to go to find all the best sightings.
RELATED ARTICLE: Best Ways to Do Turks and Caicos on a Budget
Best Way to Snorkel in Caye Caulker
Imagine standing on the sandy shores of Caye Caulker, looking out at the turquoise waters.
It’s a tempting sight, but the real magic lies beyond the shoreline.
Guided boat tours take you to the heart of the action, bringing you up close and personal with the vibrant marine life that thrives around the island.
Snorkeling off the shore might seem like a convenient choice, but let's weigh the options.
A guided boat tour, particularly to renowned spots like Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, opens doors to a snorkeling experience that surpasses the coastal experience.
The barrier reef system is rich in biodiversity and is best explored with the guidance of experienced tour operators who know the hidden gems beneath the surface.
If you want to witness the incredible sea life and colorful coral reefs, consider the unparalleled advantages of a snorkel tour.
It’s not just a boat ride; it’s a journey into all the wonder of Caye Caulker snorkeling.
Snorkel tours come in various lengths, catering to different preferences.
Whether you’re up for a half-day adventure or a full-day exploration, the tours offer flexibility to suit your schedule and curiosity.
In the following sections, we’ll unravel the specifics of these tour options, guiding you towards choosing the best way to snorkel Caye Caulker.
RELATED ARTICLE: Which is Better Tahiti or Bora Bora?
RELATED ARTICLE: How to Visit La Parguera Bioluminescent Bay
Caye Caulker Snorkel with XSite Belize
Selecting the perfect company for your Caye Caulker snorkeling adventure can be quite the decision, especially when many tours seem to offer similar experiences.
So, why did we decide to go with XSite Belize Sailing and Adventures?
Our choice was guided by a genuine desire to support local Belizean businesses.
Also, we were staying in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye at the Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club by Hilton.
As Hilton Diamond Members, we got a great deal - booking four nights and getting the fifth night for free, along with incredible room upgrades for free.
Missing out on these perks was simply not our preference, so we reserved our Hilton stay in Ambergris Caye and planned to just do a day trip to Caye Caulker instead of staying in Caye Caulker.
Convenience played a significant role in our excursion decision-making process.
Being based in Ambergris Caye, we found it more practical for our group to go on our snorkeling tour right from where we were, rather than navigating our way to Caye Caulker first.
Plus, it turned out to be a budget-friendly choice since avoiding the additional ferry to Caye Caulker saved us extra expenses.
For context, a roundtrip ferry from San Pedro to Caye Caulker typically costs around $18 USD per person - not necessarily a bank-breaker, but every dollar saved counts.
Our decision wasn’t just about the cost; it was about maximizing our time and ensuring a hassle-free experience.
We all know how limited PTO can be as Americans, so maximizing our vacation time was crucial.
XSite Belize conveniently starts their Caye Caulker snorkeling tours from Ambergris Caye. (Other tour companies already start in Caye Caulker).
Choosing this company felt like joining a trip with friends who knew the waters like the back of their hands.
Chilo and Waneer, our guides, were more than just guides - their kindness, accommodation, and extensive knowledge added a layer of richness to our snorkeling excursion.
It felt like exploring the ocean with friends who genuinely cared about providing us with the best experience possible.
If you decide to book with XSite Belize, tell them that The Chews from ChewsToExplore say heyyy!
When considering your options for a snorkeling tour in Caye Caulker, especially if you are staying in Ambergris Caye, I'd say that sailing with XSite Belize is a must-do.
RELATED ARTICLE: Best Weekend in El Salvador Itinerary
What’s Included in Caye Caulker Belize Snorkeling
When we sailed with XSite Belize, we had an incredibly comfortable catamaran, equipped with indoor cushioned seating, tables, restrooms, and Bluetooth speakers so you can play your own music playlist. *cue the Afrobeats*
The back of the boat featured nets where up to six adults can lay down, providing a unique vantage point to observe the fish swimming beneath you.
Your snorkeling essentials, including a snorkel mask, goggles, fins, and a life jacket are all provided.
You’ll have some of the best shrimp ceviche you’ve ever had in your life, along with a selection of juicy fresh fruits.
If you have special dietary restrictions, you can just give them a heads up and they will happily accommodate you.
You’ll stay refreshed with complimentary water and bottomless rum punch that adds a special touch to your adventure.
You are sure to benefit from the knowledge and expertise of your professional tour guides who know the waters inside and out.
They have half-day tour options which is ideal for those with limited time. It offers a condensed, but still incredible experience with fewer stops.
Or you could opt for the full-day tour (like we did) for a comprehensive adventure, exploring multiple snorkeling sites and making the most of your day on the crystal-clear waters of Caye Caulker.
RELATED ARTICLE: Best Pastechi in Aruba & More Traditional Foods
Caye Caulker Snorkeling Sites
There are a variety of captivating sites that you could explore during your Caye Caulker snorkel, each offering a unique underwater experience.
Different tour companies may include different stops, so it’s crucial to select a tour aligned with your preferences.
Here’s a rundown of some noteworthy sites you might explore:
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
The Hol Chan Marine Reserve is the nearest site to Ambergris Caye, and it reveals a lively underwater ecosystem.
This isn’t about just spotting small fish; it’s an opportunity to observe impressive grouper, graceful stingrays, and a colorful array of marine life.
For the more adventurous (like my husband), there’s even a chance to free-dive through an underwater cave full of fish.
Even if you prefer staying close to the boat, the marine life near the surface is quite impressive.
During our visit, my friends and I enjoyed the sighting of stingrays and sizable fish, creating an incredible snorkeling experience right by the boat.
RELATED ARTICLE: Spirit Airline Reviews You Need to Know About
Shark Ray Alley
Prepare to encounter numerous nurse sharks gracefully navigating the waters at Shark Ray Alley.
This site offers a bucket-list opportunity to swim alongside these majestic creatures, varying in size.
Surrounded by an abundance of fish and stingrays, the sharks, although their skin feels scaly and rough when touched, prove to be friendly companions.
It’s an experience that might surprise you, leaving you with a newfound appreciation for these fascinating underwater residents.
The best part is that even if you don’t feel comfortable jumping in with the sharks, seeing them from the boat is such a cool experience.
There is no pressure for anyone to get into the water if they’re not comfortable with it.
My husband and friends ventured out into the waters of Shark Ray Alley and had the time of their lives swimming with the sharks and all the sea life and came back with all their limbs, so it’s not actually as intimidating as it may seem.
RELATED ARTICLE: Exploring Old Havana Cuba
Caye Caulker Marine Reserve
The Caye Caulker Marine Reserve offers a diverse and lively underwater experience, although it may be less impressive than Hol Chan Marine Reserve.
Within the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve, you’ll find Coral Gardens, a mesmerizing underwater landscape adorned with vibrant coral formations.
The shallow waters in this area offer excellent visibility of the sea life.
Coral Gardens is about a 15-minute boat ride away from Caye Caulker.
RELATED ARTICLE: Can Americans Travel to Cuba?
Caye Caulker Snorkeling Schedule
Here's a sample snorkeling schedule that XSite Belize Sailing & Adventures provided for our unforgettable day.
Times may vary, but this gives you a general idea of how your full day snorkel tours can go.
9:30 AM Meet-Up:
Guests are briefed on the day’s experience.
Remember to bring your sunscreen and towels.
10:00 AM Departure:
Set sail from Ambergris Caye with fresh fruits, shrimp ceviche, and an open bar.
Don’t be shy, connect to the Bluetooth and play your favorite music!
10:45 AM Hol Chan Marine Reserve:
Enjoy a guided snorkel of Hol Chan Marine Reserve, lasting about 45 minutes with a knowledgeable guide.
12:00 PM Shark & Ray Alley:
Dive into more snorkeling with sharks and stingrays, or watch from the catamaran as they swim to the boat.
After snorkeling, it’s time to get into some of the “secret” rum punch, more shrimp ceviche, and fresh fruit.
1:30 PM The Split:
Sail right through where Caye Caulker was split into two.
The southern side is more developed than the northern side.
Next, it’s time to get off the boat and grab a Lizard Juice from Lazy Lizard!
This is a green frozen lime-flavored drink with 3 or 4 different rums in it. You only need one of these drinks 🙂
2:00 PM Tarpon Feeding:
After you’ve grabbed your Lizard Juice, your guide will take you down to the Tarpon Feeding.
You can purchase sardine bait for 5 BZD (~$2.50 USD), hold it above the water, and capture the exciting moment that the huge tarpons jump out the water on video.
The Atlantic tarpons, protected by law in Belize, can grow up to 8 feet (~2.5 meters) or 300 pounds (136 kg), so we are talking about BIG fish.
Be sure to set your video camera to slow-mo and the footage will come out great.
I screamed every single time I did it, but it was a lot of fun.
It didn’t hurt, just felt like a little suction on my hand every time the tarpon ate the bait from my hands.
You never know when the tarpon is going to jump out at you.
3:00 PM Lunch on Caye Caulker:
Lunch is not included in the price of the tour, but you can enjoy affordable, amazing fresh-grilled lobster for only $20 USD.
There are quite a few local food spots to try out all over Caye Caulker!
4:00 PM Sunset Sail:
Cruise back to Ambergris Caye on this relaxing 2-hour sunset sail.
There is more fresh shrimp ceviche available, and the drinks are always flowing. Keep an eye out for the playful dolphins in the water.
RELATED ARTICLE: How to See the Perfect Sunrise at Machu Picchu
Caye Caulker Snorkeling Costs
Before going on your Caye Caulker Belize snorkeling excursion, it’s essential to be mindful of the costs and make informed choices.
Always check whether prices are in USD or BZD, as some places may prefer USD.
If paying with a credit card, opt for one without foreign transaction fees.
Our full-day open guided tour, inclusive of stops at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, The Split, and Caye Caulker, cost us $150 USD per person, with an additional park entry fee of $10 USD per person.
It’s advisable to clarify payment currencies in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
Private tours usually come at a higher cost compared to open tours.
While we didn’t book a private tour, luck was on our side, and it turned into one as the other group scheduled didn’t show up.
If privacy is a priority, consider booking a private tour directly with XSite Belize.
Reach out to them for precise pricing tailored to your private group’s needs.
These snorkeling tours are extremely worth it.
The abundance of sea life, coupled with exceptional guides, makes every penny spent worthwhile with XSite Belize.
RELATED ARTICLE: Easy Steps on How to Travel More Spend Less
When to Book Caye Caulker Snorkeling
When it comes to booking your Caye Caulker snorkeling tour, you shouldn’t wait until the very last minute.
Aim to book at least a day in advance, but the sooner, the better - ideally, one to two days before your desired date.
As for me, I'm a Virgo, a top-tier planner, if you will. So I booked this tour about a month before the actual date.
I had my heart set on celebrating my golden birthday with this exceptional Caye Caulker snorkel experience.
Booking in advance ensured we secured the specific date, and having it scheduled the day before my actual birthday allowed for flexibility.
In the event of unfavorable weather on our booked day, we had the option to easily reschedule, ensuring we wouldn't miss out on this extraordinary adventure during our Belize trip.
You can conveniently book online or visit the tour operator's office on the island unless it's a particularly busy time during the high season
RELATED ARTICLE: Best Things to Do in Puerto Rico - Southwestern Puerto Rico Editon
Packing List for Caye Caulker Snorkeling
Packing smart for your Caye Caulker snorkeling adventure is key to ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Here’s a checklist to help you prepare:
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect yourself and the marine life with eco-friendly sunscreen.
- Swimsuit: A must for your underwater exploration.
- Bucket Hat: Shield yourself from the tropical sun.
- Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from the glare reflecting off the crystal-clear waters.
- Dry Bag: Keep your belongings safe and dry during the boat ride.
- Sandals: Convenient footwear that easily slips off is great for transitioning from boat to water.
- Waterproof Phone Case: Capture the beauty of the underwater world without risking water damage to your phone.
- Towel: Handy for drying off after your snorkelling adventure.
You’ll be well-prepared for a memorable day of snorkeling in Caye Caulker with these items.
RELATED ARTICLE: Best Tips for Minimalist Packing for a Week
Tips for Caye Caulker Snorkeling
Maximizing your Caye Caulker snokeling experience involves a bit of planning and some helpful tips:
- Schedule smart:
Avoid disappointment due to bad weather by not booking your snorkeling adventure for your last day of your trip. Unexpected changes are easier to manage earlier in your itinerary.
2. Life jackets are your friends:
If you’re a bit nervous in the water, fear not! Life jackets provide excellent buoyancy, making floating a breeze.
Keep it on, relax, and let the life jacket do the work for you.
3. Safety first, then spirits:
After your snorkeling adventure, if you’re in the mood for some drinks, make sure to prioritize safety.
Enjoy your favorite rum punch responsibly once you’re back from snorkeling.
4. Arrival to Caye Caulker:
Whether you opt for a ferry or a tiny plane ride, arriving in Caye Caulker is part of the adventure.
The flights are only about 10-15 minutes from Belize City, but we chose the budget-friendly ferry option, even though it was about a 90-minute ride.
The flights and ferries go from Belize City to either Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker.
They also go between the cayes. Decide which mode of transportation you'd prefer, taking into consideration costs and timing.
5. Respect the marine life:
We saved the best (and most important) for last.
While snorkeling, observe the sea life from a respectable distance.
Refrain from touching or disturbing the delicate Belize barrier reefs, and remember to wear reef-safe sunscreen to avoid spreading harmful chemicals in the water.
RELATED ARTICLE: Top Self Care Vacation Tips You Need to Know
Caye Caulker Belize FAQs
Yes, Caye Caulker offers excellent snorkeling opportunities with guided boat tours to popular sites like Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley.
Yes, you can explore the Coral Gardens in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve.
The deepest that Shark Ray Alley gets is 30 feet or about 9 meters deep.
It is generally safe to swim in Caye Caulker, especially with a tour guide. However, it’s always advisable to be cautious, follow local guidelines, and be aware of your surroundings while in the water.
Caye Caulker Belize is often considered a backpacker paradise and a budget-friendly destination.
Ambergris Caye is larger with more amenities, while Caye Caulker offers a more relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. You can go on incredible snorkeling tours from both places.
RELATED ARTICLE: Panama City Panama Travel Guide
Final Thoughts on Caye Caulker Snorkeling
Caye Caulker offers an unforgettable snorkeling experience surrounded by vibrant marine life and stunning coral formations.
Our journey with XSite Belize exceeded expectations, providing an adventure filled with laughter and the discovery of the second largest barrier reef in the world.
From the thriving underwater ecosystems of Hol Chan Marine Reserve to the exhilarating encounters at Shark Ray Alley, every moment was truly memorable in all the best ways.
We invite you to check out our full day adventure on our ChewsToExplore Youtube channel.
Watch, like, comment, and subscribe to our channel for more exciting, budget-conscious travel content.
Join us as we dive into the gorgeous waters of Belize and uncover the hidden treasures that make Caye Caulker a must-visit destination for snorkeling.
Explore Belize Travel Guide
Whether you're exploring mainland Belize, Ambergris Caye, or Caye Caulker, we have a 29-page digital guide that has you covered with essential details to perfectly plan your trip to Belize!
Discover exactly:
- how to save money
- what to pack
- transportation tips
- private taxi contacts
- over 15 unique (some FREE) activities
- over 20 top-rated dining spots
- over 15 accommodation options
- plus a sample 6-day itinerary
Organized by budget, our guide ensures you "See the World & Save a Dollar!" Don't miss out—grab your guide now and make your Belize adventure extraordinary!
Explore Belize Travel Guide
Are you considering traveling to Belize, but unsure of where to start planning?
This 29-page digital guide breaks down every detail you need to know before going to Belize. Details on mainland Belize, Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker are all included!
This is a one-of-a-kind travel guide filled with first-hand experience and insider tips that will save you time planning your dream trip.
What's inside:
- How to save money
- What to pack
- How to get to and around the cayes
- Private taxi driver numbers
- Over 15 unique things to do (some are FREE!)
- Over 20 top-rated places to eat
- Over 15 accommodation recommendations
- Sample 6-day itinerary through Belize
Our recommendations are organized by budget, so as always, we'll help you "See the World & Save a Dollar!"