Belize Coast

Belize's coast is defined by the Belize Barrier Reef, a continuous coral structure running 300 km from the Mexican border south to the Guatemalan border — the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere. The reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the cayes (low sand islands) scattered along its length are the country's primary coastal access points. Tidal range along the coast is microtidal: spring range 0.2–0.5 m, with the cayes experience more tidal exchange through the reef channels than the mainland shore. Ambergris Caye, the largest, sits at the northern end of the reef with the Bacalar Chico marine reserve to the north. San Pedro town on Ambergris is the hub for dive operations, sailing, and fly-fishing. Glover's Reef Atoll and Lighthouse Reef further offshore are accessible by live-aboard and fast boat; the Blue Hole at Lighthouse Reef is a famous dive at 300 m depth. Tarpon and bonefish in the lagoons attract dedicated fly-fishing visitors throughout the year.