The Sapodilla Cayes make up the hooked southern end of the Belize Barrier Reef and the continental shelf, and offer incredible wall dives and very few dive boats.

Reef Conservation International (tel. 501/600-9841, on Frank’s Caye 501/509-5015, www.reefci.com) offers weekly and monthly dive packages, including certification courses and survey diving to help with research projects, always in small groups. It’s worth stressing that not only will you be diving in the Sapodilla Cayes—the famous fishhook terminus of the Belize Barrier Reef, internationally renowned for its whale sharks, dolphins, and grouper spawning events—but you will most likely be the only dive boat in the water, an extraordinary opportunity. Nondivers are also welcome, and ReefCI offers various packages and degrees of marine conservation work; or just camp on the beach and snorkel the days away. The boat leaves PG Monday morning and returns on Friday afternoon; check the website for rates. ReefCI offers a discount to walk-in travelers and last-minute bookings (up to 50 percent or more!).

In addition to diving for fun, ReefCI customers have the opportunity to get involved in a number of projects, such as helping the Belizean Department of Fisheries enforce fish spawning, lobster breeding, and other special preservation zones in the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve (SCMR). The main focus is to understand the complex ecosystem of the SCMR in order to maximize conservation efforts, and to monitor the long-term general health of the coral reef. ReefCI customers have the unique opportunity to get involved with the survey work, learn about the environment, and identify fish, coral, and invertebrates—and to combine this with recreational dives and other activities.

Another diving option is contacting Roberto and April Echeverría’s Wild Encounters (tel. 501/722-2716 or 722-2300); ask at the Seafront Hotel.