Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Once a traditional fishing ground, back when San Pedro was a sleepy village of a few hundred people, Hol Chan is now the most popular dive and snorkel site in Belize, with 75,000 visitors a year. Once you visit, you’ll quickly understand the popularity of the reserve, and why it is important to help preserve it for years to come. Please follow the simple reef etiquette guidelines (see the sidebar “Reef Etiquette” in the Know Belize chapter), and help to lessen the impact humans have on these fragile ecosystems.

Declared in 1987, this marine park was established in order to preserve a small, but complete, section of the Belize Barrier Reef. Because of the no-fishing restrictions near the reef, the site boasts an amazing diversity of species. The reserve focuses its energy on creating a sustainable link between tourism and conservation, protecting the coral reef while allowing visitors to experience and learn about the beauty of the marine life living there.

The Hol Chan Marine Reserve office is on Caribena Street in the center of town and features an interactive visitors center, information on the reserve, and displays detailing the various zones of the reserve and its species.

Nearly all tour operators have trips to the Hol Chan cut and Shark Ray Alley.

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Other Sights
Most of the other noteworthy sights in the area are under water. Every dive and snorkel operator has their own list of secret spots where they’ll take you. Ask about ruins and cuts around the northern part of Ambergris Caye.

For many, the main attractions of Ambergris include the shops and boutiques in central San Pedro and the chain of resorts stretching north and south from the island. Walking, biking, or golf-carting in either direction can be a great half- or full-day activity, as you hop from one swanky hotel bar to the next, sampling different cuisines, moods, and color schemes, all with a view of the reef just offshore.