Snorkel Belize's Barrier Reef
Snorkeling at Ray Caye Island Resort
Visitors to Belize have many aquatic activity choices, but when making a decision to stay at a mainland resort or literally in “the middle of the action,” wouldn’t you prefer to be pampered on a private island in the Caribbean Sea where snorkeling is just steps from your lodging? The answer is a no brainer and one that can literally make a difference between a spectacular experience and one that’s hardly memorable.
Ray Caye Resort is not just breathtakingly beautiful, but guests find snorkeling paradise literally steps from their lush accommodations. Located so close to the nearby Gladden Spit, considered the epicenter of snorkeling heaven, it takes just minutes to get there and even less time to gear up for your first or 100th dive.
Gladden Spit is the premiere snorkeling destination year-round, but between April and June, this section of the Belize Barrier Reef morphs into a destination for migratory whale sharks returning each year to feed and mate in familiar waters. You can meet these gentle giants if you choose this time of year for your snorkeling trip, but don’t be scared. These huge fish are as curious about you as you are about them.
If you consider daytime snorkeling to be fun but nothing out of the ordinary, night snorkeling should be on your radar. No boats required to indulge your fantasy. Lights at the end of the Ray Caye pier attract fish, rays, squid, turtles and more, so you just jump in and have at it.
You can also book a separate turtle snorkeling journey where divers meet Loggerheads so old, some have been swimming these waters for 150 years. Spot all types of rays when you’re submerged (hence the resort’s name) and see other aquatic creatures drawn to the chum local fishermen toss into the water while cleaning their catches.
Must you be part of an organized snorkeling expedition? Of course not. If you’re the independent sort and feel confident about your skills, you can go it alone or with a friend simply by jumping off your cabana deck into the water anytime you choose. Sound like too many snorkeling options? That’s the point!
Snorkel Tours
Turtle Alley Snorkel
About 10 mins away from Ray Caye in the Gladden Spit marine reserve, Loggerhead turtles(some as old as 150 years), rough-tail stingrays, southern stingrays, spotted eagle rays and nurse sharks congregate. For decades these animals visit this particular site to feed on the leftovers from local fishermen who anchor and clean their catch in the area. The marine life has become so accustomed to getting treats this way that they come ‘running’ whenever they hear a boat. Snorkeling here is amazing and the water is shallow, about 8 – 12 ft deep.
Right off the island's South Dock
Night Snorkel with Spotted Eagle Rays
At night, the blue lights on the end of Ray Caye’s South Dock attract spotted eagle rays, squid, octopus and other fish. Guests have the unique opportunity to go snorkeling at night among these sea creatures for invigorating and once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Explore the Underwater Wonders with Ray Caye's Exclusive Snorkeling Tours
Ranguana Caye
Embark on an exciting journey to Ranguana Caye, just a 40-50 minute ride from Ray Caye. Our 3 to 3.5-hour adventure covers 9.5 miles, leading you to an enchanting world beneath the waves. Dive into the vibrant marine life in waters ranging from 5 to 20 feet deep, where you’ll encounter a stunning array of hard and soft corals. Swim alongside diverse species like snappers, groupers, and an array of reef cleaners including damselfish, tangs, wrasses, as well as parrotfish and angelfish. Keep an eye out for the elusive lionfish, and perhaps even glimpse lobsters or crabs. Larger marine life such as nurse sharks and rays add to the thrill of your snorkeling experience. Beyond the water, enjoy beachcombing and relax at Ranguana Caye’s welcoming restaurant and bar, open to all our day trippers.
Pompion Caye
Just a 20-30 minute journey from Ray Caye, Pompion Caye offers a 2-hour snorkeling excursion in depths of 5 to 15 feet. This unique experience starts directly from the boat, immersing you in a breathtaking coral reef ecosystem teeming with fish like snappers, barracudas, parrotfish, and angel fish, along with fascinating crustaceans. Pompion Caye, being a private island, focuses solely on the snorkeling experience, promising an exclusive and uninterrupted underwater adventure before returning to Ray Caye.
The Silk Cayes and Turtle Spot Adventure
Located in the Gladden Spit Marine Reserve, this snorkeling journey spans 2 to 2.5 hours, with Ray Caye just 2 miles away. Begin with a 45-minute snorkel at the Turtle Spot, an 8-15ft deep sea grass bed area on the main barrier reef. This site is renowned for sightings of nurse sharks, various rays, and notably, loggerhead turtles. The second snorkel around Silk Caye lasts 45-55 minutes, showcasing an incredible hard and soft coral reef system. The island’s vibrant and colorful underwater world is home to numerous fish species and crustaceans. After your exploration, enjoy a brief beachcombing session on Silk Caye. This afternoon tour, starting at 1:30 or 2 PM, offers a serene experience with less crowded surroundings and active marine life.
Laughing Bird Caye National Marine Park
Discover the unique ecosystem of Laughing Bird Caye in a 2.5 to 3-hour snorkeling trip. Just 7.5 nautical miles from Ray Caye, you’ll explore inner coral reefs in waters 2 to 15 feet deep. The snorkeling, lasting 60-90 minutes, can be tailored to your preference and stamina, with options for shorter sessions and breaks. Post-snorkeling, enjoy a relaxing beachcombing session, taking advantage of the island’s shaded areas and picnic tables. Guided by our expert tour guides and park rangers, you’ll learn about the island’s rich marine life and its significant coral restoration efforts led by ‘Fragments of Hope.’ This tour offers both morning and afternoon departures, catering to your schedule.
Excellent for Snorkeling. We saw almost all angels, butterflies, eagle rays, nurse sharks, green morays among common Caribbean fish.
Snorkel Tours & Rates
When you’re staying at Ray Caye, amazing Belize snorkeling adventures are literally right outside your door. Find snorkel rates below.