 |
BEST BEACHES
|
|
|
|
Lighthouse Reef, Belize |
|
Lighthouse Reef is home to the spectacular Great Blue Hole; considered to be one of the top diving sites on the planet. This area is often associated with the famous marine explorer Jacques Cousteau. The marine life is so immense in the local area that many people refer to it simply as the Aquarium. There is also a lot to explore above the ocean as well; nearby you will find some exotic islands where you can enjoy the beach. |
|
|
|
Lighthouse reef is approximately 50 miles off the Belize mainland and is a circular reef surrounding a central lagoon; the famous great blue hole. The reef itself is made up of soft coral (consisting mainly of feather plumes and sea fans) and the harder hydro-coral (such as Elkhorn coral and Brain Coral). This area offers unique protection for many species of fish and this explains why there is so much diversity. There is nowhere else on the planet where you will find such a variety of marine life. |
|
As well as exotic marine life there is also lots of interesting things to see above the water. The reef is also the home of some exotic birds including white crowed pigeons, royal terns, frigate birds, hawks, and mangrove warblers.
The Great Blue Hole is an immense underwater sinkhole that is 407 feet deep and runs 985 feet across. It is believed to have been created about fifteen thousand years ago – give or take a year or two. This sinkhole is considered one of the most spectacular areas on the planet and so it is protected as one of the World Heritage sites. Within the Great Blue Hole are numerous caves and limestone structures.
Most people spending time on the Lighthouse Reef will base themselves in Long Caye Island. This is only a couple of miles away from the reef and offers all the beauty and relaxation that is expected from a tropical island; Long Caye beach is stunning. The accommodation here is of a real high standard, and there is plenty of opportunity for lounging around in a hammock on Long Caye beach after a long day diving.
Of course the main attraction around Lighthouse Reef is diving and this is what brings most people to the area. There is also the opportunity for snorkeling though, and there can be lots to see without going too deep in the water. Those who want to enjoy the Great Blue Hole though will need to put on Scuba gear and go deeper. Those who do choose to dive will also have a few wrecks to choose from as well as other interesting diving opportunities.
Kayaking around the reef is also a great way to experience the beauty of the place and this can be a really pleasant way to spend a few hours. If you have never done this before you will be able to receive instruction. It will also be possible to go on a kayaking tour of the area as part of a group. Most people will also fit in a bit of beach time on one of the local islands. |
|
Other beaches in Belize | |||||
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
| ||
|
|
| ||||
|
|
|
|
| ||
|
| |||||
|
|
|
|
We have created footage from our trips please see if you wanted to download HD videos Best beaches 2012. / Privacy policies / E-mail contact | |