Snorkel Belize's Barrier Reef
Snorkeling at Ray Caye Island Resort
With the Belize Barrier Reef just minutes away and colorful marine life right off the dock, Ray Caye is a snorkeler’s dream. Whether you’re a first-timer or an underwater enthusiast, you’ll find endless opportunities to explore the sea at your own pace.
Snorkel off the dock at any time, day or night—the lights at the end of the pier attract rays, squid, turtles, and more. Or join a guided tour to world-class snorkeling destinations like Silk Caye and Laughing Bird Caye. Between April and June, you may even snorkel alongside whale sharks as they migrate through the area.
Prefer to explore on your own? Grab your complimentary snorkel gear and jump in anytime. Looking for something more curated? Let our experienced guides take you to vibrant reefs, turtle hotspots, and coral sanctuaries.
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.
OTHER SNORKELING SPOTS
The Silk Cayes and Turtle Spot Adventure (2-2.5 hrs)
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 (2.5-3 hrs)
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.
Ranguana Caye (3-3.5 hrs)
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 (2 hrs)
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.
Snorkel Tours & Rates
Gear is included for all tours, and every trip is guided by knowledgeable, safety-focused locals who know where to find the action. Whether you’re spotting sea turtles or drifting over coral gardens, Belize snorkeling from Ray Caye is as close to nature as it gets.