The Turneffe lighthouse
White above the water.
Serge Melki from Indianapolis, USA — CC BY 2.0 · Serge Melki from Indianapolis, USA — CC BY 2.0 · Serge Melki from Indianapolis, USA — CC BY 2.0 · Serge Melki from Indianapolis, USA — CC BY 2.0 · Serge Melki from Indianapolis, USA — CC BY 2.0
Turneffe Atoll is the largest coral atoll in Belize and in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, about 48 km long and 16 km wide. It lies 32 km from Belize City and is one of three atolls on the Belize reef, drawing dive and fishing trips more than ordinary sightseers. It was declared a marine reserve on 22 November 2012, and a local association has helped run it since 2013. The place has an old link with the pirate Blackbeard, who in April 1718 captured a small logwood-cutting sloop here and forced its captain to join him. At the northern end is Mauger Caye, with its well known lighthouse. The atoll is a network of flats, creeks and lagoons, dotted with more than 150 mangrove islands and higher cayes with coastal forest. Its waters hold more than 500 species of fish and 65 species of stony coral, along with turtles, manatees, dolphins and seabirds. From a boat you see turquoise water, palms and a white lighthouse. Most people arrive by boat with a dive or fishing company, from Belize City or nearby cayes, depending on the sea. Facilities are few, with scattered lodges, so book ahead. Do not touch the coral, use a reef-suitable sunscreen and bring a hat. Check safety terms before diving, especially during the hurricane season.
White above the water.
More than 150.
The reason for most trips.
Off the Belize coast, 32 km from Belize City
By boat with a dive or fishing firm from Belize City or the cayes.
Yes, at scattered lodges, so book ahead.