Question 1

When is the best time to dive San Pedro and the Belize atolls?

Accepted Answer

**December-April** is the most reliable window for calmer seas and clear water, especially for long Lighthouse Reef or Turneffe runs. **May-August** stays warm with generally good visibility and lighter crowds, though afternoons can be breezier. **September-October** is peak tropical weather risk, so plan flexible days and focus on local reef sites that are minutes from shore if offshore trips cancel.

Question 2

How do I get from Belize City International Airport to San Pedro?

Accepted Answer

From **BZE**, take a {{ 15 | distance:km }}-equivalent flight with Tropic Air or Maya Island Air to **SPR**, which lands right in town. Alternatively, taxi {{ 20 | distance:km }} to the Belize City water-taxi terminal and ferry **{{ 75 | distance:km }}-{{ 90 | distance:km }}** to San Pedro. Flights are faster with more frequency; ferries are budget-friendly and scenic.

Question 3

What marine park fees apply for Hol Chan and Mexico Rocks?

Accepted Answer

As of August 2024 the **Hol Chan Marine Reserve** entrance is **USD $15 per person per day** across reserve zones. Many tours include this in the price but some collect cash at check-in. Mexico Rocks is part of HCMR and follows the same fee on days you visit those zones. Always confirm inclusion when booking.

Question 4

Is Shark Ray Alley a dive or snorkel site?

Accepted Answer

Shark Ray Alley is **snorkel-only** under HCMR regulations. Licensed guides may chum from boats to aggregate nurse sharks and stingrays, but scuba is prohibited in the designated recreation area. Expect shallow depths around {{ 3 | distance:m }}-{{ 6 | distance:m }} and strong emphasis on no-touch behavior.

Question 5

Do I need Advanced Open Water for the Blue Hole?

Accepted Answer

Yes, plan on **AOW certification**, recent logged dives, and comfortable buoyancy at depth. The Blue Hole dive features a quick descent to around **{{ 40 | distance:m }}** to glimpse stalactites, followed by a short bottom time and a slow ascent. Operators will brief a conservative plan and often assess skills on local dives first if needed.

Question 6

Which snorkel sites are best for first-timers near San Pedro?

Accepted Answer

**Hol Chan (Zone A)** and **Mexico Rocks** are ideal. Hol Chan offers guided routes over sand and coral between **{{ 2 | distance:m }} and {{ 8 | distance:m }}**, with turtles and schooling fish. Mexico Rocks has calm patch reefs with sandy channels and less surge. Choose early departures for lighter wind and smaller crowds.

Question 7

What should I pack for diving and boat days in Belize?

Accepted Answer

Bring a **SMB**, whistle, reef-safe sunscreen, rashguard or 3 mm suit, sunglasses with retainer, and a dry bag. If you use **DIN** regulators, carry a **DIN-yoke adapter**. Motion-sickness tablets make long atoll rides more comfortable. Cash helps for park fees and tips if they are not included in your booking.

Question 8

How does money work in San Pedro and can I use US dollars?

Accepted Answer

Belize uses the **Belize Dollar (BZD)** pegged at **BZ$2 = USD $1**. USD is widely accepted island-wide and you'll often receive change in BZD. ATMs sit in town near banks and supermarkets. Carry small bills for tips, water-taxi tickets, and park fees.

Question 9

Are there hyperbaric chambers on the island if something goes wrong?

Accepted Answer

Yes. San Pedro hosts hyperbaric facilities with **24/7** emergency lines and DAN affiliation. Operators coordinate directly in the unlikely event of a dive incident. Save local emergency numbers and carry DAN or equivalent insurance that covers evacuation and treatment.

Question 10

What is the best way to get around San Pedro without renting a car?

Accepted Answer

Golf carts are the standard and most rentals include the toll sticker for the north bridge. Taxis and bicycles also work for short hops. There is no rideshare. At night, drive slowly and watch for speed humps and pedestrians. Many dive shops offer dock pickups, reducing transport need on dive days.

San Pedro

Reef-on-your-doorstep diving with fast access to Belize's legendary atolls

Why base in San Pedro

What the underwater looks like

Conservation and rules that matter

Logistics at a glance

When to go

Don't miss while you're here

Sunrise Hol Chan

Blue Hole + Half Moon Caye combo

Mexico Rocks on a glassy afternoon