Celebrating Belize's Reef

“Belize has the most remarkable reef in the West Indies,” declared Charles Darwin-- and we agree! Typically, the second week in May kicks off Reef Week in Belize. With Belize’s Great Barrier Reef stretching 190 miles long from Mexico to Honduras, it is a part of the Mesoamerican Reef system and the second largest in the world. (Australia’s reef is first.)

Belize’s Reef is one of the top tourist attractions in Belize as it is home to some of the most abundant and diverse ecosystems in the world, encompassing over 400 islands and boasting of 500 species of fish and 70 hard corals.  It’s a snorkelers and divers paradise, often referred to as the “rainforest of the sea.” The Blue Hole was made famous by Jacque Cousteau and is on many people’s “must-see list.”

In 1996, the Belize Reef was declared a world heritage site. Since then, the government of Belize has taken many steps to preserve its natural resources and tourism dollars. In 2010, Belize was the first country in the world to declare bottom trawling illegal. However, it’s a constant struggle. For a while, it appeared offshore drilling was going to be an issue for Belize. Fortunately for the reef, there was enough pressure put on the government that it did not happen. The government of Belize has since placed an indefinite moratorium on offshore drilling.

Reef week started in 2013, to bring together like-minded people and organizations to raise awareness of Belize’s natural resources and to educate the public about the reef and its fragile existence.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve celebrates “reef week” by hosting many activities throughout the week including puppet shows, a lionfish tournament and cook-off, a mini kayak race, and much more. To join the festivities or to learn more: www.holchanbelize.org or call them at 501-226-2247.