Caye Caulker Marine Reserve - Ambergris Caye

Gamat Bay is one of those spots we always try to squeeze in, especially if we’re over on Nusa Penida for a few days. It's a small, protected bay, which often means an easier start before you drift out onto the slope. The real draw here is the sheer density of coral, particularly those sprawling staghorn formations in the shallows. You could spend half your dive just poking around the nooks and crannies there. As you head deeper, the slope drops away pretty dramatically to around 23m before disappearing into the blue. We've often seen whitetip reef sharks cruising the edge where the light starts to fade, and if you’re lucky, a marble ray might glide by. Keep an eye out for the smaller stuff too, like the freckled anglerfish we spotted once, perfectly camouflaged on a sponge, or the electric flash of a blue ribbon eel. For sunfish seekers, July to October is your window. The currents can pick up here, pulling you around the corner towards Toyapakeh, so it’s best for divers comfortable with a drift.

Location
Ambergris Caye, Belize, Central America
Coordinates
17.739400, -88.025500
Type
reef
Maximum Depth
5-20m

Marine Protected Area: Caye Caulker

Best Time to Dive in Ambergris Caye

The warmest water temperatures in Ambergris Caye occur in September, averaging 30.3°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 26.8°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 26.9°C
  • February: 26.8°C
  • March: 27.2°C
  • April: 28.0°C
  • May: 29.1°C
  • June: 29.5°C
  • July: 29.7°C
  • August: 30.1°C
  • September: 30.3°C
  • October: 29.9°C
  • November: 28.8°C
  • December: 27.9°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Ambergris Caye

Nearest Dive Centres to Caye Caulker Marine Reserve

Marine Life in Ambergris Caye

Home to 193 recorded species including 156 reef fish, 19 hard corals, 7 other, 3 sharks & rays, 2 whales & dolphins, 2 jellyfish.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Caye Caulker Marine Reserve

Based on average water temperature of 28.7°C, currents 5 cm/s.

  • Shorty or Rashguard - warm 29°C water needs minimal exposure protection
  • Mask - essential for every dive
  • Fins
  • BCD - buoyancy compensator
  • Regulator - your most safety-critical piece of gear
  • Dive Computer - tracks depth, time, and NDL
  • Surface Marker Buoy (SMB) - essential for boat pickups
  • Dive Torch - useful for crevices and colour at depth
  • Underwater Camera - capture your diving memories

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical diving depth at Caye Caulker Marine Reserve?
The typical diving depth at the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve ranges from 5 to 20 meters. The maximum depth recorded for this site is 17 meters, making it accessible for a good range of recreational divers.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve?
Divers exploring the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve can expect to encounter a vibrant, healthy reef teeming with copious amounts of live corals and juvenile fishes. Keep an eye out for possible hammerhead sightings, alongside typical Caribbean species such as turtles, rays, grouper, snapper, angelfish, and lobsters. For more information on marine species, visit our wildlife database.
Is diving in Caye Caulker Marine Reserve suitable for beginner divers, or is it more challenging?
Diving at the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve is classified as intermediate difficulty. While not typically recommended for absolute beginners, divers with some experience will find it rewarding. It's a great site for those looking to advance their skills beyond entry-level dives.
What is the best time of year to dive in Caye Caulker Marine Reserve for optimal conditions and marine life?
The provided data does not specify a "best time of year" for diving at the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve. However, the average visibility is a consistent 17 meters, suggesting good conditions year-round. For general guidance on optimal diving seasons in Belize, please consult our When to Dive section.
What scuba diving certifications are required to dive in the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve?
The provided data does not explicitly state specific certification requirements for diving at the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve. However, given its intermediate difficulty rating, divers should ideally hold at least an Open Water Diver certification with some experience. Always check with your local dive operator for their specific requirements and recommendations.
What are the typical water conditions and currents like when diving in Caye Caulker Marine Reserve?
Divers at the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve can typically expect excellent water clarity, with an average visibility of 17 meters. The provided data does not specify typical current conditions or water temperatures. It's always advisable to consult with local dive shops for up-to-date information on currents before your dive.