Long Caye Ridge - Lighthouse Reef

Outside Edge isn't always top of mind when you think Aliwal, but we love it for its sheer wall and reliable big fish action. Dropping to 27 metres, this site means business. You’ll find yourself on a vertical limestone face, often with a decent current pushing you along, which brings in the pelagics. We’ve had excellent encounters with blackfin barracuda here, sometimes in swirling schools that block out the sun for a second. The wall itself is riddled with crevices and overhangs, perfect for spotting the shyer stuff. Look closely for Rama Rao's scorpionfish tucked into the rock and eroded cowries clinging to the underside of ledges. Bass and slinger seabream are common, often schooling together, creating a silver curtain. While Aliwal is known for sharks, Outside Edge gives you a different flavour; it’s more about the reef fish and predators that patrol the deeper reef. Dive it when the visibility is up, around 15 metres, and you’ll appreciate the drama of the drop-off. It's a solid Advanced Open Water dive and a strong contender for a second dive of the day if you want something with a bit more punch.

Location
Lighthouse Reef, Belize, Central America
Coordinates
17.194300, -87.619300
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: Zone 2

Best Time to Dive in Lighthouse Reef

The warmest water temperatures in Lighthouse Reef occur in September, averaging 30.0°C. The coolest conditions are in February at 27.1°C.

Monthly Water Temperatures

  • January: 27.2°C
  • February: 27.1°C
  • March: 27.2°C
  • April: 27.8°C
  • May: 28.6°C
  • June: 29.2°C
  • July: 29.3°C
  • August: 29.7°C
  • September: 30.0°C
  • October: 29.9°C
  • November: 28.9°C
  • December: 28.0°C

Nearby Dive Sites in Lighthouse Reef

Nearest Dive Centres to Long Caye Ridge

Marine Life in Lighthouse Reef

Home to 216 recorded species including 175 reef fish, 20 hard corals, 9 other, 6 sharks & rays, 2 jellyfish, 2 sea urchins.

Notable Species

Recommended Packing List for Long Caye Ridge

Based on average water temperature of 28.6°C, currents 22 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 Long Caye Ridge?
The maximum diving depth at Long Caye Ridge is 19 meters (62 feet). Divers can comfortably explore this beautiful reef site within standard recreational diving limits. This depth allows for ample bottom time to appreciate the vibrant marine ecosystem.
What kind of marine life and coral formations can divers expect to see at Long Caye Ridge?
Divers at Long Caye Ridge can expect to encounter beautiful, healthy coral formations teeming with typical Caribbean marine life. You'll likely spot nurse and reef sharks, turtles, and stingrays, with a chance of seeing eagle rays. The site is also home to a variety of fish, including snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrot fish, and grouper.
Is Long Caye Ridge considered a good dive site for beginner divers?
Long Caye Ridge is classified as an intermediate difficulty dive site. While its maximum depth of 19 meters is within typical beginner limits, the 'intermediate' rating suggests it might be more suitable for divers with some experience. Beginners should consult with their dive operator regarding site conditions and their comfort level.
What is the best time of year to dive Long Caye Ridge for optimal conditions and marine life?
The provided data does not specify the best time of year to dive Long Caye Ridge for optimal conditions or marine life. However, you can generally find information about seasonal diving conditions for Belize on our When to Dive page. This resource can help you plan your trip for the most favorable experience.
What scuba diving certifications are recommended or required to dive at Long Caye Ridge?
Given that Long Caye Ridge has a maximum depth of 19 meters and is rated as an intermediate dive, an Open Water Diver certification is generally sufficient. However, divers with an Advanced Open Water certification may find it beneficial for enhanced skills and confidence. Always confirm specific requirements with your local dive center in Lighthouse Reef.
What are the typical current conditions and visibility like at the Long Caye Ridge dive site?
Divers at Long Caye Ridge can expect excellent visibility, averaging around 19 meters (62 feet), offering clear views of the vibrant reef. The provided information does not specify typical current conditions for this site. For up-to-date current information, it's always best to consult with local dive operators in Lighthouse Reef.