Long Caye Wall - Lighthouse Reef

Over Heat, a funny name for a site we really appreciate, sits on Roatán’s south side, a spot we often find ourselves drifting through. It’s a channel, really, less a dramatic wall and more a gentle slope of coral that keeps giving. We’re talking about a maximum depth around 20 metres, perfect for long bottom times and really soaking it all in. We love Over Heat for its consistent, relaxed vibe. It rarely throws anything too challenging our way, but don’t mistake "relaxed" for "boring." This place really comes alive when there’s a mild current pushing through. We like to drop in and just let the water do the work, watching for the resident turtles that often cruise by. The creole wrasse here are usually in thick schools, shimmering like a liquid curtain. If you’re lucky, you’ll spot Conklin's cardinalfish tucked into the nooks and crannies. Our favourite finds are often the smaller stuff though, the blennies and gobies. Keep an eye out for Banded Blennies bobbing their heads from empty worm tubes; they’re little characters. It’s a site that rewards a slow pace and an observant eye, great for photographers or anyone who just wants to unwind and take in the sheer volume of fish life.

Location
Lighthouse Reef, Belize, Central America
Coordinates
17.137000, -87.629400
Type
reef

Marine Protected Area: South Point, Lighthouse Reef

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 Wall

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 Wall

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 depth range for diving at Long Caye Wall?
Long Caye Wall offers a captivating wall dive experience with a maximum depth of 19m. Divers can explore the vibrant marine ecosystem and healthy coral growth within this depth range. This makes it an accessible yet rewarding site for many divers.
What kind of marine life and coral can divers expect to see at Long Caye Wall?
Divers at Long Caye Wall are treated to beautiful, healthy coral growth and impressive giant sponges. The site is teeming with typical Caribbean marine life, including nurse and reef sharks, possible eagle rays, turtles, and stingrays. You'll also encounter a variety of fish such as snapper, angelfish, grunts, parrot fish, and grouper. For more details on these species, explore our wildlife database.
How difficult is diving at Long Caye Wall, and is it suitable for beginners?
Diving at Long Caye Wall is rated as intermediate difficulty. While it offers a rewarding experience, its nature as a wall dive means it might present challenges for absolute beginners. We generally recommend that divers have some prior experience before exploring this beautiful site in Lighthouse Reef.
What are the best times of year to dive Long Caye Wall for optimal conditions?
The provided data does not specify the best times of year for optimal diving conditions at Long Caye Wall. For general guidance on seasonal diving in the region, you may find our When to Dive guide helpful. Always check local conditions before planning your trip.
Are there any specific diving certifications required to dive Long Caye Wall?
The available information does not specify particular diving certifications required for Long Caye Wall. Given its intermediate difficulty and status as a wall dive, it is generally advisable for divers to hold at least an Advanced Open Water certification or equivalent experience. Always consult with local dive operators in Belize for their specific requirements.
What are the usual current and visibility conditions like at Long Caye Wall?
Divers at Long Caye Wall can typically expect excellent visibility, averaging around 18m, which provides clear views of the stunning underwater landscape. The provided data, however, does not include specific information regarding typical current conditions at this dive site. For up-to-date conditions, it's best to check with local dive centers.