Gallows Point Reef

Best months: Dec–Apr

Protected Area

St. George's Caye Cemetery

Why dive here

With 378+ marine species recorded in the area - including barracuda, bull sharks, dolphins, eagle rays and hammerhead sharks - Gallows Point Reef offers some of Turneffe Atoll's richest reef diving. Water ranges 27-30°C, warmest August, September, October.

Best timeDec–Apr

WetsuitA 3mm shorty or thin full wetsuit

Marine lifeBarracuda, Bull Sharks, Dolphins, Eagle Rays and Hammerhead Sharks · 378+ species recorded

Water27-30°C · warmest August, September, October

CharacterReef dive

StandoutExceptional marine biodiversity

Gallows Point Reef often gets overshadowed by some of Turneffe’s deeper walls, but we think that’s a mistake. This is a proper coral kingdom, shallower than most of its neighbours and perfect for long bottom times. The sheer density of reef fish here is what catches your eye first. We’ve drifted through schools of French grunts so thick they shimmered like a silver curtain, and then watched as curious spotted goatfish nudged their way past us, sifting the sand. Keep an eye out for the unusual residents. We’ve spotted pygmy filefish camouflaged perfectly in the gorgonians and even a broadnose worm eel peeking from its sandy hideout. It’s a great spot for macro enthusiasts, but equally rewarding if you just want to soak in the bustling reef ecosystem. The reef here just hums with activity, making it one of our favourite, laid-back afternoon dives.