reef

Log This Dive

The Lighthouse Reef

The Lighthouse Reef, marked by that big concrete pillar near Utila Harbour, is a site we dive a lot, mostly because it's so convenient. Don't let the busy boat traffic on the surface put you off; what’s happening below is worth the short ride. This channel dive is pretty shallow, maxing out at 18m, making it a relaxed spot, even for less experienced divers. We love the sponge forest here; it’s genuinely dense, creating these cool, shadowy lanes to fin through. You’ll weave past huge barrel sponges and intricate tube sponges, their colours muted but still fascinating under the filtered light. It’s a fantastic place to slow down and really look into the nooks. Grunts and parrotfish are everywhere, drifting between the coral heads, and we often spot larger tarpon hovering with an almost regal stillness. Keep an eye out for stingrays nestled in the sand patches. Visibility often hovers around 18m, which is decent enough for the depth. Our tip? Go early to beat some of the dive center rush, and bring a good torch to really appreciate the sponge colours.