Turneffe Atoll Reef Diving Holidays
Turneffe Island Travel Information
Over 200 hundred mangrove covered islands interspersed with picturesque lagoons make up Belize's largest atoll. Laying just a short boat ride east of Belize City, the islands of Turneffe that make up the atoll are 50 km long and 15 km across with only a few small resorts, each built on their own idyllic palm fringed island.
Away from the crowds and with some of the Caribbean's best diving right on your doorstep, this unspoilt natural paradise is equally stunning both above and below its nutrient rich waters.
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How to Get There
All of our resorts at Turneffe Atoll supply free boat transfers from Belize City. It's a scenic 1 hr 30 minute journey, taking you through one of the cuts in the barrier reef and close to some of the cayes before meandering your way along the mangrove lined creeks to your resort. There is a small airstrip and some of the resorts can arrange private air charters from Belize City.
Sightseeing and Adventure
Along with superb diving at Turneffe Island, the flats fishing is well known amongst the angling community and the fly fisherman's "Grand Slam" of permit, tarpon and bonefish is regularly achieved here. The catch and release policy still allows you the opportunity of observing them later on the reef, though we doubt they'll be just as happy to see you.
Kayaking through the creeks and lagoons in the interior of the atoll is a great way to spend the afternoon and you may be fortunate to come across one of the American crocodiles that inhabit this area. But don't try touching them or you may find your gloves don't fit quite so well afterwards.
Bird watchers will have a long list to tick to tick off. Over 60 species have been recorded at Turneffe including ospreys, many species of heron, and the wonderfully named great breasted mango.
If you're not lucky enough to see them on your dives, then take a tour around the atoll looking for bottlenose and spotted dolphins, and the West Indian manatee. These huge, passive creatures, a close relative to the elephant, lumber around the lagoons and creeks searching for fresh sea grass to supply their massive appetite.
Dining Out & Nightlife
Your not going to find clubs or casinos here, so you pretty much have to make your own entertainment. All the resorts have their own bars and high quality restaurants to centre your evening around and maybe meet some like minded new friends.
Money
If you like to pay with cash, make sure you bring enough with you as there are no ATMs or banks on Turneffe. Most of the resorts will accept payment by credit card but check with us first to make sure.
Interested?
If you're keen to experience the rich waters of Turneffe Island Atoll, then click below to check your options now for:
Be sure to book up in plenty of time to avoid limited choice! All of the resorts at the islands are quite small and can be fully occupied months in advance.
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