Float above coral gardens at Hol Chan and slip into Shark Ray Alley where nurse sharks and southern stingrays glide through shallow flats. This half-day trip from San Pedro packs two world-class snorkeling stops into a relaxed three-hour outing.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off a low skiff into a shallow blue corridor where light strips across coral heads and fish scatter like confetti.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortable basic fitness and the ability to swim short distances; not strenuous but requires getting in/out of a boat and treading water.
Wildlife
History
Hol Chan was designated a marine reserve in the late 1980s as Belize moved to protect sections of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef; the name “Hol Chan” means “little channel” in Mayan and refers to the cut through the reef.
Conservation
The reserve relies on visitor fees and local enforcement to limit anchor damage and overfishing; choose operators who follow no-touch policies and use mooring buoys to reduce reef impact.
Reserve your spot on the Snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Arrive early to avoid crowds
Morning departures (check-in 8:00 for 8:30) typically offer calmer water and better visibility before tour traffic builds.
Use reef-safe sunscreen
Apply biodegradable sunscreen and a rashguard—chemical sunscreens damage corals and are often prohibited in reserves.
Bring a towel and dry bag
A small dry bag protects phone, wallet and camera while you swim; boats are open and gear gets wet.
Follow guide briefings closely
Guides control entry points, distances to marine life and safe zones—obeying them keeps you and the animals safe.
Mask & snorkel
Operators supply gear, but a well-fitted mask reduces fog and improves comfort.
Rashguard or UV shirt
Protects skin from sun during extended surface swims and reduces need for sunscreen.
summer
Reef-safe sunscreen
Minimizes coral damage while protecting you from tropical sun.
summer
Small dry bag
Keeps valuables dry on an open boat and makes transitions simpler.