The barrier reef lies about 1.5 km east of Caye Caulker, close enough to reach quickly by boat. Several dive operators on the island offer two-tank dives, PADI certification courses, and full-day trips to more distant sites including the Great Blue Hole (a 300-metre-wide karst sinkhole), though the Blue Hole trip requires a full day and is mostly of interest to divers who want the photos rather than the marine life.
The reef wall closest to the island is the more rewarding dive for marine life. Nurse sharks, hawksbill turtles, spotted eagle rays, and large grouper are regular sightings. Snorkelers can access the reef top in the shallower areas; the wall drops steeply and is dive territory.