![](https://www.travelbelize.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Looking-east-towards-reef-over-Half-Moon-Caye-scaled.jpg)
Half Moon Caye
Half Moon Caye Natural Monument is picturesque with its white-sandy beaches, unbelievably blue waters, and lush vegetation. One TripAdvisor user described it as “the most beautiful place I have ever been.” This park is more than just a scene from a postcard. It preserves several important ecosystems and is home to endangered species such as the Hawksbill Turtle and Nassau Grouper, as well as colonies of Red-Footed Booby Birds and endemic Leaf Toed Geckos. The first protected area in Belize, Half Moon Caye is also one of the few remaining spots to see a thriving old-growth littoral (coastal) forest.
Underwater, Half Moon Caye impresses with its dramatic reef wall that drops to over 3000 feet (910 meters). It’s a wall dive no sport diver will ever forget. Often overshadowed by its more famous sister site, the Blue Hole, the Half Moon Caye wall is considered by many to be the best dive site in Belize.
Full of pristine coral and abundant sea life, this Caye and its surroundings can be explored time and time again without ever seeing the same things twice.Spotted Eagle Rays, Nurse Sharks, and sea turtles are common. Schools of bonefish and permit are everywhere. This unique island is also a protected bird sanctuary (be sure to check out the treetop platform for the best bird-watching).
Travel Information
Located on the southeast corner of the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, Half Moon Caye is accessible by boat from the mainland and other islands. Some tour companies offer multi-day excursions with camping on the island. Live-aboard dive vessels offer diving in the area on their weeklong trips. See our responsible visitation guidelines before visiting so you can do your part to protect the Belize Barrier Reef for future generations to enjoy.