Reef Diving

Charles Darwin, one of the most influential figures in human history, best known for his contributions to evolutionary theory, described the Belize Barrier Reef, as "the most remarkable reef in the West Indies”, in his study of the evolution of coral reefs in 1842.

The Belize Barrier Reef declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1996, extending more than 180 miles, is the longest unbroken living reef in the world. Forming a part of the Mesoamerican Reef System, shallows ranging from 3 to 7 feet in depth, line the Belize Barrier Reef to the west. To the east, you will find three of the Western Hemisphere’s four rare offshore atolls (circular reefs surrounding a central lagoon): Turneffe, Lighthouse and Glover’s Reef.

The Belize Barrier Reef is home to a diverse array of species, containing more than 66 species of corals over 500 species of fish, as well as several species of sea turtles, dolphins and whale sharks. With the reef only ½ mile (800 meters) from our PORTOFINO beach, an array of dive sites is only 5-10 minutes away for anyone from Dive Masters to beginners!

Ambergris Caye has Belize’s most popular dive and snorkel site, Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley and many other excellent dive sites to explore. From its shipwrecks, to shallow coral gardens to steep walls, with bursts of color and life, there is something for the leisure snorkeler to the avid diver.

Whether you are scuba diving or snorkeling, you will enjoy the outstanding visibility, the warm waters and the rich, colorful marine life. The water is clear and underwater visibility routinely extends hundreds of feet, so you can easily view activity under the surface. Since temperatures are similar to that of bath water, the water is always mild.

Amazing views and comfortable water temperatures, it’s all here waiting for you.

Visit our Dive Shop Action Divers, conveniently located at the end of our dock, and let us introduce you to some of the most amazing and memorable diving and snorkeling locations on Ambergris Caye. We offer one, two or three tank dives.

The Dive shop is a proud member of the PADI International Resort Association, the world’s leader in scuba diving.

All of the courses offered by Portofino's dive shop are conducted by professional PADI Instructors who follow standards set by the Professional Association of Diving Instructors.

Courses include Scuba Review, Scuba Refresher, Scuba Instruction, Scuba Diver Certification, Open Water Referral, Open Water Certification, Advance Open Water. Scuba Rescue, Medic First Aid, Dive Master. There is also a Junior Open Water Diver Course available for children starting with the age of 10 to 14 years old.

Check out our Dive Package or email us for more details at info@portofinobelize.com.