Depth
130 ft
Visibility
100+ ft
Current
Mild
Best Season
Mar - Jun
Depth
130 ft
Visibility
100+ ft
Current
Mild
Best Season
Mar - Jun
Highlights
The Great Blue Hole is one of the world's most iconic dive sites -- a massive marine sinkhole off the coast of Belize that has captivated divers for decades.
Geology
Massive stalactites and stalagmites formed thousands of years ago when the cave system was above sea level. Some columns exceed 40 feet in length.
Conditions
The deep indigo center contrasts with the surrounding turquoise reef. Visibility regularly exceeds 100 feet, offering unparalleled clarity for photography.
Wildlife
Home to Caribbean reef sharks, giant groupers, nurse sharks, and several species of rays. The surrounding reef teems with tropical fish and sea turtles.
At a Glance
120 ft
Maximum depth
Typical recreational dive limit at the Blue Hole
100+ ft
Average visibility
Crystal-clear water conditions year-round
Year-round
Dive season
Accessible all year, best conditions March through June
Gallery
Testimonials
"Descending into the Blue Hole was like entering another world. The stalactites at 130 feet are unlike anything I've seen in 20 years of diving. A true bucket-list experience."
Marcus Rivera
Dive Instructor, Belize
"The visibility was absolutely incredible -- over 100 feet on the day we dove. Watched three reef sharks circling below us as we explored the wall. An unforgettable morning."
Elena Kowalski
Travel Photographer, Poland
"I used Fathom to pick the perfect week to visit and it paid off -- flat seas, warm water, and the sharks were out in full force. This site lives up to every bit of the hype."
James Chen
Recreational Diver, Singapore
FAQ
Advanced Open Water certification is the minimum requirement. The dive reaches depths of 130 feet, which exceeds recreational Open Water limits. Some operators also require a minimum number of logged dives (typically 20+).
The Blue Hole is located about 60 miles offshore from Belize City. Most dive operators run day trips from Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker, with a 2-3 hour boat ride each way. Some liveaboard operators include it in multi-day itineraries.
Surface temperature ranges from 79-84F (26-29C) year-round. At depth, expect a thermocline around 100 feet where temperatures can drop to 75F (24C). A 3mm wetsuit is recommended for most divers.
Bottom time at the Blue Hole is typically 25-30 minutes due to the depth. Most operators include a safety stop and follow up with one or two shallower dives on the surrounding Lighthouse Reef for the rest of the day.
Inside the hole, expect Caribbean reef sharks, bull sharks (occasionally), giant groupers, and nurse sharks. The surrounding Lighthouse Reef is home to sea turtles, eagle rays, moray eels, and hundreds of species of tropical reef fish.
March through June offers the calmest seas and best visibility. The site is diveable year-round, but trips may be cancelled during rough weather from November through February. Hurricane season runs June through November.
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