Hol Chan

Hol Chan

The quick ride out to Hol Chan Marine Reserve makes this the most popular half-day tour for visitors staying at Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Set aside in 1987, this reserve covers an area of 3 square miles (7.8 sq km) and is found off the southern tip of Ambergris Caye. As a result, this area of the Belize Barrier Reef supports healthy populations of fish and colorful coral. Turtles, nurse sharks, grouper, jacks, reef fish, and barracuda are just a few of the species you might see here. The reef ranges from 10–30 feet (3–9 m) deep and most guides take snorkelers along the outer edge of the reef. While this site is great for beginner snorkelers, as well as divers, swimmers should pay attention to currents which can be strong throughout the reserve.

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The Hol Chan cut is a natural, 30-foot-deep (9-m-deep) break in the barrier reef. The Maya dubbed this formation Hol Chan, which translates to “Little Channel.” This break allows for ocean currents to sweep nutrients into the inner reef lagoon, thereby attracting a range of marine life to the area. Keep your eyes out for moray eels, nurse sharks, and black groupers.

The popularity of this site means that you will not be alone on the reef. From San Pedro, the ride out to the reef is less than 20 minutes, and every day dozens of boats moor up to the buoys that have been installed at the site. Most tours are combined with a stop at Shark Ray Alley.

Trips to Inspire

Hol Chan itineraries from local insiders

Explore hand-picked Hol Chan itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.

8 days | $$$

Explore Belize Together

Megan’s family vacation in Belize blended adventure and relaxation for a memorable Caribbean getaway. They trekked from San Ignacio’s rainforest highlands to the Tikal ruins, then snorkeled with sharks and rays at Hol Chan Reef along Belize’s tropical coast. Friendly locals and knowledgeable guides shared Maya history and coastal traditions, leaving Megan’s family with a deeper appreciation for Belize’s vibrant heritage and natural wonders.

Explore Belize Together
6 days | $

An Unforgettable Belize Honeymoon

I would and have recommend Belize to others as well as Anywhere, they were very patient and easy to work with and came through on their part of every aspect of our trip. Thanks Anywhere!

An Unforgettable Belize Honeymoon
9 days | $$$

A Belize Adventure to Remember

Such a great trip from start to finish. Our kids had such a great time and we did as well. Everything was planned so perfectly! Thank you Rodrigo!

A Belize Adventure to Remember
12 days | $$$

Mother and Son's Belize Adventure

Anywhere has always (third trip booked) done a great job in the choices, planning and logistics. Best travel company ever!!

Mother and Son's Belize Adventure
9 days | $$$

We had an UnBelizable Time

We always put our trip together and make out own plans. This time, we went with Anywhere and let you make suggestions. So glad we did. It was really worth the extra expense to know that everything was under control and we had someone to call on should things not go as planned. BUT, everything went as planned and it was better than expected!

We had an UnBelizable Time
9 days | $$$

Beaches to Jungles

I’ve been telling everyone about anywhere.com! Absolutely would not have had this great if an experience without you!

Beaches to Jungles
8 days | $$

Family Time in Belize!

Embark on an affordable family adventure that swaps bustling city life for Belize’s wild blend of jungle mist, ancient stone, and turquoise coastal waters. From the hills near Cahal Pech you’ll ride to Xunantunich, dive behind a hidden waterfall on a pontoon tour, then sail to a sun‑kissed island for half‑day snorkeling. Friendly local guides share Maya legends and marine lore, letting your family soak up warm hospitality while creating memories of sunrise rides, cascading water mist, and colorful coral playgrounds.

Family Time in Belize!
8 days | $$$

Exploring Belize Solo

This thoughtfully designed solo Belize journey blends quiet coastal relaxation, gentle adventure, and laid back island time into one seamless, low stress experience. You will begin in the charming beach town of Placencia, where days unfold at your own pace with ocean views, jungle excursions, and time to simply unwind. Midway through the trip, you will transition to Ambergris Caye, where warm Caribbean waters, easy island rhythms, and sunset sailing create the perfect setting for reflection, exploration, and solo freedom.

Exploring Belize Solo
9 days | $$

8 Night Escape to Belize

This thoughtfully paced Belize journey blends jungle adventure, ancient Maya culture, and laid-back Caribbean island life into one seamless experience. You’ll begin in the lush Cayo District near San Ignacio, staying at a boutique jungle lodge surrounded by nature, with time for exploration, relaxation, and a guided canoe journey through the stunning Barton Creek Cave. Midway through the trip, you’ll transition from rainforest to reef, traveling by private transfer and water taxi to the easygoing island of Caye Caulker, where turquoise waters, snorkeling on the Belize Barrier Reef, and slow island rhythms set the tone for the second half of your adventure.

8 Night Escape to Belize
9 days | $$$

Explore Belize Together

This 8 night Belize family adventure blends jungle exploration, cultural discovery, and relaxed island time into one seamless, easygoing journey. You will begin in the lush Cayo District near San Ignacio, then transition mid trip to Ambergris Caye, where warm waters and sandy streets set the tone for the second half of your adventure. With comfortable, well located accommodations and smooth transportation throughout, the trip is designed to feel simple, flexible, and stress free for the whole family.

Explore Belize Together
6 days | $$$

Family Indulgence in Belize

The perfect combination of rest, relaxation, and adventure await you and your family on this grandiose trip. Indulge in the best of Belize's accommodations and activities.

Family Indulgence in Belize
6 days | $$$

A Tropical Treat for the Family

Fun in the sun and epic adventures combine to create the perfect family getaway when you choose this Signature Trip to beautiful Belize.

A Tropical Treat for the Family
8 days | $$$

Magnificent Belize by the Sea

You want adventure, tropical weather, and plenty of indulgence. This Signature Trip to Belize delivers all that and more in large doses.

Magnificent Belize by the Sea
8 days | $$$

You Better Belize It—For Two

Hungry for adventure and romance? This trip for two is sure to satisfy you. Stay in the middle of an emerald jungle; later, find yourself luxuriating on Ambergis Caye.

You Better Belize It—For Two
6 days | $$$

Belize for the Wild at Heart

Treat yourself to the adventure vacation you deserve, with money to spare. Belize is an exciting destination that's more affordable than you may think.Visit paradise on a budget.

Belize for the Wild at Heart
Tours & Activities

Experiences in Hol Chan

Explore hand-picked Hol Chan tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.

Snorkeling Adventure with Sharks and Rays at Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Ambergris Caye

Snorkeling Adventure with Sharks and Rays at Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Amazing Snorkeling Tour
Caye Caulker

Amazing Snorkeling Tour

Half Day Snorkeling Adventure
Caye Caulker

Half Day Snorkeling Adventure

Caye Caulker Experience - Group
Ambergris Caye

Caye Caulker Experience - Group

Night Scuba Diving Experience
Ambergris Caye

Night Scuba Diving Experience

Thrilling Coral Garden Snorkeling Adventure
Ambergris Caye

Thrilling Coral Garden Snorkeling Adventure

Enchanting Sunset Snorkeling Experience
Ambergris Caye

Enchanting Sunset Snorkeling Experience

Beach Picnic with Snorkeling, Cruising, and Diving Experience
Ambergris Caye

Beach Picnic with Snorkeling, Cruising, and Diving Experience

Enchanting Sunset Sailing Cruise Experience
Ambergris Caye

Enchanting Sunset Sailing Cruise Experience

Coral Gardens & Manatee
Ambergris Caye

Coral Gardens & Manatee

Caye Caulker Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure
Ambergris Caye

Caye Caulker Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure

Caye Caulker Full Day Snorkel Adventure
Ambergris Caye

Caye Caulker Full Day Snorkel Adventure

Glass Bottom Boat Exploration Adventure
Ambergris Caye

Glass Bottom Boat Exploration Adventure

Full Day Snorkeling Experience
Caye Caulker

Full Day Snorkeling Experience

Lodging & Accommodations

Where to stay in Hol Chan

From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Hol Chan accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.

Victoria House
Victoria House
Victoria House
Victoria House

This resort can be converted on an all-inclusive resort a few miles south of San Pedro, the capital of Ambergris Caye. Staying here you’ll be a short distance from Ambergris Caye’s main attractions. Free use of Bicycles, Paddleboards, and Kayaks.

Banana Beach Resort
Banana Beach Resort
Banana Beach Resort
Banana Beach Resort

Banana Beach Resort is located on Ambergris Caye, about a 45-minute drive south of San Pedro, the island’s laid-back capital. Visitors remember this island for the Caribbean culture and its proximity to Belize’s marine attractions.

Xanadu Island Resort
Xanadu Island Resort
Xanadu Island Resort
Xanadu Island Resort

The Xanadu Island Resort offers 2- and 3‑bedroom suites with full kitchens, private terraces, and breathtaking views of the pool and garden. Each suite is equipped with modern amenities like air conditioning and TVs, providing a comfortable and relaxing stay for guests.

Ramon's Village Resort
Ramon's Village Resort
Ramon's Village Resort
Ramon's Village Resort

Escape to the serene paradise of Ramon's Village Resort, where your beachfront retreat begins. Unwind at the full‑service spa, which offers a range of soothing massages and rejuvenating facials designed to refresh body and spirit.

Blue Tang Inn
Blue Tang Inn
Blue Tang Inn
Blue Tang Inn

This resort is located in San Pedro, the capital of Ambergris Caye, which the largest and most developed of Belize’s islands. The restaurant and bar scene is laid back, but you’ll find that every day here feels like a beach party.

Captain Morgan's Retreat
Captain Morgan's Retreat
Captain Morgan's Retreat
Captain Morgan's Retreat

You’ll find Captain Morgan’s Retreat on Ambergris Caye, one of Belize’s most welcoming islands. It sits right on the beach, in a semi-secluded section of the island

Iguana Reef Inn
Iguana Reef Inn
Iguana Reef Inn
Iguana Reef Inn

This resort is located on Caye Caulker, one of Belize’s low-key Caribbean Islands. This hotel makes guests feel at home with its an elegant interpretation of Caribbean style.

Belizean Shores Resort
Belizean Shores Resort
Belizean Shores Resort
Belizean Shores Resort

This resort offers beautifully appointed suites on Ambergris Cayes, which is Belize’s most developed island. While you’re staying here it’s easy to travel 30 minutes to San Pedro to take advantage of its bars and restaurants.

Caye Caulker Plaza Hotel
Caye Caulker Plaza Hotel
Caye Caulker Plaza Hotel
Caye Caulker Plaza Hotel

Caye Caulker Plaza Hotel has 30 comfortable rooms. It is located walking distance from Caye Caulker’s restaurants, bars, and gift shops, as well as popular spots for swimming and socializing on the Caribbean shore.

Portofino Resort
Portofino Resort
Portofino Resort
Portofino Resort

This resort is s a serene, secluded getaway located just 45 minutes north of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye’s flourishing capital. It is accessible only by boat, so you’ll get exclusive access to the resort’s beach.

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Private drivers; English-speaking available.

Avoid the crowds in private day tours.

Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.

Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.

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