This Underrated Caribbean Destination Has Unspoiled Beaches, Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Fewer Crowds Than Elsewhere in the Region

"In 1971, French marine biologist Jacques Cousteau sailed his boat Calypso to Belize's Great Blue Hole, the world's largest marine sinkhole, and named it one of the world's top dive sites-a level of renown elevated by his grandson, Fabien, when he partnered with Richard Branson to explore its depths in 2018. While the submersible expedition didn't resolve any Mayan mysteries or leviathanic myths, it did highlight the country's natural beauty and commitment to protecting it."

"At Hol Chan Marine Reserve, I swam languorously above majestic spotted eagle rays, turtles munching on submerged grass beds, and a shifting kaleidoscope of tropical fish gliding through corals before being (safely) encircled by vast numbers of nurse sharks and amberjacks at Shark Ray Alley. Belize's beaches are glorious, its protected inland jungles teem with wildlife and sanctuaries where you can visit them."

Jacques Cousteau visited the Great Blue Hole in 1971, and a 2018 submersible expedition involving his grandson highlighted Belize's natural beauty and conservation efforts. In 2019 Belize more than doubled marine-protected areas by setting aside 11.6 percent of territorial waters. The UNESCO-listed Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System is the second-largest living reef, with shore-proximate dive and snorkeling opportunities. Hol Chan Marine Reserve hosts spotted eagle rays, turtles, tropical fish, nurse sharks, and amberjacks at Shark Ray Alley. Belize offers glorious beaches, protected inland jungles and wildlife sanctuaries, direct flights from major U.S. hubs, and short drives to parks, caves, and ancient Mayan ruins.

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