The Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Established in 1987, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve is located 4 miles southeast of San Pedro Ambergris Caye and covers approximately 5 square miles. The reserve spans an area where there is a break in the reef, hence the Mayan name "Hol Chan" which translates to English as "little channel".

The area is great for snorkeling and scuba diving, with depths of up to 30 ft and its wide variety of breathtakingly beautiful coral and fish life.

The Hol Chan Marine Reserve functions not only to preserve and protect the beautiful coral reef that is a part of the area but also the sea grass beds and mangroves, thus the reserve is separated into three areas : Zone A -The Reef, Zone B - Sea grass Beds, where the magnificent Blue Hole is located, and Zone C - Mangroves.

The world famous Shark Ray Alley is also a part of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Here, visitors can view a multitude of nurse sharks and sting rays either from the boat or up close and personal for the more adventurous traveler.