Half Moon Caye Belize
A pristine, crescent-shaped island and protected marine reserve, renowned for its bird sanctuary and vibrant coral reefs.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Experience tranquility & sunrise
Half Moon Caye Belize
Best Time
Experience tranquility & sunrise
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine, crescent-shaped island and protected marine reserve, renowned for its bird sanctuary and vibrant coral reefs.
"So worth the ride to see this place. The birds are amazing to see and so cute. The snorkeling and the diving is to die for."
Book an Overnight Stay
For a truly magical experience, stay overnight to enjoy the island's peace after day-trippers leave.
Pack for Sun & Sea
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hats, swimwear, and a towel. The sun is intense!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Crescent Beach
Southern tip of the island
A postcard-perfect crescent of white sand fringed by palm trees, meeting impossibly blue waters. Pure Caribbean bliss.
Half Moon Caye Wall Dive
Offshore reef
Experience vibrant coral formations teeming with marine life. A diver's paradise with incredible visibility.
Red-Footed Booby Colony
Northern part of the island
Witness thousands of these colorful birds nesting and soaring. A truly unique wildlife spectacle.
Lighthouse Reef Atoll
Surrounding waters
Explore one of Belize's most stunning atolls, home to the famous Blue Hole and diverse coral gardens.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Getting to Paradise: Plan Your Journey
Embrace the Natural Wonders
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book an Overnight Stay
For a truly magical experience, stay overnight to enjoy the island's peace after day-trippers leave.
Pack for Sun & Sea
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hats, swimwear, and a towel. The sun is intense!
Respect Wildlife
Observe birds and marine life from a distance. This is a protected sanctuary.
Snorkel or Dive Gear
Essential for exploring the vibrant underwater world. Visibility is often excellent.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book an Overnight Stay
For a truly magical experience, stay overnight to enjoy the island's peace after day-trippers leave.
Pack for Sun & Sea
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, hats, swimwear, and a towel. The sun is intense!
Respect Wildlife
Observe birds and marine life from a distance. This is a protected sanctuary.
Snorkel or Dive Gear
Essential for exploring the vibrant underwater world. Visibility is often excellent.
Bring Cash
For any small purchases or tips, as card facilities might be limited.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Half Moon Caye for its breathtaking natural beauty, describing it as a true Caribbean paradise with stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. The abundant birdlife and vibrant underwater world for snorkeling and diving are major highlights. Some note the journey can be rough and expensive, but overwhelmingly agree it's worth the effort for an unforgettable experience.
"Visited at the end of October 2023 as part of an overnight birding trip. The sea was a bit rough on the trip out but much better on the return.
On arrival we were greeted by the manager of the site and directed to the camping grounds.
This area is so peaceful and the birding was amazing.
The blues and green of the Caribbean Sea is next to none. The moonlit night and sunrise the next day was an experience to be treasured.
The Frigatebirds and the Boobys were an added treat as well as the other birds on the island.
I recommend an overnight trip for anyone who’d want to have an even more amazing experience than a day trip would offer."
Jane C
"Peaceful, amazing, caribbean paradise. I could count more than six different tones of green-blue on the sea. White sands and blue sky. The place for snorkelling is very nice, great visibility and full of life.
The fallen lighthouse is a memory of a hurricane."
G. F.
"So worth the ride to see this place. The birds 🐦 are amazing to see and so cute. The snorkeling and the diving is to die for. I would say 100% to take this trip. It is a day trip for sure but worth evey min of it. Oh and dolphin 🐬 we seen on the way out. The water is so blue and so amazing. The water temp below 79 and top 82."
Scott Bell
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Half Moon Caye is approximately 50 miles offshore, so boat travel is your only option. You can arrange day trips or overnight stays via tour operators from Belize City, Ambergris Caye, or Caye Caulker. Some resorts also offer access. Inexpensive options are rare due to the distance.
While 'water taxi' might imply a public service, it's generally through private boat charters or organized tours. These can be costly due to the long journey.
No, there is no airport on Half Moon Caye. Access is exclusively by boat. Flights are available to nearby islands like Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker, from where you'd then take a boat.
The boat journey can take anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your departure point and sea conditions. The sea can be rough, especially during certain times of the year.
Yes, day trips are very popular and offer a fantastic glimpse of the island's beauty, including snorkeling and birdwatching. However, an overnight stay allows for a more relaxed and immersive experience.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Half Moon Caye is a Natural Monument and a protected area, so there is an entrance fee. This fee contributes to the conservation efforts of the island.
Entrance fees can vary, but typically range from $10-$20 USD per person for day visitors. Overnight stays may have different fee structures. It's best to confirm with your tour operator.
As a natural monument, it's generally accessible during daylight hours for day trips. Overnight visitors have access to the camping facilities.
Tickets are usually purchased as part of a tour package or upon arrival at the ranger station. Booking in advance with a reputable tour operator is highly recommended.
Visitors are expected to adhere to park rules, which include not feeding wildlife, not removing anything from the island, and properly disposing of trash.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
The waters around the island offer excellent snorkeling with great visibility and abundant marine life. The area near the fallen lighthouse and the shallow reefs are particularly good.
Absolutely! The Half Moon Caye Wall is world-renowned for its dramatic drop-offs and diverse marine ecosystems, including sharks, rays, and colorful fish.
It's a major nesting site for Red-footed Boobies and Frigatebirds. You might also spot various other seabirds, and marine life like dolphins and turtles during boat trips.
Yes, there are facilities for lunch, especially for day-trippers. Some visitors have raved about the sensational food, including red snapper and barracuda.
Yes, there are camping grounds available for overnight stays, offering a unique opportunity to experience the island's tranquility and incredible night skies.
📸 📸 Photography
The crescent beach, the vibrant blue waters, the red-footed boobies, and the panoramic views from the observation tower are all incredibly photogenic. Drone shots offer stunning perspectives.
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and warmer tones. Midday can be harsh but still offers brilliant colors.
Drone usage might be restricted in certain areas, especially near bird nesting sites, to avoid disturbing wildlife. Always check local regulations and guidelines.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, while a telephoto lens is useful for capturing birds. Underwater cameras or waterproof phone cases are a must for marine life.
The iconic crescent beach, the old lighthouse ruins, and the observation tower overlooking the bird colony are prime spots for memorable photos.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider an overnight stay if your family enjoys camping, as it offers a magical experience with fewer crowds and incredible stargazing. Pack plenty of reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and water. While food is available, bringing some kid-friendly snacks is always a good idea. The boat ride itself can be an adventure, but be prepared for potential seasickness for younger travelers.
🐠 Scuba Divers & Snorkelers
For snorkelers, the clear, shallow waters provide excellent visibility. Focus on areas near the fallen lighthouse and the protected reefs for the best experience. The sheer diversity of fish and coral formations will impress even seasoned divers. Remember to use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate ecosystem you're exploring.
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
The surrounding waters are equally rich in biodiversity. Boat trips often encounter dolphins and sea turtles. The pristine coral reefs are a testament to the conservation efforts, supporting a healthy marine ecosystem that is a joy to explore, whether by diving, snorkeling, or simply observing from the shore.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Diving and Snorkeling Paradise
For snorkelers, the shallow reefs around the island provide excellent visibility and a chance to encounter colorful fish, sea turtles, and even small sharks. The waters are generally calm and warm, making it accessible for all skill levels. Many visitors recommend bringing your own gear or renting from your tour operator to maximize your time in the water.
Beyond the wall, the atoll offers numerous other dive sites like Long Caye Aquarium and Esmeralda Canyons, each with its unique underwater topography and marine inhabitants. The clarity of the water, often described as 'crystal clear,' enhances the visual experience, making every dive and snorkel session unforgettable.
A Haven for Birdwatchers
In addition to the boobies, Frigatebirds are also a common sight, known for their impressive wingspans and aerial displays. The island's lush interior provides nesting grounds for various other species, making it a birdwatcher's paradise. An overnight stay offers the unique opportunity to witness the birds at dawn and dusk, when activity is at its peak.
Birding enthusiasts often recommend visiting during the nesting seasons for the most active displays. The presence of these diverse bird populations underscores the importance of the Half Moon Caye Natural Monument as a protected area, contributing to the overall ecological health of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System.
The Journey and Accommodation
For those seeking a deeper connection with the island, an overnight stay is highly recommended. The Itza Resort is one option mentioned for accommodation, offering a more immersive experience away from the day-tripper crowds. Camping facilities are also available, providing a rustic yet unforgettable way to experience the island's tranquility, stargazing, and sunrise.
When planning your trip, consider the sea conditions, as the journey can be rough at times. Booking with reputable tour operators or resorts is advisable to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, from the boat ride to the activities on the island.



Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit