(Alex Gamero is the owner of DiscoveringBelize.com and has lost count of how many hotels and resorts in Belize he's visited.) This resort is located on Southwater Caye a 15 acre island about 15 miles off of Dangriga (a 45 minute boat ride). This island is perched right on the Barrier Reef. In fact it is one of the few places in Belize where you can actually snorkel off the beach (however the best snorkeling spots are still a boat ride away). It is also part of the Southwater Caye Marine Reserve. Just south, visitble from the island, is Carrie Bow Caye, where you'll find the Smithsonian Institute of Marine Research which has conducted many studies on the marine park as well as other parts of Belize's barrier reef system. Guests at the resort with an interest in marine biology can visit the institute. The diving and snorkeling are amazing with a diverse underwater topography that includes spur and groove canyon, ridges, pinnacles, sink holes and sand throughs. You'll also find a variety of mangrove islands such as Man-O-War Caye, a tiny mangrove island that is a nesting ground for hundreds of birds including Magnificent Frigate and Brown Boobie birds. Pelican Pouch is located on the southern tip of the island and has over 200 feet of white sand and turquoise water. Unlike the beaches in Dangriga and Hopkins which can get muddy with rain, the water on the islands is almost always clear. In the main house you'll find 5 standard rooms with a balcony overlooking the beach complete with a hammock for relaxing. These are basic accomodations with a shared bathroom. On the ground floor you'll find a spacious wooden deck where meals are served and a bar for that much needed cold drink in the hot sun. On the beach you'll find cottages which have a private bathroom and spacious decks overlooking the beach. The grounds are dotted by tall coconut trees and you'll find plenty of hammocks to lounge around in. Just behind the resort is a large 2 story dormitory style building that is used to house student groups. This is an excellent place for students (or anyone for that matter) with an interest in marine ecology. One important thing to bare in mind is that this is not a luxury resort. It's solar powered with no outlets in the rooms and the bathroom have composting toiletts. The accomodations are comfortable and spacious but basic. However the lure of this resort is not to be pampered, it's the relaxation of being away from it all and the joy of being in a beautiful beach setting. I recommend this resort for anyone who wants to relax in a secluded beach island with great snorkeling and diving.
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