Half Moon Caye is a small island on a coral atoll off the coast of Belize, in Central America. It is a protected natural monument and a bird sanctuary, and most visitors come for its wildlife and the clear water that surrounds it.
The birds
The caye is home to a large colony of seabirds. Among them are red-footed boobies, which number over 4,000 on the island, and magnificent frigatebirds. Watching them in their natural habitat is the main draw of a visit. Because the island is a protected sanctuary, the birds are used to the presence of people who keep to the marked paths.
The water and the reef
The waters around the caye are notably clear and sit along Belize's barrier reef. Snorkeling and diving are the usual ways to explore them, and the reef is a natural complement to time spent on land. Visitors who enjoy being in the water will find the setting well suited to both activities.
What to do on the island
- Walk the nature trails and look out for the seabirds.
- Visit the lighthouse.
- Snorkel or dive along the reef at the edge of the atoll.
Half Moon Caye suits travellers interested in nature, birdwatching and marine life more than in towns or nightlife. Since it is a protected site, it is worth checking the current rules for visitors before you go, and planning your trip with the wildlife and the reef in mind.