SNORKELING IN BELIZE: A Journey Under the Waves
Sitting on the edge, feet dangling, the sun’s rays sparkling off each wave beneath you—you grip the boat, holding on until the perfect moment to plunge into the crystal-clear waters below.
My first real snorkeling experience was in Belize, and it remains one of my favorite adventures. At 39 years old, I had never successfully breathed through a snorkel underwater—but there I was, heading to a tiny island in the Caribbean Sea.
We chose Tobacco Caye, Belize for its incredible location on the tip of the second-largest barrier reef in the world. Every year, hundreds of thousands of visitors come to Belize, many with snorkeling at the top of their itinerary. Tobacco Caye came highly recommended by an adventurous friend who frequents the island for scuba diving and fishing—thank you, Rachel!
A Tiny Island Paradise
Tobacco Caye is roughly 3 acres—tiny, exclusive, and perfect for a peaceful escape. Reef’s End Lodge occupies half of the island, while the other half hosts another boutique hotel. The owners are welcoming and fun, ensuring every guest has an unforgettable stay. And the food? Simply incredible.
At first, I hoped only to see some curious sea creatures. What I didn’t expect was the profound transformation I felt in the water. Yes, the marine life was amazing—but the true magic was the freedom and exhilaration of swimming in the reef. Every second, every breath, every fleeting movement felt vivid and alive.
Jumping off a boat in the middle of the Caribbean Sea is scary. But that moment, when you look down through your goggles and see the coral reef beneath you, all fear melts into awe. Curiosity takes over, and every second feels extraordinary.
The Joy of Learning Together
The hotel provided snorkeling gear for our group, making the experience accessible for everyone. Some had snorkeled before; some were first-timers like me. Being in it together created a sense of safety, support, and camaraderie.
We practiced in the shallow lagoon, learning to breathe through snorkels, adjust our goggles, and swim with flippers. Even there, in the calm lagoon, we saw gorgeous fish, stingrays, and shells. Lily, on our welcome tour, told us the best swimming spots were around the outside of the island. I thought, “Definitely not me.” By the end of the trip, I had swum around the lagoon without even realizing it—a small triumph I will always treasure.
A World Beneath the Waves
Under the water, it’s an entirely different world—vibrant, mysterious, and exhilarating. We saw colorful fish, coral, shrimp, lobsters, stingrays, and dolphins. Above water, we drank coconuts cut fresh from the trees, felt salt in our hair and sand between our toes, and witnessed breathtaking sunrises, sunsets, and star-filled nights. These moments left me deeply connected to the unwavering cycles of nature.
Returning to Tobacco Caye
We’re going back! In January 2026, Soulflower will return to Tobacco Caye for a 6-day retreat at Reef’s End Lodge. We’re seeking fun-loving, soul-seeking travelers ready to open their hearts and receive the transformative medicine of the ocean.
Our goal? To spend more time celebrating ourselves and all that we are in this human experience, making ourselves a priority, and rejoicing in every moment. These retreats combine culture, wellness, adventure, and exclusive island experiences—perfect for anyone ready to immerse themselves in a dream-worthy journey.
Spots are limited, so secure your place today: www.soulfloweryogaandwellness.com/belizeretreat
May your life be filled with moments of freedom, awe, and connection to the beauty of the natural world.
