Snorkeling in Hopkins: Barrier Reef with fishing and lunch

You fish the barrier reef in the morning, then snorkel the same water in the afternoon.

A seven-hour snorkeling and fishing activity in Hopkins, Belize combines both sports in one day: cast nets for bait near mangrove formations, fish the barrier reef for king mackerel and grouper, break for lunch on Bread & Butter Caye or South Water Caye, then enter the water for guided snorkeling where eagle rays, sea turtles and nurse sharks are common. Professional guide, all snorkeling gear, lunch, national park fees and bottled water are included.

The experience

The day starts with cast nets near the mangrove formations to catch fresh bait, then moves to the barrier reef where the guide positions you for king mackerel, barracuda, grouper, jacks and snapper. As the morning warms, you stop for lunch on Bread & Butter Caye or South Water Caye: a break on an actual island, not just drifting. The snorkeling half happens in the afternoon, when you jump into the same reef waters with a guide who knows where the drop-offs are. Eagle rays, sea turtles, a wide variety of exotic fish, dolphins and nurse sharks show up regularly enough that the operator mentions them by name.

The southern barrier reef has several snorkeling sites within the reserve, so the guide can pick based on conditions and what you want to see. All snorkeling equipment is provided. You bring nothing but a swimsuit and sunscreen. The trip runs seven hours total. A professional guide speaks English or Spanish, and pickup is included, so you don't need a car or need to find the dock on your own. Minimum two people per booking.

What’s included

• Professional guide in English or Spanish.
• all snorkeling equipment.
• lunch at Bread & Butter Caye or South Water Caye.
• bottled water and snacks throughout the day.
• national park fees.
• local taxes.
• hotel or accommodation pickup.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 08:00

Book up to12h before

AgesAdult (13 and older) · Youth (9 to 12 years) · Child (5 to 8 years) · Infant (1 to 4 years)

GroupUp to 12 · max 8 per booking

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 21 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 13 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleStroller friendlyPublic transport nearby

Operated by Get to Know Belize Adventures

Is this one for you?Pickup from your hotel or accommodation means you don't need to arrange transport or find the dock yourself, so the day works whether you have a rental car or are staying without one.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (9 to 12 years); Child (5 to 8 years); Infant (1 to 4 years).

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What fish can I expect to catch on the barrier reef?

King mackerel, barracuda, grouper, jacks and a variety of snapper are the main species the guide targets along the reef. Conditions and the season affect what bites on any given day.

Where do we eat lunch, and what's included?

Lunch is served on Bread & Butter Caye or South Water Caye. The guide picks based on the day's conditions. Lunch is included in the price. Snacks and bottled water are provided throughout the trip.

Do I need my own snorkeling gear?

No. All snorkeling equipment is provided. You'll need a swimsuit, towel and sunscreen. The guide supplies the mask, fins and snorkel.

What's included in the price?

Professional guide, all snorkeling equipment, lunch, bottled water, snacks, national park fees and local taxes are included. Pickup from your accommodation is also included.