Top 10 Diving Resorts Photo Gallery

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The Stann Creek District, bordering the Cayo District, extends to the Caribbean, stretching along the coast from north of Dangriga to south of Placencia. In the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, about two miles from Dangriga, jaguars roam, though it's highly unlikely you'll spot these nocturnal prowlers. With the help of a guide, you might, however, see some of the powerful animal's tracks. The screeching monkeys, twittering birds, and crescendo of insects create a visceral sense of the rainforest. Just before the entrance to the reserve lies the Maya Center, which offers information and sells local crafts.

Near Dangriga, meet people of Garifuna heritage—descendants of the intermarriage of Carib Indians and the surviving Africans, marooned by the British in the 18th century, who eventually made their way to Roatán. Hopkins Village, about 15 miles south of Dangriga, is a Garifuna community. At times, locals perform traditional Garifuna dances at the area's resorts.

From Placencia, a popular beach town on the southern peninsula, divers and snorkelers head to Belize's reef. Good snorkeling spots for kids include Ranguana Caye and Laughing Bird Caye. At both you're likely to see schools of blue tang, parrotfish, groupers, and maybe a sea turtle. Laughing Bird contains a sugar-white beach, perfect for a picnic. As you eat, watch the pelicans dive bomb for fish.