Snorkeling--St. John or Belize?
 

Have you been to both- which do you think has better snorkeling? Thanks!

"Best" meaning plentiful & varied sealife. Not too crowded with people would also be nice.

I don't know about SJ, but snorkeling in Belize is outstanding. Most people stay in San Pedro, but you could also stay in Caye Caulker or a number of other places if you wanted something even more quiet.

I have been to both, and hands down I'd take STJ over Belize any day!!

Belize does have excellent snorkeling, but it is primarily done by boat only as the reef is about 1/2 mile offshore. I prefer to be able to snorkel from the beach, and if this is important to you, Belize is not the place for you. The beaches in Belize are average at best.

St John on the other hand has fantastic snorkeling from shore. There are so many different beaches, many of which have great snorkeling. The beaches themselves are gorgeous, and uncrowded. You will want to rent a jeep for sure. That way you can explore different beaches & snorkeling spots everyday.

I've been to both. I found the snorkeling in Belize to be much better. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve was so amazing, like swimming in an aquarium, just make sure if you go you are not there on a cruise ship day. I was frankly disappointed in the snorkeling on St. John - though it's true you can snorkel right from the beach(es) and that's nice, for me just based on quality of snorkeling it didn't compare to Belize. Granted, I was only on STJ a week and didn't make it to every single beach on the island, but we did make a point to hit those known for snorkeling.

Thanks for your thoughts! A tough decision...

I have to concur, if it's snorkeling your looking for Belize is better than St John. However if you arrange for a snorkel tour on a boat you can see some pretty incredible reef and tropical fish off St John.

We stayed on Caye Caulker and went with Ragamuffin Tours, they were classic Belize, very relaxed and unprofessional locals and we all had a great time together. I can't find their website?

On St John we went with http://www.sailsafaris.net and they took us to some beautiful islands with healthy reef below.

H2OMTN -

Did you take the trip you asked about above? If so, which did you choose, and were you happy? I am planning a trip and have the same dilemma...ST John or Belize? If anyone has suggestions, I would be grateful. Snorkeling and SNuba are a Must, privacy is imperative. Looking to rent a private cottage or small villa, not cost-prohibitive, with a great view, and beach front or beach access, preferably where one could literally swim right out and snorkel. But am game for taking boat tours out to reefs and special sights as well....Help!