The World's 12 Most Spectacular Coral Reefs: A Journey Through Underwater Paradise

7. Belize Barrier Reef, Caribbean Sea

Second-biggest coral reef system worldwide and biggest in the Northern Hemisphere is the Belize Barrier Reef. A pillar of Belize's tourism sector and a key component of its marine ecology, stretching for 300 km down the coast, this UNESCO World Heritage site is Comprising seven main marine reserve zones, more than 400 cayes (islands), and three atolls—including the well-known Great Blue Hole, a large underwater sinkhole drawing divers from all around the world—the reef system comprises With over 100 varieties of coral, 500 species of fish, and a plethora of other marine life calling this barrier home, the Belize Barrier Reef boasts amazing biodiversity. Divers and snorkelers can see the yearly whale shark migration close Gladden Spit, swim alongside mild nurse sharks and stingrays in Hol Chan Marine Reserve, or explore vivid coral gardens. Additionally supported by the reef are threatened species including American crocodile, hawksbill turtle, and West Indian manatee. Belize has made notable conservation efforts; the government forbids offshore oil exploration and uses single-use plastics to safeguard this delicate ecology. Sustainable tourist projects and community-based conservation efforts are helping to guarantee that the Belize Barrier Reef stays a vibrant underwater paradise for next generations.