The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
Laura Schulthies
Laura Schulthies
Daniel Mode
Daniel ModeThe Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, also known as The Great Mayan Reef or Great Maya Reef, is the most extensive barrier reef system in the Western Hemisphere. Running more than 700 miles along the eastern coasts of Mexico, Belize, Guatemala and Honduras, the reef has been an adventurers’ paradise for centuries. Some of the Mexican islands perched on the reef include Isla Contoy, Isla Mujeres and Cozumel in Mexico, Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye in Belize and the Bay Islands of Honduras (including Utila and Roatan).
This article contains affiliate links. If you click on our links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps us continue to offer free travel guides, but does not influence our recommendations in any way. Thanks for supporting independent travel content.
Protected Wildlife Areas
Beyond simply being a sub-oceanic reef, the broader M.A.R., as many refer to it, boasts lagoons, mangrove forests, sand dunes, coastal wetlands and more. The reef system also includes various protected wildlife areas and parks, including the Belize Barrier Reef (Belize), Arrecifes de Cozumel National Park (Mexico), Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve (Mexico), Hol Chan Marine Reserve (Belize), and the Cayos Cochinos Marine Park (Honduras).
Sea Life
As far as sea life goes, visitors to the reef are in for a treat! Over 500 species of fish live here, 60 diverse coral species, four types of sea turtles, saltwater crocodiles, the largest number of whale sharks in the world and the largest number of manatees in the western Caribbean. As could be expected, this makes for one of the most popular snorkeling and diving locations in the world.
Living With The Reef
Aside from just being beautiful, the M.A.R. is a life source for many people who live and work along its shores. Tourism and the fishing industry (wild, deep-sea, or local fisheries) provide an incomparable income source for many locals. Thus, making the sustainability of healthy ecosystems an absolute must. Thankfully those who depend on the reef are working hard to teach visitors about the effects of climate change and bringing awareness to the importance of eco-friendly practices.
A Note From Team Island Life
Please do your part to protect the oceans and the reefs. Please don’t use sunscreen in the water, don’t litter into the ocean, don’t take living things from the sea, don’t buy shells or other souvenirs harvested from the ocean and most importantly of all, don’t touch the wildlife or the coral. Thank you!
More
MEXICAN CARIBBEAN
Cancun, Islands, Tulum and More
Cancun Visitors Guide
Looking to plan the perfect Cancun vacation? Cancun is one of Mexico’s largest and most popular vacation spots. Our complete guide to Cancun includes when to visit, maps, the best things to do, top attractions, travel tips and more.
Tulum Visitors Guide
Tulum is an extraordinary destination on the Mexican Caribbean whose magic lies not only in the history of the ruins, but the energetic pull the city and sea have over those who come to visit. Here is our guide to the best of Tulum!
Cozumel Visitors Guide
The island of Cozumel holds a special place in our hearts. It’s a place where one can access all the modern amenities and STILL find numerous places to get away from it all! Here is some basic info to get you started and many of the best things to do in Cozumel.
Isla Mujeres Visitors Guide
Isla Mujeres is a beautiful small island off the coast of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. Often visited as pert of sailing expeditions from Cancun, Isla Mujeres has a lot to offer the island loving traveler. Here is our guide to the best of Isla Mujeres!
Holbox Visitors Guide
Holbox (pronounced hol-bosh) is an island paradise located off the northern tip of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. With fantastic snorkeling, no cars and a laid-back vibe, Holbox is one of our personal favorites. Here is our guide to the best of Holbox!
Isla Contoy Visitors Guide
Isla Contoy is a snorkelers paradise located just off of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula north of Cancun. Its crystal-clear blue waters, pristine beaches, and relaxed life pace are enough to attract anyone. Here is our guide to the best of Isla Contoy!
7 Yucatan Foods That Will Blow Your Mind
The Yucatan offers some of the best seafood and unique dishes in all of Mexico. From fish tacos to ceviches and more, the Yucatan is a surprising food destination. Here are some of our favorite foods of the Yucatan!
The Best Cenotes in Yucatan
There are thousands of cenotes in Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula. The cave-like structures filled will clear waters are a must-see when visiting the region. Swim, snorkel, or even scuba dive in the beautiful blue pools. Here are the BEST cenotes in Playa Del Carmen, Tulum, Cancun and Valladolid.
Cozumel Beach Bar Guide
Are you looking to unwind with a refreshing drink by the Caribbean Sea? From morning mimosas to sunset mojitos, Cozumel has you covered no matter what your mood or budget. For all-day libations on the shore, check out our absolute favorite spots with a view.
Getting Around The Yucatan
All the information you need to get around the Yucatan. Times, prices and location info. Information on the bus, rental cars, taxis, ferries and even colectivos! Cancun to Tulum, Playa del Carmen to Cozumel, Cancun to Holbox and Isla Mujeres,, and more!
Cozumel Scuba Diving Guide
Get ready to step into the blue! Our Cozumel Diving Guide offers info for beginners and experienced divers alike. We've included top reef recommendations, dive resort recommendations and much more. Check out our Cozumel Diving Guide.
Packing List For Beach Vacation
Packing for beach vacations shouldn’t be hard, so we’ve put together a unique beach vacation packing list to help and included some of our favorite items. From clothes to electronics and everything in between, we've got all the tips to make packing a breeze.