Where is ReefCI’s island located?
ReefCI is located on a beautiful picture-perfect private island that is part of the Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve Park, located in southern Belize (see map on right). Our island is a coral island located directly on the Belize Barrier Reef 25 miles from the mainland off the coast of Placencia, Belize. The island is about 1 acre with lots of hammock space shaded by coconut trees. It really is a perfect Caribbean paradise surrounded by turquoise coral seas with dive sites 5-10 minutes away!
What are accommodations like?
Accommodations are basic but clean and comfortable and can best be described as hostel-like with a mix of single and shared rooms. If you are expecting or wishing a 5-star resort then our island is not for you. The location of our island however is 5 stars as every room has incredible views of the Caribbean Sea! Imagine waking up to the sound of lapping waves and a spectacular Belizean sunrise! Our large main cabana building houses couples, families, groups, and singles. We also have individual single cabanas that surround the island. Bathroom and shower facilities are shared by all. We do not have air conditioning on the island as the strong trade winds provide a continuous cooling breeze on the island. However, rooms can occasionally become stuffy so all rooms have fans if needed.
Mosquitoes and sandflies on this island?
There are no mosquitoes or sandflies on our island! We are blessed due to our location 25 miles from the mainland, the strong trade winds, and the absence of fresh water and suitable breeding habitat on the island. Our island is the perfect Caribbean castaway island!
Internet or cell service on the island?
We have NO internet or cell phone service on the island. The location of our island is very remote and too far from the mainland of Belize to receive a cell signal or internet service. We do have a satellite phone but it is only used by staff for emergency situations. There is no WIFI in nature, but I promise, you will find a better connection. Relax, unplug, breathe deep, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the ocean and find your connection with nature.
Take a peek at our island accommodations below:
What is the food like?
In a word – awesome! One of the most consistent compliments ReefCI receives is how good our food is! Volunteers rave about our food – please check out our Google reviews sand see for yourself. We provide 3 meals a day plus an early morning snack and a mid-afternoon or late evening snack every day while on the island.
As an environmental conservation organization, we try to be as eco-conscious and sustainable as possible. According to scientists, a plant-based diet is the single biggest way to reduce your impact on the planet. Meat production affects not only climate change emissions but also freshwater and land use, as well as water and air pollution.
Since avoiding meat is the single biggest way to reduce your environmental impact on the planet, ReefCI strives to provide a mostly plant diet based on protein sources from the ocean (invasive lionfish). Thus, eating invasive lionfish is a win-win for the environment!! If you require a diet high in protein, we recommend bringing protein bars to supplement your diet.
Special dietary requests?
All dietary requirements are catered for such as vegans, vegetarians, pescatarians, gluten-free, diabetics, and food allergies. Our chef is quite accustomed to meeting the needs of all of our volunteers dietary needs. Don’t worry, we will make sure your dietary needs are met : ) However, it is always a good idea to bring special foods and snacks that you like. Please be sure to indicate your specific dietary allergies/restrictions, or diet preferences in the section “Any dietary restrictions?” when you register for a trip at checkout on the website.