South Water Caye Marine Reserve, Marine reserve along the Mesoamerican Reef, Belize.

South Water Caye Marine Reserve is Belize's second-largest marine reserve, designated in 1996 and covering 117,875 acres (47,702 ha) of mangrove and coastal ecosystems in Stann Creek District. It lies on the inner side of the Belize Barrier Reef, over 40 km long and 8 to 25 km off the mainland, and includes Pelican Cayes, Twin Cayes and Man-O-War Caye.

Belize's Fisheries Department created this protected area in 1996 in response to declining fish stocks and growing scientific interest in the reef system. The designation aimed to preserve the marine ecosystems for future generations.

Local fishing communities practice age-old methods in designated zones, using breath-hold diving and wooden boats to harvest spiny lobster and conch. These traditions form the backbone of the local way of life.

The reserve is reachable by boat from Dangriga, with the crossing taking about 40 minutes across calm Caribbean waters. Visitors should plan visits during stable weather and book boat services locally.

Most of the reserve's cayes are leased for resort development, and a 2009 study found that 15.4 hectares (38 acres), or 29%, of the Pelican Cayes' mangrove forest had been cleared. Aerial photographs from 2008 showed mangroves removed from two Pelican Cayes without government explanation.