Whale Sharks

What makes Utila so special is the fact that whale sharks can be observed throughout the year here and they can be seen close to the shore, which is also quite rare. Whale sharks are mostly found in deep waters off the northern coast of the island. The whale sharks inhabiting the waters of Utila measure 6 to 10 meters (20-33 feet) in length and weigh 15 to 20 tons. Although they’re solitary animals, during migration periods, they can be seen swimming in small groups.

The Coral Reef

Utila sits on the edge of the Mesoamerican Reef System, the second-largest reef in the world. The reefs surrounding the island are teeming with life, with more than 500 species of fish, 300 species of mollusks, and over 60 species of stony coral. The reefs of Utila contain coral species such as elkhorn coral, brain coral, mountainous star coral, pillar coral, yellow finger coral, branching coral, as well as a multitude of sea fans.

Marine Animals

A variety of marine animals have been documented in the waters of Utila. Even if you don’t get to see the majestic whale shark, you can still feast your eyes on some amazing creatures that are here year-round. Dolphins, Hawksbill turtles, spotted eagle rays, yellow stingrays, angelfish, trunkfish, porcupinefish, frogfish, seahorses, blennies, spiny lobsters, and coral shrimps are some of the common inhabitants of the reef.