evidence: The Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve is the southernmost group of atolls in Belize, sitting 40 miles (64 km) due east of Punta Gorda on the mainland. The reserve extends over around 43 square miles (140 sq km) and consists of 14 sand and mangrove islands, a spectacular shallow reef, and clear lagoons. [...] The 2.5-hour boat ride from Punta Gorda deters many travelers from Belize, but tours can be arranged with local guides in Punta Gorda, as well as the education and research organization Reef Conservation International. This means that those who are willing to venture out to Sapodilla Cayes will have the reef all to themselves.