Black Hills

Unlike the fringing reefs along Utila's shore, Black Hills is an isolated seamount on the offshore banks, about a quarter of an hour from the island by boat. Its top lies at about 35 ft; the north and south flanks fall away steeply, while the east and west ends descend in gentler terraces of sheet coral, tube and barrel sponges. Sea fans, whips and gorgonians cover the mound, which divers can circle in roughly 15 minutes. Current is more common here than at most Utila sites and draws schools of horse-eye jacks, spadefish, yellowtail snapper and creole wrasse, along with barracuda and hawksbill turtles. Swim-throughs and overhangs add to the terrain.