IMHO - since you are a "newbie" you can get a mindblowing number of dives right there on the reef at varying depths without the rather long ride out to the hole. The reef is sooo convenient and if you use the same dive master they will make sure you go somewhere different every dive. We did 9 dives in 5 days on AC for the first time last Sept/Oct and loved it so much we are going back this June for even longer. You get in 2 dives with surface time before noon and have the entire rest of the day to goof off, drink or lay around the pool.

A warning though - after diving the reef there, you will be disappointed in a lot of other dives sites! I've been diving since 1978 and it is some of the best anywhere.

Play, Love, Share and Enjoy - it doesn't last forever make sure you get the most out of it.