Belize Beach Activities: What To Do And See

Belize is a beach lover's paradise, with calm Caribbean waters, consistently warm weather, and a long list of coastal villages, each with its own seaside charm. While the coastline may not be one long stretch of white sand, and the many cayes may be encircled by mangrove trees rather than classic beach destinations, Belize's beaches are diverse and spectacular. From the clear waters and lively atmosphere of Secret Beach on Ambergris Caye to the tranquil and secluded Tobacco Caye, here are some of the best beach activities and destinations that Belize has to offer.

Snorkelling and scuba diving at the world's second-largest barrier reef

Belize is home to the world's second-largest barrier reef, making it a prime destination for snorkelling and scuba diving. The Belize Barrier Reef stretches from Bacalar Chico to the Bay of Honduras and is known for its spectacular corals and abundant marine life. With hundreds of small islands (cayes) and crystal-clear waters, it offers a unique underwater experience.

Where to Go

The Belize Barrier Reef has several prime spots for snorkelling and scuba diving:

• Lighthouse Reef Atoll: This atoll is home to the famous Great Blue Hole, a huge sunken cave that was the subject of a documentary by Jacques Cousteau. Lighthouse Reef is also the site of Half Moon Caye National Monument, established as Belize's first nature reserve.
• Southwater Caye Marine Reserve: This reserve offers tranquil beach experiences and is known for its rich marine life, making it a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving.
• Glover's Reef Atoll: As the most southern atoll, Glover's Reef offers some of the best snorkelling and scuba diving in Belize. Surrounded by a reef, the interior has shallow waters and numerous coral heads.
• Turneffe Atoll: Turneffe Atoll is one of the three atolls in Belize and offers excellent beaches and diving spots. The beach stretches along the east side of the island and provides a great place to relax between dives.
• Ambergris Caye: As the most popular caye for snorkelling, Ambergris Caye provides easy reef access and accommodations. Shark Ray Alley and Hol Chan Cut are exciting snorkelling spots with shallow waters and an abundance of marine life.

When to Go

The dry season in Belize, from November to May, is generally considered the best time to visit and snorkel the Belize Barrier Reef. However, visibility remains constant year-round away from the mainland shore, so snorkelling and scuba diving can be enjoyed all year round.

What to Wear

For snorkelling and scuba diving in Belize, it is recommended to wear a lightweight wetsuit or a spandex/lycra dive suit to stay warm and protect yourself from sunburn. Alternatively, you can wear polypropylene or capilene long underwear, which also reduces the need for full-body sunscreen application.

Exploring the Placencia Peninsula, home to Belize's longest stretch of beach

Belize is known for its coastline, which hugs the Caribbean Sea, and its more than 200 offshore islands, many of which are inhabited. The Placencia Peninsula, in particular, is a gorgeous emerald peninsula in southern Belize with 16 miles of sandy beaches. It is home to Belize's longest stretch of beach, which is divided into three sections: Maya Beach, Seine Bight, and Placencia Village.

The beaches of Placencia Peninsula are known for their golden and white sands, calm waters, and gentle trade winds. The beach in Placencia Village offers a lively atmosphere, with several bars and restaurants along its golden coastline. In contrast, the beaches in Seine Bight and Maya Beach are quieter and known for their fine, white sands.

In addition to its beautiful beaches, the Placencia Peninsula also offers a variety of activities and attractions. The peninsula is easily navigable by bike, and visitors can explore the busy southern end, which is home to coffee shops, bistros, internet cafes, guest houses, and local restaurants. The northern portion of the peninsula, including the Garifuna village of Seine Bight, is less densely populated and home to more expensive resorts. This area also offers "real" surf, although not very high, and clear, clean waters.

For those interested in water sports, Placencia is a great spot for kayaking, snorkelling, diving, and saltwater fly fishing. The peninsula is also a popular spot for whale shark watching during the full moons between April and July. In addition, the nearby Placencia Lagoon is an important breeding ground for saltwater crocodiles, marine turtles, and manatees, and offers opportunities for birdwatching and fishing.

The Placencia Peninsula is also a great base for exploring the surrounding area. The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Bocawina National Park, and the Maya ruins of Nim Li Punit and Lubantuum are all within a day's trip. The nearby village of Hopkins, a traditional Garifuna village, offers a chance to sample Garifuna cooking and music.

With its combination of beautiful beaches, water sports, and cultural attractions, the Placencia Peninsula is a great destination for those seeking a beach vacation with a mix of relaxation and exploration.

Visiting Secret Beach on Ambergris Caye

Secret Beach on Ambergris Caye is located on the west coast of the island, around 7 miles from downtown San Pedro. It is the most popular beach destination in Belize and is a must-see hot spot.

The development of Secret Beach began in 2016, and it has since become a top tourist destination. The beach is known for its turquoise waters, clear sand beaches, and a chill Caribbean atmosphere. The calm Caribbean sea, crystal clear waters, and stunning sunsets make it a picturesque spot.

To get to Secret Beach, you will need to take a water taxi or a golf cart. It is about a 75-minute ride from Belize City to San Pedro via water taxi, and then a 40-minute golf cart ride to Secret Beach from San Pedro. The road to Secret Beach is unpaved and winds through a swamp, but it is a fun adventure and you can enjoy the sights of mangroves and the vast lagoon system along the way.

There are plenty of bars, restaurants, and beach clubs to choose from at Secret Beach, each with its own unique vibe. You can rent beach loungers, umbrellas, snorkel gear, and kayaks, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the sun. The water is calm, clear, and shallow, making it perfect for swimming, floating, and snorkelling.

For those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path experience, you can walk north or south of the main beach area to find more secluded spots. Beachfront and docks are public in Belize, so you are free to explore. Just remember to take your trash with you when you leave.

There are also a few lodging options available at Secret Beach, including boutique hotels and rental homes, if you want to stay for sunset or extend your visit.

Secret Beach is a great place to spend the day, and with its stunning natural beauty, vibrant atmosphere, and range of amenities, it is definitely worth adding to your itinerary when visiting Belize.

Relaxing on Hopkins Village Beach

Belize is a popular spot for those seeking a mixture of relaxation and adventure. The small, laid-back town of Hopkins, located on the southeastern Caribbean coast, is a great base for your visit. Here is a guide to relaxing on Hopkins Village Beach.

Hopkins Village Beach

Hopkins Village Beach is located in the eastern Garífuna village of Hopkins, a 40-minute drive south of the town of Dangriga. This 5-mile stretch of beach is lined with coconut trees, colourful guesthouses, and local eateries. The waters are clear and refreshing, and the beach is quiet and uninterrupted.

Things to Do

Hopkins is a cultural hotspot, known for its Garífuna culture, food, and music. There is plenty to do in and around Hopkins, from taking drumming lessons at the Lebeha Drumming Center to exploring the Southern Barrier Reef. Here are some ideas for relaxing things to do on and around Hopkins Village Beach:

• Swim and sunbathe: The warm and calm waters of Hopkins Village Beach are perfect for a leisurely swim or sunbathe. The beach is rarely crowded, so you'll always find a spot to relax.
• Sample Garífuna cuisine: Hopkins is known for its delicious local cuisine, including hudut (fish soaked in a coconut stew, served with mashed plantains), bundiga (a dish made with bananas or plantains cooked in coconut milk), and cassava bread. You can also try wangla, a local candy made with sugar and toasted sesame seeds.
• Take a drumming workshop: Immerse yourself in the local culture by taking a drumming workshop at the Lebeha Center. Even if you don't have any rhythm, the session will be fun and addictive.
• Explore the village: Rent a bike and explore Hopkins at your own pace. You can easily get around the village and see all it has to offer.
• Visit Innie's Restaurant: Stop by Innie's Restaurant to sample some traditional Garífuna cuisine, including hudut.
• Go birdwatching: Take a hike to the observation tower in the littoral forest on Lighthouse Reef on Half Moon Caye to spot some of the local bird species.
• Relax in a hammock: Lounge in a hammock on the beach and take in the stunning views of the Maya Mountains and the Caribbean Sea.
• Sip a cocktail: Enjoy a refreshing cocktail at one of the beach bars or cafes along the shore, such as the Lazy Lizard Bar & Grill.

Where to Stay

There are several great options for accommodation in Hopkins, from backpacker-style digs to upscale beachfront resorts. Here are some recommendations:

• Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort: This award-winning resort offers luxurious beachfront rooms and treehouses, along with a 5-star PADI dive centre.
• Buttonwood Guest House: This guesthouse offers more modest condo-style accommodations for those on a budget.
• White Horse Guesthouse: Another great option for travellers.
• Coconut Row Resort Hotel: Located in Hopkins Village, this resort offers charming beachfront cabins with private verandas and crystal-clear waters.
• The Funky Dodo Backpackers: A vibrant and fun-filled hostel perfect for adventurous travellers looking to connect with like-minded people.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Hopkins is during the dry season, from January to March. You can expect beautiful sunny days, clear blue skies, and calm seawaters. However, rooms and tours tend to be more expensive during this peak season. For a more budget-friendly option, consider visiting during the tourism offseason.

Socialising and swimming at The Split, Caye Caulker

The Split, Caye Caulker is a lively channel that separates the island of Caye Caulker into two. It is believed to have been created by the infamous Hurricane Hattie, which hit Belize in 1961. The Split has since become a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, socialising and water activities.

The Split's deep, clean waters, free of seaweed, make it one of Caye Caulker's best swimming spots. It is also a great place for water sports such as snorkelling, parasailing and fishing. The Lazy Lizard bar is at the heart of Caye Caulker's social scene, with its famous ""green" drink and a relaxed atmosphere. The bar's loud music and lively crowd add to the overall experience of The Split, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking fun and socialisation.

The Split also offers a range of amenities, including a wading area with sheltered picnic tables, a spa, restaurants, and kayak and paddleboard rentals. It is a great place to meet people and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. However, it is important to exercise caution while swimming in this area due to strong currents and boat traffic.

Caye Caulker itself has a laid-back vibe and is known for its party and nightlife scene. It offers a range of budget-friendly accommodation options, from hostels to luxury condominiums, making it a popular destination for backpackers and budget travellers. The island has a rich history, having been a small fishing community that has now evolved into a thriving tourism hub.

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