San Pedro's Secret Beach: A Tropical Paradise Just A Short Drive Away

Secret Beach in Belize is located in Ambergris Caye, north of San Pedro Town on the west coast. It is often referred to as the worst-kept secret in Belize, as it is a popular tourist destination. The beach is known for its laid-back atmosphere, calm and clear blue waters, and picturesque scenery.

To get to Secret Beach from San Pedro, it is recommended to rent a golf cart and drive north for approximately 4.5 miles. The journey takes around 40-45 minutes and offers sights of mangroves, lagoons, birds, and occasionally crocodiles. At the Secret Beach Junction, you take a left turn and follow the unpaved road for about 15-20 minutes until you reach the beach.

Secret Beach is a popular day trip destination, offering a range of activities such as swimming, floating, jet skiing, and watersports. It has several bars and restaurants with different vibes, from relaxed and laid-back to more lively and upbeat. It is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot, especially during busier travel times.

It's not a secret anymore

Secret Beach in Belize is a beautiful spot located in Ambergris Caye, north of San Pedro Town on the West Coast. It is often referred to as the "worst-kept secret" in Belize, as it is a popular tourist destination and no longer a true secret. However, it is still a great place to visit and enjoy a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere compared to the hustle and bustle of downtown San Pedro.

How to Get There

To get to Secret Beach, you have a few options. You can rent a golf cart and drive yourself, take a taxi, or go by boat. Renting a golf cart is a popular choice, as it gives you the freedom to explore the area at your own pace. The drive from San Pedro to Secret Beach takes around 40 to 45 minutes, and you'll need to head north and then west (to the lagoon side) to reach the beach. The roads can be bumpy, but it's all part of the adventure! Alternatively, you can take a taxi, but this option is more expensive, with round-trip fares likely costing more than $100. If you're feeling adventurous, you can also get to Secret Beach by boat, either by going under the bridge north of downtown San Pedro or by boating around the southern part of Ambergris Caye.

What to Expect

Secret Beach is known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful clear blue waters, which are perfect for swimming and walking. There are no lifeguards on duty, so it's important to be cautious and avoid swimming when the weather is bad. You can relax underneath palapas, read a book, or take a nap. There are also local food trucks and bars that serve food and drinks. You can bring your own food, but if you want to use the water lounge chairs, you'll need to purchase something from the local restaurants.

The beach has become quite commercialised, with several beach clubs and bars lined up along the shore. Each establishment tries to entice customers with their unique offerings. For example, Pirate's Not-So-Secret Beach Bar & Grill offers a lively atmosphere with lots of chairs, tubes, and Instagram-worthy tables in the water. On the other hand, Blue Bayou Bar provides a more relaxed vibe with tables partially submerged in the water and friendly waiters who take your order while wading out to you.

When to Go

Secret Beach tends to be busiest on Sundays, followed by Saturdays. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting on a weekday earlier in the day. It's also important to note that mosquitoes can be brutal, so it's best to leave before dusk to avoid being bitten. The 45-minute bumpy golf cart ride back to San Pedro in the dark is also something you'll want to avoid.

Insider Tips

• Get there early, especially if you want to secure a specific spot or table. Aim for around 10 am to beat the crowds.
• Bring sunscreen and bug spray. The Caribbean sun can be intense, and you don't want to underestimate its power.
• Be friendly but firm with hawkers. It's okay to say no thank you if you feel overwhelmed by people trying to sell you things.
• Stay for the sunset. It's worth coming back for a second day to experience the breathtaking sunsets that Secret Beach is known for.
• Consider staying overnight at Secret Beach. There are accommodation options available, and it's a unique experience to wake up to the peaceful atmosphere of the beach before the crowds arrive.

So, while Secret Beach may not be a well-kept secret anymore, it is still a must-visit destination when in Belize. With its stunning natural beauty, clear waters, and laid-back vibe, it's no wonder that it has become one of the most popular beaches in the area. Just remember to go early, bring your sunscreen, and be prepared for a fun-filled day of relaxation and enjoyment!

It's a 40-45 minute drive from San Pedro

Secret Beach in Belize is a 40-45 minute drive from San Pedro. It is located on the west side of Ambergris Caye, which is the largest island in Belize and the country's number one tourist destination.

The west side of Ambergris Caye is accessible by a road that was constructed in 2014. Before that, visitors had to take a boat to get to the west side of the island. The road to Secret Beach is approximately 2 to 3 miles long and can be traversed by golf cart or taxi.

Golf carts can be rented for around $70 USD per day, and it is recommended to rent one to get to Secret Beach as it is the main mode of transportation on the island besides walking and biking. The drive to Secret Beach from San Pedro is an adventure in itself, with mangroves, lagoons, birds, and even crocodiles to see along the way.

Once you arrive at Secret Beach, you will find a well-manicured beach with lounge chairs, cabanas, and services. It is one of the most visited places on Ambergris Caye and is known for its calm, swimmable waters. The beach is lined with several beach clubs, bars, and restaurants, each with its own unique vibe. You can expect to find everything from polished and expensive bars to more rustic and laid-back spots.

To make the most of your time at Secret Beach, it is recommended to arrive early to secure a good spot, especially if you want to claim a table in the water. The tables tend to fill up quickly, and the beach can get busy, especially on Sundays when locals have the day off.

In addition to swimming and lounging on the beach, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy at Secret Beach. You can rent jet skis, try out water sports, explore nearby caves, or simply relax and enjoy the beautiful sunsets.

So, while Secret Beach may not be much of a "secret" anymore, it is still a must-visit destination when in Belize, offering a combination of natural beauty, fun activities, and a lively atmosphere.

You'll need a golf cart to get there

Secret Beach in Belize is located on the west side of Ambergris Caye, north of San Pedro Town. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its laid-back atmosphere, calm waters, and beautiful sunsets.

To get to Secret Beach from San Pedro, you will need to rent a golf cart. Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation on the island, besides walking and biking, and they can be rented through hotels or local companies. Rates typically run around $70 USD per day, and companies often offer pickup from the airport or delivery to your hotel.

The drive to Secret Beach from San Pedro takes approximately 40 to 45 minutes. You will head north from San Pedro, and then west towards the lagoon side of the island. At around 4.5 miles north of downtown San Pedro, you will come to a junction with a big left turn, which is hard to miss due to the numerous signs for bars, restaurants, and beach clubs. From this junction, follow the road for about 2 to 3 miles until you reach Secret Beach.

The road to Secret Beach is a mix of paved and dirt roads, and as you navigate the golf cart, be prepared for a bumpy ride. Along the way, you can enjoy the scenery, including mangroves, lagoons, birds, and even crocodiles.

Once you arrive at Secret Beach, you will find several beach clubs, bars, and restaurants to choose from. It is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot, especially if you want to claim a table in the water, as they fill up quickly.

So, if you're planning a trip to Secret Beach, be sure to rent a golf cart, bring your sunscreen and bug spray, and get ready for a fun and adventurous day at one of Belize's most popular beaches!

It's a great spot to watch the sunset

Secret Beach in Belize is a great spot to watch the sunset. Located on the west side of Ambergris Caye, it is known for its stunning sunsets over the Caribbean Sea. The beach is about a 40- to 45-minute drive from San Pedro, making it a perfect spot to spend the day and watch the sunset in the evening.

While Secret Beach used to be a hidden gem, it is now a popular tourist destination and can get quite busy. The beach is known for its laid-back atmosphere, clear blue waters, and calm swimmable seas, making it a great spot for swimming and floating. There are also several beach clubs, bars, and restaurants along the beach, offering a variety of food, drinks, and music.

To get to Secret Beach, you can rent a golf cart or take a taxi. The drive to the beach is an adventure in itself, with mangroves, lagoons, birds, and even crocodiles along the way. Once you arrive, take some time to explore the different beach clubs and bars before settling in for the day. If you plan to stay for the sunset, be sure to bring mosquito spray as the bugs can be brutal after dusk.

Watching the sunset at Secret Beach is a magical experience. The calm waters reflect the vibrant hues of the sky as the sun dips below the horizon, creating a breathtaking display of colour. Whether you're lounging on the beach, floating in the sea, or enjoying a drink at one of the beach clubs, you're sure to be treated to a stunning sunset view.

So, if you're looking for a great spot to watch the sunset in Belize, be sure to add Secret Beach to your list. With its convenient location, beautiful sunsets, and lively atmosphere, it's the perfect place to spend an afternoon and enjoy a spectacular sunset over the Caribbean Sea.

There are lots of bars and restaurants to choose from

Secret Beach in Belize is located north of San Pedro Town on the west coast of Ambergris Caye. It is about a 40- to 45-minute drive from San Pedro, and you'll need a golf cart to get there.

Once you arrive, you'll find a plethora of bars and restaurants to choose from, each with its own unique vibe. Here's a rundown of some of the top spots:

Pirate's Not-So Secret Beach Bar & Grill: This bar is always buzzing with activity. It has a large space with plenty of chairs, tubes, and Instagram-worthy tables in the water. The vibe is upscale, with loud music and a lively crowd.

Happy Island Beach Bar: Formerly known as Secret Paradise Beach Bar, this spot offers a good mix of entertainment and relaxation. They have tables in the water, a volleyball net, games, and an attractive bar, giving it a true island feel. You'll also find plenty of beach loungers along the shoreline.

Bamboo Fence Swing Bar: This locally-owned bar stands out for its character and fun atmosphere. It's a bit of a hodgepodge, with hammocks over the water—a very Belizean touch. They also host a bonfire each evening, making it a great spot to unwind and socialise.

Blue Bayou: Blue Bayou is a popular choice for good food, drinks, and an over-the-water bar experience. They have one of the most diverse menus in the area, and you can enjoy your meal with your feet in the water.

Sunset Palace Beach Club: If you're looking for a more tranquil spot with fewer crowds and quieter music, Sunset Palace Beach Club is ideal. They have a large property with ample waterfront space, so you can find your own little oasis. They offer a variety of amenities, including an above-ground pool, pool tables, and a massive wrap-around bar.

Secret Beach Waterpark Bar & Grill: This spot is perfect if you're visiting with kids. It features a very cool, inflatable water park, along with a bar and restaurant. There are lifeguards and safety vests, and it'll cost you $10 US an hour to enjoy the course.

Local Food Kiosks: Near the water park, you'll find a row of colourful kiosk booths serving up local food at affordable prices. These kiosks mainly cater to employees and local families, but they're a great option if you're looking for a more budget-friendly bite.

With so many options to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot to suit your tastes and preferences at Secret Beach!

Frequently asked questions