Exploring Ambergris Caye: Transportation Options

Belize's largest island, Ambergris Caye, is a tropical paradise with crystal clear blue waters, coral reefs, and a host of beach and water activities. Located just off the coast of Belize, it is easily accessible by plane or boat from Belize City. The island's only airstrip is in the heart of San Pedro Town, with Maya Island Air and Tropic Air offering flights to and from the island. Alternatively, water taxis operated by the San Pedro Belize Express and Ocean Ferry Belize provide a cost-effective way to get to Ambergris Caye, with tickets being a fraction of the price of flights. Once on the island, golf carts are the most common mode of transport, but walking, biking, and taxis are also feasible options for getting around San Pedro Town.

Getting to Ambergris Caye by plane

There are two airports in Belize City: the international Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) and the municipal Belize City Municipal Airport. If you're flying into Belize, you'll likely arrive at the international airport, from which you can catch a connecting flight to Ambergris Caye.

Flights from Philip Goldson International Airport

Maya Island Air and Tropic Air offer flights to Ambergris Caye from the international airport. Round-trip flights start at approximately $167.50, and the journey takes about 15 minutes. The small planes offer little room to move around, but you may be able to see manatees swimming in the shallow waters below.

Flights from Belize City Municipal Airport

You can also take a short taxi ride from the international airport to the municipal airport, from which you can purchase a ticket on Tropic Air or Maya Island Air. Tickets on Maya Island Air range from $45 to $108 one-way, while Tropic Air flights cost between $80 and $120. The flight lasts about 20 minutes.

Flights from Belize City to San Pedro

There are frequent daily flights between Belize City and San Pedro Airport (SPR) on Ambergris Caye. Flights depart from both the international and municipal airports several times an hour between 6:40 am and 9:10 pm. During the high season and whenever possible, it's best to book in advance. However, you can usually show up at the airport and get a seat within an hour.

Luggage Considerations

Keep in mind that baggage is handled quite casually, so if the plane is too full, your luggage may have to wait for the next flight.

Airlines

Maya Island Air offers 11 flights daily between the international airport and San Pedro Airport, with two extra evening flights between March and October. Flights depart every hour from 7:40 am, with the last flight at 5:40 pm. The fare is BZ$140 each way, or BZ$72 if flying from the municipal airport.

Tropic Air has five daily flights between Corozal Town and San Pedro, departing at 7:30 am, 10:30 am, 1:30 pm, 3:30 pm, and 5:30 pm. The fare is BZ$150 each way.

Maya Island Air also has daily flights between Corozal and San Pedro, with the return journey departing San Pedro at 7 am, 9 am, 11 am (seasonally), 3 pm, and 4:30 pm. The flight duration is 20 minutes, and the fare is BZ$85 each way.

Helicopter Options

If you're looking for a more luxurious arrival, you can choose a direct helicopter route to Grand Caribe or add on a tour of the Belize Barrier Reef or the Great Blue Hole before arriving at the Grand Caribe Heliport.

Getting to Ambergris Caye by boat

If you're travelling to Ambergris Caye by boat, there are a few options available to you. The island is 35 miles east of Belize City and around 15.7 miles from the nearest port in Belize. The boat ride typically takes between 1 hour and 1 hour and 30 minutes, and you can expect to pay between $9.50 and $20 for a one-way ticket.

Two companies provide scheduled water taxi services between Belize City and Ambergris Caye: Ocean Ferry and San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi. The latter offers more daily departures, with a 75-minute ride costing between $14.50 and $20 one-way. The former, meanwhile, offers a slightly cheaper option, with tickets costing $13.50 to $15 one-way, and the journey taking 45 minutes. Both companies carry free Wi-Fi on board.

In Belize City, the Ocean Ferry Water Taxi Terminal is on North Front Street next to the Swing Bridge, with boats leaving between 8 am and 5:30 pm daily. The San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi departs from the Tourism Village in Belize City, with boats departing San Pedro from the pier across from Doc'ks Tiki Bar, 6 am-5:30 pm. It's recommended to check the schedule before making plans, as there are usually extra boats on weekends and holidays.

If you're travelling from the international airport, you can take a taxi to the water taxi terminal. The taxi ride will cost $25 and will take around 20 minutes with no traffic.

Another option is to take a private boat charter from the mainland. Thunderbolt Travels runs a once-daily trip to Corozal from San Pedro at 3 pm, with the return trip from Corozal to San Pedro departing at 7 am. The trip takes two hours each way and costs $22.50 one-way or $42.50 round-trip.

The Isla Norte Ferry offers a daily run from San Pedro to Sarteneja and Corozal Town, departing at 7:45 am and arriving in Corozal at 9:30 am. The return trip departs Corozal at 3 pm and arrives in San Pedro at 4:50 pm. This trip costs $25 per person one-way.

Getting around Ambergris Caye by taxi

Taxis are readily available outside the Tropic Air baggage claim area or at the water taxi terminal in Ambergris Caye, Belize. The cost of a taxi ride depends on your destination. If you're staying somewhere not too far from town, a taxi will typically cost around $8 BZD. For destinations further south, such as past the Victoria House Resort, expect to pay around $15 BZD. If you're heading north of the bridge, the fare can be $35 BZD or more. Some taxi drivers have printed rate sheets for southern and northern destinations, so don't hesitate to ask to see them.

It's always a good idea to agree on a price with your cab driver before getting into the taxi, regardless of the distance or duration of the ride. This is a helpful traveller tip and can save you from unexpected charges.

In addition to regular taxis, minivan taxis (identified by their green license plates) are also available and can be waved down anywhere on the island. These minivan taxis usually charge around $4-7 USD to travel between town and points south. Within the town of San Pedro, you can expect to pay around $4 USD for a taxi ride.

If you're looking for specific taxi services, there are several options to choose from. Island Taxi (+501 226-3125) and Amber Isle Taxi (+501 226-2041) are two companies that can be contacted. For a highly recommended personal service, Manuelito Contreras (+501 627-0177) is known as one of the best taxi drivers on the island. He is reliable and also knows all the doctors in case of an emergency.

When taking a taxi, it's worth noting that the toll bridge connecting San Pedro Town with the north side of Ambergris Caye is free for pedestrians. However, if you're crossing by taxi or other means, there may be a toll to pay.

Getting around Ambergris Caye by bicycle

If you're feeling adventurous and don't mind a little sweat, getting around Ambergris Caye, Belize by bicycle is a great option. The island is relatively small, measuring 26 miles long and a little over a mile wide, so getting around by bike is definitely doable. The main streets in town run parallel to the ocean, so you can take in the stunning views as you cycle.

There are several bike rental shops around the island, and some resorts even provide bicycles for their guests to use for free. If your resort doesn't offer this, be sure to ask the front desk for directions and recommendations to the closest bike rental shop. You can also check with shops like Calvio Bike Rentals and El Guapo in town, or Beach Cruiser Bike Rentals and Lisa's Kayaking north of the bridge. A one-week bike rental from a shop will typically cost around $80 BZD.

When cycling around Ambergris Caye, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, don't underestimate the size of San Pedro – it's bigger than it seems! Be sure to bring plenty of sunblock and fluids, as the sun can be intense. If you're riding on the beach, be prepared for a challenge, especially on the softer sandy areas. But don't let that deter you – the breeze and the views are well worth it.

Take your time and explore both the beach path and the roads. The west side of the island offers lovely vegetation, mangroves, and birdwatching opportunities. You'll pass by countless private homes and get a true feel for island life.

Bicycles typically rent for between $15-$20 BZD per day, and it's usually cheaper to rent by the day than by the hour. Most bikes are beach cruisers, and shops carry a variety of sizes for both adults and children. Don't forget to lock up your bike when you're not using it – bike theft is unfortunately common.

There are plenty of resorts, restaurants, and bars along the way where you can stop for a break. Marbucks Café (up north) and Rum and Bean (south) are great options for a quick coffee fix. And of course, you'll want to check out the famous Palapa Bar and Taco Bar at PUR.

So, if you're looking for a fun and active way to get around Ambergris Caye, consider renting a bicycle. It's a great way to explore the island at your own pace and take in all the beauty that Belize has to offer.

Getting around Ambergris Caye by golf cart

Golf carts are the most popular mode of transport on Ambergris Caye, and renting one is a great way to explore the island.

Golf carts are available to rent from a variety of companies, including Aviz Golf Cart Rental, Island Cruiser Golf Cart Rentals, and La Isla Bonita Golf Cart. The average price for renting a golf cart in San Pedro, Belize, is $25 USD for 4 hours, $35 USD for 8 hours, and $45 USD for 24 hours.

Golf carts can be booked via email or the rental company's website, or through your hotel or resort. When making a reservation, you can arrange for the rental company to meet you at the airport, the water taxi or ferry dock, or your hotel. They will then hand over the golf cart, which is a quick and easy process.

Golf carts are a convenient way to get around Ambergris Caye, as they offer seamless transportation and a memorable journey. They are also more environmentally friendly than cars, emitting zero emissions. The island is golf cart-friendly, so you will be in good company.

Golf carts are also a great way to stay cool while exploring the island, as you can enjoy the refreshing sea breezes. They are roomy enough for people, picnics, and bulky items like surfboards.

When renting a golf cart on Ambergris Caye, it is important to note that you must have a valid driver's license. There are police checkpoints on the island, and you could be fined if you are caught driving without a license. It is also important to always lock your golf cart when parking and to avoid parking at red curbs, as you may be fined.

With a golf cart, you can easily get around Ambergris Caye, exploring the town of San Pedro, checking out the various resorts, and discovering the natural wonders of the island.

Frequently asked questions