Exploring Belize's Secret Beach: A Guide To Getting There

Secret Beach in Belize is located in Ambergris Caye, north of San Pedro Town on the west coast of the island. It is often referred to as Belize's worst-kept secret as it is a popular tourist destination.

To get to Secret Beach, you can rent a golf cart and drive yourself, take a taxi, or go by boat. The golf cart option is the most popular, taking around 40-45 minutes through mangrove swamps.

At Secret Beach, you can expect a laid-back atmosphere with clear blue waters. Popular activities include swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing. There are also several bars and restaurants serving food and drinks, as well as local vendors selling souvenirs and offering services like hair braiding.

The beach is busiest on Sundays, followed by Saturdays, and it tends to get more crowded as the day goes on, so it's recommended to arrive early to secure your spot.

Getting to Secret Beach by golf cart

The most convenient way to get to Secret Beach is by golf cart. You can rent a golf cart in San Pedro Town, with prices running at about $70 USD for the day. Companies usually offer pickup from the airport or delivery to your hotel.

From San Pedro, start driving north. At approximately 4.5 miles north of downtown San Pedro (past Truck Stop, Grande Caribe & Coco Beach), there will be a fork in the road with a big left turn. You will see signs for the bars, restaurants, and beach clubs that are at Secret Beach. Take a left at this junction (if you pass Matachica you have gone too far). Follow the road for 2 to 3 miles, passing small businesses and tourists along the way. You will then see the famous Secret Beach letters at Pirates Bar and finally, the West Coast.

There is only one road that leads to Secret Beach, and it is a bumpy, 35-45 minute ride through the mangrove swamps. Keep in mind that you have to pay a $5 toll to cross the bridge, so make sure to bring cash for that.

You will know you are going the right way as there are signs that will lead you to Secret Beach, and most likely someone to help if you need directions. The beach is on the other side of the island, so if all else fails, follow your sense of direction and stay on the road. It’s a straight shot the whole way, then take a left where it says Secret Beach, then a right when close to the other side of the island.

It is highly suggested that you leave Secret Beach around one to two hours before the sun sets. This is so that you can safely drive back to San Pedro while the sun is still out. The dirt paths are not lit at night, and driving them in the dark would be dangerous.

Secret Beach's laid-back atmosphere

Secret Beach in Belize is known for its laid-back atmosphere and beautiful waters. The beach is located in Ambergris Caye, north of San Pedro Town on the west coast of the island. The remote location, combined with the calm waters of the Caribbean Sea, makes it one of the best beaches in Belize.

The beach is the perfect spot to spend a relaxing day swimming, lounging, eating, and sipping on tropical cocktails. The water is clear blue, warm, and perfect for walking and swimming. There are plenty of lounge chairs available for visitors, and some bars even offer tables and chairs in the water.

For those looking for a more active day, there are jet skis, water sports, and paddleboards, kayaks, or canoes available for rent. There are also nearby caves to explore for those feeling adventurous.

The beach has a variety of bars and restaurants to choose from, each with its own unique vibe. From upscale spots to more local-feeling bars, there is something for everyone. The food options range from beach snacks and local food kiosks to full meals at the beach clubs.

While Secret Beach is no longer a true secret, it still offers a more laid-back and peaceful atmosphere compared to the busier beaches in Ambergris Caye. It is the perfect place to escape the crowds and enjoy a relaxing day by the sea.

Secret Beach's water sports

Secret Beach in Belize is a hub for water sports activities, with crystal-clear waters and stunning sunset views. Here are some of the water sports you can enjoy during your visit:

Paddleboarding and Kayaking

Secret Beach offers the perfect conditions for paddleboarding and kayaking, with calm, clear waters that remain shallow for a long distance from the shore. You can rent paddleboards and kayaks from Paradise on the Caye, or some beach bars provide them for free if you buy something from them. There are also opportunities to explore hidden coves and less-visited spots along the coast, both north and south of the main beach area.

Snorkelling

Snorkelling is a popular activity at Secret Beach, with nearby spots such as Shark Ray Alley and Hol Chan offering the chance to see a variety of marine life. Some beach bars even provide snorkels for customers to use.

Jet Skiing

For those seeking a more thrilling experience, jet skiing is also an option at Secret Beach. Guided jet ski tours are available, allowing you to explore the waters of the Caribbean Sea.

Boat Tours

Boat tours are another way to explore the area and take in the amazing views of Ambergris Caye. These tours often include fishing and snorkelling as part of the experience.

Diving

Diving is also possible at Secret Beach, with the opportunity to explore hidden caves and underwater cenotes in the clear waters. The Dive Centre at Secret Beach can provide more information on diving spots and equipment.

Water Park

In addition to the natural attractions, Secret Beach is also home to a water park with inflatable courses and water pedal bikes. The water park has lifeguards on duty and is suitable for both children and adults.

So, whether you're looking for a relaxing paddleboarding experience, an underwater adventure, or some thrilling rides, Secret Beach in Belize has a range of water sports activities to offer.

Secret Beach's bars and restaurants

Secret Beach in Belize has a variety of bars and restaurants to choose from, each with its own unique vibe. Here is a list of some of the spots you can visit:

Pirate's Not-So-Secret Beach Bar & Grill

This bar and grill is the first spot you'll come across after the Secret Beach sign. It offers a lively atmosphere with lots of chairs, tubes, and Instagram-worthy tables in the water. They have a wide range of food and drinks, including lionfish dishes, chicken tenders, and fries. They also offer complimentary lounge chairs, shaded tables in the water, shaded docks, inner tubes, mini massages, and WiFi.

Happy Island Beach Bar (formerly Secret Paradise Beach Bar)

Happy Island Beach Bar has a good-sized property with tables in the water, a volleyball net, games, and an attractive bar. They have plenty of beach loungers along the shoreline and are located right next door to the water park.

Bamboo Fence Swing Bar

The locally-owned Swing Bar is a funky and fun spot with a bonfire every evening. It has hammocks over the water, giving it a unique, laid-back, and authentic Belizean feel.

Blue Bayou

Blue Bayou is a popular choice for food, drinks, and its over-the-water bar. They have one of the most diverse menus in the area, and you can enjoy your meal at tables partially submerged in the water.

Sunset Palace Beach Club

Sunset Palace Beach Club is located at the end of the road, offering a large property with plenty of waterfront and space. If you're looking for a quieter spot with less loud music, this is a good option. They have an above-ground pool, a large clay pizza oven, pool tables, and a massive wrap-around bar. You can also use their paddleboards and kayaks if you purchase something from them.

Secret Beach Waterpark Bar & Grill

This spot has a very kid-friendly inflatable water park, along with a bar and restaurant. They offer life vests and lifeguards, and you can purchase hourly passes for $10 USD. They also rent floating day beds, water pedal bikes, and other rafts.

Aurora's Bar and Grill

Aurora's Bar and Grill is located 4.5 miles north of San Pedro Town and offers Caribbean, Central American, and seafood cuisine.

Wet'n Wild Beach Bar And Restaurant

This spot serves Mexican, Caribbean, and South American cuisine and is located just 0.1 miles from Secret Beach.

Secret Paradise Beach Bar

Secret Paradise Beach Bar is 0.1 miles from Secret Beach and offers Caribbean, Barbecue, and Seafood cuisine.

Aji Tapa Bar & Restaurant

Aji Tapa Bar & Restaurant is located 2.5 miles north of San Pedro Town and offers Caribbean and seafood cuisine.

Maxie's Restaurant & Lounge

Maxie's Restaurant & Lounge is located on the Back Street/Third Street, next to Caye Supplies. They serve American, Caribbean, Latin, Fusion, and Gastropub cuisine.

The Boozy Octo

The Boozy Octo is located right on Secret Beach and offers a variety of food and drinks.

Maruba Beach Klub

Maruba Beach Klub is known for its viper rum, which is reportedly made by bottling a live snake in the rum.

ZZ's Beach (Bar and Grill)

ZZ's Beach offers American, Mexican, Seafood, Steakhouse, and Sushi cuisine and is located 4.1 miles from Secret Beach.

Mesa Bistro San Pedro

Mesa Bistro is located on Tarpon Street in the Vilma Linda Plaza, 3.8 miles from Secret Beach. They offer American, International, and Contemporary cuisine.

Izzy's Smoothies Snacks & Juice Bar

Izzy's Smoothies Snacks & Juice Bar is located on the corner of Pescador Drive and Caribena Street, 3.6 miles from Secret Beach.

The Cork & Cooperage

The Cork & Cooperage has two locations: Coconut Dr Reef Lofts, Unit #2, and East of Carts Belize Downtown. They offer Contemporary, Deli, International, and Wine Bar cuisine.

Secret Beach's caves

Secret Beach in Belize is a great place to visit for a number of reasons, from its crystal-clear waters to its peaceful, gorgeous setting. It is located on the west side of Ambergris Caye, and while it may no longer be a true secret, it is still relatively secluded and offers a more laid-back atmosphere than some of the more touristy beaches.

One of the unique attractions of Secret Beach is the opportunity to explore nearby caves. A network of underwater caves, or cenotes, exists beneath Ambergris Caye, and one such cave is located just north of Secret Beach. To find it, drive your golf cart up a small sand dune through a short tropical corridor and park at the next stretch of beach. The cave is marked with a big stick, and you can explore it by snorkelling or simply observe the fish from above the water.

The water around the cave is clear and shallow, and you can walk far out, feeling temperature changes as you go. There are also natural streams of bubbles and tiny fish to observe.

So, if you're planning a trip to Secret Beach, be sure to add the nearby cave to your itinerary for a unique and adventurous experience.

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