Amergris Cay: Belize's Hidden Paradise

Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize, located in the Caribbean Sea. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its turquoise seascapes, white coral sand, and mangrove forests. The island offers a range of activities such as diving, snorkelling, sailing, fishing, and golf cart rides. San Pedro Town, the only town on the island, is a bustling fishing village with a mix of restaurants, bars, and entertainment. The Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a major attraction for tourists and divers. With its natural beauty, sophisticated lifestyle, and array of amenities, Ambergris Caye has become a beloved destination for tourists and expats alike.

Ambergris Caye's history and culture

Ambergris Caye is the largest of Belize's 200-plus islands, located in the Caribbean Sea and measuring 25 miles long. The island's history dates back to Pre-Columbian times, when it was inhabited by the Maya. The Maya lived throughout Central America, flourishing from 250 AD to 900, and continued to thrive on Ambergris Caye until around 1000 AD.

The first European contact with Ambergris Caye was made in 1508 by Spanish explorers Vicente Yáñez Pinzón and Juan Díaz de Solís. At this time, the Maya were still present on the island, and successfully repulsed attempts by the Europeans to settle the area.

In the 1600s, British, French and Dutch pirates used Ambergris Caye as a base for their raids on Spanish ships and towns in the New World. The pirates likely gave the island its name, as ambergris is a waxy substance produced by sperm whales that was prized by the pirates for use in perfume and cosmetics.

In 1848, the town of San Pedro was founded by Mestizo refugees fleeing the Guerra de Castas in Yucatan. San Pedro remains the largest settlement on Ambergris Caye and the only town.

In the 1870s, the Blake family, who would become the island's primary landowners, moved to Ambergris Caye to start a coconut business. This business continued for decades, with exports to the United States.

In the 1950s, hurricanes destroyed the coconut plantations, and the industry went into decline. The fishing industry also suffered due to over-exploitation, and lobster fishing became the new economic focus.

In the 1970s, Ambergris Caye began to develop as a tourist destination, with the Belize Barrier Reef and its beaches as the main attractions. Today, Ambergris Caye is Belize's most popular tourist destination, known for its turquoise seascapes and Caribbean charm.

The island's natural beauty and wildlife

Ambergris Caye is a tropical paradise, brimming with natural beauty and vibrant wildlife. The island is a nature lover's dream, offering a diverse range of flora and fauna that will leave visitors in awe.

The island's landscape is characterised by its white coral sand beaches and a mangrove forest at its centre. This mangrove swamp, a vital ecosystem, serves as the heart of this island, with golf carts being the main form of transportation along the sandy roads. The eastern coast of Ambergris Caye runs parallel to the Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This reef is the second-largest in the world and provides a haven for an array of marine life.

The rich turquoise waters surrounding the island are home to a multitude of exotic, colourful sea creatures, coral, and sponges. The reef is a mere quarter of a mile from the beach, making it easily accessible for snorkelling and diving enthusiasts. Popular spots like Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley offer the chance to swim with nurse sharks, rays, and an array of tropical fish. The reef also has historical significance, having been used by the Maya people for fishing and trading centuries ago.

On land, Ambergris Caye boasts a variety of plant and animal life. The island is home to hundreds of species of birds, exotic tropical plants, monkeys, manatees, crocodiles, and more. The diverse wildlife, combined with the natural beauty of the island, creates a captivating and adventurous atmosphere for visitors.

The northern tip of the island is home to Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve, a protected area with incredible wildlife and ancient Maya history. Visitors can explore the mangroves, waterways, and the Boca Bacalar Chico canal, which is believed to have been excavated by the Mayans for maritime trade.

On the west side of the island lies Secret Beach, a popular spot with calm, crystal-clear waters. This once-secluded stretch has now become a bustling destination with beach bars and restaurants, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and lively entertainment.

Ambergris Caye's only town, San Pedro, exudes a charming, laid-back atmosphere. The streets are filled with golf carts, bicycles, and even dogs taking a swim in the ocean. The town's architecture showcases a mix of wooden houses, some with English Colonial or Spanish influences, and others in Caribbean styles. The town's social scene is vibrant, with beach barbecues, live music, and a variety of restaurants and bars.

With its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and vibrant culture, Ambergris Caye, Belize, offers a unique and captivating experience for nature enthusiasts and travellers seeking a tropical paradise.

Things to do and see

Explore the Island by Golf Cart

Golf carts are the main source of transportation around Ambergris Caye. You can grab a coffee from Rum+Bean and then set off to explore the town's shopping, restaurants, and bars. If you're staying centrally, getting around by foot is also an option.

Visit Secret Beach

Secret Beach is a once-quiet area on the west side of the island that has become a popular beach destination for locals and visitors alike. It's located about 13km (8 miles) from San Pedro and can be reached by golf cart or taxi. You'll find sandy beaches, calm, clear water, and a handful of bars and restaurants.

Snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Ambergris Caye is the closest island to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, a portion of the Belize Barrier Reef known for excellent snorkelling and diving. This site is famous for crystal clear waters and an abundance of sea life, including sharks, stingrays, and coral reefs. It's a popular attraction and one of the top things to do in Ambergris Caye.

Visit the Belize Chocolate Company

The Belize Chocolate Company makes craft chocolate right in San Pedro, using 100% Belizean ingredients, including organic and fair-trade cacao beans sourced from the country's southern region. You can visit their shop, sign up for a chocolate-making class, and enjoy treats like milkshakes and hot chocolate.

Take a Day Trip to Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is a small island that's perfect for a day trip from Ambergris Caye. You can get there by water taxi from San Pedro. It's a great place to snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, and enjoy the crystal clear waters.

Eat at The Truck Stop

The Truck Stop is a shipping container food park located about a mile outside of San Pedro. It offers a variety of food options, from Asian to Latin American, and live entertainment. It's a great spot to grab a bite and hang out, with a swimming pool and a bar.

Scuba Dive the Great Blue Hole

The Great Blue Hole, located in the Belize Barrier Reef, is one of the largest underwater sinkholes in the world and a popular dive site. It's about 2.5 hours from Ambergris Caye by boat, and there are several reputable dive companies on the island that offer tours.

Join a Sunset Cruise

Sunset cruises are a popular way to spend an evening in Ambergris Caye. You can travel along the Belize Barrier Reef and take in the views of the Caribbean and the island's skyline. Most tours include snacks and drinks, and cost around $60-100 USD per person.

Explore the Town of San Pedro

San Pedro is the largest city on Ambergris Caye and where most visitors will find themselves. You can explore the town by golf cart, visit the San Pedro Artisan Market, and enjoy the local cuisine and nightlife.

Visit the Marco Gonzales Archaeological Reserve

The Marco Gonzales Archaeological Reserve is an important Mayan hub located about 5 miles south of San Pedro. It's believed to have been active from 100 BC to 1500 AD and consists of nearly 50 structures, many of which are yet to be excavated. It's a great spot for bird watching too.

Accommodation and amenities

Ambergris Caye is Belize's largest island and its most popular tourist destination. It offers a wide range of accommodation options, from smaller cabanas far from town to gorgeous, modern condos, fantastic resorts, and private rental homes.

Hotels and Resorts

Ambergris Caye has a variety of hotels and resorts to choose from, catering to different budgets and preferences. Here are some notable options:

• Pelican Reef Villas Resort: Features beautiful accommodations, pristine grounds, and a variety of activities like snorkelling, kayaking, and parasailing.
• Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection: A stunning, well-maintained property with beautiful grounds, architecture, and room decor. It offers a variety of dining options, including the Sea Salt restaurant, and a rooftop pool with amazing views.
• Grand Caribe Belize: A conveniently located hotel with spacious, well-furnished rooms and peaceful surroundings. It offers great pools, a pool bar, and easy access to Secret Beach.
• Ramon's Village Resort: A top-rated resort with friendly staff, excursions, a laid-back Caribbean vibe, snorkelling, diving, an on-site dive centre, and golf cart rentals.
• The Phoenix Resort: Centrally located, with large suites, fully stocked kitchens, and a beautiful pool overlooking the ocean. It also offers golf cart rental options and convenient access to restaurants and nightlife.
• Matachica Resort and Spa: An authentic Belizean vacation resort with private cottages, pristine beaches, organised tours, snorkelling, and boat trips.
• Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club, Curio Collection by Hilton: Features spacious, home-like family cottages with private pools, unique tropical drinks, and an amazing Taco Shack.
• Coco Beach Resort: A beautiful resort with multiple pools, a jacuzzi, and a swim-up bar. It provides comfortable rooms, golf carts, and bikes for exploring.
• Lina Point Belize Overwater Resort: Boasts beautiful ocean views, floor-to-ceiling windows, and unique features like glass floors and fish portals. It offers attentive staff, on-site activities, and rooms with private decks and hot tubs or plunge pools.
• Xanadu Island Resort: Features a heated pool with ocean views, shaded by palm trees. It offers spacious loft suites with well-equipped kitchens and amenities, nature walks, and golf cart rentals.
• Las Terrazas Resort: A serene resort with gorgeous grounds, large jacuzzi bathtubs, top-notch food and activities, a beautiful pool area, and in-room plunge pools.
• Victoria House Resort & Spa: A romantic getaway spot, praised for its beauty and privacy. It offers an on-site bar, restaurant, pools, and activities, as well as beautiful grounds and spacious, elegant rooms.

Private Villas and Apartments

In addition to hotels and resorts, Ambergris Caye also offers private villas and apartments for rent. These options often provide more space and privacy for travellers. Websites like Booking.com, Expedia, and TripAdvisor list many of these accommodations, with reviews and ratings to help you make an informed decision.

Amenities and Activities

Ambergris Caye offers a plethora of amenities and activities to enhance your stay:

• Diving and Snorkelling: The island is renowned for its access to the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest in the world. Popular sites include Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, and Mexico Rocks.
• Beaches: Secret Beach on the west side of the island is a must-visit, with calm, crystal-clear waters. The east side of the island, also known as the reef side, is where most of the action happens, with resorts, hotels, and vibrant ocean views.
• Town of San Pedro: San Pedro is the only town on Ambergris Caye and serves as the main hub for tourists. Here, you'll find restaurants, bars, shops, and a lively nightlife scene.
• Golf Cart Rentals: Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation on the island. Renting a golf cart is essential for exploring Ambergris Caye and accessing various attractions.
• Restaurants and Dining: Ambergris Caye boasts a diverse culinary scene, with options like Mambo Restaurant And Bistro, Aji Tapa Bar & Restaurant, and Mesa Bistro San Pedro.
• Nature and Wildlife: The island offers opportunities for wildlife spotting, birdwatching, and exploring Mayan ruins and verdant jungles.
• Water Sports: In addition to diving and snorkelling, you can enjoy sailing, water-skiing, kayaking, and paddle boarding.

Getting to Ambergris Caye

There are several ways to get to Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize. The island is located in the northeast of the country and is accessible by air and sea.

By Air

If you're flying into Belize, you'll likely arrive at Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA). From there, you can take a connecting flight to Ambergris Caye. Maya Island Air and Tropic Air are the two airlines that service this route, with flights leaving PGIA hourly from 7:30 am to 8:30 pm. The flight to Ambergris Caye takes around 15 to 20 minutes and offers beautiful views of Belize City and the barrier reef. Round-trip flights start at approximately $167.50 USD.

By Sea

If you prefer to travel by sea, there are regular water taxi trips from Belize City to Ambergris Caye. Two companies, San Pedro Belize Express and Ocean Ferry Belize, operate daily water taxi services to the island. The boat ride takes about 75 minutes to 1.5 hours, and tickets are significantly cheaper than airfare, with round-trip tickets costing a fraction of the price. However, you'll need to factor in the travel time from the airport to the water taxi dock in Belize City, which is about 25 minutes by taxi.

By Land

If you're already in Belize and looking to get to Ambergris Caye, you can take a taxi to the Belize City Municipal Airport and fly from there. This option can save you some money, especially if you're travelling with children, as the taxi ride is relatively inexpensive at around $30 USD. This way, you also get to see a bit of Belize City on your way to the airport.

Helicopter

For those looking for a more luxurious or adventurous option, helicopter transfers to Ambergris Caye are also available. You can even add on a tour of the Belize Barrier Reef or the Great Blue Hole to your helicopter transfer for a truly memorable experience.

No matter which option you choose, getting to Ambergris Caye is part of the adventure! Whether you're taking in the stunning aerial views or enjoying the sea breeze on the water taxi, your journey to the island will be an enjoyable part of your trip.

Frequently asked questions