Belize's Best-Kept Secret: Surfing Paradise

Belize is not known for its surf culture, but there are still some good surfing spots in the country. The best place to surf in Belize is Glover's Reef Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The atoll is home to Long Caye, which has the only surf break in the country that is both accessible and safe. The wave at Long Caye is a right-hand break that starts in 8-12 feet of water and ends in about 3 feet of water. The bottom topography is eroded coral rubble, which creates a safe but hard surface. While Belize may not be the first choice for surfers, it offers a unique and uncrowded surfing experience.

Glover's Reef Atoll: Belize's best surfing spot

Glovers Reef Atoll: Belize's Best Surfing Spot

Belize is not known as a surf destination, but one spot stands out as a must-visit for die-hard surfers: Glover's Reef Atoll. Located in Belize's southern region, about 30 miles off the mainland coast, this atoll is one of only four atolls in the Western Hemisphere and is renowned for its stunning reefs and vibrant marine life.

Surfing Conditions

Glover's Reef Atoll offers the best surfing conditions in Belize. The atoll's point break is almost always active, intercepting swells driven by trade winds. The waves break and peel off to the right in long, running breaks that can go up to a hundred yards. The wave starts in 8-12 feet of water and gradually becomes shallower, ending in about 3 feet of water. The initial drop is moderate to steep, and the wave can reform, requiring surfers to cut back to make a second section. The largest sets typically reach 6-8 feet, with the norm being around 4 feet high.

Accessibility and Safety

Glover's Reef Atoll is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and National Marine Reserve, so access is carefully monitored. It is recommended to visit with a tour company or a resort that knows the right people to contact. The hard coral rubble at the reef may not be ideal for beginner board surfers, but the wave loses force in the shallow water, reducing the chances of getting "pounded" by it. Experienced surfers must demonstrate kayak and paddleboard surfing ability before they are allowed to use boards in the surf.

Accommodations and Activities

Slickrock Belize Adventures offers an authentic glamping experience in rustic beachfront cabanas on Long Caye, an island within the atoll. Their all-inclusive packages cover lodging, meals, transportation, and guided activities. In addition to surfing, guests can enjoy kayaking, paddle boarding, snorkelling, fishing, and windsurfing.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Glover's Reef Atoll is during Belize's dry season, from November to April/May. This season offers sunny days, minimal rain, and ideal conditions for water sports.

Long Caye: a small private island with a point break

Long Caye is a small private island located 40 miles off the coast of Belize, in the Lighthouse Reef Atoll. It is one of the best spots for surfing in Belize, offering the only surf break in the country that is both accessible and safe. The reef at Long Caye is characterised by hard coral rubble instead of soft sand, which makes it less than ideal for beginner board surfers. Experienced surfers, however, can enjoy bigger breaks and long rides in favourable conditions.

The wave at Long Caye is perfect for experienced surfers, with moderate to steep drops and a fast, punchy inner section. Before they are allowed to use the boards in surf, guests with surfing experience must first demonstrate their kayak surfing ability. It is recommended that they then graduate to paddleboarding before attempting board surfing.

Long Caye is also a great location for other water sports, including windsurfing, kiteboarding, and kayaking. The island is located near some of Belize's most famous dive sites, such as Blue Hole and Half Moon Caye, offering plenty of opportunities for exploration and adventure.

If you're looking for a unique and secluded surfing destination, Long Caye in Belize is definitely worth considering. With its challenging waves and pristine natural surroundings, it offers an unforgettable experience for experienced surfers seeking their fix in Central America.

Belize's windsurfing and kitesurfing spots

Belize is not usually known as a surfing destination, as the Belize Barrier Reef blocks big waves from coming in. However, there are still plenty of opportunities for windsurfing and kitesurfing.

North Belize

The most popular windsurfing and kitesurfing spots in North Belize are Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Both locations offer rentals and are easily accessible from Belize City. Caye Caulker attracts a younger crowd and enjoys steady winds (12 to 20 knots) from February through July. Kitesurfing shops and instructors can be found in San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, as well as on Caye Caulker.

South Belize

In South Belize, the best-known windsurfing and kitesurfing spots are Long Caye, Hopkins, and Punta Gorda. Silk Rock Adventures operates on Long Caye, far out in the sea, surrounded by Glover's Reef Marine Preserve. Windsurfing at Glover's Reef will satisfy both beginners and experts, as there is a sheltered lagoon as well as open sea waters. The winds are usually 10-20 knots during the high-wind season from January through March. In Hopkins, down the coast, April and May are the best months for wind sports. Rentals, private lessons, and guides are available in Hopkins village.

When to Go

The optimal time to windsurf or kitesurf in Belize is between February and July, when the wind is most reliable and intense. August and September have the calmest conditions.

Surfing conditions and seasonal weather

Belize has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a wet season from June to November, and a dry season from February to May. The average annual temperature is 26°C (79°F), and the humidity rate is 85%. The mean wind speed is 8 knots, which creates good wind conditions for sailing, windsurfing, and kitesurfing.

The best time for surfing in Belize is during the dry season, which lasts from November to May. During this period, you can expect sunny and warm weather, with less rainfall. The winter season, from February to May, offers near-to-moderate fetch trade-wind-driven waves, with constant Trades blowing at 10-15 knots or more. These wind conditions can create choppy waters, making glassy conditions rare.

Belize is not widely known as a surf destination due to its lack of big waves. This is because the Belize Barrier Reef, the longest in the Northern Hemisphere, blocks any large swells from forming. However, there is one notable exception for surfers: Glover's Reef Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Long Caye, an island within Glover's Reef Atoll, offers the only accessible and safe surf break in Belize. The wave at Long Caye is a right-hand break that starts in 8-12 feet of water and gradually becomes shallower, ending in about 3 feet of water. The bottom topography is eroded coral rubble, creating a safe but hard surface for surfing. The wave characteristics include a moderate to steep initial drop, with a slight reform that creates a fun, punchy, and fast inner section.

While the surfing conditions at Long Caye are not ideal for beginners, experienced surfers can enjoy long rides and catch bigger breaks. It is important to note that the hard coral rubble may pose challenges for novice board surfers.

Belize's surfing lessons and tours

Belize is not a well-known surf destination, but there are a few spots that stand out for those seeking a surfing experience in the country.

Glover's Reef Atoll

The Glover's Reef Atoll is a designated National Marine Reserve and UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it is considered the premier surf spot in Belize. The atoll is located within a protected ecosystem, so it is important to visit with a tour guide or a reputable company that knows who to contact in case of need. The wave at Glover's Reef Atoll is a right-hand break that starts in 8-12 feet of water and ends in about 3 feet of water. The bottom topography is eroded coral rubble, creating a safe but hard surface for surfing. The largest sets typically reach 6-8 feet, with rides of 50 to 100 yards possible on good days.

Long Caye

Long Caye, an island within Glover's Reef Atoll, is known for its point break and is considered the only surf break in the country that is both accessible and safe. The reef at Long Caye has hard coral rubble, which may not be ideal for beginner board surfers. Experienced surfers can catch bigger breaks and enjoy long rides in favourable conditions.

Surfing Lessons and Tours

Several companies in Belize offer surfing lessons and tours, including:

• Slickrock Belize Adventures: This company is based on Long Caye within Glover's Reef Atoll and offers all-inclusive adventure packages that cover lodging, meals, transportation, and guided activities. They provide an authentic glamping experience in rustic beachfront cabanas.
• Passionkite Belize: This company offers surfing and windsurfing lessons, with instructors who are patient and dedicated to helping students improve.
• Kitexplorer San Pedro: Audrius, an instructor at Kitexplorer San Pedro, receives praise for his patience, kindness, and expertise in teaching surfing and windsurfing.
• Belize Sailing Center: Edward, an instructor at the Belize Sailing Center, is highly recommended for catamaran lessons. They offer lesson packages that can be purchased for multiple sessions.
• Placencia Paddle Boarding: Tony, the owner of Belize Fit, provides stand-up paddle boarding lessons and rentals. He is known for his great personality and makes the experience fun and enjoyable.
• Reef Breaker Surf Shop & Windsports: This company offers surfing and windsurfing experiences, with amazing guides and a super-friendly staff. Jay is a highly recommended guide who is patient and provides excellent instruction.
• Big Kite Belize: Luis, the owner of Big Kite Belize, offers kite surfing lessons and is praised for his knowledge, personality, and love for the island. He also shares his expertise on the best spots to visit in Belize.

Best Time to Visit

The wet season in Belize is between June and November, while the dry season is from February to May. The average annual temperature is 26 °C (79 °F), and the humidity rate is typically high at 85%. Surfing conditions are better during the dry season, so it is recommended to visit between November and May to enjoy warmer temperatures and less rain.

Frequently asked questions