The Best Of Belize: Where To Stay And Why

Belize is a small country known for its stunning beaches, amazing water sports, rich history, diverse culture, and marvellous cuisine. The country covers an area of 22,800 square kilometres and is divided into six districts, which are further subdivided into 31 constituencies.

Belize City is the largest city in the country and a great place for first-time visitors to stay. It is home to a variety of historical, cultural, and architectural attractions, as well as great food and vibrant nightlife. Belize City is also well-connected to the rest of the country, making it easy to explore other areas.

For those looking for a beach vacation, Placencia and Hopkins are excellent choices, offering wide palm-lined beaches and a range of water activities. Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize, is another popular destination for its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife.

If you're interested in exploring Mayan ruins and history, San Ignacio is an ideal base. It is located near several significant Mayan ruins and offers easy access to the rainforest and cave systems.

Caye Caulker is a great budget-friendly option, offering affordable accommodations and a laid-back Caribbean vibe. It is also a popular spot for diving and snorkelling.

Whether you're looking for a beach getaway, cultural exploration, or outdoor adventures, Belize has something for everyone.

Belize City: The largest city in Belize, known for its historical, cultural, and architectural attractions, as well as its food and nightlife

Belize City is the largest city in Belize and is located on a small peninsula surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. It is a hub for culinary delights, dining, and nightlife entertainment, offering a variety of historical, cultural, and architectural attractions.

Historical and Cultural Attractions

Belize City is home to several historical and cultural landmarks, including:

• The Museum of Belize, where you can learn about Mayan history and explore other cultural exhibits.
• St. John's Cathedral, a natural history museum and religious site with a nearby Government House, a beautiful heritage building that was once visited by Queen Elizabeth.
• The Belize Sign Monument, a quick and easy photo opportunity at the southern tip of the city.
• The Independence Monument, located near the Belize Museum, commemorates Belize's independence from British Honduras.
• The Supreme Court of Belize, a colonial-style building at the beginning of Albert Street.
• The House of Culture, a quaint museum in Benque Viejo with a youth marimba band.
• The Belize Zoo, a popular attraction featuring local wildlife.
• Altun Ha, a Mayan ruin site.
• The Lamanai Maya Ruins, which offer a glimpse into ancient Mayan life and provide an opportunity for wildlife spotting.
• The Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve, a gentle tubing adventure through caves and jungle.

Architectural Attractions

Belize City boasts a range of architectural styles, including:

• Colonial architecture, evident in the colourful buildings throughout the city.
• St. John's Cathedral, a modest brick cathedral with a charming lawn and garden.
• The Government House, a beautiful heritage building with a spacious front lawn and a low fence.
• The Supreme Court of Belize, a colonial-style building on Albert Street.

Food and Nightlife

Belize City offers a variety of dining options, including:

• Caribbean cuisine and tropical cocktails at beachfront restaurants and bars.
• Local Belizean restaurants serving delicious food.
• International cuisine at hotels and resorts.

The city also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with lively bars and clubs offering entertainment and drinks.

Other Attractions

In addition to the historical, cultural, and architectural attractions, Belize City provides opportunities for:

• Scuba diving and snorkelling at the Great Blue Hole, an epic barrier reef.
• Cave tubing at Jaguar Paw, a tropical stream in the Branch River.
• Wildlife spotting at the Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Centre.
• Exploring the Belize Nature Reserve.
• Visiting the Image Factory Shop and Gallery for art and culture.
• Admiring the view from the Baron Bliss Lighthouse.

Caye Caulker: A budget-friendly island with a laid-back vibe, offering excellent diving and snorkelling spots

Caye Caulker is a budget-friendly island with a laid-back vibe, offering excellent diving and snorkelling spots. Located just off the coast of Belize, it is easily accessible by water taxi or small plane. The island is known for its unique charm, with no cars or paved roads, only sandy paths and golf carts. The island's motto, "Go Slow", perfectly sums up the relaxed vibe that can be felt throughout the island.

Caye Caulker is a haven for snorkelers and divers, thanks to its proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef, one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems in the world. Swim alongside colourful coral reefs and encounter majestic sea turtles, mysterious underwater caves and diverse marine life, including tropical fish, rays, sharks and the elusive manatee.

For those who prefer to stay above water, there are plenty of opportunities for kayaking, paddleboarding and sunset cruises. The island also offers a vibrant culinary scene, with fresh seafood delicacies, traditional Belizean dishes and famous Belizean hot sauce.

One of the must-visit attractions in Caye Caulker is the Split, a narrow waterway that divides the island into two. Formed by Hurricane Hattie in 1961, the Split has become an iconic spot for locals and visitors alike. Head to the northernmost tip of the island to find a sandy beach area and the popular bar, The Lazy Lizard. Grab a drink, soak up the sun and enjoy the breathtaking views. For an extra adrenaline rush, take a leap on the rope swing or go snorkelling to discover the colourful marine life just off the shore.

For a more relaxing experience, find a shady spot under a palm tree and unwind with a book, or simply take in the beauty of nature. The Split is also a great place to be in the evening, with stunning sunset views and the opportunity to enjoy a sunset cruise.

Whether you're seeking a tranquil beach getaway or an adventure-packed vacation, Caye Caulker has something for everyone. With its laid-back vibe, stunning natural beauty and vibrant local culture, it truly is a paradise for those looking to relax and explore.

San Pedro: The main town on Ambergris Caye, known for its lively bars and restaurants, stunning views, and laid-back atmosphere

San Pedro is the main town on Ambergris Caye, an island off the coast of Belize. San Pedro is known for its lively bars and restaurants, stunning views, and laid-back atmosphere. It is a popular tourist destination, offering a range of activities such as diving, snorkelling, sailing, and kayaking. The town has a bustling downtown area with a variety of dining options, including seafood restaurants and beach bars. San Pedro also has a vibrant nightlife scene, with pubs and clubs to suit different tastes.

In addition to its lively atmosphere, San Pedro also offers stunning natural sights. The town is known for its beautiful beaches and is a great place to enjoy water sports and explore the nearby reef. The barrier reef is located less than a mile away, making it a popular spot for world-class diving and snorkelling. The island is vibrant yet laid-back, attracting a devoted following of travellers who return year after year.

Accommodation in San Pedro caters to different budgets, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury resorts. The town is easily accessible, with an hour-long ferry ride from Caye Caulker. San Pedro is an ideal destination for those seeking a combination of lively entertainment, stunning natural sights, and a variety of outdoor activities. Whether you're a foodie, a nature lover, or a nightlife enthusiast, San Pedro has something for everyone.

Corozal: A small, friendly town near the Mexican border, offering Mayan ruins, golden beaches, and a range of culinary delights

Corozal is a small, friendly town in Belize, located about 84 miles north of Belize City and just 9 miles from the Mexican border. It is the capital of the Corozal District, the northernmost district in the country.

Corozal has a rich history, having been founded in the 1840s by Maya Mestizo refugees fleeing the Caste War of Yucatán. The town was built over an ancient Maya city, sometimes known as Santa Rita, which may have been the original Pre-Columbian town of Chactemal.

Today, Corozal offers a range of attractions for visitors. History buffs will enjoy exploring the Mayan ruins of Santa Rita, which date back to the 14th century AD. Nature lovers can visit the Shipstern Nature Reserve, home to Belize's five cat species and the endangered Baird's Tapir, as well as almost 300 cataloged species of birds.

For those seeking sun and sand, Corozal Bay offers golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. The town is also known for its delicious food, including fresh fruit juices and Mexican cuisine, thanks to its proximity to Mexico.

Corozal is also a popular destination for expats, particularly retirees, due to its low cost of living, tropical climate, and easy access to medical treatment and shopping in nearby Mexico.

When it comes to accommodation, Corozal offers a range of options, from small family-run properties near the coast to more luxurious resorts.

So, if you're looking for a friendly, laid-back town with a rich cultural history, golden beaches, and delicious food, Corozal is the perfect place to stay in Belize.

San Ignacio: A small town near the Guatemalan border, known for its proximity to Mayan ruins and outdoor adventures

San Ignacio is a small town in the Cayo region of Belize, close to the Guatemalan border. It is known for its proximity to renowned Mayan ruins and is a hub for outdoor activities and adventures.

The town is a popular vacation destination, offering pristine rivers, cascading waterfalls, incredible wildlife, ancient Mayan ruins, and ceremonial caves. San Ignacio is an excellent base for those seeking outdoor adventures and cultural exploration.

• Xunantunich Mayan Ruins: Located just west of Cahal Pech, Xunantunich is considered the most prestigious Mayan ruin in Belize. Its main temple, El Castillo, rises 39 meters above the plaza, offering panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and the Guatemalan town of Melchor.
• Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins: Cahal Pech is one of the finest Mayan ruins in San Ignacio, dated to around 1500 B.C. It features stunning temples, plazas, and other ancient structures. Its proximity to Xunantunich makes it convenient to explore both sites in a single day.
• El Pilar Mayan Ruins: El Pilar is one of the most extensive Mayan ruins in Belize, spanning over 100 acres with 25 separate plazas. It is believed to have been a central hydration point for the Mayans due to its name, which means "watering basin" in Spanish.
• Caracol: Caracol is a beautifully preserved Mayan site featuring a gorgeous temple that rises above the jungle canopy. Visitors can climb to the top of the temple and explore the archaeological museum located here.
• Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave: This ancient cave system is located in the Tapir Mountain Nature Reserve and is known for its impressive collection of Mayan artefacts, including ceramics and stone tools. It is considered a sacred site, and visitors can explore its chambers and passageways, discovering more about Mayan rituals and history.

In addition to its rich Mayan history, San Ignacio also offers a range of outdoor adventures. The Macal and Mopan Rivers provide opportunities for activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and river tubing. The surrounding rainforests are ideal for hiking and birdwatching, with the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve being a popular destination. Other activities include horseback riding, organic farm visits, and exploring nearby towns like Santa Elena.

San Ignacio's vibrant culture is reflected in its local restaurants, bars, and nightlife. The town also boasts a lively market where visitors can shop for souvenirs and interact with locals.

For accommodation, San Ignacio offers a range of options, including eco-resorts, hotels, and Airbnbs, providing easy access to Mayan ruins and outdoor adventures.

With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, San Ignacio is an ideal destination for those seeking an immersive Belizean experience.

Frequently asked questions