Belize City Cruise Port: Discovering The Nearby Beach Escapes

Belize City is a great destination for cruise travellers interested in Mayan archeologic sites, breathtaking scenic sights, magnificent natural wonders, wildlife parks, bird watching, and water sports. While the city itself does not offer miles of white sand beaches, there are several stunning beaches on small islands, also known as cayes, located just off the coast. Here is an introduction to some of the best beaches close to the Belize City cruise port:

- Goff's Caye: A tiny island with a white sandy beach, located just 30 minutes from the cruise port by boat. It offers excellent snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities in its healthy coral reef.

- Starfish Island: Also known as Bannister Caye, this artificial island is made up of tiny, whole shells rather than sand. It offers a unique beach experience with plenty of starfish and crystal-clear water for snorkelling.

- Caye Caulker: A small island located south of Ambergris Caye, offering calm waters and uncrowded beaches. It is famous for its world-class snorkelling and scuba diving due to its proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef.

- Ambergris Caye: A larger and more developed island, home to the town of San Pedro. It offers several small beaches ideal for lounging and swimming, as well as various water sports activities.

- Cucumber Beach, Old Belize: A man-made salty pool located about 5 miles from central Belize City. It is a nice place to relax and enjoy the food and drinks, but the water quality is not as good as natural beaches.

Goff's Caye: a tiny island with a white sandy beach and a well-developed coral reef

Goffs Caye is a tiny island located just 12 nautical miles east of Belize City. It is a sand barrier island, situated north of the English Caye Channel. This one-acre island is a popular destination for cruise ships and local visitors due to its accessibility and unique offerings of sun, sand, and a healthy reef.

The natural beauty of Goffs Caye is renowned, with its white sandy beach and well-developed coral reef formation considered the best in the central province. The pristine waters surrounding the island display varying colours of blue, depending on the sun's position. The reef is teeming with colourful tropical fish and a variety of corals, making it a popular spot for snorkelling and scuba diving.

The island is easily accessible, just a 30- to 45-minute boat ride from Belize City, making it a perfect day trip for those looking to escape civilisation and relax on secluded beaches. Goffs Caye has been a significant part of Belizean culture and heritage for many years, with locals visiting the island for a day of relaxation during the Easter holidays.

To preserve the pristine marine environment and manage the number of visitors, the Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI) has implemented regulations, including a maximum capacity of 150 to 200 visitors at any given time. Visitors are also requested to contribute a modest park fee, and there is a gift shop on the island where they can purchase souvenirs.

Goffs Caye offers a range of recreational activities, including snorkelling, scuba diving, swimming, sailing, sunbathing, and beach-walking. The island is vulnerable to changing currents and wind patterns, which cause its boundaries to shift constantly. Despite its small size, Goffs Caye provides a unique and memorable experience for those seeking a blend of natural beauty, marine life, and cultural significance.

Starfish Island: an artificial island made of shells with excellent snorkelling and a party atmosphere

Starfish Island: A Man-Made Beach Getaway

Starfish Island, also known as Bannister Caye, is an artificial island made of shells located near Belize City cruise port. It is a popular shore excursion for cruise passengers, offering a range of activities and excellent snorkelling opportunities. Here is everything you need to know about Starfish Island.

Getting to Starfish Island

To get to Starfish Island, cruise passengers can book a shore excursion, which typically includes a boat ride to the island. The journey takes around 20-30 minutes, and the cost is usually around $55-$65 for a four-hour excursion, including lunch. The island is also accessible via water taxi or flight from the mainland.

Things to Do on Starfish Island

Starfish Island offers a variety of activities and amenities for visitors. The island features a small gift shop, a snack bar, and a restaurant serving local cuisine. There is also a bar, although some reviewers mention that drinks are expensive.

For those seeking relaxation, the island provides hammocks, tables, chairs, and loungers for sunbathing and taking in the views. The water is warm and inviting, but it is recommended to bring water shoes as the ocean floor is rocky. There are also kayaks available for rent and a volleyball court for those feeling more active.

One of the unique features of Starfish Island is the opportunity to see and hold live starfish and conch in a designated area. This makes for a great photo opportunity and adds to the island's appeal.

Snorkelling at Starfish Island

Starfish Island is known for its excellent snorkelling. The Belize Barrier Reef, located just off the coast, is a world-class snorkelling destination. The reef provides a chance to see a variety of marine life, including fish, coral, and rays. However, some reviewers mention that the snorkelling conditions can be choppy, and the visibility may vary depending on weather conditions.

Overall Experience at Starfish Island

Reviews for Starfish Island are mixed. Some visitors enjoy the relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, and the variety of activities on offer. The island is especially recommended for families, with options for all ages. However, others have found the island overcrowded and the facilities disappointing, with some mentioning issues with sea grass and sewage affecting the water quality.

It is important to note that Starfish Island can get busy when multiple cruise ships are in port, so it may be worth checking the cruise schedule before booking an excursion to avoid the crowds.

Caye Caulker: a laid-back island with calm waters and a popular snorkelling spot

Caye Caulker is a tiny Caribbean island off the coast of Belize, offering the perfect laid-back beach escape. With its vibrant turquoise waters, sandy beaches, and a charming, relaxed vibe, it's no wonder that Caye Caulker is one of the most popular places to visit in Belize.

The island, just a short ferry ride north of Belize City, is known for its unique, laid-back atmosphere. With no cars and limited internet access, Caye Caulker embodies the "Go Slow" mentality, encouraging visitors to embrace a slower pace and savour the natural beauty that surrounds them.

One of the island's standout attractions is the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world. It provides a haven for snorkelers and divers, who can explore the vibrant marine life, including colourful coral reefs, tropical fish, sea turtles, and even majestic sharks and stingrays.

Caye Caulker's most popular beach is The Split, a narrow waterway that divides the island into two. Formed by Hurricane Hattie in 1961, The Split is a hub for both locals and visitors, offering a place to relax, swim, and enjoy the sun. It's also home to the iconic bar and grill, The Lazy Lizard, where you can listen to live music, dance to reggae, and savour a cold Belizean Belikin beer.

For those seeking a more active adventure, Caye Caulker offers a variety of water sports, including windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding. You can also explore the Caye Caulker Forest Reserve by kayak or stand-up paddleboard, spotting rare birdlife and enjoying the calm waters.

When it comes to food, Caye Caulker delivers a delightful blend of local flavours and fresh seafood. From mouthwatering lobster and conch ceviche to traditional Belizean stewed chicken and spicy shrimp, the island's culinary scene is sure to satisfy any craving.

With its stunning natural surroundings, abundant marine life, and laid-back attitude, Caye Caulker is the perfect destination for those seeking a tranquil beach getaway or an adventure-filled vacation in the heart of the Caribbean.

Ambergris Caye: a tourist hotspot for diving and snorkelling, with several small beaches

Ambergris Caye is a popular tourist destination for diving and snorkelling, located just off the coast of Belize City. The island is known for its small, secluded beaches, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life.

The island is a short boat ride from Belize City, making it an ideal day trip for cruise passengers looking to relax on pristine beaches and explore the underwater world. Ambergris Caye is also home to the small city of San Pedro, which offers a range of luxury accommodations for those looking to extend their stay on the island.

The island boasts several popular diving and snorkelling sites, including the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, and the Belize Barrier Reef. Visitors can explore vibrant coral reefs, swim with nurse sharks, stingrays, and sea turtles, and even encounter dolphins and manatees. The diverse marine life, combined with the clear blue waters, makes Ambergris Caye a sought-after destination for underwater enthusiasts.

In addition to its natural attractions, Ambergris Caye also offers a variety of water sports and activities. Visitors can enjoy sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, and swimming. The island is also a great place to indulge in local cuisine and explore the laid-back island culture.

For those seeking a more relaxed beach experience, the island offers several small, secluded beaches that are perfect for lounging in the sun and enjoying the tranquil Caribbean Sea. Whether you're looking for underwater adventures or a peaceful beach getaway, Ambergris Caye has something for everyone.

Cucumber Beach: a man-made beach with tasty food, but the water quality is not great

Cucumber Beach is a man-made beach located in Old Belize, a tourist spot about 5 miles from central Belize City. It is easily accessible by bus, with a one-way trip costing about BZ$1.

The beach offers a great opportunity to relax and soak up the sun, and it boasts tasty food and a bar for refreshments. However, the water quality is not as good as that of natural beaches. In addition, the facility has suffered damage from hurricanes and is in the process of being restored.

For those seeking a beach experience near Belize City, Cucumber Beach provides a convenient option with its proximity to the city and its tasty food offerings. However, the water quality may be a consideration for those looking to swim or engage in water activities.

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