Belize's Best Holiday Destinations

Belize is a small country in Central America, known for its stunning beaches and amazing water sports. With its rich history and diverse culture, it is a tropical paradise for travellers. 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 is a hub for culinary, dining and nightlife entertainment. Caye Caulker, a small island located off the coast, is an absolute haven for scuba divers and snorkelers. San Pedro, the main town in Ambergris Caye, offers a laid-back atmosphere, stunning views and plenty of lively bars and restaurants. Corozal, located on the mainland, is a small and friendly town with plenty to see and do, from Mayan Ruins to golden sand beaches. San Ignacio, a small town in central Belize, is famous for its proximity to renowned Mayan ruins and is a great base for outdoor adventurers.

Ambergris Caye: The largest island in Belize, with stunning views, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife

Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize, and it offers stunning views, beautiful beaches, and lively nightlife. The island is about 25 miles long and is located just off the coast in the very north of Belize. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Belize, attracting divers, snorkelers, fishermen, and sailors with its turquoise seascapes and white sands.

The island has a rich history, first inhabited by the Maya as early as 200 B.C. They dug a canal on the north side of the Mexican peninsula, creating Ambergris Caye. Today, it is a bustling tourism centre, with a myriad of activities and its fair share of traffic. The increase in tourism has also led to a rise in real estate prices and the cost of living.

Ambergris Caye offers a unique blend of casual beach life and upscale amenities. The island's only town, San Pedro, is a hub of activity, with beachside restaurants, lounges, shops, and luxury hotels. The town has a lively, energetic downtown area with a central park, bars, and water taxi stops. Golf carts are the preferred mode of transportation for both locals and tourists, zipping through the cobblestone streets alongside bicycles.

The island is known for its ocean sports and nightlife. During the day, visitors can explore the Belize Barrier Reef, go snorkelling or diving, or visit the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. At night, they can enjoy the lively atmosphere of San Pedro, with its restaurants, lounges, and beach bars.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Secret Beach on the west side of the island offers calm, crystal-clear waters. This spot has transformed from a deserted stretch of beach to a bustling area with beach bars and restaurants. It is an adventure to get to, involving a bumpy golf cart ride, but it is well worth the trip.

Ambergris Caye truly offers something for everyone, from stunning natural beauty and water sports to a vibrant social scene and luxurious amenities. It is the perfect destination for those seeking a mix of outdoor activities and lively nightlife in a tropical paradise.

Caye Caulker: A small island off the coast of Belize, known for its superb diving and snorkelling spots

Caye Caulker is a small island off the coast of Belize, just 20 miles north of Belize City. The island is mostly uninhabited by locals, but its restaurants, shops and hotels attract many visitors. Caye Caulker is known for its superb diving and snorkelling spots, as well as its relaxed tropical ambiance.

The island is a prime spot for snorkelling and scuba diving, with a broad range of services on offer. There are also some unique attractions, such as the manatee wildlife sanctuary, Swallow Caye.

The Split is a popular spot for water sports and is where you'll find the Lazy Lizard restaurant, known for its tropical drinks and loud music. The Split is also the area where Hurricane Hattie allegedly parted Caye Caulker into two halves in 1961.

Caye Caulker is busiest from January to April during Belize's dry season. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from the end of November to mid-April, when you can expect sunny skies and pleasant temperatures.

The island is only 5 miles long, and the primary mode of transport is by bicycle or golf cart. The island's motto is 'Go Slow', which is quickly adopted by both residents and tourists.

There are plenty of restaurants and street food options on the island, with barbeque and fresh seafood readily available. Lobster and conch are must-try eats when in season.

Accommodation in Caye Caulker ranges from hostels to boutique hotels. The island has resisted commercialisation, so accommodation is simple and geared towards laid-back travellers who want to spend most of their time outdoors.

San Pedro: The main town in Ambergris Caye, offering delicious cuisine and a range of sightseeing experiences

San Pedro, the main town in Ambergris Caye, is a foodie's paradise and offers a plethora of sightseeing experiences. Located in the southern part of the island, San Pedro is easily accessible by plane or water taxi and serves as the gateway to the island's array of shops, hotels, and restaurants.

The town boasts a vibrant culinary scene, with options ranging from budget-friendly eateries to upscale dining establishments. For those seeking an authentic taste of Belize, El Fogon is a local favourite, serving up delicious rice and beans with chicken or beef. Robin's Kitchen, a hidden gem in South Ambergris Caye, is renowned for its mouthwatering jerk chicken BBQ, offering an affordable culinary experience. Wild Mangos, located on the waterfront, provides an elegant dining experience with its charred watermelon salad and almond-crusted grouper.

In addition to its culinary delights, San Pedro offers a range of sightseeing opportunities. The Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a top attraction for diving, snorkelling, sailing, and fishing enthusiasts. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve are renowned snorkelling spots, offering the chance to explore vibrant marine life. For scuba divers, Half Moon Caye Wall, Long Caye Aquarium, and the Great Blue Hole promise unforgettable underwater adventures.

Exploring San Pedro by golf cart or bike is a popular way to discover the town's charms. The annual San Pedro Lobsterfest and the Holiday-lighted Boat Parade are festive events not to be missed. The town's festivals, unique shops, and vibrant nightlife add to its allure.

With its combination of delectable cuisine and diverse sightseeing options, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, is a destination that delights and captivates visitors seeking immersive cultural and natural experiences.

Corozal: A tropical paradise in the northernmost district of Belize, known for its eco-tourism and focus on the traditional Belizean way of life

Corozal: A Tropical Paradise in Belize's Northernmost District

A Strong Historical Connection with Mexico

Corozal, located in the northernmost district of Belize, is steeped in history and boasts a strong connection with neighbouring Mexico. The district is the birthplace and home of the Mestizos, a blend of Maya and Spanish cultures. Corozal, situated 89 miles north of Belize City and just 7 miles from the Mexican border, has a population of almost 10,000. The town's laid-back vibe is influenced by its diverse population, which includes ethnic groups such as Mestizo, Maya, Creole, Garifuna, East Indian, Mennonite, and Asian.

A Haven for Retirees and Expats

Corozal is a tranquil paradise that attracts retirees and expats from Europe and North America, seeking a relaxed lifestyle. The town offers a thriving social scene with organised activities and events. The capital of the district, Corozal Town, is a small community of approximately 10,000 people, featuring two churches, a public library, and a charming downtown plaza lined with sidewalk cafes and boutique shops.

Natural Wonders and Ancient Maya Sites

The district of Corozal boasts natural wonders such as the Shipstern Nature Reserve, a 31-square-mile tropical rainforest home to over 300 species of birds. For those interested in ancient Maya sites, Santa Rita is located just outside the town, and Cerros is accessible by boat or road. The Santa Rita Maya Site has been renovated to enhance the visitor experience. The Corozal Free Zone, a minimal tax area, provides casinos, hotels, shopping arcades, and wholesale depots, attracting over one million Mexican visitors annually.

Outdoor Activities and Excursions

Corozal is an ideal base for various outdoor activities and excursions. Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy excursions in the calm bay, while nature lovers can explore the Shipstern Nature Reserve and the nearby Mayan ruins of Cerros and Santa Rita. The district offers bird- and wildlife-viewing tours into the Shipstern Nature Reserve, and shopping trips to Chetumal, Mexico, are also a popular option.

Convenient Location and Accessibility

Corozal is conveniently located, with easy access to Chetumal, Mexico, and the Maya ruins and beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula. San Pedro Ambergris Caye, a popular destination for scuba divers and snorkelers, is just a 15-minute flight from the Corozal airstrip. The district is also well-connected by road, with a two-hour drive from Belize City and daily bus services.

A Blend of Cultures and Cuisines

Given its proximity to Mexico, Corozal offers an array of delicious Mexican and Latino culinary delights. The district also showcases the standard local Belizean fare and beloved snack foods. Food stands are plentiful, especially in the Miami Beach area during weekends. Corozal's markets, such as the Gabriel Hoare Market, offer fresh produce, and the town is known for its variety of fresh fruit juices. Popular snacks include chamoyadas, tamales, fish empanadas, paletas, and ice cream.

San Ignacio: A small town in central Belize, famous for its proximity to renowned Mayan ruins and outdoor adventures

San Ignacio is a small town in central Belize, famous for its proximity to renowned Mayan ruins and outdoor adventures. It is a hub for eco-tourism, offering easy access to top jungle attractions and sites in nearby Guatemala. The town is also known for its diverse food scene, reflecting the variety of cultures that call San Ignacio home.

Getting to San Ignacio

San Ignacio doesn't have an international airport, so you'll need to fly into the Philip Goldson International Airport in Ladyville, a suburb of Belize City. From there, you can take a domestic flight, shuttle, taxi, or bus to San Ignacio. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive yourself.

Where to Stay

San Ignacio and the surrounding area offer a range of accommodation options, from small boutique hotels and guesthouses in the town centre to remote eco-lodges and jungle resorts set along the Macal River or within private nature reserves.

Things to Do

San Ignacio provides access to a plethora of natural and cultural attractions. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Visit the ancient Mayan sites of Caracol, Xunantunich, Cahal Pech, and El Pilar.
• Explore caves like Actun Tunichil Muknal, which features skeletons, ceramics, and stoneware, and Barton Creek Cave, popular for canoe tours.
• Enjoy nature reserves such as Chaa Creek and Mountain Pine Ridge, where you can go hiking, visit waterfalls and caves, and spot wildlife.
• Take a canoe trip on the Macal River.
• Go birdwatching or horseback riding through the jungle.
• Explore the Green Iguana Hatchery at the San Ignacio Resort Hotel.
• Experience the town's vibrant nightlife and sample the diverse cuisine, including traditional Belizean dishes like garnaches, salbutes, and panades.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season, from December to April, offers clear skies and pleasant weather, making it the ideal time to visit San Ignacio. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices. Visiting during the off-season (June to August) can be a more affordable option, and you'll still get to enjoy many of the same activities.

Frequently asked questions