Belize's Best Nomadic Stays

Belize is a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, amazing water sports, rich history, and diverse culture. It is one of the biggest tourist destinations in Central America, attracting nature lovers, divers, snorkelers, and those interested in exploring Mayan ruins and culture.

The country is small and easy to navigate, with a variety of accommodations to fit different budgets and preferences. From luxurious beach resorts to budget-friendly hostels and eco-lodges, there is something for everyone.

- Belize City: The largest city in the country, offering cultural and historical landmarks, great food, and easy access to nearby attractions.

- Caye Caulker: A budget-friendly island known for its world-class diving and snorkelling spots, as well as its laid-back Caribbean vibe.

- San Pedro, Ambergris Caye: The main town on the largest island in Belize, offering water sports, incredible caves, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant nightlife.

- San Ignacio: A great base for exploring Mayan ruins and cultural sites, as well as outdoor adventures in the nearby rainforest.

- Placencia: A peninsula known for its luxurious resorts, beautiful beaches, and easy access to southern cayes and reefs.

- Corozal: A hidden gem in the northernmost part of Belize, offering cultural and historical sites, as well as beach and water activities.

Belize City: the best place to stay in Belize for first-time visitors

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

Where to Stay

When it comes to accommodation, there are options for every budget in Belize City. If you're looking for a hotel, consider the Great House Inn, a centrally-located four-star hotel close to restaurants, cafes, bars, and shops. The Red Hut Inn is a great budget option, situated in a safe and quiet neighbourhood, just a short ride from the city centre. For those looking for an Airbnb, Sir Angel's Guesthouse is a comfortable and affordable option, located in a quiet area, but still within walking distance of the city centre.

Things to Do

There are plenty of things to do and see in Belize City. Here are some suggestions:

• Explore the Mayan ruins of Altun Ha.
• Go cave tubing at Jaguar Paw, a tropical stream in the Branch River.
• Learn about Mayan history at the Museum of Belize.
• Go snorkelling over The Great Blue Hole, a giant marine sinkhole off Belize's Caribbean coastline.
• Visit St. John's Cathedral, the oldest Anglican Church in South America.
• Take a water taxi to go island-hopping.
• Check out the local wildlife at the Belize Zoo.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Belize is generally considered to be during the dry season, from December to April. This period offers clear skies and pleasant temperatures, with minimal rain. However, it is also the peak season, so expect more crowds and higher prices. For cheaper prices, consider visiting in June or July.

Caye Caulker: a budget-friendly alternative to Ambergris Caye

Caye Caulker is a small island located off the coast of Belize, just a 40-minute boat ride or 1.5-hour ferry ride from Belize City. Known for its scuba diving and snorkelling spots, it is a popular destination for backpackers.

Caye Caulker is a budget-friendly alternative to Ambergris Caye, with a laid-back, relaxed vibe. The island is easily navigable by foot, with the option of renting bicycles and golf carts.

The island has a range of budget-friendly accommodation, from hostels to guesthouses and small hotels.

Where to stay

• Tropical Paradise Caye Caulker: a colourful, comfortable, and clean resort located at the heart of the island. It is close to restaurants, shops, and the beach.
• Travellers Palm Backpackers Hostel: conveniently located and within walking distance of shops and the ocean. The rooms are well-stocked with a fridge/freezer, free tea/coffee, WiFi, and purified water. There is also a rooftop terrace.
• Vista del Mar Guest House: a guest house with communal chill spaces and gardens, where you can swap stories with fellow travellers.

What to do

• Snorkel in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve.
• Sip cocktails at a beach bar.
• Go on a diving tour of the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve or the Belize Barrier Reef, where you can see nurse sharks and rays.
• Relax on the stunning beaches and watch the sunset.
• Visit the Aria Kat Art Gallery.
• Try local seafood at Chef Kareem's UnBelizeable Lunch.
• Eat lobster at one of the many restaurants.
• Go to the Seahorse Reserve Caye Caulker.

San Pedro: the best town for water sports

San Pedro is the main town in Ambergris Caye, a small but bustling village that offers delicious cuisine, sightseeing opportunities, and the best nightlife in Belize. From relaxed pubs to lively clubs, San Pedro is the place to be for after-dark fun!

San Pedro is located on the east coast of Ambergris Caye, a one-hour ferry ride from Caye Caulker. It is the perfect destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering a range of activities such as diving, fishing, snorkelling, sailing, and kayaking. You can also explore underground caves, beautiful beaches, and museums that showcase the town's culture.

When it comes to accommodation, San Pedro has something for every budget. For luxury travellers, Ramon's Village Resort offers charming private bungalows in a jungle setting. If you're looking for a more affordable option, Ambergris Sunset Hotel is within walking distance of the beach and offers comfortable rooms and free wifi. For those seeking a more private stay, the New Centric Apartment, just a few minutes' walk from the beach, features spacious rooms and a fully furnished kitchen.

San Pedro is also a great base for exploring the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in the Western Hemisphere. The reef is home to a diverse array of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and sharks. You can take a boat tour, don snorkelling gear, or go scuba diving to explore this underwater world.

So, if you're looking for a town in Belize that offers a range of water sports and a vibrant nightlife, San Pedro is the perfect destination for you!

San Ignacio: the best place to stay in Belize to learn about Mayan culture

San Ignacio, a small town in the Cayo region of Belize, is the ideal base for those keen to explore the country's famous Mayan ruins. It is also a hub for outdoor activities and adventures, with its central location making it perfect for day trips around the country.

The town is ethnically diverse, with Creoles, Maya Indians, mestizos, and Mennonites among its population. It is also one of the country's most unique areas, with a rich history and a blend of different cultures, foods, and outdoor adventures.

San Ignacio is home to the Cahal Pech Archaeological Reserve, where you can explore ancient Mayan sanctuaries. You can also take a day trip to the Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave, a Mayan sacrifice site, and the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, with its impressive caves and natural pools.

The town also offers easy access to the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins, a spectacular site in the middle of the jungle. Getting there is an adventure in itself, as you have to take a hand-cranked cable ferry across the Mopan River. The main El Castillo pyramid stands at 131 feet (40 meters) tall, with ornate carvings on its eastern and western sides.

Another Mayan site near San Ignacio is Caracol, located just 40 kilometres south of Xunantunich. This ancient city features 53 intricately carved stone monuments and showcases the complex trade routes used by its inhabitants.

San Ignacio has a range of accommodation options, from hotels and hostels to Airbnb apartments. The Ka'ana Resort & Spa is a centrally located boutique resort with a stunning garden, swimming pool, and spa. For backpackers, there is the Hidden Haven, a unique eco-resort surrounded by jungle, with a saltwater swimming pool.

So, if you're looking to learn about Mayan culture and history, San Ignacio is the perfect place to stay in Belize. With its range of Mayan ruins and archaeological sites, as well as its diverse culture and outdoor adventures, it offers a unique and enriching experience.

Placencia: a beautiful town to stay in Belize for families

Placencia is a beautiful town in Belize, located off the east coast, 100 miles (180 km) south of Belize City. It is a safe and laid-back fishing town, making it a perfect destination for families. The town has a coastline with white sand beaches surrounded by palm trees and crystal clear water.

Placencia offers a range of activities for families, including snorkelling, diving, and fishing in amazing spots. The town also boasts a variety of local seafood restaurants, cafes, and family-friendly hotels for all budgets.

• Umaya Resort Adventures: This centrally located, all-inclusive resort offers a unique stay for travellers by the beach with a tropical vibe. The luxury hotel has a beautiful swimming pool surrounded by a lush garden, a spa, spacious rooms with stunning Caribbean island views, and a great on-site restaurant. Umaya Resort Adventures also offers diving excursions to explore Belize's impressive marine life.
• Belizean Nirvana: This small boutique 5-suite hotel offers simple, elegant, and comfortable accommodations on the beach in the heart of Placencia. It is within walking distance of all the amenities of downtown Placencia.
• Laru Beya Resort & Villas: Laru Beya offers classic beachfront accommodations on the northern section of the Placencia Peninsula. It is a short walk from the Garifuna village of Seine Bight and three miles from Placencia Village. It's a great spot for couples or families looking for a quiet, upscale resort that is also close to the lively restaurant and bar scene of Placencia.
• Mariposa Belize Beach Resort: Mariposa Belize Beach Resort is located right on the beach in Placencia and offers an outdoor pool and a seafront restaurant. The resort features immaculate and beautiful grounds with gorgeous tropical plants everywhere. The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated, and the staff is incredibly welcoming and accommodating.
• Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas: This resort offers exceptional spa services in a cozy setting. It provides a variety of tours through its affiliated excursion company and offers personalized concierge services to assist with arranging activities and special events. Sirenian Bay also has excellent food options and modern amenities like mini-golf and pickleball.

Frequently asked questions