Belize's Best Staycation Destinations

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 acts as the main gateway, with the only international airport in Belize. However, it is not considered safe for tourists due to its reputation for crime and gang violence.

For those looking to stay away from Belize City (BZE), there are plenty of other great options to consider. Caye Caulker is a small island located off the coast of Belize, offering one of the best spots for diving and snorkelling. It is also budget-friendly, with many affordable accommodations to choose from. San Pedro, the main town on Ambergris Caye, is perfect for those seeking water sports such as diving, fishing, snorkelling, sailing, and kayaking. San Ignacio, located in the Cayo District, is ideal for those interested in Mayan culture and history, with impressive Mayan ruins and archaeological sites nearby. Placencia, a peninsula off the east coast, is a safe and laid-back fishing town with beautiful beaches and family-friendly hotels. Lastly, Corozal, located in the northernmost part of Belize, is a hidden gem with cultural and historical sites, as well as a beautiful bay for swimming and beach activities.

Belize City: The largest city in Belize, with cultural landmarks, shops, and restaurants

Belize City is the largest city in Belize and is located on a small peninsula surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. It is a hub of cultural landmarks, shops, and restaurants, making it a popular destination for travellers. Here is a guide to help you navigate this vibrant city:

Cultural Landmarks:

Belize City boasts a variety of historical and cultural attractions. Some notable landmarks include:

• The Belize Sign Monument: A quick and easy photo opportunity to capture the essence of Belize.
• Nohoch Che'en Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve: A relaxing and adventurous experience, tubing through gentle caves and lush jungles.
• St. John's Cathedral: A modest yet charming brick cathedral with well-maintained grounds and a nearby Government House, a beautiful heritage building.
• Baron Bliss Lighthouse: Named after Baron Bliss, one of Belize's greatest benefactors, this lighthouse offers a peaceful visit and a view of the sea.
• Supreme Court of Belize: An impressive colonial-style building at the start of Albert Street, the city's main thoroughfare.
• The Belize Zoo: A great attraction to explore Belize's wildlife, located near the city.
• Altun Ha: Ancient Mayan ruins located just outside the city.

Shopping:

For those looking to indulge in some retail therapy, Belize City offers a variety of shopping options:

• Downtown Plaza and Albert Street: The downtown area is the heart of shopping in Belize City, offering clothing, cosmetics, and local foods.
• Diamonds International Belize: A popular stop for jewellery and gemstones.
• Caribbean Spice Belize: A spice shop with a wide range of blends, perfect for foodies.
• Art Angels N Juweels: An art gallery and speciality gift shop.
• Kaj Expressions Belize City: A shop with positive energy and beautiful jewellery.
• Moho Chocolate: A quaint shop featuring locally made chocolates and other treats.

Restaurants:

Belize City is known for its culinary delights, and there are plenty of restaurants to choose from:

• Bamboleo Inn: A 4-star hotel with a restaurant serving delicious food and located in the city centre.
• River Bend Resort Bze: Located in Belize City, this resort provides river views and offers a garden, a shared lounge, and a bar.
• Seaside Chateau Resort: Features an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, and a garden, offering a relaxing stay.
• Fort George Hotel and Spa: A new hotel in the historic Fort George neighbourhood, known for its leisure and dining options.
• Golden Tree Hotel Belize: Boasts an outdoor swimming pool and a rooftop pool, along with an onsite restaurant.
• Golden Bay Belize Hotel: Features an international cuisine restaurant and a bar.

Caye Caulker: A budget-friendly island with diving and snorkelling spots, beaches, and seafood restaurants

Caye Caulker: A Budget-Friendly Island Paradise

Caye Caulker is a small island located off the coast of Belize, measuring just 8.2 kilometres in length and home to a laid-back population of 1,300. This charming island is a prime stop for travellers seeking a relaxed vibe and a budget-friendly alternative to Ambergris Caye. With its vibrant turquoise waters and hip, low-key Caribbean vibe, Caye Caulker is the perfect spot to experience Belizean culture and enjoy a beach vacation.

Diving and Snorkelling Spots

The island's main draw is the nearby Belize Barrier Reef, making it an ideal destination for scuba divers and snorkelers. Caye Caulker offers excellent opportunities for swimming, diving, and snorkelling, with the chance to see marine life such as manatees, stingrays, sharks, and turtles. Join a snorkelling tour or explore the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, a popular spot for snorkelling and diving.

Beaches

Caye Caulker may not have long stretches of sandy beaches, but it still offers plenty of beachside relaxation. Head to the "Split," a narrow channel that divides the island, to find calm, shallow waters perfect for cooling off. You can also relax on the west side of the island, which has a couple of nice small beaches.

Seafood Restaurants

After a day of exploring the Caribbean Sea, indulge in some delicious seafood at one of Caye Caulker's many restaurants or street stalls. Try the barbeque, fresh seafood, or, when in season, lobster and conch, which are considered "must-try" eats. For a unique dining experience, check out the guys who set up their grills on the beach for one of the best meals you'll have in Belize.

Getting There

To get to Caye Caulker, you'll need to fly into the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) near Belize City. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Caye Caulker or take a water taxi from Belize City's harbour. Water taxis depart daily, with boats leaving for Caye Caulker on an hourly basis from 8 am to 5:30 pm.

San Pedro: A town offering water sports, caves, museums, and nightlife

San Pedro, the only town on Ambergris Caye, is a popular tourist destination known for its barrier reef, stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant culture. It is the most commercially developed island in Belize, offering a plethora of amenities, including beachfront resorts, distinguished restaurants, and easy access to the world's second-largest barrier reef.

Water Sports and Adventure

The island's shores are dotted with soft, white sand, and the turquoise waters offer various water sports such as snorkelling, diving, and fishing. The Belize Barrier Reef, the largest coral reef system in the Western Hemisphere, is just a mile away, providing visitors with a rich array of marine life, including tropical fish, sea turtles, and sharks.

Culture and History

San Pedro is also known for its lively and diverse culture, with a population that includes both locals and expats from around the world. Visitors can explore the colourful streets, sample traditional Belizean cuisine, and experience the vibrant music and dance scene. The town has a laid-back vibe and friendly locals, making it a great place to relax and unwind.

Nightlife

San Pedro has a reputation for having the best nightlife in Belize, with a lively bar and club scene. Visitors can enjoy live music, dancing, and drinks into the early hours of the morning. Popular spots include Jaguar's, the most popular nightclub in town, and Pedro's Club Inferno, which is highly recommended for a local party experience.

Other Attractions

In addition to its natural beauty and vibrant culture, San Pedro offers a range of other attractions. Visitors can explore the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, which contains skeletons of Mayan sacrifices, or immerse themselves in Belizean art at galleries such as the Belizean Melody Art Gallery and The Gallery of San Pedro.

San Ignacio: A hub for Mayan culture and history, with archaeological sites and nature reserves

San Ignacio, a small town in the Cayo region of Belize, is a hub of Mayan culture and history, with a diverse range of natural attractions and outdoor activities. Located near the Guatemalan border, it is known for its proximity to renowned Mayan archaeological sites and nature reserves, making it a popular destination for those seeking adventure and cultural exploration.

One of the highlights of San Ignacio is the ancient Mayan site of Cahal Pech, an ancient palatial estate dating back over 2000 years. This site, just a short walk from downtown San Ignacio, offers a glimpse into the sophisticated architecture and engineering skills of the Mayan civilization. San Ignacio also serves as a convenient base for exploring other Mayan ruins in the area, such as the Caracol Archaeological Site and the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, a fascinating sacrificial site.

In addition to its rich cultural heritage, San Ignacio boasts a diverse blend of ethnicities, including Mestizo, Maya, Creole, Mennonite, and a variety of expats. The town has a lively nightlife scene, with bars and nightclubs, as well as small parks and gathering spots with live music and arts festivals. The annual La Ruta Maya race, a four-day canoe race starting in San Ignacio, is a popular local sporting event.

For nature lovers, San Ignacio offers easy access to nature reserves and outdoor adventures. The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, with its diverse ecosystems and unique flora and fauna, is a popular destination for hiking and wildlife spotting. The town is also known for its nearby rivers, including the Belize River and the Macal River, which offer opportunities for canoeing, swimming, and exploring lush jungles.

San Ignacio's diverse attractions make it a great choice for families, couples, and solo travellers seeking a blend of cultural immersion, outdoor exploration, and relaxation. With its productive community, fascinating history, and natural beauty, San Ignacio truly embodies its motto: "The Best Come from the West".

Placencia: A peninsula with white sand beaches, seafood restaurants, and family-friendly hotels

Placencia is a seaside village located on a 16-mile-long peninsula in Belize. It is known for its stunning white sand beaches and a thriving food scene, with restaurants that offer a mix of fine dining and hearty meals. The village has a laid-back vibe and is home to some of the most luxurious resorts in Belize, thanks to its beautiful beaches and easy access to the Southern Cayes and Reef.

Placencia boasts a variety of restaurants serving fresh seafood, cozy coffee shops, bakeries, and one of the best ice cream parlours in Belize. Here is a list of some of the best places to eat in Placencia:

• Omar's Creole Grub: A local, family-owned restaurant known for its seafood dishes, including fresh fish, lobster, crab, conch, and barracuda cooked in a variety of sauces.
• Above Grounds Coffee: A specialty coffee shop serving freshly brewed coffee, teas, fruit juices, and baked goods. It's a great place to catch up on emails or surf the internet with free high-speed WiFi.
• Maya Beach Bistro: Known for its cinnamon roll french toast and breakfast burritos, this restaurant offers stunning beach and ocean views.
• Tutti Frutti Gelateria: Owned by Italian expats, this gelato shop uses fresh local ingredients to create unique flavours like coconut, pineapple, and lavender.
• Rumfish y Vino: Located in Placencia Village Square, this restaurant offers indoor and outdoor dining with a relaxing atmosphere. It is known for its extensive wine list and must-try items like the Caribbean Fish Stew and Conch Fritters.
• The Galley Restaurant & Bar: A small, unassuming local restaurant offering traditional Belizean home-cooked meals with an emphasis on seafood.
• Barefoot Beach Bar: A casual spot for food, drinks, and live music, located on the beach in downtown Placencia.

In addition to its culinary delights, Placencia offers a range of family-friendly hotels and resorts. One notable example is the Turtle Inn, a Balinese-inspired hideaway with individually furnished cottages, villas, and bungalows. The Turtle Inn provides a blend of rustic luxury and modern amenities, including Wi-Fi, plush robes, and in-room yoga mats. It also features casual eateries serving Italian and local Caribbean flavours, showcasing fresh produce and seafood.

Placencia truly has something for everyone, from its white sand beaches and seafood restaurants to its family-friendly accommodations and charming village atmosphere. It is the perfect destination for those seeking a combination of relaxation, culinary delights, and cultural experiences in Belize.

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