Belize Reef Lodging

Belize is a small Central American country with a population of around 400,000 people. It is bordered by Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea. The Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, is one of the country's most prized natural assets. Stretching roughly 190 miles (300 km) alongside Belize's coastline, the reef is a haven for divers, snorkelers, sailors, and anglers.

If you're looking for accommodation near the Belize Barrier Reef, Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker are two of the most popular destinations. Ambergris Caye, the larger and more developed of the two, boasts nicer beaches and a wider range of dining options. In contrast, Caye Caulker is smaller, quieter, and more affordable, attracting backpackers and laid-back travellers. Both cayes offer easy access to the reef for diving and snorkelling excursions.

For those seeking luxury, San Pedro, located on Ambergris Caye, features a variety of upscale resorts and hotels, such as the Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection, and the Diamante Beachfront Suites. If you're on a budget, Caye Caulker has accommodations like Ragga King, a smaller sailboat that offers more affordable rates without compromising on service and an enjoyable experience.

Ambergris Caye

Where to Stay

San Pedro Town is the only town on Ambergris Caye and has a lively, energetic downtown area with shops, bars, and restaurants. The building of a new bridge and road north of San Pedro has led to an explosion of development, with many resorts, beach bars, restaurants, and boutique hotels being built. North of the bridge has a tropical feel and is a popular destination for visitors.

South of San Pedro is more affordable and offers a mix of local and North American culture. It has a more walkable feel than the north and is home to many expat-owned businesses and popular hangouts, including Crazy Canucks.

Things to Do

Other attractions on Ambergris Caye include Secret Beach, a once-secluded spot that has now become a bustling stretch of beach bars and restaurants, and the Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve, located in the far north of the island, which offers incredible wildlife and ancient Maya history.

When to Visit

There is no wrong time to visit Ambergris Caye, as the island offers something for everyone all year round. If you're looking for ideal weather, the dry season from January to April is the best time to visit. However, this is also the high tourism season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.

The wet season from May to October sees fewer crowds and lower prices, and while rainfall is prevalent, it typically only rains for a couple of hours in the late morning or early afternoon.

Getting There

To get to Ambergris Caye, you will need to take a plane or a boat from the mainland. Belize's international airport is located outside of Belize City, and from there, you can take a domestic flight or a water taxi to the island.

Cost of Living

The cost of living on Ambergris Caye is higher than in most other regions of Belize, except for the mainland beach villages of Placencia and Hopkins. A couple can expect to spend around $2,900 a month if they live a simple lifestyle, but costs can easily exceed $3,000 per month if you rent a two-bedroom condo on the beach, eat out at high-end restaurants, and use air conditioning frequently.

Caye Caulker

Getting There and Getting Around:

The island doesn't have an international airport, so visitors need to fly into the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) near Belize City and then take a domestic flight or water taxi to Caye Caulker. Domestic flights are the most direct option, with a 15-20 minute flight time and fantastic views of the barrier reef. Water taxis are also available hourly from 8 am to 5:30 pm for a one-hour boat ride.

Once on the island, the primary modes of transportation are golf carts and bicycles, or simply walking. Cars are forbidden due to the narrow dirt streets, and this decision has been made to preserve the island's natural beauty and promote a relaxed atmosphere.

Things to Do:

A must-visit spot on the island is "The Split," a channel that divides the island in two. It is the local hangout for travellers and locals, offering calm, shallow waters and a bar called Lazy Lizard that serves food and drinks.

For food lovers, Caye Caulker has numerous restaurants and street stalls offering everything from barbeque to fresh seafood. Lobster and conch are must-try eats when in season, and there are several "Lobsterfest" celebrations on the island, including an annual festival in late June.

Where to Stay:

Best Time to Visit:

The peak season in Caye Caulker is during Belize's dry season, from January to April, when you can expect sunny days and clear blue skies. However, this is also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. The offseason, during Central America's wet season, offers discounts and fewer crowds, with brief rainfall periods that usually don't interfere with outdoor activities.

A great time to visit Caye Caulker is during their Lobsterfest, held for over 25 years during the last week of June. Another lively time is during Belize's Easter Season, which usually falls in April but sometimes occurs in March, drawing locals to the island for beach parties.

Hopkins

The South Water Caye Marine Reserve is a popular spot for diving and snorkelling, with the possibility of swimming with whale sharks. Other nearby attractions include the Mayflower Bocawina National Park and the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.

For accommodation, the award-winning Hamanasi Adventure and Dive Resort offers luxurious beachfront rooms and treehouses, along with an on-site 5-star PADI dive centre. Buttonwood Guest House provides more modest condo-style accommodations for those on a budget.

The best time to visit Hopkins is during the dry season from January to March, with beautiful sunny days and calm seawaters. However, this is also the most expensive time, so you may want to consider visiting during the tourism offseason.

To get to Hopkins, fly into Philip Goldson International Airport and then take a local flight to Dangriga or catch a taxi/shuttle. The entire trip will take about 3 hours. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight to Dangriga, which is about a 15-minute flight, and then drive 30 minutes to Hopkins.

Placencia

Attractions and Activities:

• Scuba Diving and Snorkelling: Placencia is a prime location for exploring the Southern Barrier Reef. Divers can venture to the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, the second-largest marine reserve in Belize, which promises vibrant coral and a diverse array of marine life.
• Whale Shark Encounters: From Placencia, you can take advantage of the opportunity to swim with whale sharks at Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is a highlight for many visitors.
• Marine Life and Wildlife: The waters around Placencia teem with marine life, including sea turtles, rays, eels, nurse sharks, and dolphins. Keep an eye out for manatees, too! The area is also home to a variety of bird species, making it a bird-watcher's paradise.
• Cultural Immersion: Placencia has a rich cultural heritage, with a diverse population of Mestizo, Creole, Mayan, and European descent. Exploring the local culture through cuisine, art, and music can be a rewarding aspect of your stay.

Accommodation Options:

• For a luxurious stay, consider the Victoria House Resort & Spa, set on a private beach with stylish villas, an on-site restaurant, and a spa.
• Mangata Villas Adults Only provides a tranquil escape with an outdoor pool, private beach access, and comfortable rooms just steps from North Ambergris Caye Beach.
• Tree Tops Guesthouse offers a more intimate experience, featuring a serene garden and well-appointed rooms, slightly off the main track.
• If you're on a budget, consider Airbnb options or smaller guesthouses, which can offer great value for money and provide access to kitchens and other amenities that can enhance your stay.

Travel Considerations:

When planning your trip to Placencia, keep the following in mind:

• Travel to Placencia: Getting to Placencia typically involves flying into Belize City and then taking a domestic flight or ground transportation to Placencia. Water taxis are also an option, though they may be less convenient for accessing Placencia.
• Best Time to Visit: Belize's dry season, from November to April, is considered the high season for tourism. During this period, you'll find warmer weather and calmer seas, ideal for diving and snorkelling. However, prices tend to be higher, and there are more crowds. The wet season, from May to October, offers lower prices and fewer tourists, but the trade-off is more rainfall and slightly choppier waters.
• Diving Events: Consider planning your trip around diving events, such as whale shark season (April to June) or grouper mating season (October and November). These events can enhance your chances of unforgettable underwater encounters.

Tobacco Caye

Accommodation options on Tobacco Caye include Gill's Cove, run by the renowned island chef Jerome, where guests can immerse themselves in local culture. Tobacco Caye Paradise, with its bright and colourful overwater bungalows, is another popular choice. For a little extra comfort, Reef's End Lodge offers clean and comfortable rooms with stunning Caribbean views, and its bar serves as the hub for tourists.

The best time to visit Tobacco Caye is during Belize's dry season, from January to April, when sunny days and clear blue skies are expected. However, for those seeking fewer crowds and lower prices, a visit from May to August can also be enjoyable.

After a day of adventure, guests can relax in a hammock on their cabin deck, taking in the breathtaking Tobacco Caye sunrises and sunsets. Socialising with fellow travellers is easy, whether it's at the local watering hole or the nearby dock, both perfect spots to savour a Belikin beer as the sun goes down.

Frequently asked questions