Belize's Coastal Paradise Stays

Belize is a tropical paradise with stunning beaches, amazing water sports, rich history, and diverse culture. The country offers myriad vacation options for visitors, from beach and island relaxation to jungle exploration and ancient ruins.

Belize City, the largest city in the country, is a great place to start for first-time visitors. It offers easy access to major attractions and cultural landmarks, nice shops, and delicious Belizean restaurants. The city also provides a lively yet laid-back Caribbean culture, with a mix of European, Creole, Asian, and indigenous Garifuna and Mayan influences.

For those seeking sun and sea, the islands of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker offer some of the best diving and snorkelling spots, with vibrant reefs and abundant marine life. San Pedro, the main town on Ambergris Caye, is known for its water sports, vibrant nightlife, and excellent seafood restaurants. Caye Caulker, a more laid-back and budget-friendly option, also boasts beautiful beaches and a lively atmosphere, with plenty of amenities for visitors.

For those interested in exploring ancient Mayan ruins and cultural sites, San Ignacio in the Cayo District is an ideal base. It offers easy access to significant ruins, expansive cave systems, and Belize's spectacular rainforest.

Placencia, located on a peninsula in southeastern Belize, is another beach destination known for its wide, palm-lined beaches and excellent marine life. It offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury beachfront resorts to affordable budget hotels.

Hopkins, a charming seaside village and the centre of Belize's Garifuna culture, is another great option for those seeking beach and jungle experiences. It offers easy access to the Belize Barrier Reef and the Maya Mountains, as well as a unique cultural experience.

Whether you're seeking luxury resorts, budget-friendly hotels, or eco-friendly accommodations, Belize has something for everyone. With its diverse attractions and rich cultural heritage, Belize is sure to offer a memorable tropical getaway.

Belize City: The largest city in Belize, with a mix of colonial architecture, cultural landmarks, and a lively Caribbean culture

Belize City is the largest city in Belize, with a population of over 80,000 people. It is located on a small peninsula surrounded by the Caribbean Sea and is known for its mix of colonial architecture, cultural landmarks, and lively Caribbean culture.

Colonial Architecture

As a former British colony, Belize City has several examples of colonial architecture. The former government house, now the House of Culture Museum, is one such example. The Museum of Belize, housed in a former prison, also showcases the city's colonial past. St. John's Cathedral, the oldest Anglican church in Central America, is another notable colonial-era building. It was constructed using orange bricks that were brought over by British ships as ballast. The city also features graceful colonial houses and seaside parks, reflecting its rich history and cultural diversity.

Cultural Landmarks

Belize City is home to several cultural landmarks that showcase the local culture and history. The Belize Tourism Village, where most cruise ships dock, is a bustling hub of activity. The city's Northside and Southside, divided by the Haulover Creek, offer distinct experiences. The Northside is considered safer and more prosperous, with good hotels, casinos, and cultural institutions like the Museum of Belize. The Southside, while having some tourist attractions like St. John's Cathedral and the House of Culture, is known for its poverty and gang-related issues.

Lively Caribbean Culture

Belize City has a lively Caribbean culture that is evident in its cuisine, entertainment, and nightlife. The city is known for its delicious food, vibrant nightlife, and bustling urban environment. It is a hub for culinary delights, dining options, and entertainment. The city's streets, a mix of narrow pathways and wider avenues, are lined with trendy boutiques, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs. The Swing Bridge, one of the oldest manually operated bridges in Central America, is a popular spot for street hawkers selling handmade jewellery and wood carvings. The city also hosts several cultural events, such as Garifuna Settlement Day, Belize City Carnival, and Baron Bliss Day.

Belize City, with its mix of colonial architecture, cultural landmarks, and lively Caribbean culture, offers a unique experience for visitors interested in exploring the history, culture, and entertainment of this Caribbean nation.

Caye Caulker: A small island with a range of budget-friendly accommodation options and access to the Belize Barrier Reef

Caye Caulker is a small island located off the coast of Belize, less than two kilometres from the Belize Barrier Reef. With a population of just 1,300, Caye Caulker is a haven for scuba divers and snorkelers and sun-seekers. It's also a popular destination for budget backpackers and cost-conscious travellers, offering a range of budget-friendly accommodation options.

The island boasts a plethora of outdoor activities, from snorkelling in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve to sipping cocktails in a beach bar. Nature adventures include diving tours of the Belize Barrier Reef, where you can spot nurse sharks and rays, and exploring the nearby mangrove forests.

When it comes to accommodation, Caye Caulker has something for everyone. For those who want to be close to the beach, there are several options, including Barefoot Beach Belize, The Bounty and Coral View Hotel & Resort. If you're looking for a more central location, Jan's Hotel, Caye Caulker Plaza Hotel and Caye Caulker Beach Hotel are all within walking distance of the town's restaurants and shops.

For budget travellers, Bella's Backpackers Hostel offers clean accommodations, a continental breakfast, a shared lounge, a shared kitchen, a garden and free bike rentals. Weezie's Ocean Front Hotel and Garden Cottages is another great option, located on the eastern shore of Caye Caulker with views of the barrier reef. The property offers free WiFi, a pool and comfortable rooms.

If you're looking for a more upscale experience, Island Magic Beach Resort is a popular beachfront resort with spacious, modern rooms and a lively restaurant and bar. Colinda's Cabanas is another great choice, offering beachfront cabanas with free use of bicycles, kayaks and snorkel gear.

San Pedro: A town on Ambergris Caye, known for its water sports, vibrant nightlife, and upscale hotels

San Pedro, the main town on Ambergris Caye, is a popular tourist destination known for its water sports, vibrant nightlife, and upscale hotels. Located on the largest island in Belize, San Pedro offers stunning views, beautiful beaches, and lively entertainment. Here are some details about this charming beach town:

Water Sports and Marine Life

San Pedro is renowned for its world-class snorkelling and scuba diving spots. The nearby Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley offer diverse marine life, including rays, nurse sharks, and colourful fish. The Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest in the world, is just minutes away from the island, providing easy access to explore the vibrant ecosystem. In addition, the Great Blue Hole, a famous marine sinkhole, is about a 1.5-hour boat ride from Ambergris Caye.

Nightlife and Entertainment

San Pedro boasts a vibrant nightlife with numerous beach bars, sports bars, and restaurants serving delicious seafood and local cuisine. The town also hosts various festivals and events, such as the San Pedro Lobsterfest and the Holiday-lighted Boat Parade, adding to the lively atmosphere.

Accommodations

San Pedro has a range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious resorts. Upscale hotels like the Victoria House Resort, Ramon's Village Resort, and Las Terrazas Resort offer elegant rooms, fine dining, and world-class service. For a secluded and intimate experience, the private island of Cayo Espanto provides luxurious villas and personalised services. Matachica Resort & Spa combines Belizean charm with modern opulence, featuring romantic thatched-roof casitas and excellent amenities.

Other Attractions

In addition to water sports and nightlife, San Pedro offers a variety of other attractions. The town is known for its unique culture, with roots tracing back to Mexico, and its laid-back atmosphere. The Green Iguana Sanctuary, art galleries, and the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich provide cultural and historical insights. The town also serves as a convenient base for day trips to nearby islands, such as Caye Caulker and St. George's Caye, and mainland attractions like the Lamanai Maya Ruins and the Belize Zoo.

San Ignacio: A hub for eco-tourism, with nearby Mayan ruins, rainforests, and outdoor adventures

San Ignacio is a small town in the Cayo District, the largest district in Belize. It is often referred to as the heart of Belize's eco-tourism and is a hub for exploring the diverse cultural and adventure tours in the area. Here are some of the highlights and things to do in and around San Ignacio:

Mayan Ruins

San Ignacio is a gateway to several ancient Mayan ruins, including Xunantunich, Caracol, and Cahal Pech. Xunantunich is located just a short drive or bus ride from San Ignacio and is accessible via a unique hand-cranked ferry ride across the Mopan River. The highlight of the site is El Castillo, a towering pyramid offering panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. Caracol is the largest Mayan site in Belize, situated deep within the Chiquibul Forest Reserve near the Guatemalan border. Its main pyramid, Caana (Sky Palace), is one of the tallest man-made structures in Belize. Cahal Pech, located just outside San Ignacio, is one of the oldest Maya sites in the Belize River Valley, believed to have been inhabited as early as 1200 BCE.

Eco-Adventures and Outdoor Activities

San Ignacio offers a range of eco-adventures and outdoor activities to suit different interests and fitness levels. Here are some options:

• Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve: This protected area is known for its unique landscape, waterfalls, caves, Maya temples, and wildlife. Popular sights include Big Rock Falls, Rio On Pools, and the Rio Frio Cave. It is also a prime location for birdwatching.
• Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave: A popular day trip from San Ignacio, this impressive cave is both a natural wonder and an archaeological site. Visitors can see ancient Mayan pottery and human remains believed to be sacrificial victims. Exploring the cave involves traversing jungle trails, wading through waters, and crawling, swimming, and squeezing through tight spaces.
• Crystal Cave Tour: A more intense and rigorous version of the ATM Cave experience, this tour involves a 90-minute drive, a 50-minute hike to the cave entrance, and climbing 15 feet into the Mayan Underworld. Visitors will encounter mud ramps, rocks, stalactites, and stalagmites, as well as ancient skeletal remains and Mayan artifacts.
• Cave Tubing and Kayaking: Navigate through mystical caves and rivers such as Barton Creek Cave, either by tubing or kayaking. These activities offer a unique perspective on the lush Belizean jungle and are suitable for all ages and skill levels.
• Butterfly Conservation Center: Visit the Greenhill Butterfly Ranch or the Blue Morpho Butterfly Farm at Chaa Creek to learn about the life cycle of butterflies and walk through enclosures with native butterfly species.
• Barton Creek Cave: This serene and enchanting cave is located within a Mennonite community and is accessible via a guided canoe tour. Marvel at the stalactites and stalagmites and discover remnants of Mayan rituals.
• Tikal in Guatemala: Day trips to the famous Maya city of Tikal can be booked from San Ignacio. This UNESCO World Heritage site features towering pyramids, lush rainforests, and a rich variety of wildlife.

Where to Stay

When visiting San Ignacio, there are accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences:

• Venus Hotel: A comfortable and centrally located option for those on a budget.
• Falling Leaves Lodge: A beautiful mid-range hotel located near the Cahal Peache ruins.
• The San Ignacio Resort: A luxurious option with excellent dining and a range of tours included in your stay, such as the Iguana Reserve, tea tasting, and birdwatching.
• The Lodge at Chaa Creek: A family-friendly luxury eco-lodge near San Ignacio offering a health spa, an eco-friendly swimming pool, and unique accommodations.
• Cahal Pech Village Resort: Perfect for families and adventure travellers, this resort offers easy access to Mayan ruins and can arrange day trips to the Tikal Mayan Ruins in Guatemala.

Placencia: A peninsula with luxury beachfront hotels, family-friendly activities, and excellent diving spots

Placencia is a beautiful peninsula in Belize, offering a range of attractions for travellers seeking luxury, family fun, and underwater adventures. Located on the Maya Beach, Placencia is a short journey from the quaint village of Placencia and provides easy access to both jungle and ocean adventures. The Placencia Resort is a popular choice for visitors, with its beachfront location, spacious pool, restaurants, and marina.

Luxury Beachfront Hotels

The Placencia Resort caters to those seeking luxury and comfort. With one, two, or three-bedroom accommodations, guests can relax and enjoy the resort's amenities, including a swim-up bar and a tropical pool. The resort is also an excellent base for exploring nearby attractions such as the Belize Barrier Reef and the Maya Mountains.

Family-Friendly Activities

Placencia offers a variety of family-friendly activities to keep all ages entertained. Inky's Mini Golf at Sirenian Bay is a fun option for all ages, with a mini-golf course and an ice cream shop nearby. Jaguar Bowling Lanes, the only bowling alley in Belize, provides entertainment for all, with a unique barefoot bowling experience and a vibrant, fun atmosphere.

Excellent Diving Spots

For diving enthusiasts, Placencia is a dream destination. The Belize Barrier Reef, the largest in the Caribbean and the second-largest in the world, offers a range of diving spots suitable for beginners and experts alike. From shallow water cayes to the Great Blue Hole, divers can explore a diverse marine ecosystem. Ranguana Caye, known for its excellent snorkelling, is home to nurse sharks, sea turtles, and stingrays, easily accessible from the shore.

For those seeking more remote diving spots, the southern atolls offer pristine diving experiences, including popular sites such as Long Caye Wall, The Aquarium, Manta Wall, and The Pinnacles. The Great Blue Hole, made famous by Jacques-Yves Cousteau, is a must-visit site, offering a unique underwater sinkhole experience.

Frequently asked questions