AMBERGRIS CAYE (Island)
Why consider vacationing on Ambergris Caye?
Ambergris Caye (pronounced am-BUR-gris or Am-BUR-grease Kay) is the largest of some 200 cayes that dot the coastline of Belize. Ambergris is part of a wide limestone peninsula dangling south from the Yucatan coast of the Mexican state of Quintana Roo. Ambergris Caye is about 25 miles long and a little over a mile wide, in some places, and it is located in the clear shallow waters of the Caribbean Sea just off the tip of Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula.
Her coastline is protected by the 190 mile long Barrier Reef, the second largest living coral reef in the world (with the first being off the coast of Australia).
The island's biggest tourist attraction is the Belize Barrier Reef that runs parallel along the entire coast of Belize. The reef is only a quarter mile from the beach of Ambergris Caye making diving accessible. The island's seaside is jammed with jetties and dive shops which offer trips to the different dive sites and to the Great Blue Hole. There are also certified scuba lessons in NAU, PADI, and SSI. One of the most popular dive sites is the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, which is only a ten-minute boat ride from town. The reef's beauty and richness has put Belize among the top ten dive destinations in the world.
Ambergris Caye is a food lovers paradise. Local cuisine is abundant featuring the Belizean favorite of rice and beans, stewed chicken and potato salad. Local foods are influenced by the Spanish and Mexicans with dishes such as Chimole, Escabeche, Panades, Salbutes, Garnaches, Tacos, Bollos, Tamalitos, Tamales and Burritos.
Of course seafood is a common delight, with feasts of succulent lobster, conch and a delicious array of fish, squid, muscles, scallops and even shark. Most restaurants specialize in seafood dishes. However, lobster and conch are seasonal so be sure to check what is in season before ordering.
Added to this array are the exquisite taste of seasonal tropical fruits such as pineapples, bananas, star fruit, cantaloupe, soursap, watermelons, oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, may plums, figs, blackberry, mangoes, craboo, and much more. Or, if you 're in the mood for something different, there are several restaurants that feature European, Cajun, Indian, Chinese, and Jamacian cuisine.
If you’re the big city sort, you may think that friends who consider a journey perfection only if they can roam a solitary beach without seeing another person for days on end are clueless! You love people. You love excitement. You might be in the mood for a moonlight stroll with your love, but bring on the colors, the lights and the tropical vibe–an apt description for Ambergris Caye, the largest, liveliest Belize island of all. Perched on the edge of the Caribbean Sea, Ambergris has become such a popular destination, it’s to get its own international airport down the road. Come see why travelers can’t stay away.
Her coastline is protected by the 190 mile long Barrier Reef, the second largest living coral reef in the world (with the first being off the coast of Australia).
The island's biggest tourist attraction is the Belize Barrier Reef that runs parallel along the entire coast of Belize. The reef is only a quarter mile from the beach of Ambergris Caye making diving accessible. The island's seaside is jammed with jetties and dive shops which offer trips to the different dive sites and to the Great Blue Hole. There are also certified scuba lessons in NAU, PADI, and SSI. One of the most popular dive sites is the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, which is only a ten-minute boat ride from town. The reef's beauty and richness has put Belize among the top ten dive destinations in the world.
Ambergris Caye is a food lovers paradise. Local cuisine is abundant featuring the Belizean favorite of rice and beans, stewed chicken and potato salad. Local foods are influenced by the Spanish and Mexicans with dishes such as Chimole, Escabeche, Panades, Salbutes, Garnaches, Tacos, Bollos, Tamalitos, Tamales and Burritos.
Of course seafood is a common delight, with feasts of succulent lobster, conch and a delicious array of fish, squid, muscles, scallops and even shark. Most restaurants specialize in seafood dishes. However, lobster and conch are seasonal so be sure to check what is in season before ordering.
Added to this array are the exquisite taste of seasonal tropical fruits such as pineapples, bananas, star fruit, cantaloupe, soursap, watermelons, oranges, grapefruits, tangerines, may plums, figs, blackberry, mangoes, craboo, and much more. Or, if you 're in the mood for something different, there are several restaurants that feature European, Cajun, Indian, Chinese, and Jamacian cuisine.
If you’re the big city sort, you may think that friends who consider a journey perfection only if they can roam a solitary beach without seeing another person for days on end are clueless! You love people. You love excitement. You might be in the mood for a moonlight stroll with your love, but bring on the colors, the lights and the tropical vibe–an apt description for Ambergris Caye, the largest, liveliest Belize island of all. Perched on the edge of the Caribbean Sea, Ambergris has become such a popular destination, it’s to get its own international airport down the road. Come see why travelers can’t stay away.
THINGS TO DO - Ambergris Caye
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Top Attractions on Ambergris Caye
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How To Get To Ambergris Caye
From the Phillip Goldson International Airport you can do either of the following: By Air Option #1 - The most popular choice is to catch a commuter flight (from the international airport), to Ambergris Caye on a local island hopper. This leg of the journey will take you about 15-20 minutes. It's so well worth the cost, as you fly over the Belize Barrier Reef for some absolutely breath-taking views. After boarding your flight, make sure your camera is available. By Boat Option #2 - This option is not only cheaper, but it allows you to decompress a bit more slowly. From the International Airport, take a cab to the water taxi ferry terminal. This leg of the journey will take you about 1-1/2 hours. Make sure you use the restroom before boarding the boat. Once you arrive to the island, spend some cash on an ice cold Belikin beer or Rum Punch. Welcome to San Pedro. 
Add'l Activities on Ambergris Caye
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Things To Do On Ambergris Caye
Ambergris Caye, has a little bit of everything. San Pedro is a fun-loving mix of hotels, shops, markets, bars, eateries, boutiques and pure energy. You can stay in town, or travel up north or down south to any of the hotels, resorts, cottages, and rooms. San Pedro is a melting pot of ethnic backgrounds. Here you will find all the characters in your latest novel: beachcombers, young couples, ex-pats, newlyweds, kids and people speaking many different languages. The one thing that brings you all together is fun and sun. Leave the island on excursions and be equally enchanted. The Belize Barrier Reef is just a short sail offshore, and while this spectacular landmark is a tourist magnet, new protective measures have been put into place by the Belize government and UNESCO to save this World Heritage Site from deterioration. Come swim, scuba, snorkel, and see for yourself, what the second largest barrier reef in the world looks like.
Extend your aquatic adventure to The Big Blue Hole. Diving into this surreal circle of blue takes you downward to see fish and other aquatic creatures at different depths, so you could meet everything from shrimp to giant groupers. Deep within the hole see primordial-looking stalactites and stalagmites—plus the occasional shark or two. Make the Hol Chan Marine Reserve your fall back destination if you can’t get to the Blue Hole.
Ambergris Caye, has a little bit of everything. San Pedro is a fun-loving mix of hotels, shops, markets, bars, eateries, boutiques and pure energy. You can stay in town, or travel up north or down south to any of the hotels, resorts, cottages, and rooms. San Pedro is a melting pot of ethnic backgrounds. Here you will find all the characters in your latest novel: beachcombers, young couples, ex-pats, newlyweds, kids and people speaking many different languages. The one thing that brings you all together is fun and sun. Leave the island on excursions and be equally enchanted. The Belize Barrier Reef is just a short sail offshore, and while this spectacular landmark is a tourist magnet, new protective measures have been put into place by the Belize government and UNESCO to save this World Heritage Site from deterioration. Come swim, scuba, snorkel, and see for yourself, what the second largest barrier reef in the world looks like.
Extend your aquatic adventure to The Big Blue Hole. Diving into this surreal circle of blue takes you downward to see fish and other aquatic creatures at different depths, so you could meet everything from shrimp to giant groupers. Deep within the hole see primordial-looking stalactites and stalagmites—plus the occasional shark or two. Make the Hol Chan Marine Reserve your fall back destination if you can’t get to the Blue Hole.
Ambergris Caye (Island), the top tourist destination for the entire country.
If you love people, if you love excitement, if you love adventure, if you love trying new foods and new things, then you may want to put Ambergris Caye on your radar. Pack your lightweight cotton shirts (with that island vibe), suntan lotion, bathing suit, sunglasses and your passport. Ambergris Caye is the largest, liveliest Belize island of them all. Perched on the edge of the Caribbean Sea, Ambergris has become such a popular destination, the government is considering giving the island their own international airport in the not to distant future.
What To Eat On Ambergris Caye
The restaurants on Ambergris Caye are as numerous as stars on cloudless nights. You can't go wrong with a lobster burrito, or seafood ceviche. Many restaurants have adopted something that they've become famous for, whether it be sushi or roof top dinning. Ambergris has everything from the noisy beachfront bar to the white table cloth sit down dinner. Causal island attire will get you in every restaurant in town here. One of the first restaurants to open on the island was Elvi's Kitchen. Here you can find all the Belizean signature dishes from stew chicken, beans and rice, fried plantains and coleslaw. Friday nights is Mayan Buffet night, so be sure to bring your appetite.
Where To Stay On Ambergris Caye (Where To Stay)
Since Ambergris Caye is home to celebrities, retirees, backpackers and families, the sheer number and variety of lodgings available is staggering. Properties range from five (5) star luxury beach front resorts to small back-packer (hostel) Inns. If you're looking for something in between, check out Belize Budget Suites. The rooms are clean and affordable, the staff is warm and friendly. Truly first class accommodations for the budget traveler. Regardless of where you stay, all properties will greet you with a warm and friendly attitude. Be sure to ask about the unlimited tours and adventures available, anything from: aquatic activities, diving, snorkeling, fishing, sailing, jungle adventures, caving, Maya temple adventures, to wildlife excursions.
The restaurants on Ambergris Caye are as numerous as stars on cloudless nights. You can't go wrong with a lobster burrito, or seafood ceviche. Many restaurants have adopted something that they've become famous for, whether it be sushi or roof top dinning. Ambergris has everything from the noisy beachfront bar to the white table cloth sit down dinner. Causal island attire will get you in every restaurant in town here. One of the first restaurants to open on the island was Elvi's Kitchen. Here you can find all the Belizean signature dishes from stew chicken, beans and rice, fried plantains and coleslaw. Friday nights is Mayan Buffet night, so be sure to bring your appetite.
Where To Stay On Ambergris Caye (Where To Stay)
Since Ambergris Caye is home to celebrities, retirees, backpackers and families, the sheer number and variety of lodgings available is staggering. Properties range from five (5) star luxury beach front resorts to small back-packer (hostel) Inns. If you're looking for something in between, check out Belize Budget Suites. The rooms are clean and affordable, the staff is warm and friendly. Truly first class accommodations for the budget traveler. Regardless of where you stay, all properties will greet you with a warm and friendly attitude. Be sure to ask about the unlimited tours and adventures available, anything from: aquatic activities, diving, snorkeling, fishing, sailing, jungle adventures, caving, Maya temple adventures, to wildlife excursions.
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SECRET BEACH
Secret Beach - 35 to 45 minute drive from San Pedro, Ambergris Caye.
The Secret Beach in Ambergris Caye, Belize
Ambergris Caye is one of the most delightfully secluded spots on Ambergris Caye. The lack of walk-in beaches makes Ambergris a more exclusive stretch of territory that’s only accessible by boat or a local flight. While many of the locals are intimately aware of what Secret Beach has to offer, it’s generally an unknown variable to vacationers. That makes it the perfect place for the savvy traveler to unplug and relax free of crowds of foreigners.
It’s not that Secret Beach is hard to access, more that you just have to know how to get there. It's about a 35 to 45 minute drive from San Pedro on a singular road. Once you find Secret Beach, you’ll discover an idyllic stretch of surf and sand that isn’t as desolate as you might have expected. A few restaurants and bars line the water, allowing you to enjoy a cold drink or a fresh meal as you bask on the sand, and there are even massage services right on the beach. Kayaks and paddle boards are both available for rental as well, and this is a delightfully shallow stretch of water. You can comfortably venture out two hundred feet and still only be standing waist deep in the Caribbean.
Ambergris Caye is one of the most delightfully secluded spots on Ambergris Caye. The lack of walk-in beaches makes Ambergris a more exclusive stretch of territory that’s only accessible by boat or a local flight. While many of the locals are intimately aware of what Secret Beach has to offer, it’s generally an unknown variable to vacationers. That makes it the perfect place for the savvy traveler to unplug and relax free of crowds of foreigners.
It’s not that Secret Beach is hard to access, more that you just have to know how to get there. It's about a 35 to 45 minute drive from San Pedro on a singular road. Once you find Secret Beach, you’ll discover an idyllic stretch of surf and sand that isn’t as desolate as you might have expected. A few restaurants and bars line the water, allowing you to enjoy a cold drink or a fresh meal as you bask on the sand, and there are even massage services right on the beach. Kayaks and paddle boards are both available for rental as well, and this is a delightfully shallow stretch of water. You can comfortably venture out two hundred feet and still only be standing waist deep in the Caribbean.
SHARK RAY ALLEY
Shark Ray Alley - Zone D of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Shark Ray Alley - Zone D of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve
This recently discovered dive site has been selected as one of the seven best "animal dives" in the Caribbean SKIN DIVER MAGAZINE. For years, local fishermen cleaned their catch just inside the reef, to the south of Hol Chan Cut and Ambergris Caye. The fishermen soon noticed that the offal from cleaning fish was attracting Nurse Sharks and several Southern Sting Rays. When the dive operators of San Pedro found out, they quickly investigated. What they found was a bonanza, and "Shark-Ray Alley" quickly became a very popular dive site.
Why Should I Take This Tour? This has been by far the highlight of the trip for many. Kids absolutely love the adventure and state that it has been the best thing they've ever done. Nurse sharks are relatively harmless, as their jaw structures does not allow them to bite like normal sharks. They actually eat their food by sucking it into their mouth. The sharks and rays hear the dive boats approaching and begin to school in anticipation of bait being thrown into the water. When you arrive, you will see the surface often boiling with rolling sharks and sting ray wings as they vie for the scraps. These creatures have a great tolerance for divers and snorkelers. The rays, which have a 'wing-span' of two to four feet, swim directly towards the divers, mouths often turned up hoping for a hand held tid-bit to be placed near their mouths. Other have learned to swim in circles around the divers, as if performing for food. The docile Nurse Sharks average four to six feet in length and can be a bit more aggressive than the sting rays. After the Blue Hole, this is the top tour.
This recently discovered dive site has been selected as one of the seven best "animal dives" in the Caribbean SKIN DIVER MAGAZINE. For years, local fishermen cleaned their catch just inside the reef, to the south of Hol Chan Cut and Ambergris Caye. The fishermen soon noticed that the offal from cleaning fish was attracting Nurse Sharks and several Southern Sting Rays. When the dive operators of San Pedro found out, they quickly investigated. What they found was a bonanza, and "Shark-Ray Alley" quickly became a very popular dive site.
Why Should I Take This Tour? This has been by far the highlight of the trip for many. Kids absolutely love the adventure and state that it has been the best thing they've ever done. Nurse sharks are relatively harmless, as their jaw structures does not allow them to bite like normal sharks. They actually eat their food by sucking it into their mouth. The sharks and rays hear the dive boats approaching and begin to school in anticipation of bait being thrown into the water. When you arrive, you will see the surface often boiling with rolling sharks and sting ray wings as they vie for the scraps. These creatures have a great tolerance for divers and snorkelers. The rays, which have a 'wing-span' of two to four feet, swim directly towards the divers, mouths often turned up hoping for a hand held tid-bit to be placed near their mouths. Other have learned to swim in circles around the divers, as if performing for food. The docile Nurse Sharks average four to six feet in length and can be a bit more aggressive than the sting rays. After the Blue Hole, this is the top tour.
CROCODILE ENCOUNTER
Juvenile Crocodile
Crocodile Encounter
American Crocodile Education Sanctuary (ACES), is a unique experience that has you traversing through mangrove forests at night on the back side of the island. The tour takes place at night, as this is when crocodiles are more active. Vince and Cherie, founders of ACES started the tour, but Crocodile Expert Chris Summers is the guy in charge.
Why would you want to take this tour? This is like watching animal planet, from inside a boat. One cannot help but admire the pitch black sky, dotted with millions of stars as you travel through mangroves searching for the apex predator. The serenity of the night is broken when Chris spots the first crocodile, as you see their eyes glowing in the distance. Before you know it, Chris hurls himself over the edge of the boat and into the water to capture the crocodile. He says he can tell by the size of their (glowing) eyes, just how big the crocodile actually is. They are mainly looking for new juvenile crocodiles (up to four feet) to tag, and take measurements. It is very exciting to watch them through this process. After catching the crocodile, they bring it to the boat, and put the crocodile through a series of health checkups (taking measurements, checking teeth, checking gender, and placing an electronic tag on them, so they can be monitored). If needed, some juvenile crocodiles are relocated to a better part of the lagoon.
American Crocodile Education Sanctuary (ACES), is a unique experience that has you traversing through mangrove forests at night on the back side of the island. The tour takes place at night, as this is when crocodiles are more active. Vince and Cherie, founders of ACES started the tour, but Crocodile Expert Chris Summers is the guy in charge.
Why would you want to take this tour? This is like watching animal planet, from inside a boat. One cannot help but admire the pitch black sky, dotted with millions of stars as you travel through mangroves searching for the apex predator. The serenity of the night is broken when Chris spots the first crocodile, as you see their eyes glowing in the distance. Before you know it, Chris hurls himself over the edge of the boat and into the water to capture the crocodile. He says he can tell by the size of their (glowing) eyes, just how big the crocodile actually is. They are mainly looking for new juvenile crocodiles (up to four feet) to tag, and take measurements. It is very exciting to watch them through this process. After catching the crocodile, they bring it to the boat, and put the crocodile through a series of health checkups (taking measurements, checking teeth, checking gender, and placing an electronic tag on them, so they can be monitored). If needed, some juvenile crocodiles are relocated to a better part of the lagoon.
BELIZE BARRIER REEF
Belize Barrier Reef - Measuring 190 miles long
Belize Barrier Reef - Meso-American Barrier Reef
Measuring more than 190 miles long, the Belize Barrier Reef is part of the bigger Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System that stretches from Mexico to Honduras, making it the second biggest coral reef system in the world, and the largest in the hemisphere. Truly one of the great natural wonders of the world, and is home to the most abundant and diverse marine ecosystems found anywhere on the planet.
Many of Belize’s most popular islands, known locally as cayes (“keys”), are situated in and around the Belize Barrier Reef, including Ambergris Caye, Caye Chapel, English Caye, Three Coner Caye, Blackbird Caye, Maho Caye, Gladden Caye, St. George’s Caye, English Caye, Ranguana Caye, and Long Caye. Three atolls also exist near the Belize Barrier Reef, including Lighthouse Reef, which is home to the famous Great Blue Hole, one of the most beautifully unique dive sites anywhere on Earth. The Belize Barrier Reef is easily accessible from the coast, as it comes with 300 meters (980) feet of land in the north, and 40 kilometers (25 miles) in the south.
Measuring more than 190 miles long, the Belize Barrier Reef is part of the bigger Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System that stretches from Mexico to Honduras, making it the second biggest coral reef system in the world, and the largest in the hemisphere. Truly one of the great natural wonders of the world, and is home to the most abundant and diverse marine ecosystems found anywhere on the planet.
Many of Belize’s most popular islands, known locally as cayes (“keys”), are situated in and around the Belize Barrier Reef, including Ambergris Caye, Caye Chapel, English Caye, Three Coner Caye, Blackbird Caye, Maho Caye, Gladden Caye, St. George’s Caye, English Caye, Ranguana Caye, and Long Caye. Three atolls also exist near the Belize Barrier Reef, including Lighthouse Reef, which is home to the famous Great Blue Hole, one of the most beautifully unique dive sites anywhere on Earth. The Belize Barrier Reef is easily accessible from the coast, as it comes with 300 meters (980) feet of land in the north, and 40 kilometers (25 miles) in the south.
DIVING
Diving - Off Ambergris Caye
Blue Hole Diving - An almost perfectly circular sinkhole measuring 300 meters across, the Great Blue Hole is one of the most popular and special sites for diving in the Belize Barrier Reef. Formed about 10,000 years ago at the end of the last Ice Age, the Blue Hole offers divers a uniquely gothic experience of starkly beautiful underwater caves featuring enormous stalactites and the occasional glimpse of the elusive hammerhead shark. Known to locals for centuries as a uniquely special diving location, the Blue Hole of Belize came to the world’s attention in 1971 after famed French marine biologist Jacques Cousteau declared it to be one of his top 10 diving spots in the world. Later, the Discovery Channel named the Belize Blue Hole as one of the top 10 most amazing places on Earth. Every year, thousands of experienced divers from around the globe come to the Blue Hole of Belize to descend over 90 meters into the inky darkness.
Blue Hole Diving - An almost perfectly circular sinkhole measuring 300 meters across, the Great Blue Hole is one of the most popular and special sites for diving in the Belize Barrier Reef. Formed about 10,000 years ago at the end of the last Ice Age, the Blue Hole offers divers a uniquely gothic experience of starkly beautiful underwater caves featuring enormous stalactites and the occasional glimpse of the elusive hammerhead shark. Known to locals for centuries as a uniquely special diving location, the Blue Hole of Belize came to the world’s attention in 1971 after famed French marine biologist Jacques Cousteau declared it to be one of his top 10 diving spots in the world. Later, the Discovery Channel named the Belize Blue Hole as one of the top 10 most amazing places on Earth. Every year, thousands of experienced divers from around the globe come to the Blue Hole of Belize to descend over 90 meters into the inky darkness.
Turneffe Wall Diving - One of just three coral atolls located off the coast of Belize, Turneffe Atoll is one of the most beautiful natural locations in the country and a diverse marine habitat home to more than 500 species of fish, 65 species of corals, and hundreds of species of sea birds, mammals, and invertebrates. The atoll is a protected marine area consisting of more than 150 mangrove islands as well as larger cayes (islands) that have a forest or savanna landscape. The shallow waters and huge areas of seagrasses make the atoll a popular spawning aggregation site for fish and amphibious species. Turneffe Atoll is the name for an area measuring more than 300 square miles that encompasses dozens of tiny islands known as the Turneffe Islands. The unique marine environment play a critical role in the health of the reef, used by lobster, conch, crocodiles, fish, and turtle species as a nesting and breeding site. The crystal clear waters and stunning diversity of marine flora and fauna make the Turneffe Atoll one of the best places on the planet to enjoy scuba diving and snorkeling. The infamous pirate Blackbeard once used the Turneffe Atoll as a base of operations as he harassed ships traveling between Mexico and the Bay of Honduras.
Belize Barrier Reef Diving - In a country famous for its shipwrecks, steep drop-offs, clear water, and abundance of marine life, one of the standout dive sites in Belize is the Esmeralda Canyon. This unique dive site is known for its large collection of giant black groupers, eels, and nurse sharks that inhabit the area. With an average depth of 60 feet and abundant visibility (averaging around 70 feet), divers step into a vast aquarium of sea turtles, fish, and shark species that thread their way through this section of spur and grove reefs. The Esmeralda Canyon is a natural valley, its colorful fauna making for a perfect backdrop on this unforgettable dive site.Located approximately 30 minutes by boat from the island of Ambergris Caye, Esmeralda Canyon is located in the middle of the Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The clean water, bright sandy seafloor, and abundance of marine life make this a truly must-do dive in Belize. Esmeralda Canyon is actually the name of several different canyons. The area is part of a protected marine zone, so buoys and mooring lines have been established to show where one dive site ends and another dive sit begins.
SNORKELING
Hol Chan Marine Reserve - Off Ambergris Caye & Caye Caulker
Snorkeling - Off Ambergris Caye
Hol Chan Marine Reserve - Because the waters of Hol Chan Marine Reserve are protected from commercial fishing and industrial exploitation, hundreds of aquatic species flourish here, including three kinds of coral, anemones and a colorful assortment of fauna, two species of sea turtles, large schools of fish like grouper and playful nurse sharks. Located just a few miles offshore Ambergris Caye is the northern part of the Belize Barrier Reef, the location of the protected Hol Chan Marine Reserve. First established in 1987, today Hol Chan measures more than 13,000 acres and is divided into four distinct marine zones:
Shark Ray Alley - Is a natural cut in the reef, giving divers a chance to see rays, sharks and dozens of other species in shallow water with a white sandy sea floor. Perfect for snorkeling.
Mexico Rocks & Tres Cocos - Mexico Rocks is just a 20 minute boat ride away from almost any dock in San Pedro. Mexico Rocks is quickly becoming a snorkeling hot spot because of it's depth (8-12ft) and vast amount of marine life, such as: juvenile fish, rays, turtles, sharks and an abundance of coral.
Coral Gardens - Coral Garden is one of the very best snorkeling spots around Caye Caulker. Visibility is excellent in its shallow waters and you will love its photogenic coral maze teeming with fish. Even if you can only access it with a boat, unlike other neighboring spots you will be free to wander wherever you like once in the water.
Caye Caulker Channel - The Split is one of the rare spots accessible directly from the shore in Belize. This channel, « splitting » Caye Caulker, is a popular bathing area prized by both tourist and local people. The channel, (relatively deep, and where you could spot a stingray) and the surrounding mangroves makes The Split an excellent opportunity for snorkeling.
Hol Chan Marine Reserve - Because the waters of Hol Chan Marine Reserve are protected from commercial fishing and industrial exploitation, hundreds of aquatic species flourish here, including three kinds of coral, anemones and a colorful assortment of fauna, two species of sea turtles, large schools of fish like grouper and playful nurse sharks. Located just a few miles offshore Ambergris Caye is the northern part of the Belize Barrier Reef, the location of the protected Hol Chan Marine Reserve. First established in 1987, today Hol Chan measures more than 13,000 acres and is divided into four distinct marine zones:
Shark Ray Alley - Is a natural cut in the reef, giving divers a chance to see rays, sharks and dozens of other species in shallow water with a white sandy sea floor. Perfect for snorkeling.
Mexico Rocks & Tres Cocos - Mexico Rocks is just a 20 minute boat ride away from almost any dock in San Pedro. Mexico Rocks is quickly becoming a snorkeling hot spot because of it's depth (8-12ft) and vast amount of marine life, such as: juvenile fish, rays, turtles, sharks and an abundance of coral.
Coral Gardens - Coral Garden is one of the very best snorkeling spots around Caye Caulker. Visibility is excellent in its shallow waters and you will love its photogenic coral maze teeming with fish. Even if you can only access it with a boat, unlike other neighboring spots you will be free to wander wherever you like once in the water.
Caye Caulker Channel - The Split is one of the rare spots accessible directly from the shore in Belize. This channel, « splitting » Caye Caulker, is a popular bathing area prized by both tourist and local people. The channel, (relatively deep, and where you could spot a stingray) and the surrounding mangroves makes The Split an excellent opportunity for snorkeling.
FISHING
Deep Sea, Reef & Flat Fishing - Off Ambergris Caye
Is a mecca for those interested in fishing. Belize has remained one of the Caribbeans best-kept secrets until recently. The extensive flats, a twenty minute boat ride from the lodge, are picture perfect. Shallow (2-6 feet) and with a whiter than normal sand bottom, these tarpon feeding grounds stretch for over fifty miles and provide the dining room for almost unbelievable numbers of tarpon.
Fishing is great all along the coast of Belize, from the Port Honduras and Punta Icacos lagoon of Toledo to Rocky Point on Ambergris Caye. Any of the many rivers which empty into the Caribbean along Belize's coasts can guarantee a daily catch. Most of your guides and boatmen speak English so learning where and what to fish will be no problem. The waters surrounding Ambergris Caye abound with a great variety of saltwater fishing and the island boasts some of the best fishing guides in the country. Most types of fish, including bone fish and tarpon, can be caught year-round. Within 15 minutes of leaving the dock, you can be fishing in tidal flats or in blue water hundreds of feet deep.
The estuaries, inlets and mouths to the many rivers are known for their tarpon, snook and jacks. The lagoons and grass flats are known for the bonefish, permit and barracuda. The coral reefs support grouper, snapper, jacks and barracuda while the deeper waters off the drop off are home to sailfish, marlin, bonito and pompano.
Peak periods on the local flats are the months of May through November, though there are fish around 355 days a year, and Winter/Spring months (February, March and April) provide excellent opportunities when the weather cooperates. More importantly, it is uncommon to encounter other anglers once you have left the harbor area. The immense size of these flats, and the lack of fishing pressure has left these tarpon with an very aggressive nature, and they move readily to almost any properly presented fly.
Is a mecca for those interested in fishing. Belize has remained one of the Caribbeans best-kept secrets until recently. The extensive flats, a twenty minute boat ride from the lodge, are picture perfect. Shallow (2-6 feet) and with a whiter than normal sand bottom, these tarpon feeding grounds stretch for over fifty miles and provide the dining room for almost unbelievable numbers of tarpon.
Fishing is great all along the coast of Belize, from the Port Honduras and Punta Icacos lagoon of Toledo to Rocky Point on Ambergris Caye. Any of the many rivers which empty into the Caribbean along Belize's coasts can guarantee a daily catch. Most of your guides and boatmen speak English so learning where and what to fish will be no problem. The waters surrounding Ambergris Caye abound with a great variety of saltwater fishing and the island boasts some of the best fishing guides in the country. Most types of fish, including bone fish and tarpon, can be caught year-round. Within 15 minutes of leaving the dock, you can be fishing in tidal flats or in blue water hundreds of feet deep.
The estuaries, inlets and mouths to the many rivers are known for their tarpon, snook and jacks. The lagoons and grass flats are known for the bonefish, permit and barracuda. The coral reefs support grouper, snapper, jacks and barracuda while the deeper waters off the drop off are home to sailfish, marlin, bonito and pompano.
Peak periods on the local flats are the months of May through November, though there are fish around 355 days a year, and Winter/Spring months (February, March and April) provide excellent opportunities when the weather cooperates. More importantly, it is uncommon to encounter other anglers once you have left the harbor area. The immense size of these flats, and the lack of fishing pressure has left these tarpon with an very aggressive nature, and they move readily to almost any properly presented fly.
PARA-SAILING
Parasailing - Off Ambergris Caye
Soar above the turquoise blue waters of Ambergris Caye enjoying breathtaking bird's eye views of this island paradise, an adventure designed for the whole family! Make your Ambergris Caye holiday one to remember forever! Kids and Adults will have the time of their lives as the parasailing boat glides you past amazing panoramic sights of the island that can only be seen from the air. Fly solo or with another friend or family member. As you parasail, you may even spot dolphins playing in the surf, sea turtles swimming below or colorful tropical birds flying past.
Parasailing is a recreational kiting activity where you are towed behind a boat while attached to a specially designed canopy wing that reminds one of a parachute, known as a parasail wing. The harness attaches the rider(s) to the parasail, which is connected to the boat by the tow rope. The boat then takes off, carrying the parasail and person into the air. The boat is powerful enough so that two or three people can parasail behind it at the same time. The rider has little or no control over the parachute and the activity is primarily a fun ride with an awesome view. Ride in the air lasts 15 minutes, boat ride lasts 45-60 minutes depending on number of people.
With gentle dry takeoffs and landings from the elevated platform at the rear of the boat, your parasailing adventure is like walking on air. As the towline is reeled out from a hydraulic winch, you'll begin to see the entire island with an unbelievable view of the second longest coral reef in the world! Float gently on the warm tropical breezes as you take in the panoramic vistas, with Caye Calker to the south and dozens of tiny unexplored islands to the east. You can choose to chill out and just enjoy the view or, for the more adventurous, you can take the "free fall" option where the captain slows the boat and lets your parachute float down until your toes touch the water!
Soar above the turquoise blue waters of Ambergris Caye enjoying breathtaking bird's eye views of this island paradise, an adventure designed for the whole family! Make your Ambergris Caye holiday one to remember forever! Kids and Adults will have the time of their lives as the parasailing boat glides you past amazing panoramic sights of the island that can only be seen from the air. Fly solo or with another friend or family member. As you parasail, you may even spot dolphins playing in the surf, sea turtles swimming below or colorful tropical birds flying past.
Parasailing is a recreational kiting activity where you are towed behind a boat while attached to a specially designed canopy wing that reminds one of a parachute, known as a parasail wing. The harness attaches the rider(s) to the parasail, which is connected to the boat by the tow rope. The boat then takes off, carrying the parasail and person into the air. The boat is powerful enough so that two or three people can parasail behind it at the same time. The rider has little or no control over the parachute and the activity is primarily a fun ride with an awesome view. Ride in the air lasts 15 minutes, boat ride lasts 45-60 minutes depending on number of people.
With gentle dry takeoffs and landings from the elevated platform at the rear of the boat, your parasailing adventure is like walking on air. As the towline is reeled out from a hydraulic winch, you'll begin to see the entire island with an unbelievable view of the second longest coral reef in the world! Float gently on the warm tropical breezes as you take in the panoramic vistas, with Caye Calker to the south and dozens of tiny unexplored islands to the east. You can choose to chill out and just enjoy the view or, for the more adventurous, you can take the "free fall" option where the captain slows the boat and lets your parachute float down until your toes touch the water!
WATER SPORTS
Water Sports - Off Ambergris Caye
Jet Skiing - A great way to explore the island and the beautiful Caribbean waters surrounding it is on your own jet ski! There are rentals starting at just 30 minutes and some provide complimentary resort pick-up and drop-off! Belize is home to more than 200 tropical cayes—many of them uninhabited and unexplored. And if you'd like more of an adventure, there are guided jetski tours that take you exploring for hours.
Sea Kayaking - One of the best ways to explore the island is by kayak! Paddle out to the reef and tie up to a buoy for some snorkeling, or go explore the dozens of uninhabited islands in Chetumal Bay.
Paddle Boarding - Stand up paddle surfing and stand up paddle boarding are offshoots of surfing that originated in Hawaii. Unlike traditional surfing where the rider sits until a wave comes, stand up paddle boarders stand on their boards and use a paddle to propel themselves through the water. Variations include flat water paddling for outdoor recreation, fitness, or sightseeing, paddle board yoga and even fishing.
Jet Skiing - A great way to explore the island and the beautiful Caribbean waters surrounding it is on your own jet ski! There are rentals starting at just 30 minutes and some provide complimentary resort pick-up and drop-off! Belize is home to more than 200 tropical cayes—many of them uninhabited and unexplored. And if you'd like more of an adventure, there are guided jetski tours that take you exploring for hours.
Sea Kayaking - One of the best ways to explore the island is by kayak! Paddle out to the reef and tie up to a buoy for some snorkeling, or go explore the dozens of uninhabited islands in Chetumal Bay.
Paddle Boarding - Stand up paddle surfing and stand up paddle boarding are offshoots of surfing that originated in Hawaii. Unlike traditional surfing where the rider sits until a wave comes, stand up paddle boarders stand on their boards and use a paddle to propel themselves through the water. Variations include flat water paddling for outdoor recreation, fitness, or sightseeing, paddle board yoga and even fishing.
SAILING
Sailing - Off Ambergris Caye
The most pristine, unspoiled, natural beauty you will find anywhere in the world. The ocean waters of Belize offer a unique and wonderful cruising experience along the world’s second largest barrier reef. There are literally hundreds of sun swept tropical islands to explore, and three major offshore atolls. The barrier reef provides over 130 miles of protected waters from the ocean swell and a reef that is teaming with fish, coral, and marine life. The coral forms colorful, surreal landscapes with jutting heads, sand bottom canyons, arches and spires that offers great snorkeling and diving for both the novice and the more experienced diver. Whether your interest are diving, snorkeling, fishing, or sailing, the islands offer you a variety of spots to dive and snorkel. Belize is a wonderful place to enjoy fun in the warm, turquoise-blue waters of the Caribbean.
The most pristine, unspoiled, natural beauty you will find anywhere in the world. The ocean waters of Belize offer a unique and wonderful cruising experience along the world’s second largest barrier reef. There are literally hundreds of sun swept tropical islands to explore, and three major offshore atolls. The barrier reef provides over 130 miles of protected waters from the ocean swell and a reef that is teaming with fish, coral, and marine life. The coral forms colorful, surreal landscapes with jutting heads, sand bottom canyons, arches and spires that offers great snorkeling and diving for both the novice and the more experienced diver. Whether your interest are diving, snorkeling, fishing, or sailing, the islands offer you a variety of spots to dive and snorkel. Belize is a wonderful place to enjoy fun in the warm, turquoise-blue waters of the Caribbean.
PRIVATE CHARTERS
Private Sailing Charters Available - Upon Request.
Sailing Charters - Off Ambergris Caye
If you are familiar with the Bahamas or the Virgin Islands, Belize will seem vast and untouched. No crowded anchorages, no competing for access to moorings, no making reservations to hole up in a protected bay. Belize offers a diversity of cruising grounds from the more developed Ambergris Caye to an endless string of uninhabited tropical islands and white sand beaches in the south, all available through private charter boats. Chartering a Belize catamaran is the ultimate way to sail Belize and explore some great sites at your own pace on your own private yacht. The barrier reef offers not only unlimited dive locations, but also great protection from the large open ocean swells. Navigating is easy and you nearly always are within sight of an island, though there are some challenges. Going with a experience crew or hiring a captain is your best bet to enjoy the experience, while letting someone else worry about navigating. Catamarans are the most popular vessels to be chartered, as they allow you to glide effortlessly over shallow areas located withing the reef.
If you are familiar with the Bahamas or the Virgin Islands, Belize will seem vast and untouched. No crowded anchorages, no competing for access to moorings, no making reservations to hole up in a protected bay. Belize offers a diversity of cruising grounds from the more developed Ambergris Caye to an endless string of uninhabited tropical islands and white sand beaches in the south, all available through private charter boats. Chartering a Belize catamaran is the ultimate way to sail Belize and explore some great sites at your own pace on your own private yacht. The barrier reef offers not only unlimited dive locations, but also great protection from the large open ocean swells. Navigating is easy and you nearly always are within sight of an island, though there are some challenges. Going with a experience crew or hiring a captain is your best bet to enjoy the experience, while letting someone else worry about navigating. Catamarans are the most popular vessels to be chartered, as they allow you to glide effortlessly over shallow areas located withing the reef.
NATIONAL PARKS & RESERVES
Bacalar Chico National Park & Marine Reserve - Off the Northern Tip of Ambergris Caye
Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve
This UNESCO World Heritage Site occupies the northern tip of Ambergris Caye and boasts amazing snorkeling and diving; the area is rich with history and marine life.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site occupies the northern tip of Ambergris Caye and boasts amazing snorkeling and diving; the area is rich with history and marine life.