Belize is a small country packed with stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and phenomenal beaches.
If you’re into adventure and history or just want to relax in paradise, Belize has something for you.
Here are some must-visit destinations, the best beaches, and cultural experiences you shouldn’t miss in Belize:
Must-Visit Destinations
Ambergris Caye
The largest and most popular island in Belize attracts beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
San Pedro, its main town, offers everything from laid-back cafes and restaurants to lively bars and clubs.
If you love the water, go snorkeling or diving at the famous Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley.
Ambergris Caye
Caye Caulker
A smaller, more relaxed alternative to Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker the Caye is well known for its motto: “Go Slow.”
When you need to unwind, Caye Caulker provides the perfect escape.
Enjoy delicious fresh seafood and a refreshing drink as you take in the breathtaking sunset.
The Split, a popular hangout spot, invites you to relax, swim, and socialize.
Caye Caulker
Great Blue Hole
This is one of the most famous dive sites on the planet!
The Great Blue Hole is a massive underwater sinkhole surrounded by a vibrant coral reef.
Since it has remained untouched for thousands of years, divers can marvel at incredible rock formations and stunning marine life.
Great Blue Hole
Placencia
This picturesque peninsula in southern Belize stretches about 16 miles along the Caribbean Sea.
Placencia boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in Belize and serves as a great base for exploring nearby islands and marine life.
At the tip of the peninsula, Placencia Village charms visitors with its quaint, colorful shops and restaurants, offering a genuine taste of local culture and easy access to nearby islands.
San Ignacio & Cayo District
If you love history and adventure, San Ignacio belongs on your itinerary.
Explore ancient Maya ruins like Xunantunich and Caracol, go cave tubing at Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave), or trek through the lush jungle.
Keep an eye out for Howler Monkeys, Keel-Billed Toucans, and maybe even a puma or other stunning wildlife.
Best Beaches in Belize
Secret Beach (Ambergris Caye)
A real gem with crystal-clear water, this is the perfect place for a relaxing swim and beachside food and drinks.
Placencia Beach (Placencia)
A beautiful stretch of white, warm sand shaded by palm trees, this beach is ideal for relaxing or water activities.
South Water Caye
This remote quiet beach offers fantastic snorkeling, worth a visit if you want to get away from it all.
Laughing Bird Caye
On the subject of snorkeling this small island offers some of the best in Belize perhaps some of the best in the world!
It’s actually a UNESCO world heritage site because it is part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, which is the second-largest barrier reef on the planet.
The island is recognized for its exceptional biodiversity, it has vibrant coral reefs, diverse marine life, and it’s important contribution to the local ecology.
The best cultural experiences
Explore Maya Ruins
In Belize you can explore the fascinating ancient Maya cities like Xunantunich, Caracol, and Lamanai.
While you’re here you can and learn about the country’s rich history and walk among it’s imposing temples.
Did you know the Caana Temple at Caracol is still the tallest structure ever built in Belize?
Try Traditional Belizean Cuisine
There are some delicious local dishes like fry jacks, rice and beans, conch fritters, and hudut – a Garifuna coconut fish stew (The Garifuna are an Afro-Indigenous people descended from West African, Arawak, and Carib ancestors).
The street food markets are wonderful places to experience authentic Belizean dishes.
Garifuna Drumming & Dance
If you want more of the Garifuna experience – Visit Dangriga or Hopkins to see live performances of the Garifuna drumming, dancing, and storytelling. You can even participate in a Garifuna drumming lesson.
Lobster Festivals
If you’re visiting in June or July, you must see the Lobster Festivals in San Pedro, Caye Caulker, and Placencia. These lively events feature fresh seafood, local music, and entertaining competitions.
Belizean Markets
Finally the local markets in Belize City or San Ignacio are great places to find handcrafted souvenirs, fresh tropical fruits, and other great local products.
The reality is there is so much to do in Belize – you almost certainly won’t get it all done in one visit. Which won’t be a problem, after your first visit, you’ll be glad to have an excuse to go back!