Booking a trip Belize can be tough if you’re not sure where to start. If you’re looking for a beachy type of vacation, I strongly vote for San Pedro (of the Madonna song’s fame) as a base. Why? It is off the mainland (which- no offense- doesn’t have much for the tourists and is largely just any other mainland central American city), but still has enough hustle and bustle to keep you from getting too bored. There are fun, picturesque little places to hop to as well, including Caye Caulker (where I chose to stay, although it was a bit sleepier than San Pedro), and there is plenty to do nearby such as the Hol Chan marine reserve, the Manatee garden, the Blue Hole (best seen from above via plane- but more on that later). Another option would be Placencia and some of the other Belizean islands, but I did not get a chance to do that on this trip maybe next time.
ANYWAY: let’s begin. The below itinerary is probably best for 1-2 adults. Children are welcome in Belize of course and everything is so clean and safe, but as we know traveling with children simply makes everything a little more complicated and unwieldy.
THINGS TO KEEP IN MIND:
Everyone speaks English, so Belize is a great vacation destination to bring your culturally nervous friends and family
U.S. dollars are widely accepted, and ATMs can be rare- so plan accordingly
A car rental will not be required (especially not for the particular locales discussed in this post)- golf carts are the way to go generally
Day 1: Arrival in San Pedro
Arrive in Belize and transfer to San Pedro on Ambergris Caye via a short domestic flight (~$100 or so via Tropic Air, more like a bus than a plane, really- only 15 mins from the main Belize int’l airport) or the ferry (~$25ish, 2.5 hours- WEAR SUNBLOCK!)
Check-in at your chosen accommodation and take some time to relax and settle in.
Explore the streets of San Pedro Town, visit local shops and restaurants, and enjoy a delicious Belizean dinner.
Day 2: Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley / Manatee Garden
Embark on a snorkeling tour to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley or manatee garden.
Dive into the crystal-clear waters and witness vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
Snorkel alongside nurse sharks, stingrays, and tropical fish in Shark Ray Alley or manatee garden.
Enjoy a beachfront lunch and spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach or exploring San Pedro Town.
Day 3: Caye Caulker and Blue Hole
Take a full-day tour to the iconic Blue Hole, a massive underwater sinkhole. Personally- I did not find this particularly compelling because you literally see nothing from “inside” the hole- but it is a bit of a bucket list item for some folks.
Enjoy a scenic flight over the Belize Barrier Reef before reaching the Blue Hole.
Snorkel or dive in the Blue Hole's deep blue waters, exploring its unique geological formations.
Stop at Caye Caulker for lunch and some leisure time to explore the island's laid-back atmosphere. The town’s motto is “go slow” and they really know how to chill out there.
Return to San Pedro in the evening and enjoy a sunset stroll along the beach.
Day 4: Explore Lamanai Mayan Ruins
Join a full-day excursion to the mainland to visit the impressive Lamanai Mayan Ruins.
Take a boat ride through the New River, spotting wildlife such as crocodiles and birds.
Explore the ancient city of Lamanai, climb the pyramids, and learn about Mayan history and culture.
Enjoy a packed lunch amidst the jungle surroundings.
Return to San Pedro and relax in the evening.
Day 5: Snorkeling and Beach Relaxation
Spend the day exploring more of the underwater wonders surrounding Ambergris Caye.
Join a snorkeling tour to sites like Tres Cocos or Mexico Rocks, known for their diverse marine life.
Discover colorful coral reefs, swim among schools of tropical fish, and marvel at the underwater beauty.
After the snorkeling tour, find a quiet spot on the beach and relax or enjoy water sports activities.
In the evening, sample local cuisine at one of San Pedro's seafood restaurants.
Day 6: Explore Secret Beach and Sunset Cruise
Take a golf cart or taxi to Secret Beach, a hidden gem on the western coast of Ambergris Caye.
Relax on the tranquil beach, swim in the clear waters, and enjoy delicious food and drinks from local vendors.
Spend the day unwinding, playing beach games, or taking part in water activities.
In the evening, embark on a sunset cruise along the coast, savoring the spectacular views and Caribbean sunset.
Return to San Pedro and enjoy a farewell dinner at a waterfront restaurant.
Day 7: Departure
Take some time to enjoy a leisurely breakfast and bid farewell to San Pedro.
If time allows, explore San Pedro Town a bit more, shop for souvenirs, or visit a local art gallery.
Transfer to the airport or ferry terminal for your departure from Belize.
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