Belize City is the country’s largest urban center and a common entry point for travelers. While many visitors use it as a transit hub to the islands and inland destinations, it still offers several worthwhile attractions and activities for a short visit.

Top Things to Do in Belize City

1. Explore the Mayan Ruins Nearby 🏛️

• Altun Ha – Just 30 miles from the city, this ancient Mayan site features well-preserved temples and an iconic jade head artifact.
• Lamanai – A more remote but impressive Mayan city accessible via a scenic boat ride through the jungle.

2. Visit the Museum of Belize 🏛️

• Located in a former British colonial prison, this museum showcases Belize’s history, Mayan artifacts, and cultural exhibits.

3. Swing by the Belize Sign Monument 📸

• A colorful, Instagram-worthy landmark by the waterfront with great views of the Caribbean Sea.

4. St. John’s Cathedral ⛪

• The oldest Anglican church in Central America, built in the 1800s with bricks brought from England.

5. Take a Boat Ride to the Cayes ⛵

• Catch a water taxi to Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye for a day of snorkeling, diving, or beach relaxation.

6. Tour the Belize Zoo 🦜 (40 minutes outside the city)

• A unique rescue zoo featuring native animals like jaguars, tapirs, and toucans in a natural setting.

7. Visit Old Belize & Kukumba Beach 🌴

• A small cultural park with a man-made beach, waterslide, and exhibits about Belizean history and traditions.

8. Take a River Cruise on the Belize River 🛶

• A scenic boat ride where you might spot crocodiles, howler monkeys, and exotic birds.

9. Explore the Swing Bridge 🌉

• The only manually operated swing bridge in Latin America, connecting the north and south sides of the city.

10. Enjoy Local Food & Drinks 🍽️

• Try rice and beans, stewed chicken, or fresh seafood at local spots like Bird’s Isle or Riverside Tavern.

While Belize City isn't a major tourist destination, it offers a quick mix of history, culture, and local experiences before heading to other parts of Belize! 🚀

Toledo District is Belize’s southernmost and most off-the-beaten-path region, known for its rich Mayan culture, lush rainforests, and eco-tourism experiences. If you're looking for adventure, cultural immersion, and nature exploration, Toledo is a hidden gem worth visiting.

Top Things to Do in Toledo District

1. Explore Mayan Ruins 🏛️

• Nim Li Punit – Known for its large stelae (stone carvings) and scenic hilltop views.
• Lubaantun – A unique Mayan site built without mortar, famous for the discovery of the "Crystal Skull."

2. Visit a Chocolate Farm & Factory 🍫

• Toledo is Belize’s chocolate capital, and you can visit Mayan cacao farms to learn about traditional chocolate-making.
• Best Places: Ixcacao Chocolate, Cotton Tree Chocolate, and Che’il Mayan Chocolate.

3. Experience Garifuna Culture in Punta Gorda 🎶

• Learn about the Garifuna people, their drumming, dancing, and delicious foods like hudut (coconut fish stew).
• Visit Warasa Garifuna Drum School for an interactive drumming lesson.

4. Go Cave Exploring & River Adventures 🌊

• Hokeb Ha Cave – A stunning cave system with waterfalls inside.
• Blue Creek Cave – Swim into an underground river system in a jungle setting.
• Rio Blanco Waterfall – A scenic waterfall with a natural swimming pool.

5. Take a Jungle or Wildlife Tour 🌿

• Payan Emblem Forest Reserve – Great for birdwatching and hiking.
• Aguacaliente Wildlife Sanctuary – A wetland area home to rare birds and wildlife.
• Golden Stream Corridor Preserve – Offers hikes and river canoeing in a pristine rainforest.

6. Visit Local Mayan Villages 🏡

• Toledo has many traditional Mayan villages where you can experience daily life, food, and crafts.
• Best villages to visit: San Pedro Columbia, Indian Creek, and San Antonio.

7. Check Out Punta Gorda Town 🌊

• The laid-back coastal town is the district’s hub with a market, seaside views, and friendly locals.
• Things to do:
  • Stroll along the waterfront.
  • Visit the Punta Gorda Market for fresh produce and local crafts.
  • Try Belizean street food like pupusas and fry jacks.

8. Fishing & Snorkeling in the Port Honduras Marine Reserve 🎣

• A protected area with mangrove islands, coral reefs, and marine life.
• Great for fishing, snorkeling, and kayaking.

9. Attend the Toledo Chocolate Festival 🍫🎉 (May - Annual Event)

• A celebration of Belizean chocolate, featuring tastings, cultural performances, and local crafts.

10. Stay in an Eco-Lodge 🏕️

• Toledo has some of Belize’s best eco-lodges for sustainable jungle retreats.
• Popular eco-lodges: The Lodge at Big Falls, Hickatee Cottages, and Cotton Tree Lodge.

Why Visit Toledo?

Toledo is perfect for off-the-grid explorers, nature lovers, and cultural travelers. If you want to experience authentic Belize, away from crowds, this is the place to go! 🌿

Hopkins, Belize is a charming Garifuna village on the southern coast, known for its laid-back atmosphere, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. It’s a fantastic place to enjoy Belizean hospitality, explore nature, and dive into the Garifuna culture.

Top Things to Do in Hopkins

1. Experience Garifuna Culture 🎶

• Drumming Lessons at Lebeha Drumming Center – Learn traditional Garifuna rhythms.
• Garifuna Cooking Classes – Make dishes like hudut (coconut fish stew) and cassava bread.
• Garifuna Museum & Cultural Tours – Discover the history and heritage of the Garifuna people.

2. Relax on Hopkins Beach 🏝️

• A peaceful and less crowded beach with soft sand and warm Caribbean waters.
• Enjoy beachside bars and restaurants, or just relax in a hammock with a rum punch.

3. Snorkeling & Diving in the Belize Barrier Reef 🐠

• Top spots: South Water Caye, Tobacco Caye, and Glovers Reef.
• Encounter colorful coral, tropical fish, rays, and even whale sharks (seasonal: March-June).

4. Explore Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary 🌿 (30 min away)

• The world’s first jaguar reserve and a great place for hiking, tubing, and birdwatching.
• Trails lead to waterfalls, jungle rivers, and stunning viewpoints.

5. Take a Bioluminescent Night Tour ✨

• Visit Anderson Lagoon (especially in the new moon phase) to see glowing waters caused by bioluminescent plankton.

6. Go on a River or Mangrove Kayaking Adventure 🚣

• Paddle through Sittee River or the nearby mangroves, where you can spot crocodiles, manatees, and exotic birds.

7. Visit Mayflower Bocawina National Park 🌳 (45 min away)

• Home to Mayan ruins, waterfalls, and the longest zipline in Belize!
• Hike to Antelope Falls for a refreshing dip and stunning views.

8. Fishing & Island Hopping 🎣

• Go deep-sea fishing, fly fishing, or hand-line fishing with local guides.
• Take a boat trip to the beautiful Silk Cayes for snorkeling and beach time.

9. Enjoy Local Food & Beach Bars 🍽️

• Try:
  • Hudut (fish in coconut sauce with mashed plantains)
  • Fry jacks & Johnny cakes (for breakfast)
  • Fresh lobster & seafood (in season)
• Popular spots:
  • Driftwood Beach Bar (great pizza & cocktails)
  • Ella’s Cool Spot (authentic local dishes)
  • Geckos Restaurant (Caribbean & international fusion)

10. Attend Hopkins Mango Festival (June) 🥭

• A fun celebration of mango season with food, drinks, music, and cultural performances.

Why Visit Hopkins?

Hopkins is the perfect mix of beach relaxation, culture, and adventure. It’s less touristy than other destinations in Belize, making it an ideal place to experience local life and nature at your own pace. 🌊🌴

Placencia is a vibrant beach town known for its stunning beaches, marine adventures, and laid-back Caribbean vibes. Whether you're into relaxing by the sea, snorkeling with marine life, or exploring Belizean culture, there's something for everyone!

1. Relax on Placencia Beach 🏝️

• One of Belize’s best beaches with soft sand and calm, clear waters.
• Perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying beachside bars.

2. Snorkeling & Diving in the Belize Barrier Reef 🐠

• Top spots:
  • Silk Cayes – Swim with turtles, rays, and nurse sharks in crystal-clear waters.
  • Laughing Bird Caye – A small protected island great for snorkeling.
  • Glovers Reef & Turneffe Atoll – World-class diving sites.
• Best For: Snorkelers & divers of all levels.

3. Go Whale Shark Watching (March - June) 🦈

• One of the few places in the world where you can swim with gentle giant whale sharks.
• Tours operate near Gladden Spit during their seasonal migration.

4. Explore Placencia Village 🎨

• Stroll along Placencia’s famous sidewalk – the narrowest street in the world (Guinness World Record).
• Visit local art galleries, craft shops, and markets.
• Try Belizean street food like fry jacks, tacos, and fresh seafood.

5. Take a Sunset Cruise ⛵

• Enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Caribbean Sea with stunning sunset views.
• Many tours offer rum punch, music, and dolphin spotting.

6. Visit Monkey River & See Wildlife 🐒

• Take a boat tour up Monkey River for a chance to spot:
  • Howler monkeys, crocodiles, manatees, and exotic birds.
• Stop at a local Creole village for an authentic cultural experience.

7. Explore Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary 🌿 (1 hour away)

• The world’s first jaguar reserve, great for hiking & wildlife spotting.
• Activities:
  • Waterfall hikes
  • River tubing
  • Birdwatching (over 300 species!)

8. Take a Bioluminescent Night Tour ✨

• Visit Anderson Lagoon on a night tour to see bioluminescent waters glow under the stars!

9. Try Local Food & Drinks 🍹

• Best Eats:
  • Rumfish y Vino – Seafood & cocktails.
  • Tutti Frutti Gelateria – Authentic Italian gelato.
  • The Secret Garden – Belizean & international fusion cuisine.
• Drink Spots:
  • Barefoot Bar – Famous for its beachfront vibes & tropical cocktails.
  • Tipsy Tuna – Fun nightlife & live music.

10. Go Island Hopping 🚤

• Take a boat to remote islands like:
  • Ranguana Caye – Tiny paradise island with hammocks & snorkeling.
  • King Lewey’s Island – A pirate-themed private island with a bar.

Why Visit Placencia?

• Best Beaches 🏝️ in Belize
• Epic Marine Adventures 🐠🐢
• Relaxed & Friendly Caribbean Vibes 🌴

Placencia is perfect for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to experience Belize at a slower pace! 🚀

San Ignacio is Belize’s adventure hub, surrounded by Mayan ruins, caves, rivers, and lush jungles. It’s the perfect base for history buffs, outdoor adventurers, and cultural travelers looking to explore the inland wonders of Belize.

1. Explore Xunantunich Mayan Ruins 🏛️

• One of Belize’s most impressive Mayan sites, featuring El Castillo, a massive pyramid with breathtaking jungle views.
• Accessible by a hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River.

2. Visit Cahal Pech Ruins 🏺

• A smaller, less crowded Mayan site located right in San Ignacio.
• Great for a quick, easy-to-access historical experience.

3. Experience the ATM Cave Adventure 🏞️ (Actun Tunichil Muknal)

• One of the most incredible cave explorations in the world!
• Hike, swim, and climb through an underground cave filled with Mayan artifacts, pottery, and the Crystal Maiden (a preserved skeleton).
• Guided tours only – book in advance!

4. Barton Creek Cave Canoeing 🚣‍♂️

• Paddle inside a massive cave filled with ancient Mayan artifacts and rock formations.
• Less intense than ATM Cave, great for those who prefer a more relaxed cave adventure.

5. Visit the Green Iguana Conservation Project 🦎

• A hands-on experience where you can hold and feed iguanas while learning about conservation.
• Located at San Ignacio Resort Hotel.

6. Explore the San Ignacio Market 🥭

• A vibrant local market with fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious street food.
• Best to visit on Saturdays for the full experience!

7. Take a Macal River Canoe or Tubing Tour 🚣

• Paddle along the Macal River for beautiful jungle views, exotic birds, and even howler monkeys.
• You can canoe, kayak, or go river tubing depending on your adventure level.

8. Visit the Belize Botanic Gardens 🌺

• A peaceful nature escape showcasing native and exotic plants.
• Great for birdwatching and relaxing walks.

9. Hike & Swim at Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve 🌲

• A stunning nature reserve with waterfalls, caves, and pine forests.
• Top spots inside:
  • Big Rock Falls – A massive waterfall with a natural swimming pool.
  • Rio On Pools – Series of cascading waterfalls great for swimming.
  • Rio Frio Cave – A huge cave with a river flowing through it.

10. Enjoy Local Food & Drinks 🍽️

• Top Restaurants:
  • The Guava Limb Café – Farm-to-table dishes in a relaxing setting.
  • Ko-Ox Han Nah (“Let’s Go Eat”) – Belizean classics like rice & beans and stewed chicken.
  • Cenaida’s Belizean Food – A hidden gem for authentic local eats.
• Bars & Nightlife:
  • The Bluffs – Amazing sunset views and craft beer.
  • Eva’s Restaurant & Bar – A classic traveler’s hangout in town.

Bonus Adventure: Visit Caracol Ruins 🏛️ (2.5 hrs away)

• The largest Mayan city in Belize, deep in the jungle.
• Home to Caana (“Sky Palace”), the tallest Mayan temple in the country.

Why Visit San Ignacio?

✅ Gateway to Adventure – Best for exploring Mayan ruins, caves, and waterfalls.
✅ Cultural Hub – A mix of Mayan, Mestizo, Creole, and Garifuna influences.
✅ Eco-Friendly & Laid-Back – A perfect blend of history, nature, and adventure!

San Ignacio is the perfect inland destination for anyone looking to experience the wild, cultural, and adventurous side of Belize! 🚀🌿

The Belize Barrier Reef is the second-largest barrier reef in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a paradise for divers, snorkelers, and marine life enthusiasts, offering vibrant coral formations, exotic marine creatures, and stunning atolls.

1. Dive the Great Blue Hole 🌊🦈

• One of the world’s most famous dive sites – a giant underwater sinkhole over 400 feet deep.
• See: Stalactites, reef sharks, and deep-sea formations.
• Best for: Advanced divers due to deep depths.

2. Snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve 🐠

• Belize’s most famous snorkeling site, located near Ambergris Caye & Caye Caulker.
• See: Colorful corals, sea turtles, stingrays, and schools of tropical fish.
• Best for: All skill levels, including beginners.

3. Swim with Sharks at Shark Ray Alley 🦈

• Get up close with nurse sharks and stingrays in shallow waters.
• A thrilling but safe experience (nurse sharks are friendly!).
• Located near Hol Chan Marine Reserve.

4. Explore Turneffe Atoll 🏝️

• The largest atoll in Belize, with crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity.
• Great for: Scuba diving, snorkeling, and fly fishing.
• Famous dive sites: The Elbow (for large schools of fish and reef sharks).

5. Snorkel or Dive at Lighthouse Reef Atoll 🏊‍♂️

• Home to some of Belize’s best dive spots, including the Blue Hole.
• Features stunning coral gardens, deep drop-offs, and abundant sea life.
• Great for: Experienced divers and snorkelers.

6. Kayak or Paddleboard Around the Reef 🚣

• Paddle through calm, shallow waters and enjoy stunning reef views.
• Best spots: Glover’s Reef Atoll, Silk Cayes, and Tobacco Caye.

7. Visit Glover’s Reef Atoll 🌺

• One of Belize’s most remote and untouched marine reserves.
• Ideal for: Snorkeling, diving, and eco-lodge stays.
• Fun fact: It’s a top site for marine research and conservation.

8. Go Fly Fishing 🎣

• The Belize Barrier Reef is a world-class fly fishing destination.
• Catch bonefish, tarpon, and permit in the flats.
• Best areas: Turneffe Atoll & Ambergris Caye.

9. Take a Catamaran or Sailing Tour ⛵

• Sail along the reef while enjoying crystal-clear waters and island stops.
• Many tours include snorkeling, fishing, and sunset cruises.
• Best starting points: Placencia, Caye Caulker, and Ambergris Caye.

10. Visit Remote Islands & Sandbars 🏝️

• Top island destinations:
  • Silk Cayes – Tiny paradise islands with amazing snorkeling.
  • Tobacco Caye – A laid-back, eco-friendly island retreat.
  • South Water Caye – Secluded and less crowded than other islands.

Why Visit the Belize Barrier Reef?

✅ One of the best diving & snorkeling destinations in the world.
✅ Rich marine life, from sea turtles to reef sharks.
✅ Easy access from Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Placencia & Hopkins.

Whether you're looking for a thrilling dive, a peaceful snorkel, or just relaxing on a remote island, the Belize Barrier Reef offers an unforgettable experience! 🐢🌊✨

Caye Caulker is a laid-back, budget-friendly Caribbean island famous for its "Go Slow" lifestyle, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. It’s a perfect spot for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing with a cold drink by the sea.

1. Chill at The Split 🍹🏝️

The most famous hangout spot on the island, created by a hurricane in 1961.

Enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and drinks at The Lazy Lizard bar.

Catch the best sunset views on the island.

2. Snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley 🦈🐠

Belize’s top snorkeling spot, just a short boat ride away.

See: Colorful corals, sea turtles, rays, and friendly nurse sharks.

Great for: Beginners and experienced snorkelers alike.

3. Go on a Sunset Sail ⛵🌅

Take a catamaran or sailboat cruise along the reef.

Most tours include snacks, drinks, and music.

4. Try the Famous Caye Caulker Lobster 🦞 (Season: June – February)

Caye Caulker is known for its fresh lobster dishes.

Best places to try it:

Enjoy Bar – Grilled lobster with an ocean view.

Wish Willy’s – A chill backyard BBQ vibe.

Maggie’s Sunset Kitchen – Great local-style seafood.

5. Take a Kayak or Paddleboard Tour 🚣‍♂️

Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the mangroves and shallow reef areas.

Great for: Spotting manatees, rays, and exotic birds.

6. Visit the Seahorse Reserve 🦎

A protected area where you can see seahorses in their natural habitat.

Located near Iguana Reef Inn – also a great spot for sunset drinks!

7. Go Scuba Diving at Turneffe Atoll & Blue Hole 🌊

Turneffe Atoll – A world-class dive site with coral walls and marine life.

Great Blue Hole – A famous deep-sea diving spot for experienced divers.

8. Take a Day Trip to Nearby Islands 🏝️

Silk Cayes & South Water Caye – Pristine snorkeling spots.

Tobacco Caye – A quiet, tiny island perfect for relaxing.

9. Bike Around the Island 🚴

Caye Caulker is car-free, and bikes are the best way to explore.

Rent a bike and cruise around the sandy streets to see the local shops, bars, and murals.

10. Enjoy the Local Nightlife & Beach Bars 🍹🎶

Iguana Reef Inn – Best sunset views & a chance to see stingrays.

The Lazy Lizard – The island’s most famous beach bar.

Barrier Reef Sports Bar – Fun, casual spot with live music & karaoke.

Why Visit Caye Caulker?

✅ Laid-back, budget-friendly alternative to Ambergris Caye

✅ Top-tier snorkeling & marine life experiences

✅ No cars, no stress – just island vibes!

Caye Caulker is perfect for backpackers, couples, and travelers looking to "Go Slow" and enjoy the best of Belize’s island life! 🌴🌊✨

Ambergris Caye is Belize’s largest and most popular island, known for its stunning beaches, world-class snorkeling and diving, and lively town of San Pedro. It’s perfect for both adventure seekers and those looking to relax in paradise.

1. Snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley 🐠🦈

• Belize’s most famous snorkeling site, located just off the coast.
• See: Coral reefs, sea turtles, stingrays, and friendly nurse sharks.
• Great for: Snorkelers of all levels.

2. Dive the Great Blue Hole 🌊 (For Advanced Divers)

• A bucket-list dive and one of the most famous sites in the world.
• See: Deep-sea stalactites, reef sharks, and crystal-clear waters.
• Best For: Experienced divers looking for a unique underwater experience.

3. Relax on Secret Beach 🏝️

• A beautiful, crystal-clear beach on the west side of the island.
• Features beach bars, overwater swings, and paddleboarding.
• Best for: Swimming, sunbathing, and sipping tropical cocktails.

4. Explore San Pedro Town 🚲

• Stroll the streets filled with colorful shops, beach bars, and art galleries.
• Visit Belize Chocolate Company for delicious local chocolate.
• Rent a golf cart (the island’s main form of transportation) and explore!

5. Take a Sunset Catamaran Cruise ⛵🌅

• Enjoy amazing sunset views while sailing along the coast.
• Many tours include rum punch, music, and dolphin spotting.

6. Visit Mexico Rocks Snorkeling Site 🐡

• Less crowded than Hol Chan, with calm waters and amazing coral formations.
• See: Colorful fish, rays, and lobsters hiding in the reef.

7. Try Local Food & Beach Bars 🍹🍽️

• Top restaurants & bars:
  • Elvi’s Kitchen – Famous for Belizean seafood and coconut curry.
  • Palapa Bar & Grill – Drinks served on inner tubes in the water!
  • The Truck Stop – A food truck park with games, live music, and ice cream.
  • Blue Water Grill – Great beachfront dining with fresh seafood.

8. Go Fishing 🎣

• Ambergris Caye is one of the best fishing destinations in Belize.
• Try:
  • Fly fishing for bonefish and tarpon.
  • Deep-sea fishing for snapper, tuna, and barracuda.

9. Visit Bacalar Chico National Park & Marine Reserve 🌿

• A UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the northern tip of Ambergris Caye.
• See: Mangroves, wildlife, and ancient Mayan artifacts.
• Best for: Eco-tourism, kayaking, and wildlife spotting.

10. Take a Day Trip to Caye Caulker 🚤

• A quick boat ride away from Ambergris Caye.
• Enjoy laid-back island vibes, beach bars, and snorkeling spots.
• Don’t miss: The Split & Lazy Lizard Bar.

Why Visit Ambergris Caye?

✅ Belize’s top island for snorkeling, diving, and luxury resorts
✅ Lively town (San Pedro) with beach bars, shopping, and nightlife
✅ Golf cart-friendly, making it fun and easy to explore!

Ambergris Caye is perfect for beach lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking to experience the best of Belize’s island life! 🌴🌊✨