Ambergris Caye, the crown jewel of Belize, offers a perfect blend of sun, sand, and sea. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant marine life, and rich cultural history, it’s a tropical paradise for travelers seeking adventure or relaxation. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a beach lover, or someone who enjoys soaking up the local culture, Ambergris Caye provides endless things to do for a memorable vacation.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know to make the most of your trip to Ambergris Caye—from how to get there to the best activities, dining, and nightlife experiences.
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WELCOME TO AMBERGRIS CAYE!
Ambergris Caye is Belize’s largest island: it stretches about 25 miles long and is just a mile wide in some areas. It is located just a few miles from the Belize Barrier Reef in the Caribbean Sea. This close proximity to the second-largest barrier reef in the world makes it a haven for adventurers who love to explore marine life and experience aquatic adventures. Most travelers start their journeys in San Pedro, the island’s only town and its vibrant heart. There, visitors can enjoy local cuisine, shop, and explore cultural sites.
Brief history
Ambergris Caye has a fascinating history that dates back to the ancient Maya civilization; they used the island as a trading post and thrived here until the early 1500s according to archaeological evidence. In the centuries that followed, Ambergris Caye became a strategic location for the British during colonial times and later for pirates and privateers who sought refuge in its protected waters.
The island’s modern history began in the late 19th and early 20th centuries when it transitioned into a fishing village. Over time, with the discovery of its natural beauty and proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef, Ambergris Caye has become one of the premier tourist destinations in Central America by balancing its historical roots and offering visitors things to do with a blend of history, adventure, and luxury.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELING TO AMBERGRIS CAYE
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Ambergris Caye depends on your preferences, but generally, the dry season from November to April is ideal. During these months, you’ll experience plenty of sunshine, making it perfect for beach activities, snorkeling, and diving. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds.
For those looking for quieter, more affordable travel, the wet season from May to October sees fewer visitors and lower rates. While there may be occasional rain showers, most days are still warm and sunny, making it a good time for a peaceful escape.
Visiting during special events, such as the Lobster Festival in June or Independence Day in September, can add a lively and cultural twist to your vacation. Learn more about these events later in the article.
Essential travel tips
Each place is unique so it’s important to be prepared when planning to visit. Here are a few travel tips to keep in mind before heading to Ambergris Caye:
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Currency. The Belizean dollar is the local currency, though U.S. dollars are widely accepted. ATMs are available in San Pedro, but carrying some local currency is advisable for smaller shops or markets.
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Language. English is the official language, making communication easy for English-speaking visitors. You’ll also hear Spanish and Creole spoken by locals.
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Entry requirements. U.S. citizens need a valid passport but no visa is required for stays of up to 30 days. Extensions can be obtained if necessary.
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Packing. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing, plenty of sun protection, and reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral ecosystem. If you’re diving or snorkeling, consider packing your own gear.
Getting there and around
Getting to Ambergris Caye from the U.S. is relatively easy. Most visitors fly into Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City. From there, you can catch a quick 15-minute flight to San Pedro on a small aircraft via Tropic Air or Maya Island Air. For a more scenic route, water taxis offer a 90-minute ferry ride from Belize City to the island, allowing you to take in the stunning views of the Caribbean waters.
Once you’ve arrived, getting around Ambergris Caye is simple. The island is small, and most visitors opt to rent golf carts, which are the primary mode of transportation. For shorter trips, you can walk or rent a bicycle to explore the island at a more leisurely pace. Water taxis are also available to take you to nearby islands or more remote parts of Ambergris Caye.
Local etiquette & customs
When visiting Ambergris Caye, it’s important to respect local customs and etiquette. Belizeans are known for their warmth and hospitality, so greeting locals with a friendly “hello” or “good day” is always appreciated. Tipping is customary in restaurants, and while haggling is not common, you can politely ask about prices in markets.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN AMBERGRIS CAYE
Ambergris Caye is a paradise filled with unique experiences, offering something for every type of traveler. From exhilarating water sports in the crystal-clear Caribbean waters to exploring the rich history and culture of San Pedro Town, the island promises endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation.
Adventure sports & water activities
As a gateway to the Belize Barrier Reef, Ambergris Caye offers unparalleled water sports. Snorkeling and scuba diving are must-try activities, with sites like Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley providing breathtaking views of vibrant coral reefs, sea turtles, nurse sharks, and more. The latter can be booked through travel sites to get the full experience of swimming with sharks.
The nearby Great Blue Hole, a giant marine sinkhole, is another bucket-list diving destination that attracts adventurers from around the world. It’s one of Belize’s most famous natural wonders located about 60 miles off the coast of the island. Known for its circular shape and deep blue waters, it’s part of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System and is one of the top things to do in Ambergris Caye for scuba divers.
For those who prefer staying above water, paddleboarding and kayaking are popular options. The island’s calm, shallow waters provide the perfect environment for beginners and experienced paddlers alike.
Cultural & heritage exploration
Ambergris Caye is more than just a beach destination—it’s also rich in culture and history. Explore San Pedro Town, where you can experience local life, visit markets, and see Belizean art. Don’t miss the San Pedro House of Culture, which showcases the island’s history, art, and traditions. Visit it at 2101 Almond Street for a culturally rich experience.
There are also several walking tours that allow you to explore its vibrant culture and rich history. Some tours like this one guide you through local markets and shops, giving you a taste of authentic Belizean life. There are those that also explore San Pedro’s stunning beachfront areas, where visitors can interact with locals, taste street food, and discover the town’s hidden gems.
Nature & wildlife
Nature lovers will find plenty of things to do on Ambergris Caye. Head to Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the northern tip of the island. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including manatees, crocodiles, and countless species of birds. Guided tours are available for those who want to learn more about the local flora and fauna.
Day trips & nearby attractions
While Ambergris Caye has plenty to offer, it’s also the perfect base for exploring nearby attractions. A day trip to the mainland allows you to visit the ancient Maya ruins of Altun Ha, where you can climb towering pyramids and learn about the region’s history. For a more adventurous excursion, try cave tubing, where you’ll float down a river through a series of underground caves. These activities are easily accessible by a water taxi ride to Belize City.
As mentioned earlier, a trip to the Great Blue Hole is another whole day adventure. To get there from Ambergris Caye, you can book a full-day boat tour with a local dive operator. Once at the site, activities include scuba diving to explore the underwater cave system, snorkeling along the outer edges, or simply enjoying the scenic boat ride. Divers can see fascinating limestone formations, as well as a variety of marine life like reef sharks, groupers, and angelfish. For non-divers, there are snorkeling options that offer vibrant coral reefs and shallow waters teeming with life near the surface, making it a remarkable adventure for all.
Dining & shopping
San Pedro is the heart of Ambergris Caye’s dining and shopping scene. Seafood is the star of many menus, with freshly caught lobster, conch, and snapper being local specialties. Popular restaurants like Blue Water Grill and Elvi’s Kitchen offer delicious seafood dishes alongside stunning ocean views. Other favorites to try are Hidden Treasure Restaurant that specializes in Caribbean cuisine and Aji Tapa Bar & Restaurant for stunning waterfront dining.
For those looking to take home a piece of Ambergris Caye, Barrier Reef Drive in San Pedro is lined with shops selling handmade jewelry, crafts, and Belizean art. The Belizean Arts Gallery is a great spot to find unique pieces created by local artists and it is open Monday to Sunday.
Nightlife & entertainment
Ambergris Caye may be laid-back, but that doesn’t mean the fun stops when the sun goes down. The island has a lively nightlife scene, with beach bars offering cocktails and live music. Palapa Bar and Grill, perched above the water, is a favorite for its relaxed vibe and floating inner tubes where you can sip your drink in the sea and experience their famous beer zip line. Wayo’s Beach Bar has excellent cocktails and bar food with a lively atmosphere, complemented by their DJ sets.
Wellness & relaxation
For those looking to unwind, Ambergris Caye offers several options for wellness and relaxation. Many of the island’s resorts feature spa services, offering everything from massages to facial treatments. Check out Ocean Essence Day Spa for a couple’s massage at the end of the pier or Coral Day Spa for a great price on quality spa services.
Yoga retreats are also popular, with instructors offering classes on the beach, allowing you to stretch and meditate with the sound of the waves in the background. The Ak’bol Yoga Retreat is the first and only full service Yoga Center on the island. The serene place offers retreats year round as well as full moon gatherings and sacred rituals for those who engage in the spiritual side of yoga.
Seasonal events
Ambergris Caye’s calendar is full of lively events, making it a vibrant destination year-round. Some of the most popular include the Lobster Festival in June, celebrating the opening of lobster season with food, music, and festivities. Belize Independence Day in September brings parades and parties across the island, while Dia de San Pedro, the patron saint festival celebrated in June, features religious ceremonies, music, and dancing.
REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT ON AMBERGRIS CAYE
If you’ve fallen in love with Ambergris Caye during your vacation, investing in real estate on the island can be a great way to make it a permanent part of your life. Investing in real estate in Ambergris Caye offers numerous benefits due to its growing tourism industry, stunning natural beauty, and proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef.
Property values on the island have seen steady appreciation, making it an attractive option for both personal vacation homes and rental properties. With a strong demand for vacation rentals, buyers can generate income from tourists seeking beachfront accommodations. Additionally, Belize offers favorable property ownership laws for foreigners, and its English-speaking population simplifies the purchasing process for international investors.
LET THE BELIZE COASTAL REAL ESTATE TEAM HELP YOU FIND A DREAM HOME ON AMBERGRIS CAYE
Ambergris Caye offers an unforgettable island experience that combines adventure, culture, and relaxation. Whether you’re diving into the crystal-clear waters of the Belize Barrier Reef, enjoying local cuisine in San Pedro, or exploring the rich history of the island, there’s something for every traveler. Start planning your trip today and make the most of your time in this Belizean paradise. Add in the investment potential with a vacation home on the island, and Ambergris Caye becomes more than just a travel destination—it’s a place you’ll want to return to again and again!
Belize Coastal Real Estate stands out for its deep knowledge of the market, commitment to transparency, and ability to find high-value properties that offer great returns on investment. Owning a property in Ambergris Caye not only gives you a slice of paradise but also opens doors to potential rental income from the island’s thriving tourism market.
For a smooth buying experience and to ensure you’re making the most informed decision, Belize Coastal Real Estate is the go-to agency for real estate investments on Ambergris Caye. Send an inquiry or email to start your journey now.