10 Wonderful Things to do in Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker, affectionately known as La Isla Cariñosa, is easy-going but that doesn’t necessarily equal that it’s a quiet place. Go slow, sure, but does that mean little to no activity? Think again. There is plenty to do on this tiny island found 21 miles northeast of Belize City. And to keep busy while on the 5-mile-long island, we’re sharing 10 activities for you to enjoy in Belize on Caye Caulker.

1. Grab a bicycle 

Most accommodations offer guests complimentary bicycles but rent one if that option isn’t available to you. You can walk, but venture on a bike to explore the island from north to south like a local. Pedal to everywhere you want to go – to restaurants, bars, and to those parts of the island most visitors don’t get to see. Go ahead, explore. 

2. Go fish

This is another activity popular in Caye Caulker. You can fish off the dock or book a fishing tour with a local tour operator, which you can find on Front Street. You can find out about fishing tours of the day with King Fish Tours or Barefoot Fisherman Expeditions. 

3. Sway in a hammock 

There are hammocks almost everywhere on Caye Caulker. Most small hotels, like Colinda Cabanas, provide their guests with hammocks on the balconies. There are also public hammocks by the beach available as well for rent. Have a hammock moment and go slow while swinging. 

4. Go shopping for local arts and craft 

There is an area on the island known as Palapa Gardens on the way to The Split, ideal to shop for locally made tropical goods, clothing, bags, jewelry, woodcarvings, and souvenirs for you to take back home. It’s a special way to remember Belize.  

5. Book a manatee tour 

There is a manatee tour that takes all day and takes you to the Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary. However, if you are lucky enough, you can spot manatees while on the regular snorkeling tours on the reef. Manatees are sometimes spotted in those areas. 

6. Try Yoga 

Namaste Café offers rooftop yoga in addition to coffee, healthy breakfast bites, and deli-style lunches downstairs. Meanwhile, the classes include yoga mats and blocks while accommodating all levels. The price to attend such classes is actually by donations, so it’s all depending on your budget. 

7. Snorkeling the reef nearby

Snorkeling is an activity in demand when in Caye Caulker. In fact, tour operators offer a snorkeling tour every single day to either the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve or the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. You can check the schedule and prices at places like Tsunami Adventures and Caveman Snorkeling Tours.

8. Snapping a pic at the CAYE CAULKER sign 

Before you reach the popular area called ‘The Split,’ make a pause and pose in front of the CAYE CAULKER sign. The sign is ideal for group pictures or individuals. It is colorful and a good option for your Instagram photos or Facebook page.

9. Relax at The Split 

This popular area is located at the end of the north part of the village. At the entrance, the ‘THE SPLIT’ sign will first welcome you to the hangout hub. In actuality, The Split is a channel that cuts Caye Caulker in two as the result of Hurricane Hattie in 1961. Near the end of the channel is a restaurant and bar called Lazy Lizard, but the area itself is fun and provides some of the clearest waters for swimming for free. Around the restaurant there are lounge areas to hang out, eat, have a drink, and even play beach volleyball. 

10. Kayak around the island

Many will tell you that kayaking around Caye Caulker is a worthwhile way to enjoy the island. Make your way through The Split by gently paddling out into the turquoise water. Kayak at your own pace and let the current guide you, or simply go slow on the water too. Most lodgings will provide kayaks. However, if your hotel does not, you can easily find kayak rentals in areas like those by The Split. 

Header image via Belize Tourism Board