Belize: 2024. If that’s the dream vacation you’ve got on your vision board or in your group chat, trust us, you’re not alone. Small but mighty, Belize has already seen tens of thousands of visitors since the start of the year, and that number is expected to increase greatly as the months pass. In case you needed some travel inspiration to prep for your upcoming trip, here are 24 ideas for when you travel to Belize in 2024.
1. Vacation in the Heart of Ambergris Caye
There are plenty of good reasons why San Pedro Town is often hailed as Belize’s #1 destination. It’s the go-to place for any in search of a buzzing town filled with good eats, great views, and even greater island experiences. Head over to Lily’s Treasure Chest for lunch. Rent a golf cart and explore the town. Or, simply kick it beach bum style under the sun
2. Visit the Travellers Liquors Heritage Center
If you love a good sampling of spirits, the Travellers Liquors Heritage Museum is a must for 2024. Found on the Philip Goldson Highway, this unique rum museum combines history with a fun rum-tasting activity.
3. Eat Beachside BBQ on Caye Caulker
Probably as quintessentially “island life” as it gets, beachside barbecue in Caye Caulker is unbeatable. No matter which vendor you choose – they’re all pretty great – treat yourself to some freshly caught fish and lobster with a side of sea breeze.
4. Travel to Toledo
Hit the Southern Highway and head south to Toledo – one of Belize’s most off-the-beaten-path destinations. Enjoy peace and tranquility inside the beautiful town of Punta Gorda. Explore the heart of Maya culture and history. Or, lean into luxury with a stay at the gorgeous Copal Tree Lodge.
5. Take a Picture of the Menu at Asha’s Culture Kitchen
Also in Toledo, Asha’s Culture Kitchen is one of the best restaurants in Punta Gorda Town. Plus, their colorful menu is probably one of the most Instagrammable in the country. Be sure to snap a pic! The food is fresh and the vibes are idyllic, making Asha’s a definite must for 2024 and any other year, for that matter.
6. Attend a Belize Festival
Whether you’re a chocolate lover or a reggae music fan, there is no shortage of festivals in Belize. Head to Toledo for the annual Chocolate Festival. Set your sights on San Pedro for the third-ever Belize International Music and Food Festival. Or, visit Placencia to get a taste of the ever-popular Lobster Festival.
7. Visit Secret Beach
The secret’s out, but that doesn’t make Secret Beach any less of a gem when it comes to island experiences in Belize. Found on north Ambergris Caye, this idyllic spot is a crowd favorite for pristine waters, beach bars, and tons of all-day fun.
8. Go on a Birdwatching Tour
With almost 600 bird species having been recorded in Belize, it’s easy to see why this small country is big on birding. Every October, Belize hosts a birdwatching festival, but beyond that, early morning walks and trips to nature reserves are a guaranteed treat for any avian enthusiast. At the San Ignacio Resort Hotel in Cayo, bird watching can be done right on site!
9. Stay in a Luxury Villa
Consider yourself a luxury traveler? Then you’ll be happy to know that Belize is in no short supply of experiences fit for the epicurean. Vacation Rentals like those managed by Gecko Vacation Rentals are sure to leave you impressed. Rent a sprawling jungle escape off the Hummingbird Highway with Valley Stream Private Eden. Or book yourself the ultimate luxury villa with a stay at the uber-exclusive Gladden Private Island.
10. Go Island Hopping in the South
Belize’s Southern waters are dotted by numerous gorgeous islands, many of which are open to the public and perfect for a day trip. Charter a boat or join in on a tour and visit idyllic islands like Moho Caye, Ranguana Caye, and Laughing Bird Caye.
11. Visit a Private Island
If you’re looking for something a bit more secluded, try a private island. Island Resorts like Ray Caye offer the perfect combination of privacy and luxury in the middle of the Caribbean Sea.
12. Eat Tacos from Orange Walk
A must if you visit Belize’s northern district, tacos from Orange Walk Town are an irresistible delight for many a Belizean. Take your pick from a handful of vendors in town. Wash your tacos down with a refreshing bottle of horchata or orange juice.
13. Hike on a Private Nature Reserve
Belize is home to myriad hiking trails and waterfalls, many of which are absolutely breathtaking. The ultimate dream destination for hikers, Hidden Valley Wilderness Lodge in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve has a world of trails, secret pools, and waterfalls waiting to be discovered.
14. Experience Fly Fishing in Belize
Chase Gram Slam Fame in Belize, a go-to destination for fly fishers and one that boasts Orvis-endorsed lodges. At Muy’Ono Resorts’ Blue Horizon Lodge, make all your fly-fishing dreams come true in 2024.
15. Eat at the Grove House
Savor the freshest flavors straight from the field to your table at The Grove House. Found onsite at the Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge, this picturesque eatery sits two stories up and surrounded by nature. Enjoy dishes thoughtfully crafted with locally sourced ingredients, capturing the essence of Belizean and International cuisine.
16. Stay in an Overwater Bungalow
Wake up to the gentle lull of waves beneath your overwater bungalow in Belize. Nothing beats being surrounded by the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean. The allure is undeniable – it’s a seamless blend of luxury and nature and you can enjoy it with a side of romance at southern Belize’s Thatch Caye.
17. Hike the Antelope Trail
The Antelope Trail at Mayflower Bocawina National Park combines gorgeous rainforest scenery with the thrill of a challenging hike. This picturesque trail guides you through the heart of nature, all while leading to Antelope Falls, where the reward of a refreshing swim awaits.
18. Learn how to Make Chocolate from Bean to Bar
Chocolate can save the rainforest. That’s the mantra of Ixcacao Chocolate owner Juan Cho (one that’s actually backed by science, in fact). Join one of southern Belize’s most well-known chocolate makers for a bean-to-bar chocolate-making class. It’s a hands-on experience that grants travelers a world of knowledge and a sweet treat, too.
19. Eat Lionfish
The invasive lionfish is no match for Belize’s innovative nature. To combat the influx of this invasive predatory species, restaurants are actively encouraged to serve lionfish dishes. That includes delicious lionfish ceviche, and even lionfish cakes that are served up at Ray Caye Island Resort.
20. Take a Pottery Class
Tap into your inner creativity at the San Antonio Women’s Cooperative. Get hands-on with a pottery-making class and learn about the traditions and techniques that have been passed on for generations in Belize’s Maya culture. Experience the joy of creating something extraordinary while supporting the empowering initiatives of this cooperative found in San Antonio Village in Cayo.
21. Eat Hudut
It’s a Garifuna staple and a crowd favorite across the country. A rich and hearty bowl of hudut – a coconut broth with fish and mashed plantains – is sure to delight the taste buds. For the best hudut, head south to Belize’s culture capital (Dangriga) or Hopkins.
22. Stay at a Jungle Lodge
Immerse yourself in the heart of nature with an overnight stay at a jungle lodge. In the Cayo district, Sweet Songs Jungle Lodge has everything from family-sized cabanas to intimate treehouses high up in the canopy. Plus, dining at their dreamy treehouse restaurant means getting up close and personal with some of Belize’s friendly wildlife.
23. Visit the Community Baboon Sanctuary
Community-led conservation is at the heart of the Community Baboon Sanctuary’s existence. Get to learn about one of the world’s loudest land mammals and maybe even enjoy a fun photo-op or two!
24. Eat a Classic Belizean Breakfast
Of course, a trip to Belize isn’t complete without enjoying some warm and fluffy fry jacks. Combine it with your choice of eggs, beans, cheese, and maybe even some ham or bacon for a truly filling Belize breakfast experience.
Featured Photo courtesy of ROEming Belize Travel Agency
