Ambergris Caye vs Caye Caulker: Exploring Belize’s Two Top Islands

Of the hundreds of islands dotting Belize’s Caribbean coast, there are at least two that stand out as timeless favorites for travelers near and far. Although they share a few similarities—including being Travel + Leisure Worlds Best Awards winners—the islands of Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker can often feel worlds apart. Sitting just a 30-minute boat ride away from each other, these two Caribbean islands, often regarded as cousins, have a lot to offer with each boasting its own unique charm. Here’s what you need to know about Belize’s two top islands, including which is right for you.

Caye Caulker: A Laidback Crowd-Favorite 

Photo courtesy ROEming Belize Travel Agency

Craving a change of pace? Take it from this Belizean traveler and head to Caye Caulker. At just 5 miles long and less than a mile wide, Caye Caulker offers everything one could ever want in a peaceful, tropical escape. That’s true whether the plan is to kick back and relax or you’re hoping to pepper your “do nothing” itinerary with a few unique experiences.

From relaxing in an overwater hammock, cocktail in hand, to exploring the sandy streets by foot or by bike, Caye Caulker is all about the “go slow” lifestyle.  Named one of the best islands in the region this year, the tiny coral island has been growing in popularity. Still, it has managed to maintain its authentic charm, even as it becomes a burgeoning island destination. Here, travelers can truly move at their own pace.

Caye Caulker, Belize. Photo by Meritt Thomas on Unsplash

Spend your mornings hanging out at Ice N Beans Cafe or practicing your sun salutations at one of Namaste Cafe’s yoga sessions. Plus, be sure to stop by the ever-popular Errolyn’s House of Fry Jacks for a quintessentially Belizean breakfast. Caye Caulker’s food scene is a growing one, and fun new places to dine, like Shado Beni, which serves up Trinidadian cuisine, are always popping up.

Similar: 10 Wonderful Things to Do in Caye Caulker

As far as can’t-miss experiences go, head north towards The Split if you’re looking for lively beach bars. Both The Lazy Lizard and Sip N Dip promise a great time near the water. Head even further (across the channel that separates the island into two parts) to enjoy some of Caye Caulker’s newer developments and experiences. Lounge around on the beach or dine at hidden gems like Northside Happy Lobster. And while Caye Caulker’s northern side gets a fair share of love, don’t forget to venture south, where timeless favorites like Barrier Reef Sports Bar & Grill and I and I Reggae Bar await.

Other crowd-favorite activities include boozy tiki bar boat cruises and sunset chasing on the western side of the island (complete with stingray watching). They’re all great ways to unwind and unplug, but if you’re hoping for an extra touch of adventure, take advantage of Caye Caulker’s convenient location. Top snorkel and dive spots, like the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, lie just a short boat ride away. You can even book yourself a flyover tour of the Great Blue Hole from the island.

Ambergris Caye: Eclectic and Buzzing With Energy

Caye Caulker’s much busier—and often more luxurious—counterpart is Ambergris Caye, found just 30-45 minutes north. At about 25 miles long, it’s Belize’s largest island and as such offers a very diverse range of experiences to travelers. Though not nearly as crowded as other island destinations, Ambergris Caye is certainly buzzing with energy, especially compared to its smaller cousin. Golf carts, the main mode of transportation, dart to and fro amidst a flurry of beachgoers and enthusiastic vacationers.

Similar: Why Invest in a Vacation Home on These Caribbean Islands

From being a base for diving enthusiasts to the place where celebrities go to celebrate, the island of Ambergris Caye is a dream destination for many seeking an active Caribbean island vacation. At the heart of it all is San Pedro Town, the island’s main hub.

Inside town, it’s all about food, drinks, and beachside fun. Countless resorts and restaurants line the beaches as well as the interior roads. They range from intimate boltholes like newly renovated Bananas on the Beach and timeless eateries like Elvi’s Restaurant to lounges like LIV and Sunset Lounge. But that doesn’t mean that the island is all action all the time. Those craving a bit more peace and quiet can opt to stay north (or south) of town, choosing resorts as remote or as close to the action as they’d like.

Cocktails in the water at Secret Beach, Ambergris Caye. Photo by Carolee Chanona

For many visiting this Caribbean island, the 7-mile drive north to Secret Beach is a must. And though it’s not quite a secret anymore, the popular hangout spot offers plenty of fun—from in-the-water tables to floating day beds and even a waterpark. Meanwhile, those who choose to venture south can find a quirky arcade bar, authentic Japanese cuisine, and even a private beach club.

Of course, it goes without saying that the island’s position—just a stone’s throw away from the Belize Barrier Reef—also makes it one of the top locales for diving, snorkeling, and other offshore adventures.

So, which of these two top Caribbean islands will you be paying a visit to first?

Featured Photos by ROEming Belize Travel Agency