A Perfect Island Vacation: The “Ray Caye Experience” Is Just What You Need

When you’re more than a dozen miles away from the nearest town, separated in large part by the Caribbean Sea, it’s fairly easy to slip into “vacation mode”. On Ray Caye, that’s true no matter how long you’re planning on staying. With colorful welcome cocktails (rum optional), 7 intimate acres of tropical landscape, and an atmosphere that says “Here, you’re family”, this private island resort is every world-weary traveler’s dream come true. From the uncrowded bliss to the offshore adventures, here’s why the Ray Caye Experience equates to the perfect island escape.

Paradise Found Off the Coast of Placencia 

On a trip to Ray Caye, it’s highly likely that relaxation will kick in long before arriving at the resort’s dock. That’s because the boat transfer from the Placencia Peninsula to the island is one hour of calm anticipation (mixed in with some dolphin or manatee sightings if you’re lucky). But once you do get there, your vacation state of mind is guaranteed to set in. Welcome drink in hand, you’ll be free to take in the beauty of your surroundings, from the clear blue water embracing the island to its shady palm trees and powder white sand.

There are just a handful of accommodation options to choose from (the island’s max. capacity is 40), and the best part is that there’s no wrong choice. Each room type offers its own unique allure.

In the Island House, enjoy panoramic views of the island from two stories up. Oceanfront Cabanas are cozy and steps away from the sea. Meanwhile, the Honeymoon Suites promise some of the best (and most romantic) sunrises while the Villas are perfect for traveling families.

Regardless of your choice, Ray Caye’s accommodations are lowkey luxury at its finest, offering a modern and cozy space to rest after a day of island adventure.  Planning a grand getaway? The resort also offers guests the option to rent the entire island (or half) for special occasions.

Choose Your Adventure

With the Belize Barrier Reef at your doorstep (just 3 miles away, in fact), the options for adventure are endless. That’s true whether you’re hoping to enjoy all the offshore adventure you can or are planning to fully embrace island life. For the thalassophiles, take a trip to the nearby Silk Cayes and popular Turtle Alley for some snorkeling. You may even encounter a friendly loggerhead turtle.

Similar: Visiting Silk Caye with Ray Caye Island Resort

Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines right from the comfort of the island (catch and release). They can also opt for all-day fishing excursions that cover everything from deepsea fishing to fly fishing. Meanwhile, thanks to Ray Caye’s PADI dive operation, Pirate Reef Divers, those hoping to plunge beneath the depths can do so without a hitch.

On the island itself, take your pick from an array of water sports toys, including a Hobie cat and plenty of kayaks and paddle boards. Better yet, spend your days lounging about the island. After all, there are plenty of hangout spots to choose from. That includes the south dock (and its two-story water slide) as well as The Cove, which is guest-exclusive and boasts a pool and bar.

Fine Dining at Ray Caye

If you’re all about food, food, and more food, Ray Caye has you covered there, too. The Lionfish Bar & Grill will be your base for all things delicious, from sunup to sunset (and the sunsets there are gorgeous).

At breakfast, pick a seat with a view and choose from classic favorites, like huevos rancheros, and more incentive fare like their signature Pirate Reef Breakfast, which includes hashed lionfish. Lunch options are diverse and include everything from lionfish tacos and lionfish cakes to salads, burgers, and of course, ceviche.

Dinner is sure to impress the most. With a menu that changes nightly, the Lionfish Bar & Grill ups the fine dining factor after sunset. Ambient lighting and the sound of waves add a touch of magic to the night. At the end of a long day, enjoy an indulgent three-course meal, complete with decadent desserts.

 

Regardless of whether you plan to stay for two nights or an entire week, Ray Caye is waiting, and it promises to be the island vacation you’ve dreamt of and then some.

Featured Photo by Vivian Lizarraga / Ray Caye Island Resort