Looking forward to a tropical Christmas after months indoors, especially as you head into winter? If yes, then Caye Caulker in Belize is the solution that’s worth the wait. The offshore island of Belize—Caye Caulker—is roughly five miles long, enveloped by the beautiful Caribbean Sea and a friendly, easy-going atmosphere. It’s divided by a narrow channel endearingly called The Split, which doubles as a popular swimming area that serves up world-famous Lizard Juice. From the shoreline, the Belize Barrier Reef is just a stone’s throw away.
Photo by Quilz Tamay Photography
However, it’s the town’s motto that lures travelers back year after year: who wouldn’t want to Go Slow on vacation? Once a fishing village, the island has created its own very special brand of laidback tourism. Always a highlighted Belize destination, unhurried developments blend with the natural beauty and culture of this Caye creating a unique island vibration.
3 Must Do’s While on Caye Caulker
Photo Courtesy: ROEming Belize Travel Agency
1. Snorkel the Belize Barrier Reef
Belize is home to the second-largest Barrier Reef in the world, making a a dive and snorkel trip a must-do adventure when in Belize, especially when on the island of Caye Caulker with the Barrier Reef at your doorstep. There are plenty of snorkel spots, sure to be a great day out for individuals of all ages. One of the most accessible from Caye Caulker is Caye Caulker Marine Reserve. On your snorkel, you will spot an array of tropical fish and beautiful corals that paint a vibrant underwater scene. Not too far away there is also Hol Chan Marine Reserve. It it the countries first established marine reserve. For those brave enough to jump into the water at Shark Ray Alley, you can experience the thrill of swimming with rays and sharks.
2. Kickback at The Split with a Cocktail
One of the best ways to explore the island is on foot. Stroll along its sandy streets, enjoy street food, and sunbathe at The Split. As a result of disastrous hurricane that hit Belize in 1961—Hurricane Hattie— the island of Caye Caulker was split into two sections: north and south. Today, the southern half is the most developed of the two. And between, a channel was formed and nicknamed The Split—an iconic lounge and swim spot for the entire island.
3. Dive Offshore Gems, like the Great Blue Hole
Belize offers enough diving fascination for a lifetime with countless hotspots underwater to inspire awe. When on the island of Caye Caulker, you can book yourself a dive trip to the magnificent Great Blue Hole. Your journey starts around 5:30 AM and you arrive back around sunset. While it may be a long journey, it’s a guaranteed crowd pleaser. Deemed a composite of Belize’s World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the Great Blue Hole has attracted avid scuba divers from all over the globe, the environmentally conscious, and many other travelers to its depths. Even though studies have concluded it was a cave system that collapsed in the last ice age, the Great Blue Hole still retains a shroud of mystery. With stalactite formations that date back 153,000 years, one has to wonder about the secrets the caverns hold. Diving the Blue Hole leaves you feeling small in comparison to the greatness of the sunken cave.
Getting Around & Where to Stay
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Getting around the island is easy – you either bike or walk to most places. The island is comprised of just three (3) streets which are the Avenida Hicaco (Front Street), Avenida Langosta (Middle Street) and Avenida Mangle (Back Street). Getting lost is not really a thing on this island, as it is so small. When looking for places to stay, there are over 40 accommodation options on the island. They are mostly small bed and breakfasts with a few rooms—the typical style of accommodation on Caye Caulker.
Jan’s Hotel
Jan’s Hotel is 100% locally owned, situated on Hicaco Avenue on the beautiful island of Caye Caulker, Belize. Being a stone throw away from shopping; restaurants; watering holes and the water taxis, Jan’s Hotel is an ideal spot for both business clients or families that just want to relax and enjoy it all. Jan’s Hotel is considered a “home away from home” where relationships, people, and genuine service make every guest a lifelong friend on Caye Caulker!
Header image via Instagram @veveordie
