The sparkling Caribbean Sea, winding green rivers, tranquil lagoons, and even freshwater pools—Belize offers an array of waterside dining experiences that promise not only delectable cuisine and drinks but also stunning views. Restaurants and bars situated on or near the water include everything from the usual beachside favorites to those boasting new and unique concepts. Whether you’re looking for casual, laidback dining or something a bit more high-end, here are ten waterside restaurants and bars in Belize.
1. Lily’s Treasure Chest
Location: Barrier Reef Drive, San Pedro Town
Order yourself some fresh shrimp ceviche at Lily’s Treasure Chest in San Pedro Town
Found right inside San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye, Lily’s Treasure Chest offers casual, beachfront dining complete with a perfect view of the Caribbean Sea. Watch as boats zip along the island’s coastline, margarita in hand. Or, enjoy the sound of waves lapping against the barrier reef as you snack on some of the island’s best ceviche.
2. Tipsy Tuna
Location: Tipsy Strip, Placencia Village
Welcome to Tipsy Tuna, right off the Tipsy Strip. Image via Kevin Quischan (@BelizeMyTravels)
One of the go-to locales for drinks near the beach in Placencia, Tipsy Tuna is is a lively spot with a laid-back atmosphere. It’s the ideal place to unwind after a day of exploring on the Peninsula. Plus, live music often graces the scene, adding to the overall festive vibe.
3. Restaurante Laguna
Location: Umaya Resort, Placencia Peninsula
Restaurante Laguna at Umaya. Photos courtesy of property.
Offering Belizean and other Central American cuisines, Restaurante Laguna at Umaya Resort in Placencia offers a tranquil lagoon setting for those craving something serene and intimate. Enjoy open-air dining alongside postcard-perfect views of the Placencia lagoon and Belize’s Maya Mountains.
4. Blue Water Grill
Location: Sunbreeze Hotel, San Pedro Town
Beachside breakfast at Blue Water Grill. Photo courtesy of Sunbreeze Belize
Offering everything from sushi (on Tuesdays and Fridays) to local favorites, Blue Water Grill is an always-buzzing waterfront restaurant in San Pedro Town. Enjoy the scenic views of the beachside by day. And by night, combine it with the musical stylings of local island favorites like Man at Work.
5. Five Sisters Restaurant
Location: Gaia Riverlodge, Mountain Pine Ridge
Listen to the sound of the cascades while dining at the Five Sisters Restaurant. Photo by ROEming Belize
Waterside dining with a unique twist, enjoy lunch or dinner at Gaia Riverlodge’s Five Sisters Restaurant while perched above the namesake waterfall. Listen to the sound of the cascades and enjoy a truly enchanting view: the lush greenery of the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. This “waterside” restaurant is perfect for a romantic escape or a change of pace.
6. The Rhum Shack
Location: Hopkins Bay Resort, Hopkins Village (North)
Situated beside the sea and the resort’s onsite pool, The Rhum Shack at Hopkins Bay is beachside casual with a side of delicious eats (and drinks). When visiting this waterside restaurant, be sure to order one of their world’s best pina coladas. You’re sure to be in for a treat!
7. Corozo Blues
Location: Corozal Town (South end)
Photo by Corozo Blues on Facebook
Belize’s northernmost district of Corozal may be a hidden gem when it comes to travel, but that doesn’t mean it’s lacking when it comes to food and drink experiences – especially waterside ones. After all, Corozal Town sits beside the gorgeous Corozal Bay. Admire views of the bay at Corozo Blues, most well known for their brick oven pizza and great drinks.
8. Old River Bar & Grill
Location: Downtown Belize City
Photo by Old River Bar & Grill on Facebook
One of the latest to join Belize’s restaurant scene, Old River Bar & Grill is riverside dining complete with a creative menu, great drinks, and a lively atmosphere. The restaurant sits at the mouth of the Old Belize River – a picturesque and historical location in Belize City.
9. Barefoot Caribe Bar & Grill
Location: Caye Caulker
Photo by Barefoot Caribe on Facebook
Found on Front Street in Caye Caulker, Barefoot Caribe Bar & Grill sits steps away from the sea. Enjoy a wide selection of local and international cuisines in a casual beach setting – complete with cute swings and picnic tables.
10. Blue Bayou
Location: Secret Beach, Ambergris Caye
Ambergris Caye’s Secret Beach isn’t so secret anymore, but that doesn’t make it any less of a must-visit attraction. At Blue Bayou, get to enjoy the sun and the sea uniquely. In-the-water tables (and service) make it easy to relax and unwind while indulging in your favorite Belizean foods and imbibing your favorite local drinks. Spend your day admiring the waist-deep, turquoise blue waters of Ambergris Caye
Featured Photo by Dylan Hetelle
