When you hear of a tropical vacation, white sandy beaches, coconut trees, and perhaps the Caribbean Sea comes to your mind. If this is a trip you are dreaming about, a vacation in Belize and its tropical island of Ambergris Caye sounds like a very good idea. Not only is this popular island near Belize’s famous barrier reef known for world-class snorkeling and diving, but for the variety of beaches to explore. Here are some recommendations across Ambergris Caye for some fun in the sun.
La Perla del Caribe.
Before we start telling you which are the most popular beaches, take note that all beachfront areas in Belize are public. Of course, this does not include beach furniture in front of beach resorts, but you can access any beachfront. The same thing goes for the docks, which by law are accessible to the public from 6 am to 6 pm.
Let’s start with the beach areas from southern Ambergris Caye. Most of the beach areas on this part of the island make up the seafront of several hotels. Around the center of the island’s town of San Pedro, there are beaches in front of public areas such as parks. Any of these beaches will give you a totally different experience, but with the same tropical flair as the Caribbean.
Southern Ambergris Caye
Image via Drift Inn.
South Beach
This beach, a hidden gem until some time ago, is south of Victoria House Resort & Spa and just about a two-minute walk south of Royal Caribbean Resort. The beach is spacious, a perfect place to spend the evening. There is also a bar and grill nearby from where you can grab a drink or a snack. Some of the activities featured here include beach games, volleyball, hammocks, and comfortable seating areas for lunch.
Mar de Tumbo
Alaia Belize sits on 1,000 feet of Mar de Tumbo beach, a pristine ribbon of shoreline.
This is a stretch of beach passing by resorts such as Banana Beach (now closed), and the grand Alaia Belize hotel. The sandy beach is wide and long, ending in an area that is perfect for sailing in Hobie cats. Purchase a day pass to access all amenities.
Ramon’s Village Resort
It’s perfect for a swim and although it is in front of a resort it is open to the public. It is well kept making a good spot for perfect pictures with the many coconut trees. If you are not staying at Ramon’s, remember that the amenities and beach lounge chairs are for guests only. Alternatively, you can contact them for a day pass.
Downtown
Central Park
It’s right in the heart of town in front of the central park near fine dining restaurants and bars, and shops. It is also the home of the picturesque ‘San Pedro’ colorful sign. The beach is ideal for swimming and posing for pictures with the sign featuring the island’s town name. The beach also has a playground for children.
Boca del Rio
Image via Outdoor Project.
North of downtown is a stretch of beach lining several over-water restaurants and hotels. Some of the areas along the beach offer good swimming. It’s shallow, with turquoise waters, and popular with kite surfing. At the end of this beach stretch, there is a beach park, very spacious, with shaded seating areas, a playground for children, and recreational sections for basketball and beach volleyball. It is a perfect beach to spend time with friends or family.
Northern Ambergris Caye
Secret Beach
Secret Beach, Ambergris Caye. Image via Blue Eyed Compass
A very popular beach on the northwest coast of the island. You need a golf cart, car, or motorcycle to get up there. It can be reached by boat too and it’s a cool pit stop after a day tour out at sea. The drive near the road is about 45 minutes after covering four miles north and about three miles west. The ride could be bumpy considering most of the way is a dirt road. But when you get there, enjoy swimming in some of the clearest waters around the island. There are plenty of entertainment options too, including a water park. Not to mention, there are beach bars and restaurants. Your day at Secret Beach will not be boring with so much to do and enjoy.
Tranquility Bay Beach
Photo by Dion Vansen
Images via Dion Vansen
It’s home to the Tranquility Bay Resort, but the wide sandy beach decked with coconut trees is yours to enjoy. The barrier reef is so close to the beach and easily accessible by kayaking, just be careful. This beach area located 14.5 miles north is over an hour’s drive from downtown San Pedro. The beach can also be reached by boat, check with local tour operators in town or with your hotel if they have trips to northern areas of the island like Tranquility Bay.
With such a long coast, Ambergris Caye has many beaches to explore. If you’re up for the adventure, get a golf cart, pack some snacks, and go beach exploring. If you find new areas, feel free to share some photos with us and share your experience.
Header image via Dion Vansen.
