Where is the best town to stay in Belize?
Belize is an ever-growing tourist destination, despite not sharing the same popularity as some of its Central American neighbors. Indeed, Belize is a great alternative destination to spend a few weeks exploring. Travelers will be taken aback by the sheer natural beauty of this small but rewarding nation.
One of the factors that make Belize so unique is that it is the only Central American country with English as the official language, due to British colonization in 1840. Belize didn’t actually gain independence until 1981.
The brilliant thing about Belize is that it appeals to all types of travelers. If you are a snorkeling/diving enthusiast, you will be in your element in destinations such as San Pedro, Caye Caulker and Placencia Village. Or if you simply prefer a beach holiday, Belize’s Caribbean Coast is alluring, especially the Maya Beach Town and Corozal.
Belize is also fantastic for wildlife and nature. You don’t have to travel far to experience the jungle; San Ignacio is a perfect destination for this. Finally, history enthusiasts and cultural travelers will love Belize. Punta Gorda is a great place for spectacular Mayan ruins, and you can sample the native Garifana culture in Hopkins and Dangriga.
Located in the south of Belize’s Ambergis Caye Island, the charming town of San Pedro is ideal for any traveler to stay for several days. Ambergis Caye is known as ‘Isla Bonita’ thanks to Madonna’s famous hit single, which was filmed on this very island. It certainly is a typically beautiful Caribbean island, and San Pedro is its prize gem!
Just south of Ambergis Caye lies another beautiful Belize island- Caye Caulker. It is a smaller, more budget-friendly option to Ambergis Caye, but is definitely still a worthwhile travel destination. Caye Caulker is ideal for relaxing on the beach and soaking up the local Caribbean vibes and culture. With a lively but not overcrowded tourist scene and very friendly locals, you will quickly feel at home here.
In southern Belize, the pretty village of Placencia is growing rapidly in popularity. Placencia is another former fishing village now turned into a tourist hotspot. It forms part of the pristine Placencia peninsula- 16 miles of stunning coastline. Placencia Village is a great base from which to explore other parts of the peninsula. There are numerous luxury hotels to choose from in Placencia, and a range of high-quality local restaurants.
The town of San Ignacio in Western Belize is an ideal place to stay for nature lovers and travelers wanting to immerse themselves in local culture. Located in Belize´s Cayo District, San Ignacio is easily accessible from Belize City by public transport. With a plethora of shops and restaurants, the town is abuzz, particularly during the weekend. There is a nice mix of tourists and local residents.
Another former fishing village, Hopkins has gained a name in the tourism industry in recent years, although it is still far from being overcrowded. Located in Southern Belize, Hopkins is well-connected to the national public transport. Whilst it is only small, it is well worth spending a few nights in this pretty seaside town.
If you want to stay in a dream destination that is off the beaten track, head to Maya Beach! It is quiet, quaint and unspoilt but easily accessible by public transport or taxi. This tiny beach town on the Placencia Peninsula is a beach-lover´s paradise, with miles of sandy beaches, hammocks and several seafront hotels. Watersport enthusiasts can also find plenty to do here and there are a number of snorkeling and diving tours further along the peninsula.
Dangriga is another fascinating cultural hotspot that makes for a rewarding stay when in Belize! Capital of the Stan Creek District in Southern Belize, you will have a rich and varied experience in Dangriga Town. Along with Hopkins, it is the centre of the Garifuna Community in Belize. The Belizean ‘Punta Rock’ genre of music was born here, and there are many local music festivals throughout the year which celebrate this genre.
Moving up to the very northern part of Belize, Corozal is an excellent alternative destination off-the beaten track. It is gaining popularity in the tourism industry, though, despite remaining unknown to many travelers. Corozal is a relaxed, tranquil town on the Belize/ Mexican border. Just a short drive from Chetumal (Mexico’s Quintana Roo state capital), there is a strong Mexican influence in Corozal, from the food to the local customs. It is easy to make the short day trip over the border.
Another idyllic destination to stay a few nights is Punta Gorda- the capital of the Toldeo District on Belize’s Southern Caribbean Coast. There are many touristy activities in the district as a whole that are typical of Belize’s main attractions. Punta Gorda is a great base from which to explore. Adventurous travellers can go fishing or snorkeling in the pristine waters of Garbutt’s Marine, participate in watersports and take tours to reefs further out along the coast. There are also several classic Mayan archeological sites within the district that would satisfy any history buff.
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