If lying in a hammock under the palm trees sounds like a perfect vacation plan, Belize definitely belongs on your bucket list. With about 200 offshore islands or cayes, it's an unsurpassable beach destination with year-round warm ocean waters. You can rent a boat and discover one of 20 of Belize's uninhibited islands or opt for a luxurious beach resort with overwater bungalows and island cabanas. To get the best beach experience in Belize, it's best to travel during the dry season from December through May. If you plan your trip during summer or fall, you can expect showers and cloudy skies.
Maya Beach (Placencia Penninsula)
Placencia peninsula is arguable the best beach destination in Belize. Located in the Stann Creek District of Belize, between Riversdale Village and Seine Bight, Maya Beach is famous for its golden sand and clear waters. The area is easy to access from major towns. It also boasts several restaurants, nightclubs, and luxury hotels so it's a perfect option for those who want to relax with comfort and amenities.
Hopkins Beach (Dangriga)
Hopkins Village is famous for its top fishing and great food. The village has also been voted the friendliest in Belize. Located just a short drive from Dangriga, it's populated by Garífuna people keen in music and various crafts. The 5 mi (8 km) Hopkins beach is picture-perfect and lined with palm trees. Many secluded spots can be found around False Sittee Point.
Pelican Beach (South Water Caye)
South Water Caye, located about 14 mi (22 km) southeast of Dangriga, is an idyllic tropical paradise. Due to its position atop the Belize Barrier Reef, it's a perfect place for snorkeling among the corals and spotting exotic fish. Beachfront cabanas with hammocks are perfect for total relaxation and immersion in nature.
Half Moon Caye
Half Moon Caye is not just an island. Located at the southeast corner of Lighthouse Reef atoll, it is a natural monument of Belize and a protected territory due to turtle and bird nesting sites. This moon-shaped island features a thriving coral reef, making it a perfect snorkeling destination. Part of the island is occupied by the red-footed booby sanctuary. If you get bored by the beach, you can hike to higher ground and enjoy a view of the bird colony.
Secret Beach, Coco Beach (Ambergris Caye)
Located on North Ambergris Caye, Secret Beach is a perfect getaway to enjoy crystal clear blue water and pristine sand. You can rent one of the beachfront cabanas and spend your days relaxing in a hammock and swimming. Kayak and paddleboard rental are also available. If you are looking for high-end beach accommodations, head to nearby Coco Beach, located in 3.5 mi (5.6 km) north of San Pedro. It boasts several swimming pools, jacuzzi, waterslides, and a swim-up pool bar.
From Belize's largest island, Ambergris Caye, to the tiniest ones, like Silk Caye or Laughing Bird Caye, you'll be smitten by this Caribbean country's natural beauty. Its secluded beaches and protected waters—flush with schools of fish, sea turtles, and rays—are sure to please even the pickiest traveler.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Belize for beach vacations?
The period between December and May is ideal for beach getaways in Belize. During these months, the weather is favorable, with plenty of sunshine and less rainfall. It's also a perfect time for swimming and enjoying the warm and clear ocean waters. However, the weather changes between summer and fall, and visitors should expect cloudy and rainy weather. If you don't mind the showers, you can have a great time at the beach during these periods too. Show more
Where can I find luxury beach resorts and overwater bungalows in Belize?
If you're looking for luxury, high-end accommodation, Maya Beach, Placencia Peninsula, and Secret Beach, Ambergris Caye, are excellent options worth exploring. Maya Beach is home to luxury beach resorts with exceptional amenities and unmatched services. Secret Beach offers beautiful luxury beachfront cabanas, providing the perfect relaxation getaway. Placencia Peninsula boasts of the best overwater bungalows that give visitors a breathtaking view of the ocean. Make the perfect choice and enjoy the best of your stay. Show more
What are the best activities to enjoy in South Water Caye?
South Water Caye offers great aquatic activities to enjoy, such as snorkeling, diving or swimming in the clear ocean waters. There are exotic fish species and coral reefs to explore as the island sits on top of the Belize Barrier Reef. Additionally, swimming around the island offers visitors a chance to take in the breathtaking views alongside the beautiful sand surroundings. While there, you can bask in the tropical climate and relax in the beachfront cabanas for the best experience. Show more
Where can I find secluded spots for swimming and sunbathing in Hopkins Beach?
False Sittee Point is a great spot for a peaceful escape from the crowds in Hopkins Beach. It's favored by tourists because of the tranquil environment that allows them to relax and engage with nature. The site has clear waters and beautiful sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing. Besides, the scenic view of the location is simply breathtaking and worth undertaking the short trip from Hopkins Village for quality family or personal time. Show more
What is the main attraction of Half Moon Caye and where can I find it?
Half Moon Caye boasts of the red-footed booby bird sanctuary as its primary attraction. The bird sanctuary occupies part of the island, which is a protected turtle and bird nesting site. Half Moon Caye is situated on the southeast end of Lighthouse Reef atoll and is an exceptional natural monument in Belize. Visitors can hike to higher grounds to catch the view of the bird colony or go snorkeling to explore the well-preserved coral reefs of this beautiful island in Belize. Show more
