Belize, a country in Central America that offers a breathtaking coastline kissed by sun and turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

With over 200 islands and cays, many untouched and pristine, this destination invites Lykkers to discover diverse coastal gems, from lively beaches to tranquil hideaways.

This guide covers what to expect, where to go, how to get there, what to see and do, and practical details including accommodation options.

Where to Find the Best Beaches

Placencia Peninsula

Stretching 26 kilometers along golden sands and emerald waters, the Placencia Peninsula is a peaceful seaside retreat. It features three adjacent beaches: Maya Beach, Seine Bight, and Placencia Beach at the southern tip.

Placencia Village, nearby, offers charming boutiques, cafés, and hotels, favored by visitors looking for a mix of relaxation and local culture. From here, boat rentals allow exploration of secluded coves, diving spots, or mangrove cruises to spot wildlife like howler monkeys and crocodiles.

Costs:

- Boutique hotels ($80–$300/night, depending on season)

- Local cafés & restaurants (meals $5–$25)

- Boat rentals for snorkeling, fishing, or island-hopping ($150–$400/day, depending on group size)

- Snorkeling & Diving (Half-day trips ~$80–$120/person, full-day ~$150–$200)

- Mangrove Wildlife Cruises (Spot manatees, howler monkeys & crocs; ~$60–$100/person)

- Deep-Sea Fishing (Half-day charters from $400, full-day $600+)

Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is the largest island and a well-known paradise for beach lovers. South and north of the popular town of San Pedro, several beautiful beaches offer clear turquoise waters perfect for swimming. The beach in front of Banyan Bay Suites is especially picturesque, while Ramon's Village beach near town is popular for its calm, swim-friendly waters.

Accommodation ranges from luxury resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses, many with direct beach access. Nearby marine reserves like Hol Chan provide top snorkeling and diving experiences, including Shark Ray Alley, known for close encounters with nurse sharks and southern rays.

Costs:

- Luxury Resorts (e.g., Victoria House, Alaia Belize) – $300–$800+/night

- Mid-Range Hotels (e.g., Ramon’s Village, Banyan Bay) – $150–$300/night

- Budget Guesthouses & Hostels – $50–$120/night

- Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley (Snorkeling ~$60–$90/person, Diving ~$100–$150)

- Sailing & Sunset Cruises (~$70–$120/person, includes drinks)

- Fishing Charters (Half-day ~$400, Full-day ~$600+)

South Water Caye

Located about 11 miles off the coast near Dangriga, South Water Caye is part of a protected marine reserve. Pelican Beach here is a picture-perfect stretch of sugar-white sand and blue-green water, offering excellent snorkeling and diving just offshore. The island is still relatively undeveloped, with only two resorts, making it an ideal spot for peaceful beach days and nature exploration.

Costs:

- Blue Marlin Lodge – ~$300–$500/night, all-inclusive

- Pelican Beach Resort – ~$200–$350/night, meals included

- Snorkeling – Swim straight from shore to coral gardens (free if staying on the island; guided tours ~$40–$60).

- Diving – Explore the Great Blue Hole (day trips ~$350) or nearby reef walls (~$100–$150 per dive).

- Kayaking & Paddleboarding – Often free for guests.

- Manatee Spotting – Boat tours (~$75–$120) through the nearby mangroves.

Hopkins Village Beach

Hopkins Village Beach is an 8-kilometer stretch of sand lined by swaying coconut palms on the southeast coast. About 45 minutes south of Dangriga, this beach provides a blend of local culture and natural beauty.

The water is clear though not as bright turquoise as other spots, but the lively village atmosphere compensates with colorful lodgings and local eateries serving traditional dishes. Hopkins is renowned for saltwater fly fishing and offshore sport fishing, making it a favorite for anglers with numerous charter options available.

Costs:

- Saltwater Fly Fishing (Flats for tarpon, permit, bonefish) – Half-day ~$400, full-day ~$600+.

- Offshore Sport Fishing (Tuna, barracuda, snapper) – Charters from ~$500/day.

- Snorkeling at nearby Gladden Spit (~$80–$120, seasonal whale shark tours available).

- Kayaking & SUP (Often free at resorts).

- Garifuna Drumming Lessons (~$20–$30/person).

Half Moon Caye

Half Moon Caye features a crescent-shaped beach of soft white sand and is protected as a natural monument. Visitors come to enjoy the tranquil setting and observe nesting sea turtles, the island’s primary wildlife residents.

The island also hosts around 4,000 rare bird species including the distinctive Sula leucogaster, with an observation tower offering panoramic views. Half Moon Caye is accessible via day trips from nearby islands and provides an unforgettable nature experience.

Day Trips from Long Caye or Belize City cost $200–$300, including lunch & gear.

Getting There and Around

Most of Belize’s beaches on the mainland are accessible by car or shuttle from the main cities (~2.5 hrs, $100–$150 private shuttle). For island destinations like Ambergris Caye, South Water Caye, and Half Moon Caye, boat transfers or water taxis from Belize City, Placencia, or Dangriga are the usual options (~1.5 hrs, $30–$40 RT). Regular ferry services and private charters operate frequently, especially during peak season.

Accommodation Average Costs

Belize offers a range of accommodations near beaches from luxury resorts to cozy guesthouses and budget lodges. On Ambergris Caye and Placencia Peninsula, nightly rates for mid-range hotels generally range from $80 to $150, with luxury options exceeding $300.

More remote islands like South Water Caye have limited lodging, mostly boutique resorts with prices from $150 to $250 per night. Hopkins Village Beach provides affordable guesthouses and small hotels averaging $60 to $100 per night.

To Conclude

Belize’s coastline and islands deliver diverse beach experiences for Lykkers seeking everything from lively resort towns to untouched natural havens.

Easy access combined with rich marine life, local culture, and wide accommodation choices make Belize a top destination for those wanting to enjoy sun, sand, and sea in a friendly, welcoming setting. Whether planning water adventures or peaceful days lounging on powdery sands, the beaches of Belize promise unforgettable memories.