23 Reasons Why I Love San Pedro Belize
San Pedro definitely wasn’t love at first sight. I despised the garbage along the beach, the seemingly looking “run-down” town, and the millions of no-see-ums/mosquitoes (the reason why I was so itchy all god-damn week).
But after my week or so there, I finally realized why Madonna dubbed this island “La Isla Bonita”. Sure, the palms and beautiful blue skies were easy on the eyes, but the island called to me in a deeper way than any other, say like Maui or St. Lucia.
It was just different. Tons of character in every direction. The longer I stayed there the more I felt I was connecting with the island. I had met so many people coming back year after year, bringing their families and small kids. It finally made sense.
And when I sat down and actually thought about my newfound love with this tiny blip of land in the ocean, I discovered what my life is truly missing- the stress-free island life atmosphere.
And 23 reasons more:
1) The fact that you get old school soda bottles at almost every restaurant just brings a permanent smile to my face. A great way to recycle and reduce waste (instead of using plastic cups which will eventually either get thrown out or left on the beach) <– something that makes me completely furious inside! I love that the restaurants do this- way to conserve! Plus, its super fun feeling like you’re back in the 80’s for a hot second. Kind of funny that this was the first thing that came to mind while making this list…
4) The artwork in town is beyond gorgeous, as are the handmade bags and backpacks seen along the beach. Im still pretty pissed at myself for not investing in a small piece or two, especially since it was so readily available. Oh well :/ Guess I’ll just have to go back!
6) The easiest way to get around is by golf cart (or walking), which is easier and way more fun than it sounds. You’ll see a ton of BMWs in San Pedro, basic men walking or on wheels. Haha- get it?!
7) The food. And a whole lot of it. A myriad of restaurants to choose from, from cheapy cheapy to what they consider five star. Plantain crusted calamari, breakfast burritos, and coconut curry galore. I could go for a strawberry mango smoothie right now. Oh and the artisan grilled cheeses. Drool.
8) If you’re in town, make sure you head to D and E’s frozen custard, my absolute favorite on the island. Walk in and you’ll see that people from around the world agree as well, by looking at all the drawings and holiday cards they receive. Try Mannelys as well, another ice cream shoppe, but I had heard too many good things about D and E’s to even venture off.
9) Belikins, Lighthouses, and Panty Rippers. Cant go wrong with any of these staples on San Pedro.
10) The town isnt full of tourists alone. There’s just something nice about walking alongside locals and their dogs (fully trained and very friendly btw!) and seeing local children laughing and playing in the town park. Definitely makes it seem a little more homey.
12) High adventure activities, such as cave tubing and ziplining, are available on the mainland. We tried both, and i have to say that flying throughout the forest and floating down our tubes in complete blackness will surely get your blood pumping. Another favorite day of mine!