The Beaches of Belize

For a relatively small nation, Belize is blessed with more beachfront than many larger nations, and its coastline is a model of pristine sand and water, enjoyed by tourists who come to the nation strictly for beach time.

At 386+ km, visitors who aren’t content to dig their feet into the sand find plenty to do along these beaches that range from kayaking and swimming to scuba diving and sailing.

With an abundance of cayes in close proximity (200+), vacationers enjoy time splashing in the Caribbean Sea while exploring offshore islands. Many are uninhabited and make ideal launching spots for swimming, diving, fishing, surfing and other water sports. Plenty of visitors come to picnic and relax.

Belize and Belizeans regard their beaches as national treasures, which is why tourism entities talk so much about their beauty and tranquility when asked what single factor draws visitors from around the world.

Segments of beaches are protected by environmentalists instrumental in having them declared national parks and wildlife refuges. These sanctuaries moderate the amount of development and deforestation that can take place and establish Belize as a model for nations eager to emulate the nation’s landmark beachfront conservation efforts.

The Beaches of Belize Never Fail to Delight Visitors

We have carefully assessed every major beach in order to create this list of our top five favorite destinations:

Placencia

The Spanish called it “Pleasant Point” (Punta Placencia), and it’s a very appropriate name for this 16-mile stretch of golden sand beaches on the southeastern coast of Belize.

Despite its growing popularity, it’s still easy to find a secluded stretch of beach in Placencia. Definitely check out Placencia Village at the southern tip of the peninsula, home to colorful street murals and the world’s smallest “main street” (a four-foot wide pedestrian-only sidewalk) lined with cafes, shops, and great places to find a bite to eat.

Ambergris Caye

The largest of Belize’s offshore island, Ambergris Caye gained international fame after the 1986 Madonna hit song “La Isla Bonita” was released. Ambergris Caye is a popular tourist spot known for its capital of San Pedro where you can find great seafood and an active nightlife.

Probably the most beautiful beach on the island is near Ramon’s Village, although definitely don’t miss Boca Del Rio.

Caye Caulker

One of the closest islands to the mainland, Caye Caulker is Ambergris’s hip younger sibling. Less touristy and developed, Caye Caulker has great beaches, including the areas near Koko King and the Lazy Lizard bar.

Hopkins

Originally a fishing village, Hopkins is now a top destination to learn more about Garifuna culture. Regularly voted as the friendliest village in the country, Hopkins is split in two by a bay with plenty of unspoiled stretches of beach to choose from.

Half Moon Caye

This island is situated on the outer edge of the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and protected marine area. If you’ve ever imagined a beautiful tropical island with palm trees swaying in the breeze, Half Moon Caye certainly fits the bill.

Some areas of beach serve as the nesting ground for a colony of red-footed boobies, but most people come to the island for the wealth of nearby dive sites, including the legendary Great Blue Hole of Belize.