Caye Caulker
Looking for all the elements of a relaxing vacation in one spot? Look no further. Caye Caulker is a picture-perfect little getaway that gently whispers fun in a peaceful, quiet way. It is literally a footloose and fancy-free destination. Soothing breezes, swaying palms and azure Caribbean waters beckon travelers to the sun-splashed caye only 21 miles northeast of Belize City.
It’s easy to find your way. From one end to the other, the island is only five miles long and a half-mile wide. Its northern and southern sections were separated by a watery passage called The Split during Hurricane Hattie (1961). On the southern part are cozy hotels, restaurants, gift shops, dive operators and other businesses. The northern section is less develop and is home to the 105-acre Caye Caulker Forest Reserve.
On the populated end, only a handful of streets span from the Airstrip north to The Split. The longest streets are Front Street, Middle Street and Back Street that parallel each other through town. (“Front” means toward the reef, “Back” toward the mainland.) Quaint open-air shops, seaside pubs, restaurants, inns and guesthouses flank Front Street.
History & Culture
The history and culture is similar to that of Ambergris Caye. The island’s friendly populace is an interesting mix of Belizeans and foreigners. Although visited by Mexican fisher-men and pirates, the first inhabitants were Spanish and Mestizos refugees from the onset of the Yucatan Caste War in 1848. They built their houses from palmetto palms growing on the island.
Soon after the caye was settled, coconut palms became the initial industry, and coconut plantations (cocales) were established. Spelled “Cay Corker” on early maps, the island was known for its supply of freshwater. One theory holds the island was a favorite stop to replenish and cork water bottles. Some believe its name came from pirates who caulked their boats there. Others say it came from the Spanish name “Cayo Hicaco” or Cocoplum Caye, an edible fruit found abundantly on the island.
Tours & Activities
Be sure to allow time at “The Split,” named for the channel that divides the island into two. Here you will find plenty of sun, sand, and even beach bar that brings in people from from all over Belize for its views and stiff local drinks. The famous seawall is part of The Split’s personality, and is a popular spot for sunbathing and swimming in the clean, deep water. There is also a wading area, picnic tables, a spa, restaurants, and kayak and paddleboard rentals.
GO SNORKELING:
Begin your adventure by grabbing your snorkeling gear and exploring the shallow waters around Caye Caulker. Alternatively, you can join a guided tour to Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley, where you’ll have the incredible opportunity to swim alongside countless nurse sharks and Southern Sting Rays.
EXPLORE BELIZE’S BARRIER REEF: For diving enthusiasts, Belize’s Barrier Reef is a must-visit destination, and Caye Caulker offers convenient access to some of its most stunning dive sites. Moreover, if diving the world-renowned Blue Hole is on your bucket list, you’ll find plenty of tours departing right from the island to make that dream a reality.
Snorkeling: $50USD per person + $10 park fees
Reef diving: $90USD per person, 2 tank dives
Blue Hole Diving: $285USD per person + $40 park fees (cash)
Tours from Caye Caulker will take you in search of the docile West Indian Antillean manatees, which are found in many parts of Belize. Tours to the nearby Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary will give you a glimpse of this protected species and its natural habitat. These gentle creatures locally referred to as “sea cow,” often surface near the boat giving you ample photo opportunities.
The Tour
The tour consists of visiting the Mangrove island of Swallow Caye and viewing the gentle sea cows in their natural habitat. You will also visit the historical island of St. George’s Caye; followed by 2 snorkeling stops.
$150USD per person. Minimum 2 people
Set sail at 8 a.m. and embark on an unforgettable escape to Goff’s Caye, a stunning island nestled atop a majestic reef in Belize. Begin your adventure by diving into the crystal-clear waters, where you can enjoy unlimited snorkeling. Afterward, indulge in a delicious beach barbecue, followed by some time to relax and unwind on the soft, picturesque sandbar.
If you prefer a more laid-back experience, you can bask in the sun with a favorite book or savor a refreshing drink from the wide selection of soft and hard beverages available. As the day winds down, return to Caye Caulker around 5 p.m., bringing this idyllic and memorable adventure to a perfect close.
$200 per person. 2 People minimum
This is one of the best cave tours in Belize. The Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave has been declared the world’s most sacred cave by National Geographic. Journey back in time to explore this sacred cave, previously untouched for thousands of years!
All-inclusive Tour Includes:
- Roundtrip flight to/from Belize City, entrance fees, equipment, packed lunch and water (meal preferences can be arranged)
- Departure Time from the island is 7 AM
- Your pick-up in Belize City is scheduled for 8 AM sharp – so it is critical that you board the flight on time!
- Your tour will be with a certified gold-standard tour operator, with an ATM-licensed guide.
What to bring?
- Closed-toe or water shoes (no flip flops)
- Pair of socks (mandatory)
- Change of Clothes and Towel
- Bug spray
- No type of cameras
- Cash for Snacks and Tips
Price: $270 per person based on double. $380 for single
Your tour will begin at 6:30am with a boat ride to Belize City by water taxi, (45-60mins) where your guide will meet and great you. The first stop will be at Xunantunich Maya Site. Here where the jade head carving of the Sun God was found you’ll experience the awe of the major accomplishments of the ancient Maya Civilization.
After the Xunantunich tour, you’ll journey to the Caves Branch Reserve. Begin with a knee-deep river wade, followed by a guided jungle and dry cave walk to the starting point. After a safety briefing, float through the caves with your headlamp lighting the way. The journey will wind through caves and ends along a jungle-lined river, finishing where you began.
Enjoy lunch with a beverage before returning. Your guide will drop you off at the water taxi terminal or Minicipal Airport if you book the option with flight transfers from/to Caye Caulker.
$225USD per person. Based on 4 people
Add $95 per person for air transfers in place of water taxi