View of San Pedro Town from Ramon’s pier

Belize largest Caribbean Island Getaway

Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye

This is the largest island in Belize and one of the most popular destinations in the country for island-seekers. It is approximately 15 minutes by flight and 1 hour by water taxi from Belize City. It features the most resorts in the country including a number of dedicated dive resorts and the finest array of restaurants, shops and bars. You will enjoy its tropical charm, island life and the daily adventures available.

Along the entire length of Ambergris Caye, the reef which is only 1/2 offshore comprised of spectacular three dimensional coral formations which include canyons, grottoes and tunnels. The more common reef fishes do not appear here in great numbers compared to elsewhere. However, there are a greater number of pelagic fish such as sharks and rays and a considerable number of porpoise and turtles.

History & Culture

The heartbeat of Ambergris Caye is the bustling town of San Pedro situated on the southern end of the island, most of the island activities are centered here. The town is named after Saint Peter, the patron saint of fishermen. Founded in the mid-1800s, it was a refuge for Mestizos (people of mixed Spanish and Indian bloodlines) fleeing the Yucatan War of Caste in Mexico. San Pedro Town is the island hub. It’s where everything begins and ends, including air and water taxi arrivals and departures.

The Town is a delightful blend of the Caribbean, seasoned nicely with a touch of the Yucatan and a dash of old Key West served with the island warm, Belizean hospitality. Tiki bars, seaside restaurants and night clubs dot the waterfront and Main Street. This is the perfect place for visitors who would like to mix in a little night life with lots of fun in the sun. There are hotels, guesthouses, boutiques, dive stores and a full menu of places to eat and drink in town. The lifestyle is laid-back and easy going.

Golf carts are the most convenient way to get around and the primary means of transportation on the island. Some of the resorts located outside the town are within walking distance. For those that aren’t, bicycles, golf carts and water taxis are readily available.

Things To Do from Ambergris Caye

Tours & Activities

Shark Ray Alley snorkeling

One of the most popular snorkeling sites off the coast of Ambergris Caye is Shark Ray Alley; here you can interact up close and personal with the sharks and stingrays. The water is about eight feet deep hence an excellent place to see sharks and stingrays up close and personal.

Belize Location

Another favorite spot is Hol Chan Marine Reserve, a five-square-mile underwater park at the southern end of the caye. The park is located about four miles southeast of San Pedro Town and is a haven for marine life. The coral is thick and full of color, graced with a never ending parade of fish darting in and out. The shallow waters make this a popular spot for divers and snorkelers alike.

Snorkeling: $50 per person + $10 park fees

There are also an abundance of spectacular local dive sites. The following are a few of the best ones.

– Robles Point
– Mexico Canyons
– Pescador Tunnels
– Palmero Canyons
– Basil Jones Canyons
– Mexico Cut
– Tres Cocos Cut and much more!

$90 per person for 2 tank dives

Belize Location
This trip is plan on a daily basis, but need a minimum of 10 people to confirm. Divers and snorkelers from all over the island are usually booked together to make the trip possible.

Dive Sites

3 Tank dives at the most spectacular sites are included:

  • The Great Blue Hole (divers go down to about 130ft / 40 meters)
  • Half Moon Caye Wall (maximum depth of 50ft-60ft / 15-18 meters)
  • Long Caye Wall also known as The Aquarium (maximum depth of 50ft-60ft / 15-18 meters)

The Blue Hole and the island of Half Moon Caye are natural monuments and as such are protected areas which require park entry fees as follows:

  • Blue Hole: US $30
  • Half Moon Caye:: US $10

Total: US $40 (which must be brought in cash to be paid on the island of Half Moon Caye)

Note: To dive the Blue Hole you are require to have a recent logged dive within 6 months and at a minimum depth of 80ft. If these requirements are not met you should consider doing a local dive before heading out to the Blue Hole.

Itinerary

Pick Up: Done via boat between 5:15 to 5:30am depending on where you are staying. Complimentary pick up extends from Tuto (north) all the way down to Pelican Reef (south).

Food includes, continental breakfast, lunch, fruits throughout the day, refreshments and drinks on the way back.

Price: $285 per person + $40 park fees (cash)

Not Included: 12.5 % Government Sales Tax. Equipment Rental & Gratuities not included

Ambergris Caye Location

Ambergris Caye Resorts Caye Caulker Placencia Peninsula Hopkins Bay Cayo Southern Belize