Cayes
Belize consists of the mainland, as well as the surrounding islands, which are called Cayes. Each Caye is unique in the environment, culture, and attractions available. But they all have one thing in common - the beautiful environment, surrounded by the crystal blue Belizean waters, great for scuba diving.
Ambergris Caye
The most famous of the Belize Cayes, Ambergris Caye has made its name by making available great hotels, resorts, restaurants, and water activities. The many amenities of Ambergris Caye have been attracting tourists for years, and continues to grow in popularity. San Pedro, the largest town on the island, is becoming so popular, that they know have their own airport. If you are looking for great adventure in Belize, you are bound to find it on Ambergris Caye.
Caye Caulker
Just 5 miles long, Caye Caulker is the perfect place for a sun-worshipping, scuba diving vacationer. The island offers about 60 hotels to choose from, with activities offered daily both on and off the island. Caye Caulker is located just north of Caye Chapel, and is the cheaper alternative to a great island vacation.
Caye Chapel
The entire island of Caye Chapel is filled by the Caye Chapel Island Resort. What has best been described as a paradise, Caye Chapel boasts ultimate privacy with your choice of a private villa or casita. This first class resort is rather pricy, but includes everything from a champion golf course to secluded beaches and fantastic dining. Perfect for the big spender who desires a secluded getaway.
Hatchet Caye
Hatchet Caye is definitely one of the best kept secrets in Belize. It is located about 20 miles of the coast of southern Belize, and is the best option for ultimate seclusion. By renting the (not so cheap) island, you will literally be getting your own private island. The only other residents will be the people waiting on you. Now that’s paradise!
Laughing Bird Caye
With virtually no lodging on Belize’s Laughing Bird Caye, the island is home to Laughing Bird Caye National Park. Within the Park and throughout Laughing Bird Caye, you will find many different and unique marine animals and habitats. The island was named for the laughing gull, which is still abundant today. This Caye has been described as one of the best for protecting the natural habitat and animals which reside. Just 11 miles from the coast of mainland Belize, this Caye it is quickly and easily accessible for the animal and nature lover.
Southwater Caye
Southwater Caye, along with most of the Belize Cayes, focuses primarily on water activities, offering quick access to the world’s longest living coral reef. Scuba divers can take most advantage of this beautiful scenery, however snorkelers are bound to see an array of marine life just feet from the shore. The very few lodging options will guarantee a private vacation, away from the major tourists Cayes.
St. George’s Caye
Made famous by the Battle of St. George by the British and Spanish, St. George’s Caye is inhabited more by vacation homes than hotels. More a day trip to see historical sites, than a week long vacation, St. George’s Caye is the site for the battle which is celebrated on September 10 as a National holiday.
Tobacco Caye
Situated just east of Central Belize’s city of Dangriga, Tobacco Caye is the perfect getaway for those who are looking for seclusion. You will be sharing the island with only a few dozen travelers, among the Caye’s 6 hotels. The Belize Barrier Reef is just south of Tobacco Caye, making this Caye a supreme location for that perfect dive.
Whipray Caye
Made famous by its tremendous fishing opportunities, Whipray Caye most commonly attracts those looking to get away by relaxing on the water, instead of under it. The great accessibility of boats to the island, along with the tremendous catch, makes Whipray Caye the perfect "angler’s paradise."
