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Ambergris Caye
Belize
Visit Ambergris Caye
Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize, is a slice of paradise that beckons travelers with its stunning Caribbean charm, laid-back atmosphere, and vibrant marine life. Located just off the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest coral reef system in the world, this island is a haven for scuba divers, snorkelers, and marine enthusiasts. The town of San Pedro serves as the island's bustling hub, where golf carts dominate the streets, and colorful buildings line the sandy shores. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, savoring Belizean cuisine, exploring artisan shops, and enjoying the lively nightlife.
The island's greatest allure perhaps lies beneath the waves. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve, a protected zone just a short boat ride from San Pedro, offers some of the best snorkeling and diving experiences in the Caribbean. The reserve is teeming with vibrant coral formations, and its clear waters are home to an array of marine life including turtles, nurse sharks, and countless species of fish. For a truly unforgettable experience, a visit to the famous Shark Ray Alley is a must, where snorkelers can swim alongside gentle nurse sharks and graceful stingrays in their natural habitat.
Beyond the water, Ambergris Caye offers a plethora of activities and excursions. Visitors can explore the island's northern and southern ends, which are less developed and offer serene beaches and untouched landscapes, perfect for a day of cycling or kayaking. For those interested in history and culture, a day trip to mainland Belize to visit ancient Maya ruins such as Altun Ha or Lamanai adds a fascinating dimension to the trip. As the sun sets, the beachfront bars and restaurants come alive, offering the perfect opportunity to relax with a Belizean rum punch while enjoying a spectacular view of the Caribbean Sea.
Whether you're seeking adventure in the great outdoors, looking to unwind by the sea, or eager to dive into the rich tapestry of marine life, Ambergris Caye promises a memorable escape. Its combination of natural beauty, friendly locals, and endless activities makes it a top destination for travelers looking for a tropical getaway in Belize.
Ambergris Caye Monthly Weather Conditions
LOW
TEMP
HIGH
TEMP
DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
71°F
75°F
12
February
72°F
75°F
13
March
72°F
82°F
12
April
76°F
82°F
12
May
77°F
86°F
12
June
77°F
87°F
12
July
79°F
86°F
11
August
79°F
89°F
12
September
77°F
88°F
12
October
75°F
86°F
11
November
72°F
82°F
11
December
72°F
77°F
12
Need to Know Before You Go To Ambergris Caye
Nickname:
La Isla Bonita
Primary Language:
English, Spanish, Belizean Creole
Time Zone:
America/Belize
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type B and Type G
Annual Visitors:
1.25 million
Primary Export:
Tourism
Busiest Travel Months:
December, March, January
Quietest Travel Months:
October, September, August
Find your Next Adventure in Ambergris Caye
Explore Ambergris Caye
Iconic Landmarks
The Great Blue Hole
- A giant marine sinkhole off the coast, famous for its deep blue color and ideal for diving to explore its underwater caves and coral formations.
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
- A protected area that offers some of the best snorkeling and diving experiences in Belize, featuring abundant marine life and beautiful coral reefs.
Shark Ray Alley
- A popular snorkeling destination within Hol Chan Marine Reserve where visitors can swim alongside nurse sharks and stingrays in their natural habitat.
San Pedro Town
- The island's main town known for its sandy streets, colorful buildings, and a vibrant atmosphere that embodies the local culture and nightlife.
Secret Beach
- A once-hidden gem on the west coast of the island, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying less crowded beach experiences.
Marco Gonzalez Maya Site
- An ancient Maya archaeological site on the southern tip of Ambergris Caye, offering insights into the pre-Columbian history of the island.
Cultural Experiences
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
- Explore this vibrant underwater world where you can snorkel or dive among colorful coral reefs, diverse marine life, and historical shipwrecks.
San Pedro House of Culture
- Delve into the local history and cultural heritage of Ambergris Caye through exhibits, events, and local art displays.
Belizean Melody Art Gallery
- Experience Belizean creativity firsthand in this gallery featuring artworks and crafts made by local artists.
San Pedro Town
- Wander through the bustling streets of San Pedro to soak up the local atmosphere, enjoy Belizean cuisine, and shop for handmade souvenirs.
Chicken Drop
- Participate in this unique and quirky local gambling event where spectators bet on where a chicken will drop its next poop.
Festival of San Pedro
- Join in the annual festivities celebrating the patron saint of San Pedro with parades, dancing, music, and traditional food.
Outdoor Adventures
Snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve
- Explore vibrant coral reefs and swim alongside diverse marine life in this protected channel that is part of the Belize Barrier Reef.
Scuba Diving at the Great Blue Hole
- Dive into this world-famous sinkhole to witness unique geological formations and a variety of deep-sea species.
Fishing Trips
- Experience the thrill of catching tarpon, bonefish, and permit in the abundant waters surrounding the island.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
- Paddle through calm waters and mangrove channels, perfect for spotting wildlife and enjoying serene landscapes.
Wind Surfing and Kite Surfing
- Take advantage of the island’s steady winds and open waters to engage in these exhilarating water sports.
Bird Watching at Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve
- Traverse through diverse habitats in this remote part of the island, spotting rare and migratory birds.
Off the Beaten Path
Secret Beach
A less crowded alternative to the main beaches, offering pristine waters and a more relaxed vibe.
Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve
Accessible by boat, this remote reserve offers exceptional snorkeling and a glimpse into the area's diverse marine life.
Marco Gonzalez Maya Site
An ancient Maya archaeological site that provides a unique look into the history and culture of the Maya civilization.
Robles Point
A secluded beach area north of Ambergris Caye, perfect for a quiet day of relaxation and exploration.
Tranquility Bay
Situated far from the bustling town, this spot offers peace with beautiful views and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
Punta Azul
Known for its stunning and remote stretches of beach, it's ideal for those looking to escape the more tourist-heavy areas.
Ambergris Caye Fun Facts
- Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize, located in the Caribbean Sea.
- The island is a top destination for scuba diving and snorkeling, especially at the Belize Barrier Reef.
- Ambergris Caye was once a trading center for the ancient Maya civilization.
- The name "Ambergris" refers to the valuable whale byproduct once thought to be found on its shores.
- San Pedro is the island’s only town and serves as the cultural hub.
- The island is famous for its laid-back lifestyle and has no traffic lights.
- Ambergris Caye has been a popular location for various television shows, including the reality series “Temptation Island.”
- The island is home to the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, a protected area that spans about 18 square kilometers.
- English is the official language, making it easy for tourists to navigate and communicate.
- Ambergris Caye has a rich biodiversity, including marine life like nurse sharks, stingrays, and colorful coral formations.
Featured Picture Gallery
If You're an Adventure Seeker, Swim with the Native Nurse Sharks
Relax and Watch the Sunset Along the Beach
Snorkeling is a Common Excursion for Tourists
Take a Dip in the Crystal Clear Waters
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