Belize, a gem on the northeast coast of Central America, is a land of enchanting diversity and beauty. With its rich Mayan heritage, stunning coral reefs, and unique blend of Caribbean and Central American cultures, it offers a truly diverse and vibrant experience.
The country is also a biodiversity hotspot, home to extensive coral reefs and a part of the Mesoamerican Biological Corridor. Its largest city, Belize City, is a vibrant gateway to the nation, blending colonial architecture, bustling markets, and picturesque waterfronts.
Caye Caulker, just 20 miles from Belize City, epitomizes Belize’s laid-back charm. This small limestone coral island, a haven for backpackers and marine enthusiasts, is known for its “go slow” approach to life.
Picture sandy streets, colorful buildings, palm trees, and beach bars. The island offers a slice of paradise with its marine reserves, perfect for snorkeling and diving alongside nurse sharks and stingrays.
Things to Do in Caye Caulker
Embark on a serene adventure at Caye Caulker, where the “Go Slow” motto invites you to savor the island’s laid-back charm. Here are five top things to dive into for an unforgettable escape:
Caye Caulker
Watersports: There’s a variety of watersports you can enjoy here, including jet skiing, windsurfing, kiteboarding, and more.
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Snorkel in Hol Chan Marine Reserve: Don your fins and snorkel alongside sharks, sea turtles, and spotted eagle rays. Explore the Belize Barrier Reef, the world’s second-largest, for a mesmerizing underwater experience with vibrant marine life.
Sunset Sailing: Experience the breathtaking Caribbean sunsets on a sailboat tour. It’s a romantic and serene way to end your day. Before sailing, you should visit the Seahorse Reserve at the Iguana Reef Inn to see seahorses up close. It’s a delightful spot for nature lovers.
The Split in Caye Caulker Belize
Relax at The Split/Lazy Lizard: Spend a leisurely afternoon sipping on boozy slushies at The Split, a famous spot where the island is divided into two. It’s a prime location for socializing and soaking up the sun.
Bike Around Caye Caulker: Rent a bike and explore the unique sights of the island, like the largest conch wall in the world. It’s a delightful way to discover the island’s less-traveled paths and create your breeze on warm days.
Dine at Local Restaurants: Savor the local cuisine at places like Wish Willy or Roy’s, and treat yourself to street food like delicious fryjacks and savory coconut curry.
Craft Shopping: Don’t miss the local crafts market for unique souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and more, showcasing the island’s artistic talent.
Where to Stay On or Near Caye Caulker
For a perfect laid-back beach escape in Caye Caulker, consider these top three places to stay:
Laura’s Lookout
Laura’s Lookout
This beachfront property features air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, offering stunning views and quick access to Caye Caulker Beach. With amenities like free WiFi and private parking, it’s a great choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
VeLento Oceanfront
Another excellent beachfront option, VeLento Oceanfront provides luxurious accommodations with private pools. Located steps away from Caye Caulker Beach, these properties offer patios, free parking, and WiFi, ensuring a relaxing and hassle-free stay.
Weezie’s Oceanfront Hotel and Garden Cottages
Weezie’s Oceanfront Hotel and Garden Cottages
A great choice for those looking for condo-style beachfront lodging. Offering modern rooms with Caribbean Sea views and amenities like air conditioning, WiFi, and cable TV, Weezie’s is ideally located close to the heart of Caye Caulker while still providing a peaceful retreat.
When to Visit Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker Winter
The best time to visit Caye Caulker depends largely on your preferences for weather and crowds. The island enjoys a warm and comfortable climate year-round, thanks to an average yearly temperature of about 84° F (29°C), enhanced by refreshing sea breezes.
If you prefer dryer conditions, the period from February to May is ideal, as it experiences lower rainfall. This dry season offers mild, short bursts of rain, which are more frequent on the mainland than on Caye Caulker itself.
On the other hand, the rainy season spans from June to December. You can expect heavier rains and occasional wild storms, typically occurring in the late afternoons. An interesting aspect of this period is the “little dry” break, which usually happens in late July or August.
For those concerned about hurricanes, it’s worth noting that while Belize, and consequently Caye Caulker, does have a hurricane season, the early warning systems in place are effective. This season generally calls for more vigilance but shouldn’t be a major deterrent to visiting.
Caye Caulker peak season
In terms of tourist traffic, the peak season runs from December to April. During these months, especially January, February, and March, the island sees the highest number of visitors, leading to higher prices for accommodations and flights. However, Caye Caulker never gets excessively crowded, maintaining its laid-back charm.
For those looking to avoid the crowds and potentially find better deals, visiting during the low season, especially in the months like September, could be a smart choice. The trade-off might be more unpredictable weather, but this also means experiencing the island in a more serene state.
How to Get to Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker Water Taxi
Getting to Caye Caulker from Belize City is straightforward, with two primary options: by water taxi (ferry) or by plane. The most popular and economical way to reach Caye Caulker is by water taxi. The ferry terminals are about a 20-minute drive from the Belize International Airport. You can grab a taxi from the airport to the ferry terminal for around $30 USD for two people.
Once at the terminal, you can buy tickets for the water taxi, which takes about 45 minutes to reach Caye Caulker. The cost is approximately $27 BZD ($13.5 USD) if you book through a local, such as a taxi driver, or $60 BZD ($30 USD) if booked online or in person.
For a quicker, albeit more expensive option, you can take a flight from Belize City to Caye Caulker. The flight is short, around 8 minutes, but costs significantly more, ranging from $80 to $150 USD for a round trip.
You’ll also need to factor in the cost of a golf cart taxi from the Caye Caulker airport to your accommodation, as the airport is not within walking distance of most places.
Once on the island, getting around is simple as there are no vehicles allowed. You can explore Caye Caulker on foot, by bike, or by golf cart. The island is small enough that walking is a viable option for most destinations. Bike rentals are also popular and provide a quick and enjoyable way to see the island.
Final Thoughts
Caye Caulker, a slice of paradise in Belize, is your ultimate laid-back beach escape. With its no-shoes-required vibe, the island invites you to immerse yourself in tranquility. From leisurely bike rides, exploring vivid marine life, to simply swaying in hammocks – it’s all about going slow.
Whether you arrive by scenic water taxi or a swift flight, Caye Caulker offers a charming blend of simplicity and beauty. Unwind, disconnect, and embrace the island’s easy-going rhythm for an unforgettable tropical getaway