Belize is a natural beauty filled with an
array of diversity. In Belize islands are commonly called ‘cayes’, pronounced
‘keys’. This tiny English speaking country is certainly blessed with many
beautiful and immaculate islands, which are but only a short distance away from
one another. My top three must visit islands are: San Pedro Ambergris Caye,
Caye Caulker, and Laughing Bird Caye National Park.
San Pedro Ambergris Caye is known to be
the largest of Belize’s offshore islands and the most developed island- here you can dive the Christ of the Abyss. The town,
San Pedro, is where you will find the most populated part of the island,
equipped with an array of lodging, dining, shopping, and nightlife. The island
is known as ‘La Isla Bonita’, translated in English as, ‘The Beautiful Island’,
a nickname given by Madonna’s hit song, ‘La Isla Bonita’. Tours and activities
on the island range from easy, moderate, to strenuous. Choose your adventure:
have a relaxing sunset cruise with your loved one, or take a short boat ride out
to the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, to snorkel or dive. San Pedro is said to have been a Maya Trading
Post, and the evidence of this exist today, be sure to visit the Marco Gonzalez
Maya Site, and unfold the mysteries of the Mayas. With all this said, sure
enough it is no surprise that this island has been rated the #1 Island in the
world on TripAdvisor.
Take it easy and simply ‘Go Slow’
visiting Caye Caulker. Caye Caulker is located nearby to San Pedro Ambergris
Caye, but it is a distinctive atmosphere to San Pedro- here be sure to dive the Hol Chan Marine Reserve for a great reef experience. Looking for paved roads?
This cannot be found in Caye Caulker! Kick off your shoes and experience the
island life, strolling on the sandy streets. This island has a laid back
Caribbean vibe and is popular amongst backpackers, budget travelers and lately
even honeymooners, looking for an island escape. The friendly people of Caye Caulker gives
Caye Caulker the nickname, ‘La Isla Carinosa’, translated in English as,
‘Charming Island’, and charming it is. Many locals as well as visitors enjoy
the entertainment and swimming at ‘The Split Beach’, a narrow channel that has
divided the Island in two. I definitely recommend experiencing the true meaning
of Caye Caulker’s motto, “Go Slow”.
This upcoming ‘must visit’ island takes
you to Southern Belize. Laughing Bird Caye National Park is located
approximately eleven miles off the coast of Placencia Village, Stann Creek
District. What is most unique about this island is that it stands on an
elongated ridge of reef (faro). Due to its location and form it attracts an
abundance and variety of coral habitats and marine life. Unlike, San Pedro
Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker, this island is secluded, and uninhabited by humans.
Laughing Bird Caye is a protected area and is also listed as a World Heritage
Site. Diving, fishing, and snorkeling in this area, is a true natural marine
experience that can easily be arranged through licensed tour operators such as:
Splash Dive Center Belize.
Belize is a natural beauty and is filled hundreds
of picturesque islands. However, if you are planning to experience Belize we do
recommend visiting these top three ‘must visit’ islands.
