• Hol Chan Marine Reserve: Just off the coast of Ambergris Caye, this marine reserve is a snorkeling and diving haven with colorful coral reefs, turtles, rays, and an array of fish species.
• Shark Ray Alley: Part of the Hol Chan Reserve, this popular snorkeling spot allows visitors to swim with nurse sharks and stingrays in a safe, shallow-water environment.
• Secret Beach: A secluded beach on the west side of the island with calm, clear waters, perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and enjoying beach bars.
• The Great Blue Hole: A world-renowned dive site located near Ambergris Caye, this massive underwater sinkhole attracts divers with its deep blue waters and unique marine life.
• Mexico Rocks: A lesser-known but beautiful snorkeling and diving area north of San Pedro, with shallow waters, coral formations, and abundant marine life.
• Marco Gonzalez Maya Site: An ancient Maya archaeological site located on the southern tip of Ambergris Caye, offering insight into the island’s historical significance.
• Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve: A UNESCO World Heritage site at the northern tip of Ambergris, known for its diverse marine life, mangroves, and conservation efforts.
• San Pedro Town: The island’s main town, full of vibrant beach bars, artisan shops, and delicious local seafood restaurants, offering a blend of Belizean culture and hospitality.
• Ambergris Museum and Cultural Center: This small museum in San Pedro displays artifacts and exhibitions detailing the island’s Mayan roots and colonial history.
• The Split at Caye Caulker: A nearby attraction accessible by boat, offering beach bars, crystal-clear waters, and stunning views of the surrounding area.

• Rent a Golf Cart: Golf carts are the primary mode of transport on the island, making it easy to navigate and explore at your own pace.
• Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Protect the delicate coral reefs by using eco-friendly sunscreen, especially if you’re snorkeling or diving.
• Bring Cash: While major businesses accept cards, small shops, street vendors, and some tour operators prefer cash (Belize dollars or USD).
• Try Local Seafood: Ambergris Caye is known for its fresh seafood, including ceviche, lobster, and grilled fish, available at beachfront restaurants.
• Plan for Casual Attire: The island vibe is very laid-back; lightweight, beach-friendly clothes and flip-flops are all you need.
• Explore Beyond San Pedro: Venture to the north and south parts of the island for a quieter, more scenic experience and hidden beaches.
• Book Diving Tours in Advance: Popular diving spots like the Great Blue Hole and Hol Chan fill up quickly, so booking in advance is recommended.
• Stay Hydrated: The tropical climate can be intense, so drink plenty of water, especially after long beach days or dive sessions.
• Join Local Festivals: If visiting in September, join Independence Day celebrations for parades, music, and cultural events unique to Belize.
• Respect Wildlife: Refrain from touching marine animals while snorkeling or diving to protect the reef’s ecosystem.

• Lobsterfest: Held in June, this annual festival celebrates the start of lobster season with delicious lobster dishes, live music, beach parties, and cooking competitions.
• San Pedro Day: Celebrated in June, this event honors San Pedro’s history and culture with parades, traditional dances, and family-friendly festivities.
• Belize Independence Day: On September 21st, the island celebrates Belize’s independence with colorful parades, fireworks, and local food and music.
• Tres Pescados Fly Fishing Tournament: Held in August, this catch-and-release tournament attracts fly-fishing enthusiasts from around the world, supporting sustainable fishing.
• Dia de San Pedro: Celebrated in late June, this is a religious and cultural event featuring church ceremonies, fireworks, and festivities to honor the patron saint of San Pedro.

• Second Largest Barrier Reef: Ambergris Caye lies near the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest in the world, making it a top destination for snorkeling and diving.
• The Great Blue Hole: One of the world’s most famous dive sites, this massive marine sinkhole is about 60 miles from Ambergris and can be seen from space.
• Secret Beach Boom: Although not very secret anymore, Secret Beach has become a must-visit spot known for its calm, shallow waters and fun beach bars.
• Ancient Maya Roots: Ambergris Caye has several Maya archaeological sites, including the Marco Gonzalez site, showcasing its historical significance.
• Marine Life Haven: The waters around Ambergris Caye are home to dolphins, manatees, turtles, and over 500 species of fish.
• A Mango Paradise: The island is known for its abundant mango trees, and the fruit is a local favorite during the mango season from June to August.
• Spearfishing for Lionfish: As an invasive species, lionfish can be legally spearfished, and local restaurants offer tasty lionfish dishes to promote reef health.
• Golf Cart Island: Cars are rare on Ambergris Caye, and most residents and visitors use golf carts to get around, adding to the island’s charm.
• Laid-Back Dress Code: San Pedro’s dress code is casual, with swimsuits, flip-flops, and sarongs being the norm, even at beachside bars.
• Home to Sargassum: Like many Caribbean destinations, Ambergris Caye experiences sargassum (seaweed) blooms seasonally, impacting beaches but also supporting marine ecosystems.

What is Ambergris Caye known for?
Ambergris Caye is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and world-class snorkeling and diving spots, especially around the Belize Barrier Reef and the Great Blue Hole. The island’s laid-back charm, lively beach bars, and colorful local culture make it a beloved Caribbean destination. It’s also famous for being a top spot to learn scuba diving and for eco-tourism.

Is Ambergris Caye a good destination for families?
Yes, Ambergris Caye is family-friendly, with safe, sandy beaches, calm waters, and a variety of activities for all ages. Families can enjoy snorkeling at Hol Chan, swimming at Secret Beach, or exploring San Pedro’s shops and restaurants. Many hotels and resorts cater to families, and the island’s relaxed atmosphere makes it ideal for bonding over outdoor adventures.

Is Ambergris Caye safe for tourists?
Ambergris Caye is generally safe for tourists, with a welcoming community and a laid-back vibe. San Pedro is the main town where most amenities are located, and the island is well-traveled by visitors. Basic precautions, such as securing belongings and following local customs, help ensure a safe visit. For those exploring remote areas, guided tours provide both safety and local insights.

Do you need a visa to visit Ambergris Caye?
For most travelers, including U.S., Canadian, and EU citizens, a visa is not required for stays up to 30 days in Belize. Visitors need a valid passport and proof of onward travel. For longer stays, a visa extension can be requested at the Immigration Office in San Pedro. U.S. dollars are widely accepted, making it convenient for international travelers.

What is the best way to get to Ambergris Caye?
Ambergris Caye is accessible by short flights or ferries. Flying into Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City is the main gateway. From there, visitors can take a 15-minute flight to San Pedro on Ambergris Caye or a scenic 1.5-hour ferry. Regular water taxis also operate between Belize City, Caye Caulker, and Ambergris Caye.

Should I rent a golf cart in Ambergris Caye?
Yes, renting a golf cart is one of the most popular ways to get around Ambergris Caye. Golf carts are the primary mode of transportation on the island and make exploring easy and fun. Visitors can rent golf carts by the hour, day, or week, and there are rental shops conveniently located around San Pedro. It’s a great way to reach spots like Secret Beach and other more remote areas on the island.

Is Ambergris Caye wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility on Ambergris Caye varies. Many of the larger hotels, resorts, and popular spots in San Pedro offer wheelchair-friendly accommodations and ramps, though some areas and smaller venues may be more challenging to navigate. The island's main roads are generally accessible, but sandy or unpaved areas can be difficult for wheelchairs. Contacting accommodations and restaurants in advance can help ensure accessible facilities are available.

What are Ambergris Caye’s most famous landmarks?
Famous landmarks include Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, both renowned for snorkeling and marine life encounters. The Great Blue Hole is a world-famous dive site, located just off Ambergris Caye, and draws divers from all over the globe. San Pedro Town, with its colorful streets and beachside bars, and Secret Beach for its tranquil waters, are also beloved spots. Each landmark reflects Ambergris Caye’s stunning natural beauty and rich marine ecosystem.

What are the best beaches on Ambergris Caye?
Secret Beach on the west side of the island is known for its clear, calm waters and fun beach bars, making it one of the most popular spots. Boca del Rio near San Pedro Town offers sandy shores with easy access to food and drinks, and Mar de Tumbo is another beautiful stretch for swimming and sunbathing. While many parts of Ambergris are ideal for beach relaxation, Secret Beach remains the top choice for families and those seeking a lively, social beach atmosphere.

What is unique about Ambergris Caye’s wildlife?
Ambergris Caye is home to diverse wildlife, especially marine species. The Belize Barrier Reef supports turtles, rays, tropical fish, and occasional manatee sightings. Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley allow visitors to swim alongside nurse sharks and stingrays, while areas like Mexico Rocks showcase vibrant coral and fish species. The island’s mangrove ecosystems also support bird species like herons and pelicans, providing a diverse experience for nature lovers.

What traditional foods should you try on Ambergris Caye?
Local specialties include ceviche, a fresh mix of fish, shrimp, or conch marinated in lime juice, and fry jacks, a Belizean breakfast staple served with beans, eggs, and cheese. Hudut, a Garifuna dish made with fish in coconut broth, and Belizean rice and beans with stewed chicken are also popular. Fresh seafood, including lobster and snapper, is widely available, especially during Lobsterfest in June, when local restaurants showcase inventive lobster dishes.

Can you drink tap water on Ambergris Caye?
It is generally recommended to drink bottled or filtered water on Ambergris Caye. Many hotels and resorts provide filtered water stations, and bottled water is readily available at stores. Using bottled or filtered water for brushing teeth is also advisable. Staying hydrated in the tropical climate is essential, particularly if spending long days in the sun or engaging in outdoor activities.

What is the nightlife like on Ambergris Caye?
Ambergris Caye’s nightlife is lively and centers around beach bars, live music, and local events. San Pedro Town has a variety of bars and clubs, with waterfront spots hosting music, karaoke, and themed parties, particularly on weekends. Popular venues like Palapa Bar and Truck Stop offer fun, relaxed atmospheres, while smaller local bars provide authentic Caribbean vibes. The nightlife is upbeat yet laid-back, making it perfect for both partygoers and those looking for a relaxed evening by the sea.

How can I stay connected to the internet on Ambergris Caye?
Most hotels, restaurants, and cafes in San Pedro provide free Wi-Fi, and mobile data coverage is reliable in populated areas. Travelers can purchase a local SIM card with data from stores in San Pedro for mobile internet. While connectivity is generally good, speeds can vary, especially in more remote areas. For reliable service, Digicell is the main provider on the island and offers data packages for short-term visitors.

What are some local souvenirs to bring home from Ambergris Caye?
Popular souvenirs include Belizean hot sauces like Marie Sharp’s, handcrafted jewelry made from local materials, and colorful woven baskets. Items such as hand-carved wooden art, shell and coral jewelry, and Mayan-inspired textiles are available at local markets and craft shops in San Pedro. For food lovers, spice blends and coffee from Belize make unique gifts, and bottled sea salts or small jars of honey are also popular local products.

1. Hola – Hello (Spanish)
2. Gracias – Thank you (Spanish)
3. Caye – Island (local term)
4. Bienvenidos – Welcome (Spanish)
5. Belikin – Belizean beer
6. Tapas – Small appetizers, often served at bars
7. Reef – Coral formations near the island
8. Bajo del Mar – Under the sea (Spanish)
9. Pescado – Fish (Spanish)
10. Lobsterfest – Annual lobster celebration
11. Tortilla – Flatbread, common in Belizean cuisine
12. La Isla Bonita – “The Beautiful Island” (famous song and reference to San Pedro)
13. Caracol – Conch (popular in local cuisine)
14. Laguna – Lagoon
15. Sol – Sun
16. Playa – Beach (Spanish)
17. Salsa – Sauce or dip (common in Belizean food)
18. Tapado – Belizean seafood soup
19. Pesca – Fishing (Spanish)
20. Aventura – Adventure

• Madonna: The pop icon mentioned San Pedro in her song “La Isla Bonita,” bringing fame to Ambergris Caye’s main town.
• Francis Ford Coppola: The famed director owns luxury properties in Belize, including resorts that attract celebrity visitors to Ambergris Caye.
• Rebecca Rath: A former Miss Belize Universe and tourism ambassador who has promoted Belize, including Ambergris, internationally.
• Ernest Hemingway: Though not directly connected, Hemingway’s adventurous spirit and love for Caribbean life resonate with Ambergris Caye’s vibe and fishing culture.
• Carla Zanoni: A journalist and avid traveler who has shared stories of her experiences diving and exploring Ambergris Caye.
• Jackie Walker: A marine conservationist active in preserving Belize’s coral reefs and marine ecosystems, including those around Ambergris.
• Chef Sean Kuylen: A well-known Belizean chef who often showcases the culinary delights of Ambergris Caye and its seafood.
• Leo DiCaprio: While not on Ambergris, DiCaprio’s focus on Belize (he owns an eco-resort on a nearby island) has spotlighted Belize’s sustainable tourism.
• Rachel Graham: A marine biologist who conducts whale shark and marine research near Belize, supporting sustainable tourism around Ambergris.
• Marie Sharp: The creator of Belize’s famous hot sauce, often found on tables across Ambergris Caye, highlighting local flavors.

• The Bachelor (U.S. Series): An episode was filmed on Ambergris Caye, showcasing its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.
• Temptation Island: Parts of this reality show were filmed on the beaches of Ambergris Caye, highlighting its tropical ambiance.
• Survivor: Belize: Though not officially titled, segments of the Survivor series showcased Belize’s islands, with Ambergris featured as a nearby hub.
• Shark Week: Discovery Channel’s Shark Week filmed segments on the Belize Barrier Reef, featuring the abundant marine life around Ambergris.
• House Hunters International: Episodes featuring Belize have showcased Ambergris Caye as a dream destination for expatriates and vacation home seekers.
• Expedition Unknown: Hosted by Josh Gates, this travel series explored Belize’s Great Blue Hole, with Ambergris Caye as a key stop.
• Ocean Mysteries with Jeff Corwin: This educational series included Ambergris Caye, highlighting the area’s marine biodiversity.
• Caribbean Life: A reality show that featured Ambergris Caye’s beachfront homes and island lifestyle, giving viewers a taste of living in paradise.
• Belize Untamed: A nature series showcasing Belize’s ecosystems, including the reefs and mangroves around Ambergris.
• Blue Planet II: David Attenborough’s acclaimed nature series filmed parts of the Belize Barrier Reef near Ambergris, displaying the rich marine ecosystems.