Ambergris Caye is the jewel of Belize, a laid-back island paradise with crystal-clear waters, colorful reefs, and a vibrant culture. Whether you’re here to dive the legendary Blue Hole, explore San Pedro’s charming streets, or just relax on the beach with a cocktail, this slice of the paradise has it all.

Belize has several islands off the main land that you can stay on. I specifically stayed on Ambergris Caye and loved it. The other popular one is Caye Culker which is a much smaller island with less adventure.

How to Get There

You cannot fly direct into one of the islands but don’t worry, they are very easy to get. Once you arrive at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport, from Belize City, a short, 15-minute flight on small aircraft from local carriers Tropic Air or Maya Island Air connect travelers to San Pedro Airport (SPR). Alternatively, water taxis and ferries connect the island to the city, making multiple daily journeys. I have done both and at least for me, to see the stunning ocean view from above makes the small plane was so worth it!

Things to Do on Ambergris Caye

• Explore San Pedro Downtown – Wander through colorful streets filled with shops, food stalls, and local energy.
• San Pedro Central Park – Try the amazing food trucks serving everything from fresh seafood to authentic Belizean flavors.
• Take the Ferry or a Local Flight – Arrive by water taxi from Belize City or hop on a short (and scenic!) flight to the island.
• Snorkel or Scuba the Blue Hole – One of the world’s most famous dive sites, perfect for adventure seekers.
• Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley – Snorkel among coral gardens, nurse sharks, and stingrays. Shark Ray Alley is a particularly popular area to snorkel alongside turtles, stingrays, and even nurse sharks. Truly a unique experience.
• Secret Beach – A local favorite for relaxing, swimming, and enjoying beach bars.
• Catamaran Sunset Cruise – End the day with island views and Caribbean breezes.
• Ride around – Grab a golf cart and hit the road to explore beyond tiny San Pedro’s three main streets
• Day trip – Head back to Belize City for a little jungle action where you can zip line, tube through fresh water and caves and visit mayan pyramids.
• Visit other islands – take a quick ferry over to Caye Culker or another island.

Where to Eat in San Pedro

• Elvi’s Kitchen – A San Pedro staple, serving fresh seafood and Belizean dishes in a fun, tropical setting. Check if they are open as they take an annual vacation end of September from end of October usually.
• Food Trucks at Central Park – Perfect for casual eats and sampling authentic local bites. Some of the best tacos you will ever have.
• Blue Water Grill – Upscale beachfront dining with fresh catches and sushi.
• Caramba! – Pick your fish or lobster from the display and have it cooked your way.
• Wild Mangos – A colorful spot for tropical fusion flavors.

Bars & Nightlife

• Palapa Bar & Grill – Chill on an overwater deck with buckets of beer.
• The Truck Stop – Outdoor food park with live music, events, and fun vibes.
• Sandy Toes Beach Bar & Grill – Classic Caribbean bar energy.

Coffee & Casual Spots

Casa Pan Dulce – Local bakery for pastries and sweet treats.

Lavish Habit Café – Trendy stop for coffee and light bites.

Where to Stay on Ambergris Caye

• Luxury: Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection – Stunning ocean front multiple bedroom villas or stay in the main house. Climb to the rooftop infinity pool at Alaia Belize for breathtaking views over white sands and blue seas at a resort that marries modern luxury with island-focused fun and flare.
• Midscale: Royal Kahal Beach Resort – Newest hotel near downtown San Pedro offering ocean views and comfy rooms.
• Budget: Victoria House Resort & Spa – A romantic beachfront stay with villas, spa, and fine dining.

Festivals & Events

• San Pedro Lobster Fest (June) – A weeklong celebration with lobster in every form.
• Costa Maya Festival (August) – Belize’s biggest festival with music, food, and parades.
• September Celebrations – Independence Day and Carnival bring colorful parades and street parties.

4-Day Ambergris Caye Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrival & San Pedro Vibes

• Morning/Afternoon: Arrive via ferry or quick flight to San Pedro. Check into your hotel and settle in.
• Lunch: Grab your first Belizean bite at Elvi’s Kitchen.
• Afternoon: Explore San Pedro Downtown, stroll through the streets, shop local boutiques, and stop at Central Park for food truck treats.
• Evening: Dinner at Blue Water Grill for beachfront dining.
• Night: Drinks at Palapa Bar & Grill, perched over the water.

Day 2 – Snorkeling & Beach Time

• Morning: Snorkel tour to Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley to swim with rays, nurse sharks, and vibrant fish. Most tours last around 4 hours. Take your motion sickness medicine the boats can be very rocky!
• Lunch: Fresh seafood tacos at Wild Mangos if your tour did not provide you lunch.
• Afternoon: Relax at beach side.
• Evening: Dinner at Caramba!, where you pick your own seafood to be cooked Belizean-style.

Day 3 – The Blue Hole Adventure

• Early Morning: Full-day excursion to the Great Blue Hole for snorkeling or scuba diving. This is a bucket-list adventure! If you have not seen the Blue Hole, a google is well worth it.
• Lunch: Provided on the tour (usually beach picnic style).
• Afternoon: Continue exploring reefs and atolls before returning to Ambergris Caye.
• Evening: Light dinner at ZZ’s Bar and Grille after a big day, keep it casual.

Day 4 – Culture & Relaxation

• Morning: Coffee and pastries at Casa Pan Dulce.
• Midday: Head off for our tour on Belize City! Zip line, tubing through caves and ruins.
• Afternoon: Book a spa treatment for the perfect farewell to Ambergris Caye after 3 adventurous days.
• Evening: Dinner at Elvi’s Kitchen (yes, it’s worth a repeat!).

Keeping It Ellavated

Belize is a perfect balance of island relaxation, snorkeling adventures, iconic experiences like the Blue Hole, and local culture, perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers.