Belize is a nation off the east coast of Central America, known for pristine beaches along the Placencia Peninsula dotted with eco-lodges where travelers can enjoy diving, snorkeling in the reefs, swimming and even game fishing. Belize is the perfect vacation for water-related activities.
Swim in the Barrier Reef
The Belize Barrier Reef spans 185 miles of the country’s coastline, and is the largest reef in the Northern Hemisphere. The reef is home to a wide range of protected marine life, while crystal clear waters make this the ideal haven for divers. When traveling to Belize, take a day trip 43 miles off the coast to see the Great Blue Hole, a submarine sinkhole available for divers to take a plunge. Even if you're not a diver, taking a day trip to the Belize Barrier Reef is well worth the effort. Snorkel to see tropical fish, large turtles and brilliantly colored coral or stay on board and view everything via a glass bottom boat.
Head to Ambergris Caye
Ambergris Caye is Belize’s largest island and the perfect destination for water sports and outdoor adventure enthusiasts. Rent bikes or motorized scooters to see the island and stumble across its secret beaches. The town of San Pedro is perfect for shopping and a visit to the local art galleries is a must. If you have a love for art, a must-see when traveling through Belize is the stunning wall-to-wall artwork in Ambergris Caye. As you visit the art galleries, browse hundreds of Belize-made paintings, Belize-made masks and carvings, as well as locally made hammocks and blankets.
Explore Caves and Mayan Ruins
Famous for its eco adventure vacations, Belize also offers a wide range of activities in the Lamanai Archaeological Reserve where you can explore ancient Mayan cities, temples and caves. Enjoy ziplining, a trip to the baboon sanctuary and walking trails through the ancient ruins of Maya.
Tip: Take the floating tube tour through the caves at the Caves Branch Archaeological Reserve and learn how ancient Mayans lived in the caves 2,000 years ago.
Dig into local delicacies
Seafood is a major part of the Belize diet and as you travel across Belize, you’ll enjoy mouth-watering grilled delights straight from the ocean. Get ready for lobster, shrimp, and a local Belize fish soup flavored with coconut milk. When dining out, order the signature dish or ask your server what his or her favorite dish is.
Belizeans are passionate about their food, so don’t be surprised if the owner of the restaurant offers you extra food to try. There is nothing more deliciously authentic Belizean than panades. Known outside Belize as empanadas, they are a must-try! The cuisine and warm hospitality is an intricate part of the Belize magic.
Visit the American Crocodile Education Sanctuary
If you'd like to contribute back to Belize, you may want to join ACES's Expert Croc Team on an educational trip aboard the Swamp Thing. Search for predatory crocodiles to capture, tag, and re-release to help ACES Biologists collect scientific data on Belize's wild and threatened American crocodiles. Don’t worry, it’s perfectly legal and very safe. Your expedition takes you through mangrove islands and into the starlit night while searching for Isla Bonita's extraordinary nocturnal wildlife and the infamous saltwater crocodiles in their natural habitat. All proceeds from your tickets go to crocodile rescues, research, and education in Belize.
