Exploring The Best Beaches In Belize

Belize, an English-speaking country bordering Mexico and Guatemala, is renowned for its natural beauty, stunning geography, and expat-friendly environment. Expats living in Belize report that the pace of life is much slower than elsewhere, helping them to appreciate the small things and be more present in life. 

This tiny Central American country stands out due to its tropical climate, but its pristine beaches make it even more noteworthy. It’s not an exaggeration to say that some of the beaches in Belize are on par with those in Mexico, Brazil, and other popular tourist destinations.

The South Water Caye is an off-the-beaten-path destination ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing

BEST BEACHES IN BELIZE

Belize’s beaches are out of this world. Imagine crystal-clear waters, warm weather year-round, the second-largest coral reef system in the world, and easy access to marine wildlife. All of that, paired with multiple amenities and activities, is what you can expect in Belize. 

Whether you want to try water sports, such as snorkelling or scuba diving, or enjoy a fresh drink with a beautiful ocean view, Belize has got you covered. To make it easy to choose where to go, we’ve compiled a list of the top 5 beaches in the country.

5. SOUTH WATER CAYE

The South Water Caye is an off-the-beaten-path destination ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and relaxing on one of the country’s most stunning tropical beaches. The Southern section of this island is famous for its sandy beach, and the reef—just a short swim from shore—will help you balance your time between relaxing on the beach and exploring the underwater world. 

As Belize’s largest protected marine area, South Water Caye lies 18 kilometres east of the mainland. This gorgeous island—dotted with palm trees across its sandy shores—is home to a section of the renowned Belize Barrier Reef. Just an hour’s boat ride from Placencia, the island is excellent for day trips, with many tour operators offering unforgettable snorkelling excursions.

4. SILK CAYE

Located within the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, Silk Caye is a tiny yet stunning island where you can connect with nature. With its white beaches, turquoise waters, and a lively underwater world brimming with life, Silk Caye is the perfect spot to explore the Belize Barrier Reef, one of the most biodiverse marine ecosystems on the planet. 

Thanks to its crystal clear waters, it’s easy to snorkel and watch fish darting among coral formations, stingrays gliding by gracefully, and even some harmless sharks and sea turtles. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a nature enthusiast, Silk Caye is the perfect entry point for experiencing the beauty of the coral reefs in Belize.

Caye Caulker and its unbeatable sunset view

3. CAYE CAULKER (THE SPLIT)

Caye Caulker, a charming island off Belize’s coast, is probably one of the slowest islands on Earth. In fact, the local mantra is “Go Slow”! Food stalls offer fresh-caught lobster, grilled chicken, and typical Belizean dishes. Check out the Lazy Lizard, a popular beach bar offering refreshing cocktails and unbeatable sunset views.

Words don’t do justice to the number of activities offered. If you’re up for an adventure, the crystal-clear waters of Caye Caulker are ideal. Snorkelling is a visitor favourite, providing an opportunity to see colourful coral reefs and even some dolphins. Then, when it’s time to unwind, head to Sip & Dip, a bar with swings right at the water’s edge, or dance the night away at the Pelican Sunset.

2. PLACENCIA PENINSULA

The Placencia Peninsula is a slice of paradise stretching approximately 18 miles along Belize’s southern coast. Its pristine sandy beaches and calm Caribbean waters make it a haven for relaxation and adventure seekers alike. From the laid-back shores of Maya Beach to the lively main village, Placencia offers something for every visitor. 

The charm of this peninsula is its versatility. Tourists flock here for everything from boutique accommodations to fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants. The peaceful atmosphere also makes it a perfect escape for those who want to unwind under palm trees with a good book or simply walk along the shoreline.

1. AMBERGRIS CAYE (SECRET BEACH)

Located along Ambergris Caye’s western coast, Secret Beach is a slice of paradise that blends tranquillity with adventure. Its pristine turquoise waters, perfect for swimming and paddleboarding, offer an amazing backdrop all day long. The sandy shores are ideal for sunbathing, and the surrounding waters invite you to dive in, whether you want to swim or have a meal. That’s right - some restaurants even have picnic tables right in the water! 

Secret Beach is full of amenities. This lively yet relaxed spot is where relaxation and fun meet. Spend a few hours paddleboarding to explore the sea, and then reward yourself with a cocktail while enjoying the Caribbean breeze and warm weather. 

Ambergris Caye’s western coast, Secret Beach

CONCLUSION

Belize’s numerous beaches make this country worth visiting. With over 240 miles of coastline, there are many beautiful spots for snorkelling, paddle boarding, and swimming. We’ve shared our Top 5 picks with you in this article.

However, if you are considering moving abroad, there are better options than Belize. Consider Brazil, with its incredible beaches and investment opportunities, and Panama, with good tax conditions and infrastructure. If you want to build a new life abroad, take the first step by subscribing to our newsletter and receiving our free special report, “Plan-B Residencies & Instant Citizenships.”