Nestled off the coast of Belize, Caye Caulker is a small island that exudes a relaxed charm, making it a perfect getaway for travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty. After spending 2 weeks in this natural paradise, I felt sad to leave, but I still felt like it was the perfect amount of time to unwind and experience all this island has to offer.
Documented a day in our lives on the beautiful Caye Caulker island because we’ve had our doubts before coming here, but you’ll see why it’s worth coming here.
Travel Tips:
- Getting There: Caye Caulker is accessible by water taxi or a small plane from Belize City. The journey by boat takes about 45 minutes, offering scenic views of the Caribbean Sea.
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the dry season, from late November to mid-April, when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the island’s charm is evident year-round.
- Local Etiquette: Embrace the island’s “Go Slow” motto. The pace of life on Caye Caulker is leisurely, and visitors are encouraged to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of island life.
Caye Caulker
Where to stay on Caye Caulker
Regarding location, as the island is so small, you can basically stay anywhere. You can take other things in consideration such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi, beachfront access, and kitchen facilities.
Budget accommodation:
A good value accommodation in a convenient location. We stayed here trying to keep our budget low, but it was honestly better than expected.
Mid range accommodation:
This guesthouse offers well-appointed rooms with air conditioning, private bathrooms, and balconies. It’s known for its peaceful atmosphere and personalized service.
An urban-style hotel in the heart of Caye Caulker, offering spacious rooms with air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms. The hotel is conveniently located near local shops and eateries.
Iguana Reef
Best things to do on Caye Caulker
Snorkeling trip to the Barrier Reef:
One of the most iconic activities is snorkeling or diving in the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest in the world. We joined a snorkeling tour from Caye Caulker on a catamaran boat which was an unforgettable experience, definitely the best snorkeling of our lives. Swimming alongside nurse sharks, stingrays, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish was incredible!!
Documented the whole experience with the tour here:
This is another very good rated tour, perfect for an intimate experience as it accommodates only a small group and the best part is that photos and videos are included! Memories for a lifetime…
The Split and The Lazy Lizard:
This spot is a must-visit for anyone coming to Caye Caulker. The Split, created by a hurricane, is a popular area for swimming and sunbathing. The water here is clear and refreshing, making it perfect for a dip. The Lazy Lizard, a bar right at The Split, is a great place to enjoy a cold drink while taking in the sunset.
Lazy Lizard, Caye Caulker
Sip N’ Dip:
Another famous bar in Caye Caulker island, perfect to sip a cold drink while dipping in the blue waters of Caribe. The atmosphere is super chill, the prices are decent and the water is always perfect for a swim.
Sip N’ Dip
Iguana Reef Manta Ray Spotting:
In the evenings, the dock at Iguana Reef Inn becomes a gathering spot to watch sting rays and seahorses that come close to the shore. It’s a serene experience, ideal for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers alike. I never thought I would feed stingrays on a beach in Caribe, but it sure is a bucket list experience.
Iguana Reef, Caye Caulker
Exploring the Island:
You can rent a bicycle or a golf cart to explore the island. But you can also walk everywhere. Caye Caulker’s sandy streets are lined with colorful houses, local shops, and cafes.
Where to eat on Caye Caulker island
Reina’s:
Our favorite place on the island, we came here 4-5 times during 2 weeks. The menu includes dishes like chicken curry, fish and fresh seafood. It’s also more affordable than other restaurants on Caye Caulker.
Reina’s restaurant
The magic cup:
Best budget place for breakfast and coffee. They serve sandwiches, eggs, fried jacks, smoothies and different coffees, including their signature frappe which is super good!
The magic cup
The Pelican Sunset Bar:
As the name says, it’s a good spot for sunset, just make sure you go a bit earlier to secure a spot.
The food is delicious, thought it takes a long time to be made when it’s crowded, and I would recommend the seafood and the fish, as everywhere on the island!
The Pelican Sunset Bar
Chef Juan’s Kitchen and Pastries:
I haven’t tried the food here, though it’s a good rated restaurant, but it serves a delicious key lime pie that you can’t skip when in Belize
Caye Caulker Bakery
Really fresh and delicious pastries for a quick snack to go!
Conclusion
Caye Caulker offers a unique blend of laid-back charm, natural beauty, and vibrant local culture that makes it a must-visit destination. Whether you’re drawn by the pristine waters of the Belize Barrier Reef, the island’s colorful streets, or the inviting mantra of “Go Slow,” this small island offers an unforgettable escape! Enjoy your trip!
Travel resources:
For accommodation, I usually use Booking.com
The best travel insurance for long term travellers and digital nomads is SafetyWing
For tours, if I don’t find something good locally, I always search on Getyourguide
To find the cheapest flights, I search them on Skyscanner
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