The 8 Most Beautiful Beaches to Visit in Belize

Known as La Isla Bonita, Ambergris Caye is the beautiful, beating heart of the tourism industry in Belize (and not just according to Madonna). Head to the far north for your own crowd-free stretch of sand. Tranquility Bay is most easily reached by boat, however, you can also access it via car down a dusty beach track. Grab your snorkel and explore the underwater world from the shoreline before heading to The Tacklebox Sea Bar for a rum cocktail.

This bustling town may be a little much for those looking for a peaceful haven, but it’s still a far cry from Cancun. No building tops three storeys, and the beaches are long, white and palm-fringed. Dodge the crowds by heading to Ramon’s Village Resort beach. Despite belonging to the hotel, it is open to the public. Lay your towel under one of the coconut trees and marvel at the coral sand; it’s cool to the touch, even on the most scorching day.

Hopkins is said to be the friendliest village in Belize, as well as the cultural capital of the Garifuna people. Come for the laid-back vibe and miles-long white sand beach and stay for the varied festivals throughout the year, from Mango Fest in the summer to Garifuna Settlement Day in late Autumn. There are no restrictions on the main town beach, so wander at will to find your piece of paradise.

Placencia was once a quiet fishing village at the southern tip of the Placencia Peninsula, but word got around about the beauty of this idyllic jungle-fringed beach getaway. It’s difficult not to find a good stretch of shoreline here. The main village beach is one of the best in the region, dotted with local hotspots like the Barefoot Beach Bar and the Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar. Whale shark diving tours are a popular pastime, as are the howler monkey boat trips. But don’t go bathing in the lagoon, unless you want a saltwater crocodile for company!

Further north on the Placencia Peninsula, you’ll find Maya Beach, the epitome of a “get away from it all” beach hideout. This is not the place to come if you’re after a party, although there are still a few cheap beach bars for that essential rum-based cocktail. This tranquil place has perfectly calm waters for snorkelling, diving or swimming, and is close to the Laughing Bird Caye National Park, if you fancy a bit of an adventure. Otherwise, sit back and enjoy the view of the Maya mountains.

Got the cash to splash on a private island stay? Head to Ranguana Caye, a tiny two-acre island, just 20mi (32km) west of Placencia. Go paddleboarding on the clear waters or kick back in a hammock with a good book. If you come between August and October, keep your eyes peeled for sea turtles nesting in the sand. Bully’s Beach Bar serves up plates of conch ceviche and garlic butter shrimp, washed down with an ice-cold daiquiri. Stopping for lunch by boat? Make sure you book in advance.

If you love scuba diving, then you need to make a beeline for Half Moon Caye. It’s cited as one of the best diving spots in North America. Beneath the surface of the water, you’ll find a steep drop-off – known as a wall – which gives the appearance of staring into the deep abyss. Spot snappers, hogfish and stingrays. Back on dry land, the beach is a pristine, crescent-shaped patch with barely a soul in sight.

Glover’s Reef has some of the most abundant sea life in the Caribbean – and Southwest Caye specifically is the largest marine reserve in Belize. Grab your snorkeling gear and hit the shallow reef – it’s an easy swim from the shore. Here, you’ll find swirling shoals of fish, sea turtles, and even the occasional dolphin. A beautiful set up for an afternoon of snorkelling and adventuring the clear waters. It’s best reached by yacht – split your time between sunning yourself on deck and diving into the balmy waters below.