It had been 20 years for the reason that final time we visited Caye Caulker; at the moment, we had been backpacking by means of Central America on a scuba diving journey. This time, we had been centered on having fun with the entire issues to do in Caye Caulker outdoors of learning for our Dive Master’s course, and we had been so excited to be again. Hopping on a flight from Belize City, we landed on Caye Caulker, which is only a 10-minute flight from mainland Belize. As we flew over the turquoise waters affected by cayes and atolls, we felt excited to revisit locations like Shark Ray Alley and take a look at new issues, like a scenic flight over the Great Blue Hole. Oh yeah, this was going to be enjoyable!
Best Things to Do in Caye Caulker
Backpackers have all the time loved the island vibe and low costs of Caye Caulker over the neighboring island of Ambergris Caye. This tiny island is just 5 miles lengthy and one mile broad, the place roads are manufactured from sand and vehicles are changed by golf carts. But you’ll quickly see in this Caye Caulker journey information that what Caye Caulker lacks in measurement, it makes up for in journey.
Stay at El Ben Cabañas on Caye Caulker North
The north aspect of Caye Caulker is slowly turning into a luxurious escape from the extra backpacker vibe of Caye Caulker South. We stayed at El Ben Cabañas on the island’s north aspect and had complimentary water taxis to Caye Caulker city all through the day on a daily schedule. Staying right here felt like a tropical paradise as we had a non-public luxurious seashore cabana with air-con, a phenomenal personal veranda, and two outside swimming pools.
El Ben additionally had a wonderful restaurant value visiting, even in the event you keep at one of many Caye Caulker lodges on the south aspect. It’s simple to get to by way of their free water taxi or the Split water taxi shuttle, which prices $5 per individual. It’s then only a five-minute stroll to El Ben Cabañas.
1. Great Blue Blue Hole Scenic Flight
The Great Blue Hole is a pure marvel that’s an underwater sinkhole situated off the coast of Belize, close to the middle of Lighthouse Reef. This outstanding geological formation, roughly 300 meters (984 toes) in diameter and 124 meters (407 toes) deep, is seen from house! (So they are saying)
The Great Blue Hole is a part of the extra intensive Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The gap was initially a limestone cave system earlier than collapsing and forming this spectacular vertical cave. It grew to become well-known after being explored by Jacques Cousteau in 1971, who declared it one of many high scuba diving websites in the world. And Discovery named it certainly one of Top 10 Amazing Places on earth!
Taking a scenic flight over the Great Blue Hole was genuinely awe-inspiring. The monumental darkish blue gap spanning 300 meters (984 toes) throughout stands out from the encircling shallow turquoise of the Caribbean Sea. We booked a non-public flight with Tropic Air, and spent an hour in the air, taking in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve’s views and neighboring reefs.
This was essentially the most lovely scenic flight we’ve ever taken over tropical waters and flown over the Maldives and Exuma Cayes! Our tour left from San Pedro, however flights to the Blue Hole could be organized from Caye Caulker and Belize City with Tropic Air, and Maya Island Air.
The flight wasn’t solely about seeing the Blue Hole; we noticed San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Caye Chapel, and the Turneffe Atoll earlier than flying over Lighthouse Reef, the place the Blue Hole stands close to its heart. Our flight took us across the Blue Hole 4 instances for optimum viewing. Twice on all sides in order that we each had equal viewing time.
2. Wanderlust Sailing and Snorkel
There is little question that vacationers love to go to Caye Caulker for its underwater adventures, and certainly one of our favourite issues to do in Caye Caulker was to mix a snorkeling and crusing tour with Wanderlust Sailing and Snorkeling
The island of Caye Caulker is a gateway to extraordinary marine adventures, thanks to the close by Hol Chan Marine Reserve on the Belize Barrier Reef. The Belize Barrier Reef is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest barrier reef in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.
We have taken scenic flights and crusing journeys over Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, and maybe my reminiscence is failing me. Still, throughout our time on the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, I used to be struck by how the water round this Caribbean Island is by far essentially the most lovely I’ve ever seen. Check out Diving the Great Barrier Reef – Australia’s Ultimate Adventure
3. Shark Ray Alley Snorkel Tour
We talked about combining a crusing and snorkeling tour of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, however many individuals come to Caye Caulker to see its most well-known snorkeling spot, Shark Ray Alley. Shark Ray Alley is situated throughout the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and is known for its abundance of nurse sharks and southern stingrays.
The space grew to become a preferred feeding spot for native fishermen, who would clear their catch, attracting nurse sharks and rays. Today, it’s a protected zone the place guests can safely swim and snorkel alongside these light marine animals.
The shallow and calm crystal-clear waters make it the right spot to witness these creatures in their pure habitat. Don’t fear in the event you don’t have snorkeling expertise; this tour is good for newcomers and skilled snorkelers.
Witnessing the nurse sharks and stingrays up shut is spectacular. They barely discover you as you watch the ocean life do their common enterprise.
Being ready to snorkel at three snorkeling websites of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve with an professional information whereas crusing on a luxurious catamaran from one web site to one other was a dream. We got contemporary water in reusable containers, contemporary fruit, and once we had been completed snorkeling, we had rum punch to sip on as we sailed alongside the coast.
I cherished how Wanderlust Sailing and Snorkeling didn’t use any plastic water bottles and when our information Juan noticed plastic in the ocean, he scooped it up to take it out of the water. They had been very conscious of conservation and protecting a protected distance from the marine life to protect this fragile ecosystem
4. A Taste of Caye Caulker Food Tours
When you first arrive at Caye Caulker, Belize, we advise reserving a Taste of Cay Caulker Food Tour. It’s an effective way to get acquainted with the eating places on the island and be taught concerning the native delicacies. Also, by the point you end the tour, you’ll have made new associates and really feel heat and welcoming throughout the remainder of your journey.
We visited 4 eating places, sampling scrumptious appetizers, salads, mains, and desserts. I gained’t inform you what eating places as a result of you’ll need to take the meals tour to see them, however they had been a wonderful number of locations that served genuine Belizean Cuisine and immersed us in the native island life.
Our tour was segmented between 4 completely different locations. We began with a standard Belizean appetizer whereas sitting on a deck overlooking the ocean after which moved on to a phenomenal rooftop view to get pleasure from contemporary salads. It was then on to a vigorous sports activities bar that was full of individuals, and we went upstairs to the patio to pattern 4 essential dishes.
I actually cherished the principle course, the place 4 massive dishes had been set on our desk household type, and we sampled all of them. All programs had been served with robust cocktails, and by the point we reached dessert at a sandy seashore bar the place we ate scrumptious treats alongside one other scrumptious cocktail, we had been feeling nice and prepared to benefit from the island life. Book your Taste of Cay Caulker Food Tour right here.
5. Parasailing
For those that need to do some parasailing, it’s definitely worth the journey to Ambergris Caye. We took a visit to Boca del Rio Resort with Belize Parasail Ltd for a tremendous parasailing journey. We have by no means gone so excessive, and our information informed us that we may have gone greater, however I chickened out as soon as we had been far above the Caribbean Sea and gave him the sign that we had been excessive sufficient.
I don’t suppose there may be parasailing on Caye Caulker, so making our approach to its neighboring island is quick and simple; plus, it’s value making a day journey regardless.
We took a golf cart taxi from San Pedro to Boca del Rio Resort the place we boarded a velocity boat for our hour-long tour on the Caribbean Sea. Within minutes, our boat stopped, and the parachute got here out whereas our guides hooked us up into harnesses and lifejackets.
It wasn’t lengthy till we soared in the air, feeling like a fowl over the ocean. We had lovely views of the island and the reef. From above, we may see the colours altering earlier than our eyes. We even spied manta rays from above. We had been in the air for about 20 minutes.
At the tip of the flight, they dropped us off for a cool, refreshing dip in the ocean earlier than touchdown safely on board for an ice-cold drink on our approach again. We actually benefit from the tour in addition to the golf cart experience, it was like having two excursions in one. An island tour and a parasailing journey. Check out Belize Parasail Ltd right here.
6. Day Trip to Ambergris Caye
Easily accessible, San Pedro on Ambergris is only a brief water taxi experience away, providing a fast and scenic journey throughout the gorgeous Caribbean Sea. We took a brief 8-minute flight with Tropic Air, from Caye Caulker, which doubled as one other scenic view and landed in downtown. Ambergris Caye is a good day journey from Caye Caulker.
We took a morning flight to San Pedro and loved a scrumptious breakfast at Blue Water Grill overlooking the sandy seashore. After breakfast we took a stroll to take a look at the downtown space. San Pedro has just a few extra correct seashores than Caye Caulker, and it was good to stroll alongside the seashore to store on the distributors lining the shore.
San Pedro’s bustling city environment is a pointy distinction to Caye Caulker’s laid-back vibe as golf carts whipped by whereas we strolled alongside the busy streets. San Pedro is the principle city the place most eating places and bars are situated. Restaurants serve all the pieces from contemporary seafood to conventional Belizean fare.
Make certain to eat at El Fogon Restaurant, an establishment on the island serving conventional Belizean fare in a vigorous environment. Better but, it’s domestically owned and operated!
Various markets and distributors supply distinctive souvenirs, handmade crafts, and beachwear. The Truck Stop is a transport container meals truck park that may be a must-visit.
Secret Beach is just not so secret anymore and is among the hottest locations on the island for seashore time that’s good for sunbathing and swimming.
7. Sunset Sail
We had been on the water so much on Caye Caulker and seeing this lovely island from the water at sundown is a should. A sundown sail is among the most romantic issues to do in Caye Caulker. A Sunset sail leaves from the Split and is an effective way to see Caye Caulker’s shoreline and the encircling sea.
Many sundown sails embrace alternatives for snorkeling, permitting you to discover the colourful marine life because the day transitions into the night. Onboard, loosen up with refreshing drinks and lightweight snacks, typically included in the tour. The environment is serene and romantic, making it good for {couples}, however equally pleasing for households or teams of associates.
8. Visit the Split
The Split slim waterway, fashioned by Hurricane Hattie in 1961, that minimize the already small island into two distinct components. Since then, the Split has change into Caye Caulker’s most well-known landmark.
The space round The Split is a bustling hub of exercise, with the legendary Lazy Lizard bar and grill offering loud music and a vigorous setting for guests to get pleasure from chilly drinks, contemporary lobster, and sundown views.
The north aspect of The Split presents a extra tranquil expertise, with serene spots and sandy seashores that are perfect for sunbathing and unwinding.
You can take a water taxi throughout from one aspect to one other on demand. It runs all day with the final run at about 10pm.
9. Party on the Lazy Lizard
The Lazy Lizard is among the finest locations to hang around on the island to get pleasure from chilly Belikan Beer, contemporary seafood, and a celebration environment on the island. Boat excursions from cruises and Ambergris Caye all cease right here to get pleasure from reggae music and dancing. Plus there’s a pure swimming pool proper on The Split the place you possibly can cool off. It seems like you’re on a sandy seashore, despite the fact that it’s all shored up with a sea wall.
Cocktails are dear, nevertheless it’s a enjoyable place to hang around for a day. Plus, if you’re actually prepared to do some partying, strive the Lizard Juice, a frozen inexperienced cocktail that tastes so good, it may be harmful!
10. Sunday Fun Day – Caye Caulker
If you occur to be on the island of Caye Caulker on a Sunday, it’s your decision to be a part of the Sunday Fun Day. On Sundays, you’ll get pleasure from limitless rum punch for $ 25 USD whereas getting to know your fellow vacationers. You’ll get pleasure from video games on the seashore and a sundown cruise on a houseboat.
We didn’t do that, however we met with just a few individuals afterward throughout our free water taxi again to El Ben Cabanas and so they had been feeling no ache. (that’s till the subsequent morning I’m certain)
11. Sunset from Rooftop Bar
During our Taste of Caye Caulker Food Tour, we visited a number of eating places from seashore cafes to sports activities bars and rooftop patios. One of one of the best issues to do in Caye Caulker is to pull up a chair at a rooftop bar and the very best level on the island is …. one of the best place to take in panoramic views of this tropical paradise. You can from the East to West Side of Caye Caulker, out to the Caribbean Sea, and all the way in which to the northern Island.
12. Beach events
No Caye Caulker journey information could be full with out mentioning the well-known Caye Caulker seashore events. Caye Caulker is certainly the get together island of Belize and there are popup seashore events all over the place you go. Caye Caulker takes its laid-back repute severely with events that epitomize the essence of Caribbean island life.
Travelers combine and mingle with one another listening to a mixture of reside music, starting from reggae to soca, creating an infectious rhythm that invitations everybody to dance barefoot in the sand. The seashore events usually function contemporary seafood together with Belizean rum cocktails, providing a style of the island’s culinary delights. Whether you’re trying to get together till daybreak or get pleasure from a relaxed night by the ocean, Caye Caulker’s seashore events are a must-do for an genuine and memorable island expertise.
13. Take a Photo of the Caye Caulker Sign
It’s brief and candy, however you have to cease on the Caye Caulker signal. In truth, there are two Caye Caulker indicators the place you possibly can seize a selfie to show that you’ve been to the island.
The new official Caye Caulker Sign is simply a few blocks from the Split on the principle street. This colourful signal captures the texture of all the enduring indicators worldwide. It was constructed in 2018 and is a enjoyable cease on the island in the guts of Caye Caulker Village.
Caye Caulker Sign #2
The iconic “Go Slow” signal of Caye Caulker appears to be gone. (At least we couldn’t discover it) But this one is situated close to the principle water taxi pier on the island. The space across the water taxi pier is a central hub of exercise on the island, making the signal simple to discover upon arrival.
14. Go Scuba Diving
Being the second-largest barrier reef in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s no marvel that individuals come to Caye Caulker with just one factor in thoughts: to scuba dive the Belize Barrier Reef. We didn’t go scuba diving on this journey to Caye Caulker, however in 2003, our prime goal was to do as many dives as attainable.
This majestic reef stretches over 300 kilometers and has many distinctive dive websites. We’ve already talked about The Great Blue Hole however loads of different dive websites exist. Head to Hol Chan Marine Reserve simply offshore from Caye Caulker for vibrant coral gardens.
Turneffe Atoll, one other not-to-be-missed dive spot, boasts numerous ecosystems and the possibility to encounter bigger marine species like barracudas and groupers. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned diver, the Belize Barrier Reef is a good diving vacation spot with its calm and shallow waters to deep, darkish depths. Experienced divers shouldn’t miss the problem of Tackle Box Canyons, providing deeper dives and the possibility to discover underwater caverns.
15. Feed the Tarpon
Feeding tarpon is a enjoyable expertise that everybody has to do as soon as in their life. Located on the docks simply down from the Lazy Lizard on the island’s west aspect, hungry acrobatic fish are ready for dinner. The value is 5 Belize Dollars ($2.50 US) for a bowl of sardines.
Keep a watch out for the pelicans; they’re higher at snatching the fish than the tarpins! As in the case of Shark Ray Alley, tarpons had been initially drawn to the docks when native fishermen would clear their catch and discard the stays into the ocean. They have returned ever since and demand that vacationers feed them recurrently.
16. Visit the Seahorse Reserve
Another place to go to in Caye Caulker is the Seahorse Reserve. I keep in mind when diving in 2003, it was right here that we lastly noticed seahorses for the primary time.
Located simply outdoors the Iguana Reef Inn on the West Side of Caye Caulker, simply up from the Tarpon dock, is a tangle of seagrass the place seahorses like to disguise. No touching is allowed, however it’s enjoyable to watch them from above. However, there may be nothing as particular as recognizing seahorses when diving. It’s such a uncommon alternative.
Caye Caulker is thought for its seahorse conservation efforts. Visitors to Caye Caulker can usually discover seahorses in the mangrove areas the place they cling to submerged vegetation. The calm and clear waters round The Split present a wonderful alternative for snorkelers to spot seahorses in their pure habitat.
17. Paddle Around Caye Caulker
Dave and I like getting out on the water each probability we will get, and if a sundown sail or catamaran tour isn’t in the funds, you possibly can take a extra reasonably priced journey across the calm waters on a kayak or stand-up paddleboards. SUP and kayak leases can be found at many locations across the island; you possibly can see all of it in a day.
If you’re new to kayaking or SUP, begin on the lagoon aspect, the place the water is calmer, however you probably have a relaxed day, a lot of the water is calm round Caye Caulker.
18. Manatee Snorkelling Tour
We didn’t see manatees throughout our first journey to Caye Caulker, and we missed them once more! But these light giants could be noticed on a snorkeling tour to the Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary. Plus, we’ve been fortunate to see them in Florida in the previous.
The Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary is nearer to Belize City than Caye Caulker. It is just 12 miles off the Belize mainland, however excursions can nonetheless be organized from Caye Caulker.
Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary is particularly identified for being a haven for the West Indian Manatee. It was established to shield the manatee inhabitants and their pure habitat, and it has change into a essential feeding and breeding floor for these light marine mammals.
A snorkel tour right here presents a novel alternative for guests to observe these creatures as they graze on seagrass beds or playfully glide by means of the water in a accountable and ecologically delicate method.
19. Take a Stroll on the Northern Island – Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker is break up into two components thanks to Hurricane Hattie in the Nineteen Sixties. And they each have a really completely different really feel. North Caye Caulker is working to entice a extra upscale clientele that also desires to be shut to the enjoyable laid-back vibe of the South. It’s simple to get to and from every half of the island utilizing water taxis and the resorts have free shuttles on common schedules.
I really feel it gained’t be lengthy earlier than the northern island of Caye Caulker sees extra vacationers. Right now, individuals are drawn to the North Island for finer eating and leisure. El Ben Cabanas is thought to have one of the best eating on the island. The Northside Beach Club (previously Koko King) has a restaurant that nonguests can eat at and is value trying out.
We cherished staying at El Ben as a result of we had outgrown our backpacking days, however we may nonetheless benefit from the chill aspect of the island and reminisce about our Caye Caulker Travel in 2003. Once we had sufficient of the dreadlock hippy crowd, we may hop on a ship again to peace and luxurious.
20. Scuba Dive The Great Blue Hole
Most individuals go to The Great Blue Hole to scuba dive into its deep depths. This large underwater sinkhole reaches about 124 meters (407 toes), attracting divers from throughout the globe. It’s not solely essentially the most well-known dive web site in Belize, nevertheless it is among the most well-known dive websites globally, inviting superior divers to discover its deep, cavernous depths and historic stalactite formations.
This outstanding gap was a cave that fashioned over centuries and is now an underwater collapsed sinkhole related to the cenotes of the Yucatan in Mexico. As the ocean waters rose, the cave flooded and its ceiling caved in. Today, divers can see stalactites, which had been fashioned when the cave was above sea degree. Several species of sharks frequent the Great Blue Hole and divers see colourful fish in its clear blue waters.
Where to Stay in Caye Caulker
The island of Caye Caulker is split into two halves offering utterly completely different experiences. Caye Caulker Hotels on the south island have extra of a seashore hut and rustic really feel; nonetheless, you’re in the guts of all of the motion.
Staying on the northern island is way more luxurious and quiet; nonetheless, you do want to take a water taxi again every evening or seize a carry throughout The Split, which may add up rapidly as it’s $5 per individual a technique.
We stayed at El Ben Cabanas, which is the right mix of luxurious whereas nonetheless being a straightforward and brief journey to Caye Caulker Village or The Split.
Where to Eat in Caye Caulker
1. Enjoy Fresh Seafood at The Lazy Lizard Located on the iconic Split, The Lazy Lizard specializes in contemporary seafood like grilled lobster, conch fritters, and ceviche, all seasoned with native spices and flavors.
2. Authentic Belizean Flavors at Syd’s Fried Chicken For these searching for a style of genuine Belizean delicacies, Syd’s Fried Chicken is a must-visit. T
3. Italian Delights at Il Pellicano Cucina Italiana – Craving Italian on a Caribbean island? Il Pellicano Cucina Italiana serves up a pleasant array of Italian classics, from do-it-yourself pasta to delectable pizzas.
4. Vegan and Vegetarian Options at Namaste Café – Health-conscious and vegetarian guests will love Namaste Café. This cozy café presents a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, smoothies, and well being drinks.
5. El Ben Cabanas – Upscale eating with wine and cocktails
6. Salty’s – A enjoyable seashore bar with native Belizean delicacies.
How to Get to Caye Caulker
Most individuals go to Caye Caulker from Belize City by way of water taxi or ferry. We took a flight from Belize City with Tropic Air that lasted about 10 minutes. This is an effective way to optimize trip time and double as a scenic flight because it takes you over the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve and the Belize Barrier Reef.
If you’re touring from Ambergris, common water taxis are additionally out there, making island hopping a breeze. We additionally flew to Ambergris from Caye Caulker; the flight time was 8 minutes.
Getting Around Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker is a small island and you may get round principally by strolling. However, golf cart taxis are available you probably have a farther approach to go or are simply trying to loosen up. They value $5 per individual and can take you to wherever you want to go.
When to Visit Caye Caulker
The finest time to go to Caye Caulker is throughout Belize’s dry season, from late November by means of May. This is when you should have sunny climate good for watersports, snorkeling, and scuba diving. That stated, we visited the second week of December and nonetheless noticed fairly a little bit of rain. Climate change is taking its toll on vacationer locations worldwide, so be ready.
November by means of May is the height vacationer season when water temperatures are heat; nonetheless, that is additionally the most costly time to go to Belize, with lodge charges at their highest.
The wet season from June to November could be fairly moist. For vacationers searching for a stability between climate and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons – early November and late May – current a candy spot. During these instances, you’ll get pleasure from nice climate with fewer vacationers.
What is Better, Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye
However, San Pedro has so much to supply, in addition to there are extra resorts and lodges to select from, and lots of the actions we did on Caye Caulker may also be executed on Ambergris. But even in the event you do make Ambergris Caye a base, be certain to spend at the least a day or two with its quieter and extra laid neighbor.
We have visited each islands and nonetheless want the quiet Caye Caulker. Caye Caulker’s motto is to “go slow,” and it doesn’t take lengthy to undertake that angle as you sip rum punch whereas watching the sundown. There are not any vehicles on Caye Caulker and fewer golf carts than Ambergris Caye zipping alongside its sandy streets. Plus in the event you keep on Caye Caulker North Island, you possibly can get pleasure from an expensive trip …
We hope we impressed you to go to Caye Caulker in our Caye Caulker journey information.
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