Island Hopping and Silky Sands: Here’s How To Spend 72 Hours In Belize

An abundance of marine life, fishing villages, and world-renowned snorkeling sites, Belize is a gem in Central America. Sat along the Caribbean Sea, it’s home to rich marine life, blue-waters, and an array of outdoor activities for every type of traveler. 

Landing in Belize, I realized I was bound to fall in love with the country. Friendly locals, insanely blue waters, and affordable prices? What’s not to love?

We spent our stay exploring the country’s diversity of landscapes: we drove by dense jungles, swamps, and explored the country’s outer islands, too. I recommend a visit wholeheartedly – here’s how I’d plan it…

Day 1 & 2: San Pedro/Ambergris Caye

The gateway to Ambergris Caye, San Pedro offers small-town vibes with a slew of local restaurants, winding streets, and off-path beaches. A popular destination for visitors, regular hopper planes travel to and from San Pedro via Belize City Airport several times a day. In under 20 minutes, you’ll find yourself on the beautiful Ambergris Caye. If you want true Belizean adventure and luxury, it’s by far one of the best places to stay in the country for easy access to several sites. 

Where to Stay in San Pedro

Sat along the shores of San Pedro Island, Alaia Belize Autograph Collection is a welcoming haven that effortlessly showcases the beauty of Belize in all aspects of the resort experience. Wander around the property to find hidden alcoves, quiet escapes, and private beach access. 

The Alaia Hotel Autograph team somehow creates a harmonious blend of indoor and outdoor spaces to perfectly represent Belizean culture, colors, and landscapes. Rooms are elegantly designed with bursts of blue tones and neutral creams; a nod towards the Island's natural surroundings.  

The Hotel’s private dock allows for guests to fully explore Hol Chan Marine Park and its surrounding areas. 

My personal highlight: We boarded the hotel's private boat and kissed the waves as we sailed along the shores. The Hotel became miniscule as we got further out to sea. This was my first experience sailing to the Barrier Reef; freshly caught conch made into ceviche by the deck team, crystal clear waters, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With Shark Ray Alley and the Park on your doorstep, it's difficult not to spend most of the time at sea.

The Hotel also weaves the landscapes into its gastronomy. With several dining outlets and bars on site, guests can expect to find an array of fresh seafood, meat, veggies, and a few Lionfish dishes here and there. The essential soul of Belize is expressed in every way, and the team have somehow maintained long-standing traditions into 5-star dining and experiences. 

The most luxurious of them all has to be the chef’s table offering led by executive chef Alex Alcantar. Seating around 8 people in a wine cellar, guests are blindfolded, encouraged to sample their own concoctions, and talked through tasting various dishes using all 5 senses. 

The rooftop bar and infinity pool overlooking the ocean is the central hub of the property, with an eclectic sushi experience on the upper deck. For a little fun after dinner, try the creative Molecular mixology class offered!

What To Do There

Explore San Pedro Town

Golf carts are the popular mode of transport in Belize! Rent one and wizz around town to find an array of local restaurants, off-path roads, fruit stands, and craft shops. 

Blue Bayou

A floating restaurant in the middle of the Ocean.. Need I say more?

Boat Ride to Hol Chan & Shark Ray Alley

Visit the UNESCO site of Hol Chan Park and swim with sharks in Shark Ray Alley.

Secret Beach

A 40-minute ride from San Pedro town, the Secret Beach area is well worth the visit once you pass along the dirt roads it takes to get there. Watersports, beach, and good seafood.. Be sure to visit Happy Island Beach Bar and Grill here for delicious platters of local favorites.

Visit the Neighboring Island 

With a population of around 2,000, Caye Caulker is a charming fishing village 30 minutes from San Pedro. Hours can be spent at Stingray Beach or the seahorse sanctuary spotting friendly locals. Small bars and local restaurants make it easy to spend a whole day here.

Day 3: Belize City

With most flights flying into Belize City, it’s only natural to spend some time here. Though not recommended to spend an entire vacation, it’s easily doable in 1-2 days. In my opinion, it’s actually better to spend a day or so here before your flight going home (because you’ll want to make the most of the sandy shores of the Islands instead). The port city is certainly bustling, with many cultural and historic sites to see during your stay. 

What To Do There

To truly get acquainted with a new city, talk to the locals and immerse yourself in the culture in the best way possible- with food! A rich gastronomy scene stewed in history, this food tour will take you around the city and to a local rum factory. To continue the historical trail, venture to the Museum of Belize. Set in a former prison, you’ll have the chance to see ancient Mayan artifacts and memorabilia. 

For nature-lovers, Belize Zoo serves as a refuge for orphaned and rescued species native to the country. The animals roam-free in large enclosures that replicate their natural environments, so be prepared to get up close and personal with a few. Known as “the best little zoo in the World,” it’s an ideal day out for families looking to escape the city life for a few hours. 

An hour away from the city, Altun Ha is an important site for Mayan culture. As the discovery site of Belize’s famous ‘Jade Head,’ it’s one of the most visited archaeological sites.

Belize is a gem in Central America that has a little something for everyone. Beaches, hidden alcoves, adventure activities, and small villages to discover, Belize is a must-visit year round.