Do I need cash on the island?

Yes. While some places accept cards, many local vendors and tour operators only accept cash. ATMs are available but can run out of money.

What's the best time to visit Caye Caulker?

The dry season from December to April offers the best weather for snorkeling, diving, and enjoying the beach with clear skies and calm seas.

Is Caye Caulker walkable?

Absolutely. Caye Caulker is a flat, car-free island, making it perfect for walking and biking.

What are must-do activities on Caye Caulker?

Top activities include snorkeling at Hol Chan & Shark Ray Alley, relaxing at The Split, kayaking mangroves, and sunset sailing trips.

How many days should I stay on Caye Caulker?

A stay of 2–4 days is ideal to enjoy snorkeling, island exploring, local food, and the relaxed Caribbean atmosphere.

How deep is the Great Blue Hole?

The Blue Hole is over 400 feet deep. Divers typically descend to 100–130 feet to see ancient stalactites and reef sharks, while snorkelers explore the coral ring near the surface.

Can beginners join this tour?

Yes, snorkelers are welcome with basic swimming ability. Divers must be certified. Due to the distance and open-sea conditions, this tour is best for guests comfortable on boats and in the water.

What marine life can I see?

You may spot reef sharks, sea turtles, eagle rays, groupers, parrotfish, and angelfish—plus a wide variety of coral species and sometimes dolphins.

What’s included in the price?

The tour includes boat transport, breakfast, lunch, snorkel or dive gear, park entry fees, and guide services. We do not publish prices online—custom quotes are provided based on group size and departure point.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children aged 10+ with good swimming skills may join as snorkelers under adult supervision. We recommend this tour for families with older children or teens.

Bring a towel, swimsuit, dry clothes, reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, camera/GoPro, and optional seasickness medication. A full gear list is provided upon booking.

How far is the Blue Hole from San Pedro?

The boat ride takes approximately 2.5 to 3 hours each way, depending on sea conditions. The full trip duration is about 10–12 hours.

Can I book this tour privately?

Yes! We offer private charters for couples, families, photographers, or dive groups. Contact us to customize your experience.

Caye Caulker Island, Belize. Chill, Snorkel & Go Slow

Caye Caulker Island, Belize: Travel Guide to the Laid-Back Caribbean Gem

Q: Is Caye Caulker worth visiting?

Yes! Caye Caulker is a charming, car-free island offering reef tours, fresh seafood, and laid-back culture near the Belize Barrier Reef.

Q: How do I get to Caye Caulker?

You can reach Caye Caulker by taking a 45–60 minute water taxi or a 10–15 minute domestic flight from Belize City.

Escape to Caye Caulker Island, Belize, home to reef adventures, beach bars, local flavor & barefoot vibes. Snorkel, relax & explore this laid-back gem.

Wooden deck extending into the Caribbean Sea on Caye Caulker Island, Belize, capturing the island’s laid-back charm and coastal beauty.

Sailboat at sunset near Caye Caulker Island, Belize, drifting between land and sea with vibrant skies reflecting the island’s tranquil, tropical charm.

Street food vendor grilling fresh lobsters on an open flame at sunset on Caye Caulker Island, Belize.

Sea turtle swimming in the clear blue waters off Caye Caulker Island, Belize

Nurse shark gliding peacefully through the clear blue waters near Caye Caulker Island Belize, showcasing the vibrant marine life of the Belize Barrier Reef

Scuba diver exploring vibrant coral reefs near a tropical Belizean caye in clear Caribbean waters

Vibrant local eatery on a Caribbean island near Belize, showcasing colorful walls, picnic tables, and island charm.

Quiet coastal lane on a laid-back Belizean caye, lined with palm trees and bicycles under the tropical sun.

Island retreat with swimming pool and lounge chairs overlooking the coast of a Belizean caye Caulker.

Local islander relaxing on a bench at the channel in Caye Caulker, Belize, with turquoise waters and laid-back

Catamaran sailing near Caye Caulker Island, Belize, with turquoise Caribbean waters and clear skies in the background.

Submit Your Message

Key Takeaways

Caye Caulker offers access to the Belize Barrier Reef with top snorkeling and diving just minutes offshore.
The Split is the island’s vibrant heart—a place to swim, paddleboard, and catch stunning sunsets.
Food is fresh and varied—think lobster tacos, ceviche, and Belizean stews.
The island’s culture is a warm blend of Maya and Caribbean roots.
It’s easy to navigate on foot, bike, or golf cart; no cars needed.
Dry season (Nov–Apr) is ideal for clear water, calm seas, and sunny skies.

Why Visit Caye Caulker?

Caye Caulker, Belize is a sandy, sea-washed gem where the motto is “Go Slow.” This limestone coral caye, just 32 km from Belize City, is 8 km long and easy to explore on foot or by bike. It’s a favorite for travelers looking to unwind, access Belize’s Barrier Reef, and experience authentic, affordable Caribbean island life.

1. The Reef

Situated near the Belize Barrier Reef UNESCO site, Caye Caulker offers unparalleled access to coral gardens, clear visibility, and vibrant marine life.

Snorkeling and diving tours take you to Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, and Turneffe Atoll. Expect grunts, parrotfish, turtles, and even nurse sharks.

Tours often include feeding tarpon, spotting stingrays on sandy flats, and stops with seasoned guides who prioritize eco-awareness and gear safety.

Photographers will appreciate the lighting and shallow dive sites. Night dives reveal octopuses, lobsters, and vibrant reef life.

2. The Split

Created by Hurricane Hattie, The Split divides the island into north and south. It’s now a center of social life: swim, paddle, or lounge with a cold drink at the Lazy Lizard bar.

Sunsets here are a local tradition, with beach bars, loungers, and a communal vibe.

3. The Food

From grilled snapper on the beach to Belizean stewed chicken with rice and beans, Caye Caulker serves flavorful and affordable meals. Lobster season runs June–February. Try ceviche, fresh fruit from markets, wood-fired pizza, and street food. Beach BBQs and sunset dinners are not to be missed.

4. The People

Islanders welcome visitors with easygoing hospitality. You’ll hear Maya-Caribbean dialects and reggae beats, meet artisans and fishers, and can support local causes like the Caye Caulker Animal Shelter. Take a beachfront massage, visit the seahorse sanctuary, or feed rays at the pier.

5. The Vibe

Laid-back and low-key, the island features sandy roads, painted murals, and mellow reggae. Walk, bike, or take a golf cart. Grab a cocktail at a beach club, cruise on a tiki boat, or just watch the sunset from a rooftop patio. Nightlife is relaxed and unhurried.

Talk to a Local Travel Specialist: Free Consultation

Wondering if Caye Caulker Island, Belize, is right for you?

Speak with a Belize-based travel planner to explore your options, customize your itinerary, and get advice from experts who live here.

icon_phone icon GET FREE CALL

GET FREE CALL

Navigating Caye Caulker

Getting there is easy: fly from Belize City (10–15 minutes with Tropic Air or Maya Island Air) or take a 45-minute ferry. Once on the island:

Walk or bike most places
Rent golf carts for convenience
Use a custom Google Map with pins for accommodations, eateries, docks, and snorkel tour operators

Caulker’s Two Halves

The Split divides the island into:

Aspect	South Island (Village)	North Island
Amenities	Shops, ATMs, cafes, tours	Beach clubs, nature trails
Activities	Snorkel, dive, nightlife	Kayak, birdwatch, beach days
Lodging	Hostels to boutique hotels	Eco-lodges and quiet stays

The footbridge at The Split connects both halves. Boats also cross. South is lively with services and nightlife; North is peaceful with nature reserves and long, quiet beaches.

The Island’s True Rhythm

Experience real Caye Caulker by:

Starting with sunrise yoga or a solo beach stroll
Watching fishermen bring in the daily catch
Savoring spontaneous chats, fruit stand stops, and sunset lounging
Attending local festivals, beach BBQs, or live music nights

Beyond the Tourist Trail

Venture off the main drag to:

Visit the Caye Caulker Forest Reserve or Wildlife Sanctuary
Explore art galleries and backstreet cafes
Join eco-tours to Swallow Caye or Turneffe Atoll for manatees, turtles, and birdlife
Ride bikes north across The Split to secluded beaches and mangroves

Plan Your Caye Caulker Trip

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (Nov–Apr): Ideal for calm waters, snorkeling, and reef visibility
Wet Season (May–Oct): Cheaper rates, fewer crowds, brief tropical storms

Packing Essentials

Reef-safe sunscreen (SPF 30+)
Rash guard, hat, and UV sunglasses
Quick-dry swimwear, dry bag, reusable bottle
Sandals and closed-toe water shoes
Bug repellent, first-aid kit, motion sickness tabs
Power bank, phone pouch, universal adapter
Belize dollars in small bills + card
Light clothes, rain jacket, light sweater

Budget Overview

Hostels: US $10–$20/night
AC Studios: From US $65+
Meals: BZ$6–$45 depending on venue
Snorkel Tours: BZ$120–$200 + park fees
Bike Rentals: BZ$15–$25/day

Booking Tips

Book reef tours and ferries early, especially Dec–Mar
Check weather before planning water activities
Reserve sunset-view rooms for quieter stays

Book with Confidence

Caye Caulker is simple, warm, and unforgettable. From reef snorkeling to fruit-stand chats, every moment is slow, easy, and real. Plan your stay, pack light, and let the rhythm of the island lead the way.

Reach out now to reserve your preferred date and let our local team customize the perfect Caye Caulker experience.

FAQs About Caye Caulker

🟦 Is Caye Caulker worth visiting?

Yes! A charming, car-free island with reef tours, seafood, and laid-back culture.

🟦How do I get to Caye Caulker?

From Belize City: ferry (45–60 mins) or short domestic flight (10–15 mins).

🟦 Do I need cash?

Yes. Bring Belizean dollars. Many small vendors and tours don’t take cards. ATMs may run dry.

🟦 Best time to visit?

Dry season (Dec–Apr) is best for calm seas and sunny days.

🟦Is it walkable?

Totally. Caye Caulker is flat, tiny, and virtually car-free.

🟦Must-do activities?

Snorkel Hol Chan & Shark Ray Alley
Relax at The Split
Kayak mangroves
Sunset sails
Eat local seafood

🟦 How many days should I stay?

2–4 days is perfect to snorkel, explore, and unwind.

You Might Also Like These Belize Day Tours

See All Day Tours

BUS RENTALS & TRANSPORTATION

Call Us Now