San Pedro Belize is an idyllic little island on the southern coast of an Island of the mainland of Belize. Through the years, it has grown to accommodate more than 15,000 residents. That number swells at any given time of the year because of the number of tourists that come to the area seeking a bit of peace and relaxation. Honeymooners, scuba divers, and nature lovers alike will love their time in San Pedro. The town really has a bit of everything, which is why it is also has at the largest concentration of tourist oriented activities in the entire nation of Belize.
Main Attractions in San Pedro Belize
With such beauty everywhere you turn, the most difficult aspect of a holiday in San Pedro might be choosing which of the many attractions to visit and experience. Consider the following three places as a great starting point.
San Pedro Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System
Having the distinction of being the longest barrier reef in the entire Western Hemisphere, along with being the second most expansive reef system on the face of the planet, one can just imagine what they will see when visiting San Pedro Belize. On the eastern half of the barrier lies three separate atoll reefs that contain a variety of marine life that is unseen in much of the rest of the world. Just north of there is the Banco Chinchorro. This area contains a number of wrecks that are popular with wreck divers the world over.
Caving Opportunities Abound
Below the surface of the island lies caves that have been well preserved through the centuries. This is a great way for adventure enthusiasts to explore the region in a way never before imagined. There are many secrets lying beneath the surface of the earth, so imaginations can run wild as the Mayan underworld is encountered in all of its splendors. It is believed that the Mayans inhabited and made use of these caves dating all the way back to 300 AD. These caves developed because this area of Belize was covered by a shallow tropical sea roughly a million years ago. Major rock types were deposited during this area, resulting in the formation of the beautiful caves that residents and tourists alike are now able to explore.
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Meaning ‘little channel’, the Hol Chan Marine Reserve is home to a wide variety of species of fish that will enthuse scuba divers and snorkelers alike. It is only 4 miles south of the San Pedro Ambergris Caye and has become the most sought after day trip for tourists throughout the region. This reserve spans roughly three miles and it separated into three distinct zones. A boat and guide will take you all over to see it in all of its splendor.
Other Things to do in San Pedro Island
Rent A Golf Cart
There is so much to see and do in San Pedro Belize that you do want to be confined to a traditional four wheel vehicle to do so. There will be frequent stops that you want to take, and having to find a parking spot can be troublesome. Not everyone is meant to ride a motorbike, so consider renting one of the hundreds of golf carts available on the island. You do not have to be a golfer to enjoy these vehicles, as they are quite the mode of transportation around the island. Keep in mind that Belize law does require possession of a valid driver’s license in order to operate one of these vehicles.
Take A Tour of Mayan Civilization
The Mayan culture dates back centuries. From historical artifacts to native animals of the region, there is much to see and explore. Consider taking an organized tour in order to enjoy the knowledge and expertise of one of the fantastic tour guides living on the island. This has been their home for generations, so they love to showcase it for the world to see. You will be able to see nature conservatories, fisheries, caves, the zoo, and much more. You will want to bring at good set of binoculars with you so that you can take in everything to its fullest.
Taste Local Cuisine
Some of the best food in the entire country, and indeed the region, is to be found on San Pedro Island. No matter what your taste might be for on any given night, you will find a seaside restaurant ready to oblige. Seafood is fresh year round, particularly the lobster and shrimp, but there are Italian and Mexican restaurant dotting the island’s landscape as well. Most restaurants have a tremendous view of the bay as well, so that is an added bonus and definitely adds to the mood. A special evening will certainly be had, drinking and having a great meal with family and friends.
Great Places to Stay in San Pedro Island
There is a complete range of accommodation options on San Pedro Island to meet nearly any budget.
Conch Shell Inn
The Conch Shell Inn has been open since 1973 and is a charming pink guesthouse style property right on the property. This is great for budget travelers looking for a relaxing stay. Hammocks dot the outside, and rooms are functional and recently remodeled.
Seven Seas Resort
For a more all-inclusive feel to your stay, Seven Seas Resort offers you a great location right next to many of the tourist attractions that have made San Pedro famous. It is a great base to conduct all of your holiday operations from.
Belizean Cove Estates
For a special trip, the Belizean Cove Estates has just about everything. This s a popular choice for honeymooners and destination weddings. The luxury feel throughout the property, combined with its seaside location, are sure to create a memorable experience.
How to Get to San Pedro Island
Though San Pedro does have its own airports, travelers from much of the world will need to first land in Belize City (BZE). As the capital city, the airport is modern and accommodates international travel from many surrounding nations, including the United States. From there, a small commuter plane can be flown directly to San Pedro Island, where your vacation will begin shortly after landing. Alternatively, there are a number of charter boats leaving regularly form the mainland that will take you directly to the harbor in San Pedro. During season, boats and flights occur regularly, so one should not have trouble finding transportation.
Summing Up
San Pedro Belize is a great vacation spot for nearly any type of traveler. If it is peace and relaxation you want, then just grab a hammock and watch the world go by while looking out over the seaside horizon. If you want to hike, fish, scuba dive, or more than there is plenty of opportunities for you as well. As night falls, you will be dining and drinking with new friends and enjoying the idyllic surroundings. San Pedro Belize will be a holiday that you will cherish for years to come, and you will likely find yourself coming back year after year from more fun and adventure.
