Belize is an ever-growing tourist destination. With its breathtaking coastline, which features a lot of spectacular beaches, it is easy to see why. But what’s most amazing is in Belize is Belize Barrier Reef, which is the second biggest in the world next to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia. And because it is becoming more and more popular among tourists, visitors are also looking where to stay in Belize. This article aims to help you where to search for accommodation for your needs.
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TYPE OF ACCOMMODATIONS IN BELIZE
Hotels
Even though you may find Belize resorts to be small, you can expect to experience real luxury on your stay. You will find resorts that offer all-inclusive services that will make your stay extra incredible and comfortable.
If staying at a resort is not really your style, or if you have limited money to spare, there are hotels, B&BS, and guesthouses you can find in Belize that cater for different budgets. These types of accommodation differ in price and quality.
Villa and Condo Rentals
If you are visiting Belize with as a big group or if you are planning to stay for a little bit longer, then you may want to consider renting an apartment, villa, or condo. These types of accommodation offer something unique, but all of them usually different rooms like general living space, bathrooms, and a fully functioning kitchen.
Camping
If you like something that is closer to nature, then you may want to look into campgrounds or eco-lodges. Compared to most nations in the Caribbean, Belize has more campgrounds. This means that if you can sleep under the stars whenever you want. Finding eco-friendly nature lodges in Belize shouldn’t be difficult at all.
AREAS TO STAY IN BELIZE
When looking for where to stay in Belize, the location is the key. Because this is not a small country, you want to make sure that you are going to stick to the area where it’s going to be easy for you to get to your place of interest. Here are some great areas to stay when you visit Belize.
Belize City
Back in the day when Belize was named as British Honduras, Belize City, which is the biggest city in the country used to be the country’s capital. Because of this, not surprising how it’s one of the best places to visit the place. You will find a lot of relics from its colonial history. Some of these are previous government house, the Museum of Belize, the oldest one in Central America.
Aside from the history and architecture, the Belize City of today is known for its bright yet relaxing Caribbean culture. But as a huge city, it’s infamous also for its fair share of crime and poverty. Because it’s not considered as a major destination, there is a limited number of hotels hare.
Belmopan
Founded in 1970 after Hurricane Hattie was destroyed by Belize City, Belmopan is another great place to consider if you are looking for where to stay in Belize. The city’s name was originated from two words: Belize and Mopan, a close to it are one of the biggest rivers in the country. Mostly centered on a loop road, the capital’s central point of is at the outstanding National Assembly Building, distinctively designed on a Mayan temple.
Situated in a peaceful area in Belize, Belmopan isn’t really well-known for its culture. However, it has an interesting market, and on top of that, it is the main transport center and a great place to be a starting point of your trips. And while there are not a lot of hotels here, you can still find affordable options here.
Caye Caulker
The small island of Caye Caulker is definitely a paradise; not only because it’s a very beautiful place, but also because of the amenities offered by the accommodations in this area. You can choose from more than 50 hotels in the area that is only five square miles, along with a number of bars and restaurants. Not only you will be gifted with a slice of paradise, but also different forms of entertainment and places to drink and eat.
Caye Caulker is divided in two by a channel or what is known as ‘the Split.’ One side of the channel boasts a beautiful white-sand beach and an amazing sandbar. Being located on the Belize Barrier Reef, the island is widespread with a chance to see the beautiful marine life in the shallows. Going to the other side, you are able to see the beautiful mangrove forests, as well.
Hopkins
Chosen as the ‘The Friendliest Village in Belize’ by a local magazine, Hopkins is another place to stay as it is located in the heart of the city. Making up a stretching slice of land in Stann Creek District coastal region, this place is a wonderful coastline destination with a fascinating cultural side that balances it all. Hopkins celebrates its own annual Hopkins Day, on top of a Garifuna Independence Day, which features parties that carry on until dawn.
By riding a boat for 30 minutes from the Hopkins, you can reach The Belize Barrier Reef. This is a great spot to swim and experience its incredible marine life, while traveling the Maya Mountains about 20 minutes by car you will be presented with incredible for outdoor experiences. You will even come across the ruins from Mayan civilization around this area. Or you are able to simply relax on the beach and just enjoy the fact that you are there. Accommodations in Hopkins are astonishingly abundant and largely costs budget to mid-range.
Placencia
Placencia is situated on the south part of the Placencia Peninsula; this place is another perfect location to stay for your Belize getaway. This is a dream destination when it comes to paradise identifications; this area in Belize is popular for its stretching palm-lined beaches, exceptional marine life, and of course, the interesting culture. There are several dive sites located offshore with only a boat ride away to the Belize Barrier Reef. You will find an exceptional white sand beach called Maya Beach. Going to the northern part, you will have a chance to see something more of their culture, such as traditional dancing and music.
Placencia used to be a laid-back fishing village, now it’s a popular area among visitors. The accommodations here, generally, are affordable, with only a few high-end selections for people who are willing to spend a lot.
San Ignacio
The second-biggest town of Belize, San Ignacio is located in the central western part of the country within the western part of the Cayo District. With its size, it is filled with a big cultural hint. Not too far from the area are the old ruins of Cahal Pech that was mysteriously abandoned in the 9th Century AD, as well as the wonderful Xunantunich ruins that were left by the inhabitants around 750 AD. What you will see here are interesting places to meander around, admiring at the very ancient architecture. Aside from that, you can do different activities that will get you closer to nature like caving, hiking, and others
Going back to town, San Ignacio has a sparkling atmosphere, and the main road of the town– Burns Avenue – is the heart of the town where you can find some of the best restaurants and bars in the town. Accommodations here can cater to anyone’s budget, with some more isolated and high-end.
San Pedro
Located on the south part of the biggest island in Belize, Ambergris Caye, San Pedro is an interesting place to stay. Most people who live here have Mexican roots, having moved to San Pedro many years ago after a conflict in their former home. Because of this, you will notice how the language and culture are particularly Hispanic.
Because San Pedro is located on an island, one of the best activities you can do here includes snorkeling and diving. One of the most popular spots here is the Shark Ray Alley, which is popular for its nurse sharks and stingrays, as well as the Hol Chan Marine Reserve reefs. Going back to the town, you are able to walk the sandy streets trying out some delicious seafood and drinking local cocktails. In terms of accommodation, you can find hotel and resorts along the coast with some inland selections, and one thing is for sure, you can find one that is most suitable with your needs and budget.
Hopefully, this article has given you enough information as to where to stay in Belize for your visit. If you have other questions regarding this topic, let us know by leaving comments in the box below. Further, if you find this helpful, you can return the favor by sharing this article on your social media pages.