ISLANDS & ATOLLS
Why consider vacationing on Islands & Atolls?
Off the mainland coast of Belize are an assortment of small islands and Atolls. Many of which have small fishing & diving lodges, which specialize in snorkeling and diving operations for tourists looking to get off from the beaten path. Vacations on private islands offer a great way to enjoy nature, experience tranquility, and become absorbed into your environment, while being on the second largest barrier reef in the world. For those looking for the perfect diving vacation, try vacationing on a small private island, with your very own cook and tour guide. Here you will experience some of the best snorkeling and diving in the world.
For those looking for the true get away, try renting an entire island for a week. Most island rentals come with your very own chef, fresh meals prepared daily, and the chef often is your snorkeling and diving guide when he's not cooking. Most island lodges or resorts, offer the use of snorkeling gear, kayaks, and have areas designated for swimming. The snorkeling and diving is some of the best in the entire world, as you explore the second largest barrier reef. Many of these islands are scattered along the Belize Barrier Reef or amidst the various Atolls, off the mainland coast of Belize.
Though accommodations can be a bit rustic, most lodges or resorts do have electricity and captured rainwater for bathing and cleaning. An island rental or retreat, makes a great place to have a family reunion or a private wedding party.
For those looking for the true get away, try renting an entire island for a week. Most island rentals come with your very own chef, fresh meals prepared daily, and the chef often is your snorkeling and diving guide when he's not cooking. Most island lodges or resorts, offer the use of snorkeling gear, kayaks, and have areas designated for swimming. The snorkeling and diving is some of the best in the entire world, as you explore the second largest barrier reef. Many of these islands are scattered along the Belize Barrier Reef or amidst the various Atolls, off the mainland coast of Belize.
Though accommodations can be a bit rustic, most lodges or resorts do have electricity and captured rainwater for bathing and cleaning. An island rental or retreat, makes a great place to have a family reunion or a private wedding party.
THINGS TO DO - Islands & Atolls
Top Attractions Islands & Atolls
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How To Get To Islands & Atolls
From the Phillip Goldson International Airport you can do either of the following: By Boat - This option allows you to decompress a bit more slowly. From the International Airport, take a cab to the water taxi ferry terminal. Make sure you use the restroom before boarding the boat. St. George's Caye - 30 minute boat ride Coco Plum Caye - 30 minute boat ride French Louis Caye - 30 minute boat ride Glover's Reef Atoll - 45 minute boat ride Tobacco Caye - 50 minute boat ride Caye Caulker - 1 hour boat ride Turneffe Atoll - 1 hour boat ride Ambergris Caye - 1-1/2 hour boat ride Cayo Espanto - 1-1/2 hour boat ride Lighthouse Atoll - 1-1/2 to 2 hour boat ride Once you arrive to the island, spend some cash on an nice ice cold Belikin beer or a rum punch. |
SWALLOW CAYE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY
Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary
One of many ocean-bound excursions available from Belize's Northern Cayes. This protected area offers visitors manatees and shorebirds.
One of many ocean-bound excursions available from Belize's Northern Cayes. This protected area offers visitors manatees and shorebirds.
LAUGHING BIRD CAYE NATIONAL PARK
Laughing Bird Caye National Park
Laughing Bird Caye National Park is one of the gems in a string of pearls that is the Belize Barrier Reef World Heritage Site. It is a beautiful Belizean isle situated on the western side of the Victoria Channel, only 11 miles off the coast from Placencia Village in the Stann Creek District of Belize. The uniqueness of this structure contributes to both the abundance and variety of coral habitats and marine life. The Caye gets its name from the Laughing Gull (Larus artricilla). This bird once used to breed on the Caye, but because of growing human presence, the colonies have moved to nearby undisturbed cayes for breeding.
Due to the uniqueness of the Caye, the Faro, and the abundant and diverse marine habitats and life, the Caye was declared a protected area in 1981 under the National Parks System Act. On December 21st, 1991, Laughing Bird Caye National Park was declared. Finally, in 1996 the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System was inscribed on the World Heritage List with Laughing Bird Caye National Park designated as one of the premiere protected areas within the World Heritage Site.
Other birds can be seen on the Caye including the Brown Pelican, Green Heron, Melodious Blackbird and many other birds from the surrounding cayes and strays from the mainland. There are also a variety of lizards and insects on the Caye.
Tourists with local guides from Placencia Area (members of the Placencia Tour Guide Association) are carried in small boats (30 foot or less) with outboard motors, or slightly larger boats (40 foot or less) with inboard engines. These tours are for sightseeing, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, and picnicking; generally lasting one to six hours.
The basic boat load is based on four people plus a guide. Occasionally there can be from twelve to twenty people on a given boat. Sometimes, these visiting groups will build fires for cooking. The Conservation Branch of the Forestry Department of the Natural Resources has declared that there can be no overnight stays on the Caye.
There are no rest rooms facilities or shelter on the Caye.
The primary users of Laughing Bird Caye are the residents of Placencia Village. The locals will visit the island for a day of snorkeling, diving and picnicking. Presently, there is no rest room facility. The number of people using the caye in this capacity is hard to estimate as it is generally seasonally centering around holidays and weekends. Placencia is a popular destination for Belizeans. There is also sporadic traffic from other surrounding communities such as Independence, Seine Bight, and the nearby citrus and banana plantations.
The heavy use has impacted the terrestrial habitats and is beginning to impact the undersea environments.
Local community groups and national regulatory authorities are working together to help save and manage the Park. As always, sustainability is a major problem. Other problems related to sustainability include management, research, and enforcement.
Laughing Bird Caye National Park is one of the gems in a string of pearls that is the Belize Barrier Reef World Heritage Site. It is a beautiful Belizean isle situated on the western side of the Victoria Channel, only 11 miles off the coast from Placencia Village in the Stann Creek District of Belize. The uniqueness of this structure contributes to both the abundance and variety of coral habitats and marine life. The Caye gets its name from the Laughing Gull (Larus artricilla). This bird once used to breed on the Caye, but because of growing human presence, the colonies have moved to nearby undisturbed cayes for breeding.
Due to the uniqueness of the Caye, the Faro, and the abundant and diverse marine habitats and life, the Caye was declared a protected area in 1981 under the National Parks System Act. On December 21st, 1991, Laughing Bird Caye National Park was declared. Finally, in 1996 the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System was inscribed on the World Heritage List with Laughing Bird Caye National Park designated as one of the premiere protected areas within the World Heritage Site.
Other birds can be seen on the Caye including the Brown Pelican, Green Heron, Melodious Blackbird and many other birds from the surrounding cayes and strays from the mainland. There are also a variety of lizards and insects on the Caye.
Tourists with local guides from Placencia Area (members of the Placencia Tour Guide Association) are carried in small boats (30 foot or less) with outboard motors, or slightly larger boats (40 foot or less) with inboard engines. These tours are for sightseeing, snorkeling, SCUBA diving, and picnicking; generally lasting one to six hours.
The basic boat load is based on four people plus a guide. Occasionally there can be from twelve to twenty people on a given boat. Sometimes, these visiting groups will build fires for cooking. The Conservation Branch of the Forestry Department of the Natural Resources has declared that there can be no overnight stays on the Caye.
There are no rest rooms facilities or shelter on the Caye.
The primary users of Laughing Bird Caye are the residents of Placencia Village. The locals will visit the island for a day of snorkeling, diving and picnicking. Presently, there is no rest room facility. The number of people using the caye in this capacity is hard to estimate as it is generally seasonally centering around holidays and weekends. Placencia is a popular destination for Belizeans. There is also sporadic traffic from other surrounding communities such as Independence, Seine Bight, and the nearby citrus and banana plantations.
The heavy use has impacted the terrestrial habitats and is beginning to impact the undersea environments.
Local community groups and national regulatory authorities are working together to help save and manage the Park. As always, sustainability is a major problem. Other problems related to sustainability include management, research, and enforcement.
CAYO ESPANTO
Cayo Espanto
Discover your own private island at Cayo Espanto, Belize, where paradise and luxury come together as one. Our five-star, world class resort offers travelers the best life has to offer. We invite you to spend your evenings enchanted and your days engulfed in the Caribbean waters that surround each private villa. Located three miles off the coast of San Pedro, Belize, Cayo Espanto is truly an unforgettable private island retreat.
Discover your own private island at Cayo Espanto, Belize, where paradise and luxury come together as one. Our five-star, world class resort offers travelers the best life has to offer. We invite you to spend your evenings enchanted and your days engulfed in the Caribbean waters that surround each private villa. Located three miles off the coast of San Pedro, Belize, Cayo Espanto is truly an unforgettable private island retreat.
CAYE CHAPPEL
Caye Chappel
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Caye Chapel, Belize and Four Seasons Private Estates are situated on an exceptionally designed, sustainably focused, luxury, private island, located in the heart of Belize's largest marine sanctuary.
Perched on the edge of the UNESCO World Heritage designated Belize Barrier Reef, Caye Chapel, Belize revives a sense of wonder in the natural world. A select group of families and individuals are invited to have a hand in building one of the most distinctive island communities on earth for generations to come.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Caye Chapel, Belize and Four Seasons Private Estates are situated on an exceptionally designed, sustainably focused, luxury, private island, located in the heart of Belize's largest marine sanctuary.
Perched on the edge of the UNESCO World Heritage designated Belize Barrier Reef, Caye Chapel, Belize revives a sense of wonder in the natural world. A select group of families and individuals are invited to have a hand in building one of the most distinctive island communities on earth for generations to come.
TURNEFFE ATOLL
Turneffe Atoll
Belize's newest protected marine area, Turneffe Atoll, is the largest and most biologically diverse atoll in the Americas. At 30 miles long and 10 miles wide, the area is alive with coral, fish and large rays, making it a prime destination for diving, snorkeling and catch-and-release sport fishing. It was only in 2012 that environmental groups succeeded in protecting the 131,690-hectare area now dubbed the Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve, and the Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association in Belize City manages it.
Belize's newest protected marine area, Turneffe Atoll, is the largest and most biologically diverse atoll in the Americas. At 30 miles long and 10 miles wide, the area is alive with coral, fish and large rays, making it a prime destination for diving, snorkeling and catch-and-release sport fishing. It was only in 2012 that environmental groups succeeded in protecting the 131,690-hectare area now dubbed the Turneffe Atoll Marine Reserve, and the Turneffe Atoll Sustainability Association in Belize City manages it.
LIGHTHOUSE REEF ATOLL
Lighthouse Reef Atoll
With over 20 world-renowned dive and snorkel sites, including the Blue Hole, Half Moon Wall and the Aquarium, Lighthouse Atoll is a must-visit destination. The coral reefs that make Lighthouse one of our most exciting snorkeling destinations harbour a remarkable 200 species of fish in a magical setting of changing reef types, from shallow reefs and ledges to shelves and drop offs.
This Atoll is part of a Marine Reserve that covers 10,000 acres and 15 square miles of surrounding sea. At the center of the Reserve is Half Moon Caye - 45 acres of coconut palm, sandy beaches, and rare littoral forest which shelters a nesting colony of red-footed boobies. The Blue Hole is just 8 miles north of Half Moon Caye. Formed some 10,000 years ago when jungle covered what is now water, the roof of a massive cave collapsed. Then as sea levels rose to inundate the area, the cave was flooded to create this remarkable undersea phenomonon that is now a unique snorkelinig and diving destination.
With over 20 world-renowned dive and snorkel sites, including the Blue Hole, Half Moon Wall and the Aquarium, Lighthouse Atoll is a must-visit destination. The coral reefs that make Lighthouse one of our most exciting snorkeling destinations harbour a remarkable 200 species of fish in a magical setting of changing reef types, from shallow reefs and ledges to shelves and drop offs.
This Atoll is part of a Marine Reserve that covers 10,000 acres and 15 square miles of surrounding sea. At the center of the Reserve is Half Moon Caye - 45 acres of coconut palm, sandy beaches, and rare littoral forest which shelters a nesting colony of red-footed boobies. The Blue Hole is just 8 miles north of Half Moon Caye. Formed some 10,000 years ago when jungle covered what is now water, the roof of a massive cave collapsed. Then as sea levels rose to inundate the area, the cave was flooded to create this remarkable undersea phenomonon that is now a unique snorkelinig and diving destination.
LONG CAYE AT LIGHTHOUSE ATOLL
Long Caye at Lighthouse Reef Atoll
Long Caye is one of the most remote and pristine Cayes in Belize and offers extraordinary opportunities for appreciating terrestrial and aquatic life. Located about 45 miles from the mainland, Long Caye is isolated from civilization, yet easy to get to and enjoy. As the dominant landmass within the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, its 600+ acres are blessed with the surrounding coral reefs, abundant tropical fish and fowl, white sandy beaches, palm, zeracote, mangrove and buttonwood trees, radiant sunshine and pleasant easterly trade winds. Long Caye exemplifies perfection for scuba diving, snorkeling, photography, sailing, recreational and sport fishing, sea kayaking, bird watching, swimming, relaxing and exploring in the midst of Caribbean magnificence.
Long Caye at Lighthouse Reef is a family company. Our founder, “Big Jack,” was a rocket-scientist (really!) and a sailor/adventurer of the Caribbean. In 1967 he founded the company and purchased Long Caye. That family company is still the Developer/Owner of Long Caye, and we are now in our third generation of working on Long Caye. Big Jack created an “Eco-Village” before anyone knew there was such a thing!
Long Caye is one of the most remote and pristine Cayes in Belize and offers extraordinary opportunities for appreciating terrestrial and aquatic life. Located about 45 miles from the mainland, Long Caye is isolated from civilization, yet easy to get to and enjoy. As the dominant landmass within the Lighthouse Reef Atoll, its 600+ acres are blessed with the surrounding coral reefs, abundant tropical fish and fowl, white sandy beaches, palm, zeracote, mangrove and buttonwood trees, radiant sunshine and pleasant easterly trade winds. Long Caye exemplifies perfection for scuba diving, snorkeling, photography, sailing, recreational and sport fishing, sea kayaking, bird watching, swimming, relaxing and exploring in the midst of Caribbean magnificence.
Long Caye at Lighthouse Reef is a family company. Our founder, “Big Jack,” was a rocket-scientist (really!) and a sailor/adventurer of the Caribbean. In 1967 he founded the company and purchased Long Caye. That family company is still the Developer/Owner of Long Caye, and we are now in our third generation of working on Long Caye. Big Jack created an “Eco-Village” before anyone knew there was such a thing!
GLOVER'S REEF ATOLL
Glover's Reef Atoll
It’s okay to channel your inner child when compiling your Belize itinerary, but pirate hats and swords won’t be necessary—nor must you put a parrot on your shoulder—to fully experience Glover’s Reef Atoll, a coral wonderland frequented by marauding pirates back in the 1750s. John Glover (and his conspiratorial brother Roger) regularly put in at this coral reef and the folklore surrounding these two swashbucklers will add some romance and delight to your visit. What treasures will you find if you spend time here? A world of aquatic splendor that has been declared a World Heritage Site and protected marine reserve, but you can also enjoy the privacy and solitude you so richly deserve as you collect 21st Century booty in the form of rest and relaxation.
Originally settled by Mayans who sailed here from mainland Belize, Glover’s Atoll is a fragile marine reserve that’s been lovingly preserved for posterity. At just 80 square miles in circumference, you’ll be bowled over by the stunning coral that shapes a snug wall around what travel magazine writers love to call a “rainbow colored lagoon” that features more than 700 shallow coral patches. Since the atoll is only 18 miles long and 6 miles at its widest point, you can see every inch, and if you are interested in the deepest ocean drop in the world, don’t skip the Caiman Trench which plunges 15,000 feet to the bottom of the ocean.
Glover's Reef wraps around an 80-square mile lagoon that’s as idyllic as any South Seas movie you’ve viewed. As the southernmost of three Belize atolls, the reef atoll serves several purposes: host to a lodge situated amid coconut palm trees and sandy beaches that promises refuge from the world, a research site and a place you can indulge in every aquatic sport that suits your fancy—diving, snorkeling, swimming or sailing. Multiple dive sites bearing enticing names like Octopus Alley, Turtle Tavern and Dolphin Dance give you access to spotted stingrays, barracuda, French angelfish, butterfly fish and sharks. Love to paddle board? This is your destination!
It’s okay to channel your inner child when compiling your Belize itinerary, but pirate hats and swords won’t be necessary—nor must you put a parrot on your shoulder—to fully experience Glover’s Reef Atoll, a coral wonderland frequented by marauding pirates back in the 1750s. John Glover (and his conspiratorial brother Roger) regularly put in at this coral reef and the folklore surrounding these two swashbucklers will add some romance and delight to your visit. What treasures will you find if you spend time here? A world of aquatic splendor that has been declared a World Heritage Site and protected marine reserve, but you can also enjoy the privacy and solitude you so richly deserve as you collect 21st Century booty in the form of rest and relaxation.
Originally settled by Mayans who sailed here from mainland Belize, Glover’s Atoll is a fragile marine reserve that’s been lovingly preserved for posterity. At just 80 square miles in circumference, you’ll be bowled over by the stunning coral that shapes a snug wall around what travel magazine writers love to call a “rainbow colored lagoon” that features more than 700 shallow coral patches. Since the atoll is only 18 miles long and 6 miles at its widest point, you can see every inch, and if you are interested in the deepest ocean drop in the world, don’t skip the Caiman Trench which plunges 15,000 feet to the bottom of the ocean.
Glover's Reef wraps around an 80-square mile lagoon that’s as idyllic as any South Seas movie you’ve viewed. As the southernmost of three Belize atolls, the reef atoll serves several purposes: host to a lodge situated amid coconut palm trees and sandy beaches that promises refuge from the world, a research site and a place you can indulge in every aquatic sport that suits your fancy—diving, snorkeling, swimming or sailing. Multiple dive sites bearing enticing names like Octopus Alley, Turtle Tavern and Dolphin Dance give you access to spotted stingrays, barracuda, French angelfish, butterfly fish and sharks. Love to paddle board? This is your destination!
TOBACCO CAYE
Tobacco Caye
Tobacco Caye Paradise is a small Belizean-style vacation property with six private "over the water" beach cabanas. All cabanas face north to the Belize Barrier Reef and have wonderful decks perched over turquoise tropical waters. Each deck has a hammock and an amazing view of the Caribbean Sea. We also offer Budget accommodation for those backpacking around the world. Our accommodations are clean, comfortable and charmingly rustic.
Our property is completely off-the-grid! While there are no electric or water utilities on the island, we collect our own rainwater and generate our own electricity from solar power (only use a generator when absolutely necessary). Please note we do not produce enough energy to provide AC or hot water so be prepared for refreshing cool showers, and natural sea breeze to cool down your room. We also have fans in every room.
Delicious Belizean meals are available in the dining hall, where you can dine with fellow travelers and share the day’s adventures. We also added a deck to the dining area, so you can enjoy a nice view while having your meals or drinks by the water.
We provide 24-hour front desk manager assistance, housekeeping, and delicious meals. Wi-fi is available on the property for a small fee. Wifi access available in many places and rooms throughout the property. Satellite internet is slower and sometimes intermittent (we are off-grid, please consider that).
We also offer: kayak, snorkel gear and SUP rentals to all our guests and visitors.
Tobacco Caye Paradise is a small Belizean-style vacation property with six private "over the water" beach cabanas. All cabanas face north to the Belize Barrier Reef and have wonderful decks perched over turquoise tropical waters. Each deck has a hammock and an amazing view of the Caribbean Sea. We also offer Budget accommodation for those backpacking around the world. Our accommodations are clean, comfortable and charmingly rustic.
Our property is completely off-the-grid! While there are no electric or water utilities on the island, we collect our own rainwater and generate our own electricity from solar power (only use a generator when absolutely necessary). Please note we do not produce enough energy to provide AC or hot water so be prepared for refreshing cool showers, and natural sea breeze to cool down your room. We also have fans in every room.
Delicious Belizean meals are available in the dining hall, where you can dine with fellow travelers and share the day’s adventures. We also added a deck to the dining area, so you can enjoy a nice view while having your meals or drinks by the water.
We provide 24-hour front desk manager assistance, housekeeping, and delicious meals. Wi-fi is available on the property for a small fee. Wifi access available in many places and rooms throughout the property. Satellite internet is slower and sometimes intermittent (we are off-grid, please consider that).
We also offer: kayak, snorkel gear and SUP rentals to all our guests and visitors.
ST. GEORGE'S CAYE
St. George's Caye
A private island experience – no public transportation, no roads, no cars, no crowds! Super easy travel - we greet you at the airport and escort you to the island in our private van and boat, at no cost to you. A secluded adults-only retreat to unwind and “unplug” (no TVs, no phones, Wi-Fi in main lodge but not your room!) Rustic beach elegance – cabanas feature thatch roofs and Belizean hardwoods, outdoor dining cooled by ocean breezes. World-class diving & snorkeling less than 5 minutes away. Access to jungle adventures - we're only 7 miles from Belize City, making us the closest island resort for mainland tours. A relaxing and laid-back vacation – welcome to island time!
A private island experience – no public transportation, no roads, no cars, no crowds! Super easy travel - we greet you at the airport and escort you to the island in our private van and boat, at no cost to you. A secluded adults-only retreat to unwind and “unplug” (no TVs, no phones, Wi-Fi in main lodge but not your room!) Rustic beach elegance – cabanas feature thatch roofs and Belizean hardwoods, outdoor dining cooled by ocean breezes. World-class diving & snorkeling less than 5 minutes away. Access to jungle adventures - we're only 7 miles from Belize City, making us the closest island resort for mainland tours. A relaxing and laid-back vacation – welcome to island time!
Off SOUTHERN MAINLAND COAST
Moho Caye
Moho Caye is an idyllic 12-acre, palm-fringed private island, located 12 miles east of Placencia. This haven is located on the fringe of the Laughing Bird Caye National Park and is surrounded by crystal blue waters, and incredible natural coral reefs. It's the ideal spot for day trips or for the adventurous, overnight camping is available. Enjoy snorkeling, diving and swimming in some of the most beautiful waters Belize has to offer.
At this time, Moho Caye does not offer transportation to the island but boats are welcome to come and visit everyday of the week!
Moho Caye is an idyllic 12-acre, palm-fringed private island, located 12 miles east of Placencia. This haven is located on the fringe of the Laughing Bird Caye National Park and is surrounded by crystal blue waters, and incredible natural coral reefs. It's the ideal spot for day trips or for the adventurous, overnight camping is available. Enjoy snorkeling, diving and swimming in some of the most beautiful waters Belize has to offer.
At this time, Moho Caye does not offer transportation to the island but boats are welcome to come and visit everyday of the week!