Where to Go in Belize:
Your Complete Destination Guide
Planning a Caribbean vacation? Belize offers a unique mix of Caribbean beauty and Central American adventure. This guide breaks down the country’s top destinations—plus how to get to each one—so you can build the perfect itinerary from the ground up.
Zant & Co. creates Belize vacation packages for families, couples, and small groups, pairing logistics and local knowledge with personalized service. Here’s how to find your paradise.
San Pedro & Caye Caulker
Best for: Island vibes, snorkeling, diving, nightlife, family fun, beach lovers
Ambergris Caye (home to San Pedro Town) and its laid-back sister island, Caye Caulker, are the most popular island destinations in Belize. These beachy hotspots are known for their easygoing charm, colorful waterfronts, and direct access to the Belize Barrier Reef—ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, and more.
How to get there:
By Plane:
The fastest and most popular option. Domestic flights from the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) to San Pedro or Caye Caulker take about 15–20 minutes. This is ideal for travelers on tighter schedules or those connecting to resort transfers.
By Water Taxi:
A budget-friendly, scenic alternative. Water taxis depart regularly from Belize City’s Marine Terminal. The trip to Caye Caulker takes about 45 minutes, and San Pedro about 90 minutes. Water taxis are walk-on, but reservations are encouraged during peak season.
Once on the islands, golf carts, bicycles, and walking are the preferred modes of transportation—no need for cars!
Placencia
Best for: Beaches, reef + jungle combo trips, fishing, family-friendly stays, barefoot luxury
Placencia is a relaxed fishing village turned boutique beach haven. With 16 miles of golden coastline, it’s ideal for families and travelers who want reef access one day and rainforest adventures the next. It also makes a great base for whale shark diving (seasonal) and private island hopping.
How to get there:
Domestic Flights:
Flights from BZE to the Placencia airstrip (PLJ) take about 40 minutes. This is the fastest and easiest route for most travelers.
Private Transfers or Shuttles:
Overland transfers take around 3.5–4 hours and allow you to enjoy scenic views of the Maya Mountains and countryside. This is a good choice for those traveling in groups or making stops along the way.
Car Rentals:
Renting a car gives flexibility, especially for travelers who want to stop at inland attractions like the Blue Hole National Park or Belmopan.
The Cayo District (San Ignacio & Beyond)
Best for: Mayan ruins, jungle lodges, eco-adventures, caves, culture
Located in Western Belize, the Cayo District is your jungle escape. Explore ancient Mayan cities like Xunantunich and Caracol, go cave tubing or ziplining, and stay in rainforest lodges near San Ignacio. It’s the perfect inland base for adventure seekers and cultural travelers.
How to Get There:
Private Transfers:
The most common choice for comfort and convenience, especially if heading to a lodge or resort.
Shuttles or Shared Vans:
Available for those looking for more affordable options with set departure times.
Car Rentals:
Ideal for self-guided exploration—roads are generally in good condition, and GPS coverage is improving.
Helicopter Transfers: For the ultimate arrival, helicopter transfers are available directly from Belize International Airport (BZE) to select jungle lodges
Hopkins
Best for: Garifuna culture, beach chill, drumming, reef-to-rainforest access
Hopkins is a small coastal village full of cultural richness and community charm. It’s a hidden gem for travelers looking to mix relaxation with authentic experiences. Enjoy beachfront resorts, cultural tours, and easy access to snorkeling, hiking, and waterfall visits.
How to Get There:
By Plane: Flights to Dangriga (about 25 minutes) plus a short road transfer.
Private Transfer or Rental Car: Around 2.5 hours from Belize City or 1 hour from Placencia.
Private Islands
Best for: Seclusion, honeymooners, luxury, groups, full-service getaways
Belize has dozens of private islands (also known as “cayes”) that cater to travelers seeking total tranquility. From eco-resorts to barefoot luxury retreats, these islands are great for scuba diving, water sports, and romantic escapes.
How to Get There:
Private Transfers:
Most private islands offer charter boat transfers from their closest destination airport, or by coordinated domestic flights and boat combos
Helicopter Transfers: For the ultimate arrival, helicopter transfers are available directly from Belize International Airport (BZE) to select private island resorts. It’s fast, scenic, and unforgettable.
Getting Around Belize:
Easy, Scenic, and Connected
Whether by air, road, or sea, Belize is surprisingly easy to navigate. Most travelers combine 2–3 destinations in a single trip. Let Zant & Co. help plan seamless transitions between locations—with private transfers, flights, or even helicopters.