A Traveller’s Guide to San Pedro & Ambergris Caye

A traveller’s guide to San Pedro, Belize, on Ambergris Caye, including where to play, eat, and sleep on this popular vacation island.

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Ambergris Caye is Belize’s largest and most developed island, known for its lively atmosphere and abundant activities. Despite its significant popularity and growth, it blends a bustling energy with an underlying island vibe, offering a tropical vacation destination. Its prime position directly adjacent to the Belize Barrier Reef makes its main town of San Pedro a hub for exploring the underwater world, whether you’re embarking on thrilling SCUBA dives with sharks, snorkelling amidst turtles and stingrays, or sailing to remote cayes.

San Pedro was the first place we visited on our trip to Belize, and although it wasn’t one of our favourite places, it was a great introduction to the country with a huge variety of activities on offer. We’ve amalgamated everything you need to know about visiting this popular slice of paradise, from how to get here, how to get around, and when to visit, to the best hotels, restaurants, and activities, in this comprehensive travel guide.

Is San Pedro the same as Ambergris Caye?

San Pedro is the main town located on the southern part of Ambergris Caye, one of Belize’s best islands. It’s the primary hub of activity, dining, and accommodation on the much larger island. While they’re not technically the same place, San Pedro and Ambergris Caye are often used interchangeably.

About San Pedro, Ambergris Caye

San Pedro is the bustling heart of Ambergris Caye. It’s built up yet laidback, with a relaxed island way of life. Nicknamed by mainland Belizean locals “Little America”, San Pedro has developed rapidly in recent years, with growing tourism and expat communities almost taking over the island. Street art decorates every corner, with colourful murals and artistic expressions adorning walls and buildings. The streets in town are a grid-like network, while those to the north and south turn into dusty and bumpy roads.

San Pedro History

Ambergris Caye was originally inhabited by the Maya civilisation as early as 2000 BC, thriving as a significant trading hub. Archaeological sites, such as Marco Gonzalez, provide evidence of their extensive presence and their sophisticated maritime trade networks. The Maya even dug the Bacalar Chico channel, separating Ambergris Caye from Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula.

European contact began in the 1500s. In the 17th century, Ambergris Caye became a favoured hiding spot for pirates, including Dutch, French, and English buccaneers. They utilised the reef’s protection to ambush Spanish fleets and reportedly collected ambergris, a valuable whale secretion used in perfumes, found on the shores, which is believed to be the origin of the island’s name.

After the pirates moved on, the island was largely uninhabited. However, a pivotal moment occurred around 1848 when Mestizo refugees, fleeing the Caste War in Mexico, sought refuge in British Honduras (now Belize). British officials allowed these farming and fishing families to settle on Ambergris Caye, where they established the village of San Pedro, named after the patron saint of fishermen, Saint Peter.

For nearly a century, coconut plantations have been a significant economic driver for the island. In the 1920s, commercial lobster harvesting began, eventually leading to the formation of fishing cooperatives in the 1960s, further solidifying fishing as a core industry.

The modern era of San Pedro began to take shape with the arrival of the first tourists in the late 1950s. The first hotel opened in 1965, followed by commercial air travel a few years later. The opening of the first dive shop in the 1970s marked a turning point, as the Belize Barrier Reef increasingly drew international visitors. Tourism quickly became the bedrock of the local economy, transforming San Pedro from a quiet fishing village into Belize’s premier tourist destination.

San Pedro’s popularity soared further when it was widely believed to be the inspiration for Madonna’s 1987 hit song ‘La Isla Bonita’, cementing its romanticised image as a beautiful island paradise on the global stage.

Today, San Pedro is one of the most popular places in Belize. While it only has a population of around 20,000 people, it is visited by an average of 14,000 tourist arrivals per month.

Where is Ambergris Caye?

Ambergris Caye is located in the Caribbean Sea, off the northeastern coast of mainland Belize, near the tip of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. It is approximately 35 miles (57 km) from Belize City on the mainland.

Where is San Pedro?

San Pedro is the main and only town situated on the southern part of Ambergris Caye. It is approximately 16 miles (25 km) by sea from Belize City. Flights between San Pedro and Belize City (Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport or Belize City Municipal Airport) cover an aerial distance of about 34 miles (55 km).

San Pedro & Ambergris Caye Map

Why visit San Pedro & Ambergris Caye?

Ambergris Caye (pronounced “Am-bur-gris Key”) is Belize’s largest and most developed island, offering a dynamic contrast to the more laidback islands further south. This island is known for its energetic pace, with paved streets in town and a greater concentration of resorts, restaurants, and shops. With a more established tourist infrastructure, diverse nightlife, and a wider range of dining experiences, San Pedro is a hub of activity, popular with people looking for lots of fun things to do on Ambergris Caye.

Some travellers find it difficult to choose between Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, but they’re really nothing alike. While Caye Caulker is smaller and known for its rustic simplicity, Ambergris Caye embraces a more lively, commercial atmosphere, making it a different kind of appealing paradise for many visitors. Visiting San Pedro is ideal if you’re looking for an island experience that balances world-class diving and snorkelling on the Belize Barrier Reef with a broader array of amenities, diverse culinary options, and a more energetic social scene than its smaller neighbour.

Location

Despite its larger size, Ambergris Caye is an easily accessible island. The journey to its main town, San Pedro, is a quick and scenic ride from the mainland, making arrival by short flight (around 15-20 minutes) or water taxi (about 1.5 hours) a popular and convenient way to begin your visit.

Ambergris Caye’s position directly alongside the Mesoamerican Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world, places it in a prime position for unparalleled underwater exploration. The Belize Barrier Reef, a protected marine area and UNESCO World Heritage Site that stretches 180 miles (290 km) nearby, provides direct access to pristine marine environments. With thriving coral gardens and expansive seagrass beds, these areas protect vital habitats for a diverse range of animals. Top sites readily accessible include Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, where you can swim with nurse sharks, Caribbean stingrays, and sea turtles, and it’s also the primary jumping-off point for those wishing to see Belize’s Great Blue Hole, an iconic natural landmark.

Layout

Ambergris Caye is a large island stretching approximately 25 miles (40 km) long and up to 1 mile (1.6 km) wide. San Pedro is concentrated on the southern end, featuring paved streets, a bustling harbour, and a high density of businesses.

The island extends significantly both north and south of San Pedro, with a blend of developed resorts, tranquil stretches of beach, and untouched mangrove areas.

While the town centre is easily walkable, renting a golf cart in San Pedro is the primary mode of transportation for exploring the broader island, allowing access to remote beaches and attractions further afield.

Vibe

San Pedro is distinctly more lively and developed than its quieter neighbour, Caye Caulker, yet it still retains a relaxed island vibe. It’s a bustling hub that balances energetic nightlife and a variety of dining options with easy access to natural marine landscapes.

While you’ll still find moments to ‘go slow’ on a quiet beach or in a hammock, San Pedro pulses with activity, offering a dynamic blend of local culture, international influences, and a strong sense of community amongst residents and visitors alike.

Language

The primary language spoken in San Pedro and throughout Belize is English, which makes communication incredibly easy for many international travellers.

Alongside English, many locals also speak Kriol (Belizean Creole), an expressive language unique to Belize, which you’ll often hear in casual conversations and music.

Due to historical ties and geographic proximity, Spanish is also widely spoken, especially among the Mestizo population and those with connections to neighbouring Latin American countries.

Currency

The official currency used throughout Ambergris Caye and Belize is the Belizean Dollar (BZD). It maintains a fixed exchange rate to the US Dollar: 2 Belize Dollars to 1 US Dollar, which simplifies currency conversion significantly.

US dollars are widely accepted across the island, especially in tourist-oriented businesses, restaurants, and shops, meaning U.S. travellers often don’t need to exchange currency before arriving.

However, carrying some Belize Dollars in cash is advisable for smaller purchases, local markets, or in places that may not accept cards or USD.

ATMs are readily available in San Pedro, though it’s always wise to plan ahead for cash needs. We found the Belize Bank ATM in Super Buy worked well, while Atlantic Bank tends not to charge a processing fee.

Weather

Ambergris Caye’s location in the Caribbean ensures a year-round tropical climate, delivering abundant sunshine, refreshing ocean breezes, and lush surroundings.

The island experiences two main seasons: a dry season, typically from November to May, and a wet season, from June to October. Even during the rainy season, precipitation often comes in short, heavy bursts, allowing for plenty of sunny periods. This consistently warm weather makes it a fantastic beach destination regardless of when you choose to visit.

Landscapes

As an island, Ambergris Caye’s landscapes are shaped by the interplay of sea, sky, and the Belize Barrier Reef. It is a low-lying island predominantly composed of white coral sand, with vast mangrove forests along its interior and western side, which is a lagoon.

While the main town of San Pedro offers developed areas, much of the island remains flat, with sandy paths and roads leading to serene, palm-fringed beaches.

Surrounding the island are crystal-clear Caribbean waters that transition from shallow, pale turquoise near the shore to stunning deep blues further out, making it an ideal destination for snorkelling, diving, and sailing trips to explore its healthy reefs and diverse marine life.

Wildlife

The coastal waters around Ambergris Caye are teeming with marine wildlife, thanks to the island’s direct proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef. Divers and snorkellers frequently encounter nurse sharks, stingrays, spotted eagle rays, various species of sea turtles, tropical reef fish, moray eels, and crustaceans like crabs and lobsters.

While large land animals are not a feature, the island is an excellent spot for birdwatching, especially in its extensive mangrove areas, where you might spot animals like frigatebirds, pelicans, egrets, herons, and even ospreys. Green iguanas are commonly seen basking in the sun, while crocodiles inhabit the mangrove areas on the lagoon side.

Activities

Being on the edge of the Belize Barrier Reef, Ambergris Caye is a premier destination for ocean lovers, offering an extensive array of activities. The island offers some of the best SCUBA diving in Belize, with world-renowned sites like Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, and the iconic Great Blue Hole accessible via snorkel and dive tours.

Beyond the reef, you can enjoy fishing charters, paddleboarding or kayaking excursions along the coast, or relaxing catamaran and sunset cruises.

On land, explore the island’s length by golf cart, relax at the popular Secret Beach, indulge in a local food tour, or take day trips to the mainland for Mayan ruins or cave tubing adventures.

Shopping

Shopping in San Pedro is a real appeal for many. From souvenir shops to local boutiques, there are plenty of great spots to browse. Stroll along Barrier Reef Drive and the main streets of San Pedro to discover gift shops and look for handcrafted items, local artwork, Belizean chocolate, and the ubiquitous Marie Sharp’s hot sauce.

San Pedro Artisan Market is a good spot for handcrafted woodwork, textiles, and souvenirs, while Belizean Arts had some of the most beautiful paintings by local artists we’ve ever seen (we’d have shipped multiple home if we could!). Head to Belizean Breezes Soap Co. or 12 Belize for unique locally made gifts, including soaps, lotions, jewellery, and home décor.

Sunsets

The western (lagoon) side of Ambergris Caye offers truly spectacular sunsets that paint the sky in fiery oranges, soft purples, and deep pinks as the sun dips below the horizon.

Popular spots to witness this daily spectacle include The Truck Stop, which offers a vibrant atmosphere with food and drinks, or various lagoon-facing bars and restaurants that provide prime viewing.

You can also opt for a sunset cruise or simply find a quiet spot along a western dock to enjoy the show in peace.

Food

The culinary scene in San Pedro and Ambergris Caye is incredibly diverse, blending authentic Belizean flavours with a wide range of international influences. You’ll find everything from high-end resort restaurants and chic bistros to casual beach shacks and lively street food stalls.

Fresh seafood is a highlight, especially during lobster season (June to February), when you can savour iconic BBQ lobster, grilled fish, or fresh ceviche. Expect to find Belizean classics like stewed chicken, rice and beans, Salvadoran pupusas, and a variety of Latin American, Caribbean, and even Asian fusion dishes.

With a larger selection of eateries compared to smaller islands, vegetarian and vegan options are also more readily available, often featuring fresh local produce, while many places are happy to cater to dietary requirements.

Culture

San Pedro’s culture is a blend of influences, predominantly Mestizo, but also Creole, Garífuna, and a significant expat community, creating a mixed social fabric. You’ll hear a variety of languages spoken on the streets.

While not as overtly “go slow” as Caye Caulker, the vibe is still genuinely welcoming, with locals who are warm, friendly, and proud to share their island. The active nightlife, diverse music scenes (including reggae and punta influences), and variety of social spots contribute to a vibrant and evolving island culture.

San Pedro & Ambergris Caye Accommodation

Ambergris Caye offers an extensive array of accommodation options, catering to virtually every preference, budget, and travel style. From luxurious, full-service resorts boasting world-class amenities, to charming beachfront hotels, private condo rentals, and boutique guesthouses, you’re sure to find your perfect home among the many hotels and resorts in San Pedro.

It’s highly recommended to book your accommodation in advance, especially if you’re travelling during the peak season between December and April, for popular events, or during holidays. Due to the island’s popularity, rooms can book up quickly.

While many accommodations in downtown San Pedro are within easy walking distance of restaurants, shops, and tour departures, Ambergris Caye is a larger island. Many of the best hotels are found further out, and a golf cart can be necessary to get around.

Food and drink in San Pedro & Ambergris Caye

There are loads of great restaurants in San Pedro, from local eateries offering authentic and affordable bites to international restaurants serving upscale dinners. Check out our full post on where to eat in San Pedro and Ambergris Caye, but if you want a little snapshot, here are our top picks:

San Pedro’s Best Restaurants

How to get to San Pedro & Ambergris Caye

To reach San Pedro on Ambergris Caye, you have two main transportation options: by plane or by boat.

By plane

San Pedro is conveniently served by John Greif II Airport (SPR), a domestic airport on the island. Local airlines Tropic Air and Maya Island Air offer frequent flights throughout the day from Belize City.

If you’re arriving internationally, you’ll first fly into Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) near Belize City, from which you can take a quick connecting domestic flight (approximately 15-20 minutes) directly to San Pedro.

By ferry

A popular, affordable, and scenic way to reach San Pedro is by ferry. Rather than a large ferry, these are comfortable, high-speed boats like a water taxi.

From Belize

Water taxis depart frequently from both Belize City and Caye Caulker every day. San Pedro Belize Express operates multiple times a day from the main water taxi terminals in Belize City and on Caye Caulker. The boat journey typically takes about 1.5 hours from Belize City and 30 minutes from Caye Caulker, offering a more budget-friendly and relaxing experience compared to flying. You can purchase tickets online or directly at the terminal, with prices generally around $50 BZD / $25 USD per person.

From Mexico

To reach Ambergris Caye from Mexico, you can take an international ferry from Chetumal. International Islander Ferries and the San Pedro Express Belize Water Taxi operate this route. The boat journey from Chetumal to San Pedro takes around 1.5 hours, where you will clear Belizean immigration and customs. We took this route and, while the boat was full, it was a smooth journey.

It’s important to be aware that check-in for these international ferries often closes an hour before boarding. Also, Belize does not observe daylight saving time, while Mexico often does, so there might be a time zone difference to account for upon arrival.

By Shuttle

For a seamless and stress-free journey to San Pedro, booking an all-inclusive shuttle transfer to Ambergris Caye can be the smoothest option, taking the hassle out of coordinating multiple legs of your trip. These convenient transfers typically include ground transportation to the water taxi dock or airport in Belize City, along with your onward ferry ticket or domestic flight to San Pedro.

Shuttles originating from Guatemala often run to Belize City, connecting from popular tourist hubs like Flores and Tikal. From Mexico, transfers frequently depart from Chetumal, with connections available from places like Bacalar. Within Belize itself, you can easily arrange a shuttle to San Pedro from various mainland destinations such as San Ignacio, Belmopan, Placencia, and Orange Walk. Opting for a single, comprehensive transfer not only saves you time but often money, as the tour operator manages all connections, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey to your island paradise.

How to get around San Pedro & Ambergris Caye

While San Pedro Town is easily navigable, Ambergris Caye is Belize’s largest island, stretching over 25 miles long, making golf carts the primary and most convenient mode of transportation for exploring its full extent.

On foot

The heart of San Pedro Town is quite compact and very walkable. You can comfortably stroll along its paved and sandy streets, exploring the myriad of shops, restaurants, and hotels clustered in the downtown area. While footpaths are limited, the main traffic consists of golf carts and bicycles, making walking generally safe and enjoyable within the town.

By golf cart

For exploring beyond the main town, renting a golf cart is the main way to get around, allowing you to discover remote beaches, northern resorts, or attractions further south. We found a golf cart really handy to explore the island in a day. Bikes are also a popular option for shorter distances and a more leisurely pace.

Numerous rental shops are available throughout San Pedro, and many accommodations also offer rentals or can arrange them for you. Prices typically start from $50+ USD per day, with more favourable rates for multi-day rentals.

Golf carts also operate as taxis across the island; you can easily hail one to get from point A to point B without needing to rent your own for the full day.

By bike

For shorter distances or a more eco-friendly and leisurely way to explore, bicycles are a fantastic option. Many hotels and guesthouses provide complimentary bikes or offer rentals, and there are also dedicated bike rental shops in town. This is perfect for cruising along the beach, heading to nearby restaurants, or enjoying the island’s charming atmosphere at a slower pace.

By boat

Boats are essential for exploring the stunning marine environment surrounding Ambergris Caye and for island hopping. You won’t typically need your own boat for daily commutes within San Pedro, but they are vital for tours and island hopping. Regularly scheduled water taxis (like San Pedro Belize Express) make it incredibly easy to take a quick 30-minute trip to the neighbouring island of Caye Caulker, offering a different vibe and additional attractions for a day trip or extended stay.

By car

Ambergris Caye operates primarily without cars for tourist use. While there are a limited number of actual cars on the island (mostly for commercial use or as minivan taxis), they are not the most practical mode of self-driven transport. You won’t find standard car rental agencies on the island, as the vast majority of personal transportation for both locals and visitors is by golf cart.

By taxi

Unlike mainland Belize, taxis on Ambergris Caye are typically minivans or larger, designated golf carts with green license plates. You won’t commonly see standard cars operating as taxis.

You can usually find taxis waiting at the San Pedro airport, the main water taxi terminals, or in popular areas downtown. You can also simply flag down a taxi along the main roads, as drivers will often honk or flash their lights to indicate availability. Many hotels and resorts can also call a taxi for you.

It’s important to note that taxis in San Pedro do not use meters. It is essential to agree on the fare with the driver before beginning your journey to avoid any surprises.

When to visit San Pedro & Ambergris Caye

The weather on Ambergris Caye can be generally divided into two main seasons: the dry season, which runs from December to May, and the wet season, extending from June to November.

The dry season is the most popular time to visit San Pedro, offering lower humidity, minimal rainfall, and typically calm, clear seas perfect for all your snorkelling and diving. While December and January might experience brief, unpredictable showers, this period generally guarantees glorious sunshine. It’s crucial to book your accommodation and tours well in advance during these months, as things often book up quickly and prices can be higher.

The wet season brings more rainfall, usually in the form of short, intense bursts or afternoon showers, along with higher humidity. The period between August and October also falls within hurricane season, so it’s wise to monitor weather forecasts. However, this time sees fewer tourists, often leading to better deals on accommodation and tours, and you’ll still get plenty of sunshine between the rain.

Ambergris Caye weather

Ambergris Caye enjoys a tropical climate, boasting warm temperatures year-round that make it a perfect beach destination any time you visit. Average daytime highs typically range from 27°C to 32°C (80°F to 90°F), with evenings cooling down just slightly, offering comfortable island nights.

How long to spend in San Pedro & Ambergris Caye

Most visitors find that 4 to 7 nights is a perfect duration to experience the diverse offerings of San Pedro and Ambergris Caye. This allows ample time to enjoy the island’s many activities, which include some of the top things to do in Belize, from diving and snorkelling on the Belize Barrier Reef to exploring town life, relaxing on beaches, and indulging in culinary experiences.

You could easily extend your stay to 10 to 14 nights to truly immerse yourself, take multiple reef excursions, and enjoy several day trips to the mainland for adventures like Mayan ruins or cave tubing, all while having plenty of time to relax on vacation.

If your time is limited, a minimum of 2 nights is recommended, but you’ll need to prioritise your interests to make the most of your condensed visit.

Is Ambergris Caye worth visiting?

Ambergris Caye is absolutely worth visiting, offering a diverse Caribbean experience. It’s ideal if you’re seeking a lively island with a wide range of amenities, activities, and dining options, though its developed nature can be a pro or con depending on your preference.

One of the major strengths of Ambergris Caye is its direct and easy access to the Belize Barrier Reef. This means incredible snorkelling and diving opportunities are just a short boat ride away. The island also boasts a wider variety of beaches, notably Secret Beach, than its neighbouring Caye Caulker, offering idyllic swimming and relaxation spots that are easily accessible by golf cart.

While San Pedro offers ample nightlife, diverse shopping, and a full spectrum of luxury accommodations, which distinguishes it from quieter islands like Caye Caulker, some visitors might find its bustling atmosphere and development too stark a contrast to the more rustic, “go slow” experience. However, its comprehensive infrastructure, diverse activities both on and off the water, and wide range of culinary choices make it a perfect base for an action-packed or comfortably upscale island getaway.

Is San Pedro worth visiting?

San Pedro is definitely worth visiting if you’re looking for an island experience with a wide variety of restaurants and nightlife, luxury accommodation options, and plenty of activities that reflect the best of Belize. We were certainly glad that we visited.

Is San Pedro safe for tourists?

San Pedro and Ambergris Caye are generally considered very safe for tourists. It’s a popular destination with a strong tourism infrastructure and a community that prioritises visitor safety. However, like any tourist destination worldwide, it’s always wise to exercise common sense: be aware of your surroundings, avoid flashing large amounts of cash or valuables, and secure your belongings. It’s also advisable to be cautious when consuming alcohol, especially near water, and avoid walking alone late at night in unlit or secluded areas.

Belizean crocodiles are found in the island’s mangrove lagoons, but are typically shy and naturally avoid humans. They do not generally view humans as prey, but problems can arise if crocodiles become accustomed to human presence, especially if they are fed by people or attracted by improperly disposed waste. Avoid swimming in lagoons or murky waters, especially at dawn, dusk, or night. If you encounter a crocodile that seems to be behaving unusually or in an area of high human traffic, contact ACES Wildlife Rescue (American Crocodile Education Sanctuary).

Is Ambergris Caye safe at night?

Walking around San Pedro Town at night is generally safe, especially in the main, well-lit areas where restaurants, bars, and shops are concentrated. It’s a lively town, and both locals and tourists are often out and about in the evenings. However, as a precaution, it’s always best to avoid walking alone late at night in poorly lit or very secluded areas, particularly if you are unfamiliar with the specific location. Golf cart taxis are readily available for convenient and safe transport after dark.

Can you drink tap water in San Pedro?

It is generally not recommended to drink tap water directly in San Pedro or on Ambergris Caye. While some resorts may have their own filtration systems, it’s safer to stick to bottled water or use a personal water filter. Many accommodations provide purified water for guests, and bottled water is readily available for purchase around the island. We’d recommend you pack your reusable filter water bottle to cut down on plastic and stay safe.

Can you swim on the beach in Ambergris Caye?

Swimming in the ocean in Ambergris Caye is highly encouraged and a popular activity. There are various spots to enjoy the water, including designated swimming areas near beachfront resorts, off many docks that extend into deeper water, and most famously at Secret Beach on the western side of the island. For the best snorkelling and swimming experiences in pristine marine environments, joining a boat tour to the nearby Belize Barrier Reef is highly recommended.

Is Ambergris Caye expensive?

San Pedro is generally a mid-to-high range destination, and Belize as a whole tends to be more expensive than its neighbouring Central American countries. However, it’s still possible to enjoy San Pedro on various budgets, depending on your choices in accommodation, dining, and activities. Prices have seen an increase in recent years, reflecting its growing popularity as a tourist hub.

Here are some average costs in USD (BZD is just double – 1 USD = 2 BZD):

Accommodation

Food & Drink

Activities

Transport

What to pack for San Pedro, Ambergris Caye

To ensure an enjoyable experience in San Pedro, it’s important to pack the right things. Don’t forget to pack your:

Sustainability in San Pedro & Ambergris Caye

Sustainability is an increasingly important focus for San Pedro and Ambergris Caye, especially as tourism continues to grow and put pressure on the island’s delicate ecosystem. While it’s a dynamic environment with ongoing development, there are significant efforts being made by local organisations, businesses, and the community to protect both Belize’s natural areas and the local culture.

Belize has national initiatives to reduce plastic pollution, including bans on single-use plastic bags and straws, which are observed on Ambergris Caye. Ambergris Caye does have larger resorts and a more developed infrastructure than other islands along the coastline. While some establishments are incorporating eco-friendly practices and there’s a strong awareness regarding environmental challenges, there are still issues. The island’s rapid growth has often outpaced its infrastructure development. Reports indicate issues with inadequate solid waste disposal and improper sewage leaking into waterways, which poses a threat to both public health and the incredibly sensitive marine ecosystem of the Belize Barrier Reef.

Improperly managed development leads to habitat loss, particularly of crucial mangrove forests and seagrass beds, which act as natural protections against storms and nurseries for marine life. Dredging and land reclamation for construction also contribute to the degradation of these vital ecosystems. But local organisations like the Iguana Eco Sanctuary and ACES Wildlife Rescue are trying to play a crucial role in conservation and education.

For now, we can do our bit as travellers by choosing local businesses with ethical ethoses that prioritise conservation and community, helping to combat tourism leakage.

Seaweed in San Pedro

Sargassum is a type of brown seaweed that can affect the beaches of San Pedro and Ambergris Caye, as well as other parts of the Caribbean. This floating algae, originating from the Sargasso Sea, has seen increased blooms in recent years due to factors like warming oceans and nutrient pollution. When large quantities wash ashore, they can accumulate on beaches and produce a noticeable odour as they decompose.

If you wish to minimise your encounter with sargassum, it typically begins to arrive in noticeable amounts from late February to early March, with the heaviest concentrations generally occurring from April through June. Resorts and public beaches on Ambergris Caye often work diligently to clear the sargassum, especially on the eastern, windward side of the island. The western side, particularly areas like Secret Beach, is often less affected by sargassum due to its sheltered location.

Our experience in San Pedro & Ambergris Caye

We really enjoyed our time in Ambergris Caye. We stayed at the gorgeous Belizean Shores Resort to celebrate Dan’s 30th birthday and couldn’t recommend it more highly. We enjoyed days lounging on the beach, playing games, and exploring the island by golf cart. We ate many incredible meals in San Pedro and enjoyed a day at Secret Beach.

We visited Ambergris Caye in February and had gorgeous weather most of the time, with some strong winds on a few days, which disrupted our SCUBA diving plans, so we’d recommend leaving a little flexibility in your Belize itinerary if you’re booking lots of tours, especially if you’re travelling in the less predictable wet season. Luckily, we were able to experience Hol Chan Marine Reserve from Caye Caulker, and we also took a Great Blue Hole scenic flight from there, although we’d have done these from San Pedro if we weren’t island-hopping.

In all honesty, we did prefer Caye Caulker’s less developed and more authentic vibes, but don’t regret visiting Ambergris Caye at all. If you have time, we’d recommend you visit both and make up your own mind which you prefer.

San Pedro, Ambergris Caye FAQs

Now you know all about Ambergris Caye, we’ll finish with these frequently asked questions, answered.

What is the difference between San Pedro and Ambergris Caye?

San Pedro is the main town and urban centre located on the southern part of Ambergris Caye, which is the largest island in Belize.

What is Ambergris Caye known for?

Ambergris Caye is renowned for its unparalleled access to the Belize Barrier Reef, offering world-class diving and snorkelling, as well as its lively town of San Pedro with numerous dining and entertainment options.

Why is Ambergris Caye so popular?

Ambergris Caye’s popularity stems from the combination of easy accessibility to spectacular reef, diverse activities for all interests, a wide range of accommodation choices, and a bustling, energetic island atmosphere.

Are there sharks around Ambergris Caye?

Yes, nurse sharks are commonly found in designated areas like Shark Ray Alley, where they are a popular and docile attraction for guided snorkelling tours. Caribbean reef sharks can be seen further out to sea, often on SCUBA diving tours.

Is San Pedro, Belize, walkable?

The main downtown area of San Pedro is very walkable, allowing you to easily explore shops, restaurants, and beachfront areas on foot. Golf carts are the best way to go further afield.

Is San Pedro, Belize, a party town?

San Pedro offers a lively nightlife scene with many bars and restaurants that stay open late, providing options for those seeking entertainment after dark.

How much time to spend in Ambergris Caye?

A stay of 4 to 7 nights is generally recommended to fully enjoy the island’s activities and relaxation opportunities, with a minimum of 2 nights for a quicker visit.

What is the best month to visit Ambergris Caye?

The dry season, from December to May, is considered the best time to visit due to lower humidity, minimal rainfall, and ideal conditions for water activities.

How much is a water taxi from Belize City to Ambergris Caye?

A one-way water taxi journey from Belize City to Ambergris Caye costs around $25 USD ($50 BZD).

How do you get around Ambergris Caye?

The primary mode of transportation for visitors is by golf cart for exploring the island, while walking and bicycles are popular for getting around within San Pedro Town.

Is Ambergris Caye expensive?

Ambergris Caye is considered a mid-to-high range destination, with costs varying based on accommodation choices and the consumption of imported goods.

Do I need cash in San Pedro, Belize?

While credit cards are widely accepted at most establishments, it’s advisable to carry some Belizean Dollars (BZD) for smaller purchases, local vendors, and tips.

What is the smell in Ambergris Caye?

Any noticeable smell is most likely due to sargassum, a type of seaweed that periodically washes ashore, especially between April and June, and can have a strong odour as it decomposes.

Do you need a car on Ambergris Caye?

No, you do not need a standard car; golf carts are the primary means of transportation for visitors and are readily available for rent.

How do I get to the blue hole from Ambergris Caye?

You can reach the Blue Hole from Ambergris Caye either by booking a full-day diving or snorkelling excursion by boat, or by taking a scenic flight for aerial views.

Read next:

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Renting a Golf Cart in San Pedro and Driving Ambergris Caye

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