22 Top Things to Do in Hopkins

Discover the top things to do in Hopkins, from rainforest hikes to island snorkelling, in this complete list of activities.

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A small coastal village on Belize’s southeast coast, Hopkins is known for its sprawling sandy beaches and immediate access to both the jungle and the Belize Barrier Reef. There are plenty of unique things to do in Hopkins, Belize, from exploring the town with its authentic Garífuna culture to snorkelling and SCUBA diving off remote cayes.

With easily accessible day trips inland and on the water, Hopkins is the perfect base for those seeking activities that make the most of both the rainforest and the reef during their Belize trip. We’ve listed all the best activities, attractions, recommendations, and tips in this guide.

What to do in Hopkins

Almost all of Hopkins’ best activities take place outdoors, either on the sea or inland. Here are some of the activities you can expect to experience here:

Hopkins Activities Map

Discover the top activities and attractions in Hopkins on our interactive map.

The best things to do in Hopkins

While there aren’t actually loads of things to do in Hopkins town itself, it makes the perfect base for a whole host of day trips. From sailing to remote cays (islands) and snorkelling in crystal-clear waters to hiking in national parks and wildlife watching, the activities to enjoy in Hopkins are endless. We’ve listed the best things to do in and around Hopkins below.

1. Experience Garífuna culture

Hopkins is one of the best places in Belize to learn about the Garífuna people, descendants of West African, Carib, and Arawak ancestors from Saint Vincent who settled along Belize’s southern coast. One of the best things to do in Hopkins is to just immerse in the local culture, learning more about its history.

You can join drumming lessons at the Lebeha Drumming Centre, taste traditional dishes in local restaurants or make them yourself in a cooking class, and experience lively music and dance at beach bars on a cultural tour in Hopkins. November 19th, Garífuna Settlement Day, is the most lively celebration, with parades and reenactments of the Garífuna’s arrival in Belize.

2. Bask on beautiful beaches

Hopkins is known as a beachfront destination, boasting miles of sandy shoreline, fringed by swaying palm trees and calm Caribbean waters. While the beaches may not be Belize’s widest or most pristine, they are uncrowded and perfect for relaxation. Many Hopkins hotels, resorts, and lodges sit right on the water, offering hammocks and shaded spots, while the beach is public and can be accessed in several spots along the village.

Swimming is possible year-round, though some stretches may have seagrass, which can make the sea and sand look darker than the sands in Placencia. Visitors who want a livelier beach day can head to resort beach bars, while those seeking solitude can find quiet stretches just outside the village.

For the most beautiful beaches, head out to some of Belize’s best islands that sit offshore near Hopkins. Thatch Caye is a particularly popular option, with kayaking, snorkelling, and fly-fishing on a private island resort, while South Water Caye offers some of the best snorkelling in Belize. 

3. Snorkel on the Belize Barrier Reef

Just a short boat ride from Hopkins, the Belize Barrier Reef offers incredible snorkelling opportunities. This expansive reef system stretches 180 miles (290 km), is a protected reserve, and is part of the larger Mesoamerican Reef – the second-largest barrier reef in the world, after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.

While snorkelling with whale sharks has been a popular activity in Hopkins in the past, sightings have become less and less frequent, and tours have all but stopped in recent years, as the population has dwindled. It’s possible your visit might coincide with a whale shark, in which case you can go on a tour to swim with it with a licensed operator.

Snorkelling trips from Hopkins often visit protected areas like South Water Caye Marine Reserve and the beautiful island of Tobacco Caye, which are with marine life. Colourful coral gardens shelter tropical fish, while you might also spot stingrays, eagle rays, sea turtles, and nurse sharks. Tours usually include lunch on a tropical caye, as well as transportation and gear.

4. Go SCUBA diving

Hopkins is a fantastic base for SCUBA divers, with easy access to the Belize Barrier Reed and the outer atolls. Diving here offers everything from shallow coral walls to deep drop-offs, and encounters with nurse sharks, rays, and groupers are common.

While there are fewer dive shops than in Placencia, a few operators in Hopkins run PADI-certified courses for beginners as well as advanced dives for pros. Popular sites include Glover’s Reef Atoll and the Elbow at Turneffe, both known for their healthy coral systems and for offering some of the best SCUBA diving in Belize.

5. Visit Serpon Sugar Mill

Tucked away in the jungle near Sittee River Village, the Serpon Sugar Mill is one of Belize’s most important historical landmarks. Dating back to the 1860s, it was among the country’s first steam-powered mills and marked the beginning of Belize’s industrial era. The site is now an archaeological reserve, with preserved machinery, boilers, and gears slowly being reclaimed by nature. Interpretive signs along the short trails explain the mill’s history and the lives of the workers who once operated it. It’s a quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination that’s best visited by car.

6. Kayak with bioluminescence

One of Hopkins’ most magical activities, hop in a kayak as night falls and paddle out onto Anderson’s Lagoon, where bioluminescent plankton lights up the water. This phenomenon is rare worldwide and hard to photograph, but you’ll see the water sparkle in shades of blue as you touch it. Hopkins kayaking tours usually run on dark, moonless nights for the best visibility, and your guide can also explain the science behind the glow, as well as share information on local flora and fauna.

7. Go birdwatching

Hopkins is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with mangroves, lagoons, and rainforest all within easy reach. Over 300 species have been recorded nearby, including toucans, motmots, and herons. The nearby Sittee River is perfect for a nature walk, where spotting birds is one of the best free things to do in Hopkins. Alternatively, opt for a guided Hopkins wildlife tour in nature reserves like Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary to spot rarer species. Early morning is the best time to go birdwatching, when birds are most active, and their calls echo across the forest canopy.

8. See manatees at Sittee River

The Sittee River near Hopkins is home to West Indian manatees, gentle herbivores that graze on seagrass. Unlike in other locations like Caye Caulker, where you can swim with Belize’s manatees, here, tours offer the chance to spot these endangered creatures in their natural habitat from a boat. While sightings aren’t guaranteed, guides are experts at spotting signs (like a little nose on the surface) that indicate a manatee is near. They can also point out crocodiles, iguanas, and a variety of birdlife that you might also encounter.

9. Go sea kayaking or paddleboarding

The calm, shallow waters off Hopkins are ideal for kayaking or paddleboarding. Many beachfront lodges and resorts offer complimentary kayaks or kayak rentals, and some offer guided kayaking tours in Hopkins through mangrove creeks. Stand-up paddleboarding is becoming increasingly popular, especially at sunrise and sunset, when you can take in beautiful views of the coastline from the water.

10. Shop for sustainable souvenirs

Hopkins has a growing number of small shops and stalls selling locally made crafts. Popular souvenirs include hand-carved wooden masks, woven baskets, and Garífuna drums, many made by artisans using sustainably sourced materials – we particularly loved artworks by local artist Sami L. Buying directly from local craftspeople ensures your purchase benefits the community, and some cultural centres or resorts host workshops where you can make your own souvenir to take home.

11. Sample local cuisine

Eating out in Hopkins is a highlight, with a mix of Garífuna, Creole, and Mestizo influences on menus. You can try local dishes like hudut (fish stew with coconut milk and plantains), sere (fish soup with coconut), and cassava bread at family-run eateries or opt for something more international at a cost café or upscale restaurant. Eating at Hopkins’ best restaurants is one of the top things to do for any food lover.

The best day trips from Hopkins

Hopkin’s location on the coast makes it easy to add to a Belize itinerary and the perfect base for day trips, both at sea and inland. Whether you’re eager to explore ancient Mayan ruins, snorkel on coral reefs, hike through rainforests, or experience local culture firsthand, there’s an adventure waiting just a short trip away – here are the best day trips from Hopkins.

12. Explore the Placencia Peninsula

Just an hour’s drive south of Hopkins, Placencia offers a different kind of coastal experience. The village sits at the tip of the peninsula, is much more lively, and offers colourful shops, beachfront bars, and some of Belize’s best beaches. There are lots of fun things to do in Placencia, including the Sidewalk, the narrowest main street in the world, which is lined with art galleries, cafés, and seafood restaurants. The peninsula is also a hub for diving and snorkelling trips, which visit remote islands and pristine reefs. Many travellers combine Hopkins’ quiet village with a trip to Placencia, spending a couple of nights in each location.

13. Hike in Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is just a short drive from the village and is one of the best day trips from Hopkins. World-renowned as the first jaguar reserve in the world, it is home to waterfalls, lush rainforest, and hiking trails that range from easy walks to strenuous hikes. While jaguars are incredibly elusive and rarely seen (although we did get super lucky and spot one!), the sanctuary is great for hiking, birdwatching, and you can even stay overnight in rustic cabins.

Taking a guided tour of Cockscomb Basin is a great option for those without a 4×4 (which is necessary to drive along the access road), providing transportation, insights into the reserve’s ecology and conservation efforts, and often other nearby stops.

14. Dip in the Maya King Waterfalls

Located along the Southern Highway, Maya King Waterfalls are a set of twin cascading falls and peaceful pools, perfect for a refreshing dip after a scenic hike.

The waterfalls are actually part of Maya World Adventure Park, and you must buy a ticket from the entrance just off the highway before driving up to the gate and trailhead. The park also offers activities like ziplining and river tubing, perfect for adrenaline enthusiasts seeking fun things to do near Hopkins.

15. Visit Scarlet Macaw Paradise, Red Bank Village

Scarlet macaws are an endangered species in Belize, with fewer than 250 individuals remaining in the wild, but you can see them in one specific spot near Hopkins. Scarlet Macaw Paradise, Red Bank Village attracts these vibrantly-coloured birds annually as they migrate here from their breeding grounds in the Chiquibul National Park.

During the peak season, from December to March, you can witness flocks of scarlet macaws feeding on fruits and nuts and flying overhead. Local guides from the community who lead birdwatching tours can share knowledge about their conservation efforts. The best times for sightings are early mornings and late afternoons when the birds are most active. Red Bank Village is around a 1-hour drive (32 miles / 52 km) from the village, making it an easy day out from Hopkins if you’re driving in Belize.

16. Take a wildlife safari at Monkey River

Monkey River is a wildlife lover’s paradise and one of the best things to do near Hopkins. Accessible by boat or road, this small village is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including howler monkeys, manatees, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. The most popular thing to do here is to take a boat tour of Monkey River with an expert guide and hike in the subtropical rainforest, spotting local animals as you go and learning about native flora and fauna.

17. Explore Mayflower Bocawina National Park

Established in 2001, Mayflower Bocawina National Park is a 7,000-acre park that serves as a sanctuary for diverse ecosystems, wildlife, and ancient Mayan ruins. It’s home to a mix of fun and natural attractions. Hike to waterfalls, including Bocawina Falls, Three Sisters Falls, Antelope Falls, Peck Falls, and Big Drop Falls, explore the Mayflower Plaza and Tau Witz Mayan ruins, go ziplining or waterfall rappelling, and spot wildlife.

18. Hike in Billy Barquedier National Park

Nestled directly off the Hummingbird Highway, just a 40-minute drive from Hopkins, Billy Barquedier is one of the best national parks in Belize. There are two main trails within the 1,600-hectare rainforest reserve. The main trail (a 15-minute walk one-way) leads to a scenic waterfall and natural swimming pool, making it a refreshing stop on a hot day, while the steeper Jaguar Trail (45 minutes one-way) leads to an observation tower, providing panoramic views over the Maya Mountains. The park is home to wildlife, and you might spot howler monkeys, ocelots, and some of over 100 bird species.

19. Drive the scenic Hummingbird Highway

The Hummingbird Highway is Belize’s most beautiful drive, winding through mountains, valleys, and citrus groves. From Hopkins, it’s easy to set out on a day trip, stopping at waterfalls, caves, and roadside fruit stands on the way. The drive itself is part of the journey, with panoramic views around every corner. While we’d recommend spending a few days slowly exploring the route from Dangriga to Belmopan, the drive only takes 2 hours each way, so it’s a feasible day trip for those with limited time wanting to explore lush jungle landscapes near Hopkins.

20. Dip in the Inland Blue Hole

St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park is one of the highlights along the Hummingbird Highway, with cave systems, rainforest trails, and a refreshing cenote-like swimming hole.

It’s known for its collapsed karst sinkhole is filled with turquoise water, also called the ‘Inland Blue Hole‘ (not to be confused with the Great Blue Hole), which is perfect for a refreshing dip. St. Herman’s Cave, known for its gaping 37 metre (120 ft) wide mouth, is also located within the park, offering the rare chance to explore one of Belize’s caves without a guide.

The park has a network of well-marked trails that lead through lush jungle, making it easy to explore on your own. It’s only a 5-minute walk to the pool from the parking lot, while an alternative 45-minute Dusky Antbird Trail leads to the pool from the cave and back. The cave has a separate parking lot a few minutes’ drive down the highway, where you can either take the 15-minute Lowland Trail or the 10-minute Highland Trail (or take one there and the other back). Cave tubing is also available at the site, which is managed by the Belize Audubon Society. You can either drive to the national park via the Hummingbird Highway or take a guided Inland Blue Hole tour.

21. Spelunk in the ATM Cave

The Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave is not only one of the top things to do near Hopkins, but it’s also considered one of the best things to do in Belize. Located a couple of hours from Hopkins, it requires hiking, wading, and swimming to access its hidden chambers. Inside, visitors can see ancient Mayan pottery, tools, and even preserved skeletal remains left behind during ritualistic ceremonies. The cave is strictly protected, and exploring it is only possible on a guided ATM Cave tour with licensed guides. The journey is physically demanding but immensely rewarding, and many visitors herald it as the best thing they did on their whole trip.

22. Explore ancient Mayan ruins

Several major Mayan sites are accessible as day trips from Hopkins, each offering a window into the region’s ancient past. Xunantunich, near the Guatemalan border, is famous for its towering El Castillo pyramid, which you can climb up. Closer to Hopkins, visitors can explore Nim Li Punit and Lubaantun, smaller but fascinating ruins with fewer crowds.

Caracol, while one of the best Mayan sites in Belize, might be a bit far for a day trip from Hopkins, so it would be best to stay at least a night in San Ignacio, allowing you to also explore the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve in the same day.

Hopkins Travel Information

Now you know the best things to do in Hopkins, you may be wondering about the logistics of planning your trip. We’ve covered everything you need to know about visiting Hopkins in our traveller’s guide to the village and surrounding area, from where to stay in Hopkins to where to eat in Hopkins. We’ve also included transportation information, a breakdown of when is best to visit, and lots of handy tips.

Read next:

A Complete Hopkins Travel Guide

Hopkins vs Placencia: Battle of the Beach Towns

How to Visit Serpon Sugar Mill

A Traveller’s Guide to Placencia

24 Best Things to Do in Placencia

Dangriga Travel Guide + 12 Best Things to Do

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