San Pedro
Ambergris Caye, Ambergris Caye
On the island of Ambergris Caye, off the coast of Belize, San Pedro Town is the main settlement. This is where the bulk of the island’s eateries, shops, nightlife, and businesses are located. The better beaches are farther away from the settlement, but the water and views are still beautiful, and numerous docks dotting the shoreline provide ample swimming opportunities. The streets are always coated with a thin layer of sand, and there’s plenty of greenery.
The Basics
San Pedro’s inhabitants are majority Mestizo, and the island has the largest number of US expats in Belize. Though it receives the largest amount of tourism year round than any other part of Belize, making it a more expensive area, San Pedro retains a local Belizean feel that is not likely to dissipate anytime soon with its local arts, authentic cuisine, and yearly traditional festivals. There are many locally owned businesses and generations of San Pedranos who have lived here for years. The Barrier Reef is visible from shore and the infamous Great Blue Hole is closest to San Pedro, making it the diving capital of Belize, as well as the jumping-off point for dive and snorkeling trips to other sites like Hol Chan Marine Reserve.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Golf carts and bikes are the main modes of transportation here, and most people either go barefoot or wear sandals.
- Make sure to pack insect repellent and sunscreen; biodegradable sunscreen is recommended since it won’t harm the ecosystems and cause coral bleaching.
- US dollars are accepted all over the island.
How to Get There
San Pedro is easily reached from Belize City via a short 20-minute flight or by water taxi from Belize City, Corozal, Caye Caulker, or Chetumal Mexico; it’s just over an hour by boat from Belize City. Once there, rent a golf cart or bicycle to get around Ambergris Caye or grab a taxi.
When to Get There
If you’re planning to dive, book your visit during the dry season (from April to June), if possible, although diving in Belize is considered good anytime. As for San Pedro, stay during one of the town’s annual celebrations, such as San Pedro Day, which takes place June 27; San Pedro LobsterFest in June; and Carnival, starting on Ash Wednesday, for a festive look at the local culture.
Head to the Great Blue Hole
Many travelers stay in San Pedro because of its accessibility to one of the world’s top dive sites—the Great Blue Hole. Located along the Lighthouse Reef, the Hole is considered a must-do for experienced divers. Dive operators in San Pedro run frequent day trips to the site, departing in the morning.
Ways to explore
Besides the general amenities on offer, San Pedro Town also serves as a popular departure spot for dive, snorkeling, and boat tours. The fishing boats scattered along the horizon provide plenty of fresh seafood—dine on fresh lobster and conch while watching the sunset, and refuel after a long day of kayaking, windsurfing, or scuba diving on the Belize Barrier Reef. While resorts are dotted across the island, visitors often come to San Pedro Town to do some shopping, catch a movie at the Truck Stop, or take a workshop at the Belize Chocolate Company.
Accessibility
The town itself is generally wheelchair accessible, but certain establishments might not be.
Age limits
There are no age limits, and San Pedro Town is very family-friendly.
What to pack
Cash, reef-safe sunscreen, water, hat, sunglasses
What to wear
Casual beach cover-ups are fine, but it’s frowned upon to wander around in your swimsuit.
Not allowed
Don’t leave your valuables unattended on the beach, and don’t expect shops to be open on Sunday.
Amenities
Shops, restaurants, beach
AddressÂ
The two ways to get to San Pedro Town from Belize City are via a short flight, or by water taxi, which will drop you off at the main waterfront. Once on the island, you won’t find buses or rideshares, but San Pedro Town is small and very walkable. Water taxis also operate between Ambergris Caye and the other islands.
Driving
Most visitors rent a golf cart to explore the island, due to its small size. Bicycles are another popular option and are great for sightseeing. In San Pedro Town itself, exploring on foot is your best option.
Public transportation
NA
Best times to visit
Most snorkeling and dive tours start early, so plan to get to San Pedro in the morning, and wind down with a waterfront dinner.
Best days to visit
Avoid Sundays, when many shops are closed—apart from that, any other day is a good day to visit.
Best months to visit
The dry season from November to May is a busy time, but you’ll enjoy warm weather and clear skies, and some of the island’s major events fall into this window.
Special events
In early February, San Pedro Carnival brings a raucous celebration of dancing, singing, and eating. If you’re looking to avoid peak season, visit for the San Pedro Lobster Festival in mid-June, which marks the start of fishing season.
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