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Hello! I'm Heidi, an avid traveler and blogger passionate about sharing detailed itineraries, travel tips, and cultural insights to help you embark on unforgettable adventures. Join me as we explore the world's most captivating destinations together!

A Belize 7 Day Itinerary: Island-Hopping Between Caye Caulker And San Pedro With Kids

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Planning on a Belize 7 day itinerary that keeps the whole family smiling (and maybe a little sun-kissed)? We did it—and honestly, it was the perfect mix of barefoot relaxation, turquoise adventures, and just enough planning to keep things smooth. If you’re torn between Caye Caulker vs. San Pedro Belize with family, don’t worry—you’re not alone and activities are abundant in each. Both islands have their own vibe. Caye Caulker leans laid-back, bikes and flip-flops kind of chill. San Pedro? A little busier, more polished in parts, but full of charm, tacos, and easy adventures for kids.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through where we stayed, what we did, how we got there, and why splitting time between the two islands gave us the best of both worlds. Whether you’re wondering how to get to Caye Caulker from Belize City, searching for the best things to do in Caye Caulker with family, or still deciding where to stay in San Pedro Belize with family, this guide’s got you covered.

Disclaimer: Links may contain affiliate links. This means I may get a small commission from the sale at no cost to you.

Caye Caulker vs. Ambergris Caye: Which Belize Island is Right for Your Family Vacation?

When planning your Belize 7 day itinerary, one question is bound to come up early: Caye Caulker vs. San Pedro—which island should you choose? Here’s the truth: they’re both incredible, but very different in vibe, pace, and offerings. We spent time on both with our kids, and honestly? That split decision turned out to be the best move we made.

🌴 Caye Caulker: Go Slow, Stay Long

If your dream family trip includes beach time, minimal traffic (think bikes and flip flops), and stress-free days filled with sun and sea, then Caye Caulker is calling.

This chilled-out island runs on its own clock—or more accurately, barely runs at all. That’s the charm. The island’s famous motto, “Go Slow,” isn’t just a saying—it’s a lifestyle. Perfect if you’re planning for a mellow stretch of your Belize 7 day itinerary.

Best things to do in Caye Caulker with family? We loved:

  • Floating at The Split, the island’s favorite swimming and sunbathing spot
  • Snorkeling near the Belize Barrier Reef—even the kids could join!
  • Paddleboarding or kayaking through crystal-clear, shallow waters
  • Enjoying fresh fry jacks for breakfast and grilled lobster by sunset

Don’t forget to bring a book or two—this place almost demands you unplug. Most accommodations here are small-scale and charming, ideal for family stays. It’s safe, easy to navigate, and full of good vibes.

🏝 Ambergris Caye (San Pedro): Where Laid-back Meets Lively

Just a short ferry ride away, Ambergris Caye, home to the vibrant town of San Pedro, brings a totally different energy. It’s still island life—but with a bit of a buzz.

If you’re asking yourself, “Should I choose Caye Caulker vs. San Pedro?” and your family enjoys options—restaurants, excursions, and maybe even a bit of nightlife (family-style, of course)—then San Pedro might be the better pick.

Top activities in San Pedro Belize with family include:

  • Snorkeling or even diving at Shark Ray Alley
  • Renting a golf cart and exploring San Pedro’s colorful, bumpy streets
  • Splashing around at Secret Beach (don’t worry—it’s not that secret)
  • Enjoying delicious street tacos and fresh ceviche from local spots

When it comes to where to stay in San Pedro Belize with family, there are several kid-friendly resorts with pools, beach access, and tour desks to help you plan day trips. Think: comfort, convenience, and plenty of activity options within reach. It really is a great choice for a 7 day itinerary to Belize.

💡 So… Caye Caulker or San Pedro? Why Not Both?

We debated the classic Caye Caulker vs. San Pedro dilemma ourselves and ended up splitting our trip between the two. No regrets and the perfect choice for our 7 day itinerary to Belize.

Caye Caulker gave us downtime—lazy mornings, slow afternoons by the sea, and a genuine break from busy life. San Pedro brought the contrast: livelier evenings, bustling local culture, and more structured activities to keep our kids engaged.

Together, they created the perfect rhythm. If you’re planning a Belize 7 day itinerary, we highly recommend doing a few nights on each island. It’s the best way to understand the full flavor of Belize’s island life—relaxing where it counts and ramping up the fun when you want to.

✈️ How to Get to Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye from Belize City Airport

Planning a Belize 7 day itinerary means figuring out your arrival logistics, and one of the first things travelers ask is: How do I get to Caye Caulker from Belize City? Or if you’re headed to Ambergris Caye: How do I reach San Pedro from the airport? The good news? It’s easier—and more fun—than you might expect.

Let me break it down for you.

🛫 Step 1: Arrive at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE)

Our arrival to Belize City airport before we took a Tropic Air flight to Caye Caulker.
After landing in Belize City, we took a Tropic Air flight to Caye Caulker.

Your Belize adventure officially kicks off when you land at Belize City’s international airport (BZE). It’s a small, manageable airport in Belize City, and you’ll be through customs pretty quickly and ready to catch your flight to Caye Caulker to San Pedro.

From here, you’ve got two solid options for getting to the islands: by ferry or by small plane. Both have their perks—it just depends on your schedule, budget, and tolerance for motion.

How to get to Caye Caulker from Belize City via water taxi? Here’s the scoop:

  1. From the airport, grab a taxi (fixed rate, about $25–$30 USD) to the Belize City water taxi terminal. The ride takes about 25 minutes.
  2. Choose from two ferry companies: San Pedro Belize Express or Ocean Ferry Belize. Both offer daily departures to Caye Caulker and San Pedro.
  3. Boats leave roughly every hour during the day. The ferry to Caye Caulker takes about 45 minutes, and continuing on to San Pedro takes an additional 30–40 minutes.

💡 Tip: Sit near the back for a smoother ride—and keep your luggage dry. And hey, there’s something magical about skimming across turquoise waters with the sea breeze on your face. It’s a great way to begin your Belize 7 day itinerary.

🛩 Option 2: Short Scenic Flight – Fast and Fun (And Kind of a Thrill) Way to Get from Belize City to Caye Caulker

Not into boats? No problem. If you’re headed straight to the islands, a 15-minute puddle jumper flight might be worth the splurge.

Two local airlines—Tropic Air and Maya Island Air—fly frequently from Belize City BZE directly to Caye Caulker or San Pedro. It’s more expensive (around $100 USD one-way), but here’s the upside:

  • Zero seasickness
  • Incredible aerial views of the reef
  • Super fast and convenient—especially helpful if you’ve got tired kids or a tight timeline

If you’re trying to squeeze the most into your Belize 7 day itinerary, this is the fastest route to paradise.

🧳 So Which Route’s Right for You?

Honestly, both are good options, but flying is the best option. If you’re traveling with family and want to keep things affordable, the water taxi is a scenic and easy experience. But if you’re arriving late in the day or have young kids who just need to get there already, the quick flight can be a game-changer.

Here’s how we did it: We flew to Caye Caulker from Belize City airport (BZE) on Tropic Air. Midway through our 7 day Belize itinerary, we caught the ferry over to San Pedro. (Yep—we tackled the whole Caye Caulker vs. San Pedro decision by doing both.) It was smooth, convenient, and full of that welcome-to-the-islands vibe right from the start.

No matter how you get there, one thing’s for sure—once you arrive, you’ll be in that easygoing Belize state of mind before you even finish your first coconut water.

🏝️Days 1-3: All Things Caye Caulker on Our Belize 7 Day Itinerary

By the time we arrived on Caye Caulker from Belize City, we were a little sweaty, a little hungry, and totally charmed.

This island is car-free—think golf carts, beach cruisers, and flip-flops everywhere. Being that we were in communication with the resort we stayed at, a taxi golf cart was there and waiting to bring us to our rental.

We kept Day 1 easy. Swim, shower, eat, and try not to crash before 8 p.m. A lot of families do the same: just settle into the rhythm. After all, Caye Caulker doesn’t rush anyone.

🏡Where to Stay in Caye Caulker, Belize with Family

I will start off by sharing where we decided to stay on the first half of our Belize itinerary, which we would give a high-rating review to. We booked through VRBO, and our choice was Sandy’s Secret at Palmetto Beach. Sandy’s Secret receives a high rating from us. Our two-bedroom duplex was oceanfront, clean, and comfortable. Additionally, the pool was located behind the house, and the kids absolutely loved it. It provided a refreshing escape after a warm day in the salt, sand, and sun.

The staff and front desk are very helpful, always ready to assist guests with any needs. Additionally, they will help schedule excursions if you’d like. Guests can rent stand-up paddle boards or kayaks for free, providing an excellent opportunity to explore the surrounding waters. Furthermore, you can also rent golf carts and bikes for the day, offering flexibility in transportation options. During our stay, we opted to rent a golf cart for one day and bikes for the other, allowing us to explore the island at our own pace.

The dock is shared with guests at Weezie’s, which is right next door, offering a convenient amenity for both properties. I loved sipping my morning coffee on the dock, enjoying the tranquil views of the water, while my son delighted in casting a line off the dock. Fishing is just one of the many enjoyable activities to do on Caye Caulker with family, adding to the island’s charm and appeal.

We brought along my son’s traveling fishing pole and some lures, both conveniently found on Amazon. This pole can be folded in and fits nicely in its case, making it an ideal choice for traveling. It is small enough and light enough to bring with us in our luggage, becoming a staple item for our family trips to Belize.

What type of lures, hooks and bait should you bring?

I get asked what he used to catch fish in Belize, so here it goes. We met a really nice guide in Caye Caulker who gave him a Calissa Crank Bait (seen below) to catch Barracuda off the dock. It worked! It is the lure that was used on in the video below. He also used a steel circle hook with a sardine on it to catch the shark. With Sardines used as bait, he also caught Snapper and Bone Fish off the dock. For his line, he used a 30 pound braided line with flourocarbon leader.

Now onto other Caye Caulker accommodations!

For those who want to be where all the action is:

Jan’s Hotel is a quick walk to the split. Enjoy the beachside loungers, rooftop terrace, and the convenience of being within walking distance to some of Caye Caulker’s best restaurants. Furthermore, these amenities offer the perfect blend of relaxation and accessibility, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the island experience.

You will get free continental breakfast at The Caye Hotel. This hotel is also close to all the action.

If you’re looking to spend a little more or have a bigger party, Velento Penthouse # 1 would be worth looking into. Moreover, it boasts a beautiful pool, dock, and house. If you are traveling with a large family to Belize, this could be a great option for your itinerary.

🤿Easygoing Adventures: The Best Things to Do in Caye Caulker with Family

Caye Caulker might be small, but don’t let the size fool you—it’s packed with charm, color, and just enough adventure to keep every family member smiling (yes, even the hard-to-please teenager). If your first half of your Belize 7 day itinerary is on Caye Caulker, this is where the slow side of island life really shines. And let’s be honest—sometimes slow is exactly what a family needs.

Snorkeling and Diving:

Start with snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley. It’s the kind of experience your kids will be bragging about at school—crystal-clear water, colorful coral, and stingrays so close you can practically high-five them. Most tours include gear, snacks, and a chilled-out guide who knows how to make the experience fun without stressing anyone out.

Snorkeling is a popular activity with family on your Belize itinerary.
Our family ate at Sip N’ Dip on Caye Caulker and the kids snorkeled under the dock while waiting for their food, a perfect mix of lunch and activities.

We brought along our snorkeling gear because if you go to Belize with family, this is a popular activity to have on your itinerary, whether you travel to Caye Caulker or San Pedro.

Fishing: The Best Family Activity Whether you Stay on Caye Caulker vs. San Pedro Belize

The waters around Caye Caulker are teeming with marine life, making it an excellent destination for fishing enthusiasts. Additionally, visitors can join fishing charters or hire local guides for a day of reef fishing, fly fishing, or deep-sea fishing. My son fished daily from the dock, catching barracuda and even a 6-foot nurse shark!

Feeding Tarpon on Caye Caulker is a Family-Favorite Activity: An Excursion you can take whether you go to Caye Caulker vs. San Pedro, Belize

And here’s something uniquely Caye Caulker: head over to Feed the Tarpon. It’s fast, it’s weirdly exciting, and it makes for some wild vacation photos. These huge fish leap straight from the water for a snack—yes, out of your hand—and the thrill never gets old. Some snorkeling tours from San Pedro even come to this spot to feed the Tarpon in Caye Caulker.

A map of how to find the dock to feed the Tarpon on Caye Caulker.
A map of where the tarpon feeding dock is located in Caye Caulker, Belize.

Swimming and Relaxing: A top Activity for Families when Traveling to Caye Caulker or San Pedro, Belize

If snorkeling feels a bit ambitious, just walk over to The Split. It’s the island’s hangout zone, but still very family-friendly. You’ve got shallow water for splashing, shaded spots for parents to chill, and a floating dock that’s practically a rite of passage for jumping contests.

Relax and “Go Slow” should take top-priority on your Belize itinerary.

The famous Split sign on Caye Caulker.

**My big travel hint is, I always bring along my waterproof phone case on vacations like this. It is perfect for water activities and sandy beaches. I took plenty of pictures underwater with it, which is fun. I don’t keep it submerged for long periods, but my husband had his phone in his pocket (underwater) most of the time at the beach, and it never leaked through the case!

Kayaking and Paddle Boarding:

Exploring the coastline of Caye Caulker by kayak or paddle board is a popular activity to add to your Belize itinerary. Additionally, rental shops on the island offer kayaks and paddle boards for hourly or daily rates, allowing visitors to explore the island’s mangroves, lagoons, and secluded beaches at their own pace. Our Caye Caulker rental home had SUP boards and Kayaks that we could rent complimentary.

SUP is one of the popular things to do in Caye Caulker. A great addition to your Belize 7 day itinerary.

Island Hopping: Whether you Stay on Caye Caulker vs. San Pedro Island Hopping is a Highlight

Caye Caulker serves as a convenient base for exploring other nearby islands and attractions. Visitors can take day trips to neighboring islands like Ambergris Caye or visit mainland destinations such as Belize City or the Mayan ruins of Altun Ha. Exploring islands is a popular activity for any Belize itinerary.

Island hopping with family is a great addition to your Belize 7 day  itinerary.

Biking vs. Golf Cart Rentals: on Caye Caulker or San Pedro

No Caye Caulker, Belize itinerary is complete without a bike ride. With no cars on the island, biking and golf cart rentals are popular ways to get around. Additionally, visitors can rent bicycles or golf carts from local shops to explore Caye Caulker’s sandy streets, colorful houses, and hidden gems at their leisure. We rented bikes through our property rental and took a day exploring the island by bike. San Pedro is a bigger island and a golf cart rental is a better idea there.

Where to eat?

One of the unexpected perks of choosing Caye Caulker vs. San Pedro is how easy it is to find great food without hopping in a golf cart or scanning Yelp for 20 minutes. Caye Caulker keeps it chill—you wander, you sniff the air, you follow your cravings. Still, if you like a game plan (especially when traveling with kids), here’s where to eat in Caye Caulker that’ll hit the mark every time.

Fantasy Dining

To start with, we had ceviche almost everywhere we went. It is one of our weak points, and we couldn’t resist indulging in this delicious dish wherever we found it! At Fantasy Dining, I sampled the Belize staple of stew chicken. The flavor was fantastic and it just fell off the bone. 10/10, I would recommend.

Lazy Lizard

Midday heat kicking in? Head straight to Lazy Lizard at The Split. It’s more than a bar—it’s a whole scene. Tables right in the water, icy drinks, and food that hits the spot (think burgers, nachos, and fried fish). Kids can swim while you sip a frozen piña colada, and nobody’s judging if you stay for hours. Adults, don’t leave without trying the world famous Lazy Lizard juice.

Barrier Reef Bar and Grill

Barrier Reef Sports Bar & Grill is located right next to the water taxi. A great place to chill and have a bite to eat, especially if you’re waiting for a departure. Additionally, some of the tables are swings, which the kids love.

La Cubana

We are suckers for a good Cuban Sandwich, and La Cubana did not disappoint. Moreover, we sat in stools facing the waterfront. La Cubana is located kiddy corner to the water taxi, offering both convenience and scenic views. This cuban sandwich is worth adding to your Belize itinerary.

RP’s Roadside Grill

As we all know, some of the best food, is street food. That is why we stopped here for a late snack/dessert. We enjoyed Impossible Cake and sausage with rice and beans. It was all amazingly good. In fact, this stand is located right by Palmetto Beach and Weezie’s, so it made for an easy stop for us.

Sip N’Dip

Eating in the water is what Caye Caulker is all about and one our families favorite things to do. At Sip N’ Dip, grab yourself a spot and enjoy the marine life as you dine. This meal took about 1.5 hours to get to us, as it was quite busy when we got there. Normally that would be a problem, but here my kids enjoyed snorkeling under the dock while the adults sipped on Belikin. My little environmentalist picked up the garbage he found while snorkeling to be thrown away. Sip N’ Dip is a perfect activity and place to eat for your Caye Caulker itinerary, not to mention a fun hangout with family.

Weezie’s Cafe

Since Weezie’s Cafe was right next door to us, we had to give it a try. In addition to being served great food, we loved the quaint atmosphere. It was a lovely meal.

Erolyn’s House of Fry Jack’s

Now, don’t forget about Fry Jack’s. Specifically, we picked up our Fry Jack’s from Erolyn’s House of Fry Jack’s. These delectable treats are stuffed with what you choose. What a phenomenal breakfast! Don’t leave Caye Caulker without trying these.

This concludes our Caye Caulker stay, but luckily for us, we still have Ambergris Caye to explore! When traveling between Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye, we decided to take the water taxi to San Pedro. This was around $20/pp and took around 30 minutes to get there. The Caribbean is such a beautiful sea, so it was a nice ride there.

Belize 7 Day Itinerary – Part 2: San Pedro Adventures, Family-Style

Let’s be honest—after three unforgettable days in Caye Caulker, where flip-flops and “go slow” is more a rule than a suggestion, you might be wondering: Caye Caulker vs. San Pedro—which one’s the better fit for the rest of your Belize 7 day itinerary? Which one has better activities for the family, San Pedro or Caye Caulker Belize?

Well, you’re about to find out. The second half of our Belize trip took us over to Ambergris Caye, specifically San Pedro, for four days of sun, snorkeling, sandy golf cart roads, and vibrant Caribbean charm. And let me tell you, this little town brings the energy.

If you’re piecing together your own Belize 7 day itinerary, this part is where things really pick up. I’ll cover exactly where to stay in San Pedro Belize with family and all the fun stuff—like the best things to do in San Pedro, Belize, with family.

⛳️How did we get to our rental?

From the water taxi, taxis (often golf carts) are accessible to take you to your destination. We rented our golf cart ahead of time through Avis, and part of their agreement was helping us reach our VRBO rental. Our agent met us at the water taxi terminal, holding a sign with my name. He brought our rental cart, so we drove that, while he used his cart for the luggage.

Golf cart is the main mode of transportation on the island. Additionally, there are some things to know when renting. For instance, Avis rentals cover the bridge toll. Therefore, you will want to check that your rental has that coverage, if you’re planning on crossing the bridge on the north side of San Pedro. For example, if you go to Secret Beach, you will cross it. Golf carts can be stolen, hence, it’s important to always lock it with the lock bar on the cart.

Where to Stay in San Pedro Belize with Family

First, I will start with where we stayed – Casa Redonda

If you’re traveling with kids (or even if you just want a bit more space and quiet), where to stay in San Pedro Belize with family is a question that really matters. The town center is lively—great for restaurants and shops—but not always ideal for sleeping with littles.

We chose a small beachside house rental about 10-15 minutes south of town. Think: airy rooms, full kitchen, a pool, and beach. Bonus: it was quiet enough at night that we could actually hear the waves. Here is a full review, if you want more details.

The house itself is actually an 8 bedroom home. We rented the bottom half only (4 bedrooms). The whole property was ours, but since we didn’t rent the whole house, we did not have access to the upstairs.

If you fly from Belize City to Ambergris Caye, consider staying at Casa Redonda which is an excellent home rental.
Caye Caulker vs. San Pedro: We enjoyed both rentals, but LOVED our San Pedro rental. We enjoyed the privacy, small beach and private pool.

The outdoor area was incredible. We could have spent all day everyday here. The infinity pool overlooks the oceanfront. There is a small beach, too. The dock is shared with another home, but we never had company while we were out there. Of course, my son got some fishing in.

Just a few more to show the relaxing cabana, beach front and dock. Bliss.

Where else can you stay in San Pedro?

If you’re wondering where to stay in San Pedro Belize with family, the south side offers excellent beach houses and resorts. Options range from private rentals like ours to top-rated resorts such as Mahogany Bay and Victoria House.

A few great family-friendly options include:

  • Grand Caribe – a popular pick for families, with spacious condos, multiple pools, and a little grocery store on site.
  • Mahogany Bay Resort – swankier, but they cater well to families and have a cool on-site market.
  • Alaia – A high-end hotel n the south end of San Pedro.

🏖️Snorkeling, Secret Beaches & Stuff You Didn’t Know You Needed

The bustling island of Ambergris Caye, Belize, has no shortage of activities to keep your family entertained. Among the top activities in San Pedro Belize with family, you’ll find snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, visiting the lively Truck Stop, and spending a day at Secret Beach.

Secret Beach: A Favorite Family Activity North of San Pedro, Belize

Okay, it’s not that secret anymore—but it’s still magical. We packed snacks, grabbed our beach towels, and headed out in our rental golf cart. The shallow, calm water stretches for miles. There are paddleboards, floating docks, and bars that serve nachos and fresh coconut drinks right to your beach chair.

Secret Beach is bustling with things to do to keep your family busy in San Pedro, Belize.

Tucked away on the western side of Ambergris Caye, Secret Beach is a hidden gem known for its tranquil waters and pristine sands. Moreover, take a leisurely golf cart ride to this secluded paradise, where you can relax in beachfront hammocks, sip on tropical cocktails, and indulge in fresh seafood at local bars and restaurants.

You will hear many people calling Secret Beach another “tourist trap”, and yes, that is pretty much the case. But we found it to be a great trap. Our kids absolutely loved it. We got there nice and early (around 10 am). It is advised to get there by 11 am, if you want a table in the water. We were the first ones there and had the beach to ourselves for a while, giving us first pick of the table and loungers we wanted! Secret Beach was a highlight activity for the family in San Pedro, Belize.

**Helpful hint** Sunday’s are usually the busiest days to be at Secret Beach. If you’re aim is to avoid the crowds, chose a different day.

If you are not with kids, and want more of the music atmosphere, then steer to all the way to the left, towards the Blue Bayou. We went all the way to the right, where the ever-so-popular Secret Beach Waterpark awaits. Like I said, we were the first people there. Our kids had the inflatable waterpark to themselves for 30 minutes to an hour. The waterpark was one of our families highlighted activities in San Pedro, Belize.

Bring extra cash if you’re into shopping! There are vendors scattered about Secret Beach. We bought a few things from some of them to take home with us.

The Truck Stop

The Truck Stop is another family favorite activity in San Pedro, Belize, with a mix of food vendors, games, and live entertainment. Whether you’re into ping pong, foosball, or just hanging by the pool, there’s something for everyone here.

The Truck Stop is one of the more popular things to do in San Pedro.

Snorkeling and Fishing

Probably the most popular itinerary activity and a must-do if you stay in Belize is snorkeling and fishing, a must if your family stays in San Pedro. Get out on the water; you won’t be disappointed! Fishing, coupled with snorkeling, was a combined tour we took with Nestor of Fishing King Belize. I highly recommend Nestor on your next trip to Belize. Our day consisted of reef fishing, snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, swimming with sharks at Shark and Ray Alley, picnic lunch, Turtle Island, and the Iguana Eco Sanctuary.

Stops on our fishing and snorkeling adventure with Fishing King Belize:

  • Reef Fishing
  • Hol Chan Marine Reserve
  • Shark Ray Alley
  • Beach BBQ
  • Turtle Island
  • Iguana Sanctuary
Hol Chan Marine Reserve: Snorkeling Sight with Fishing King Belize

Snorkeling at Hol Chan was nothing short of amazing. We got to see Spotted Eagle Rays, which swam so fluently. In addition to Spotted Eagle Rays, we saw a variety of coral and fish, and even encountered a sea turtle who had lost a leg from a shark attack.

An aeriel view of Hol Chan Marine Reserve with boats and snorkelers.
The beautiful Belize Barrier Reef – Hol Chan Marine Reserve – Picture credit to Nestor from Fishing King Belize, who captured this on his drone. We are one of the many snorkelers in this mix!
Shark Ray Alley with Fishing King Belize

Our next stop was Shark and Ray Alley. This is not for the faint of heart! Here is another shot, thanks to Nestor’s drone, of the family snorkeling with sharks… Notice how I’m in the boat! I jumped in, with all the confidence that I could do this, and started swimming to the floatation device behind the boat. I looked to my left, with my snorkeling gear on, and saw about a 10 foot shark (or so it seemed) swim next to me. And I was like, “Nope! Not happening”. I don’t know if I ever swam that fast out of a body of water before.

For those brave enough to go for it, swimming with the sharks and rays is an amazing and humbling experience. Moreover, the video we captured from our GoPro was incredible. The kids loved it and now have a tale to tell.

GroPro Hero 11 – We use this on many adventures and it takes excellent underwater video.

For those who don’t know, these are nurse sharks. They are bottom feeders and have a very strong suction. They are mostly harmless to humans, but could probably take your hand, if you’re not careful.

Beach BBQ on a Secluded Beach

Your next stop is usually Caye Caulker for lunch, but since we stayed on Caye Caulker the first half of our trip, Nestor took us to an Ambergris Caye beach only accessible by boat.

While we explored the beach, the captain and his crew prepared and AMAZING lunch!

Turtle Island and Iguana Eco Sanctuary

Lastly, our final two stops of the day were Turtle Island and Iguana Eco Sanctuary. Turtle Island is where we looked for turtles in the their turtle sanctuary, took a bathroom break, and jumped into the pool at the Turtle Island Resort. Not to mention, if you’re looking for a more secluded stay, look into this beautiful island paradise, only accessible by boat.

Even though I highly recommend Fishing King Belize, if you chose to go a different route, here are other options:

Relax and Unwind in Paradise

You’re on vacation—don’t forget to slow down and soak it all in. Whether you’re staying in a private beachfront home or a laid-back resort, taking a full day to simply relax can be one of the best parts of your trip. We spent an entire day enjoying our rental: snorkeling just steps from the beach, swimming in the pool, and casting fishing lines right off the dock.

Sometimes the best travel memories come from doing absolutely nothing—just being present with the people you love. So go ahead, kick up your feet, feel the island breeze, and let yourself unwind. And if you’re lounging by the pool, don’t forget your travel speaker—good music makes the day even better.

Family Fun at Drink & Drive Golf: A Unique Activity in San Pedro

Looking for something fun and offbeat to do in San Pedro? Head to Drink & Drive Golf, a relaxed driving range located just south of town. It’s a casual, family-friendly spot where you can work on your swing and enjoy a cold beverage in the sunshine.

Our kids loved it—and so did we. It’s not every day you get to practice your golf game in a tropical setting with a drink in hand! This is definitely one of those quirky, memory-making stops that’s worth adding to your list of things to do in San Pedro, Belize.

Where to Eat in San Pedro, Belize: Family-Friendly Restaurant Highlights

One of the biggest surprises during our Belize vacation? The food—everywhere we went. Whether we were dining in Caye Caulker or San Pedro, the meals were consistently delicious, fresh, and full of flavor. In San Pedro especially, we found several standout restaurants that offered both a welcoming vibe for families and truly memorable dishes. Here are a few of our favorites:

Happy’s Tequilaria – A charming little spot tucked away from the crowds, Happy’s delivered one of our favorite quiet meals on the island. We were nearly the only ones there, which made it feel like a private dining experience. Everything we ordered was delicious, and we even took dessert home to enjoy later.

Someplace South: This restaurant quickly became a top contender for best dinner spot during our stay. With a relaxed outdoor atmosphere and live music in the evenings, it was the perfect place to unwind as a family. The food was excellent, and the vibe made us want to linger a little longer.

Toast: Technically a favorite from our time in Caye Caulker, Toast deserves an honorable mention because it left such a lasting impression. With beachfront views, amazing food, and fun outdoor games, it was a win for both the adults and kids. If you see a Toast location in San Pedro—or anywhere in Belize—it’s worth a stop.

The Black Orchid: This was our pick for a more refined dinner experience, and it did not disappoint. The atmosphere was peaceful, and the food was truly fantastic. It felt a bit more elevated without being too formal, making it a great choice for families looking to enjoy a special meal together.

Some extra info for your Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and/or Belize itinerary:

💡 Do I Need a Power Adapter in Belize?

No adapter is needed if you’re traveling from the U.S. or Canada. Belize uses 110V electricity with 60Hz frequency, and outlets typically accept the standard two-pronged flat plugs common in North America. However, if your device has a three-pronged plug, it’s advisable to bring a small adapter, as some outlets may not accommodate the third grounding prong. ​

💵 What Currency Is Used, and Should I Bring Cash?

Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and larger businesses. However, smaller establishments, local markets, and some tour operators may prefer cash. It’s advisable to carry a mix of cash and cards. Note that American Express and Discover cards are less commonly accepted due to higher merchant fees.

💳 Are Credit Cards Widely Accepted?

Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are accepted at many hotels, restaurants, and larger businesses. However, smaller establishments, local markets, and some tour operators may prefer cash. It’s advisable to carry a mix of cash and cards. Note that American Express and Discover cards are less commonly accepted due to higher merchant fees.

🦟 How Can I Protect Against Insects?

Insect repellent is essential, especially in coastal and forested areas. Products containing DEET are effective against mosquitoes and sand flies. For those sensitive to DEET, alternatives like picaridin or natural repellents can be considered. Some travelers also recommend applying coconut oil to deter sand flies. Additionally, wearing long sleeves and pants during dawn and dusk can provide extra protection.

☀️ What’s the Weather Like, and What Should I Pack?

Belize has a subtropical climate. The dry season typically runs from February to April, while the rainy season spans June to October. Temperatures are warm year-round, with highs often reaching the mid-80s°F (29-30°C). Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a rain jacket or umbrella for unexpected showers, and sun protection like hats and sunscreen.

🚰 Is the Tap Water Safe to Drink?

While tap water in some areas may be treated, it’s generally recommended to drink bottled or purified water. Many hotels and restaurants provide filtered water. To avoid stomach discomfort, use bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth.

🚖 How Do I Get Around in Belize?

Transportation options vary depending on your location:
On Islands (e.g., Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye): Golf carts and bicycles are popular modes of transport.​
Mainland: Buses, taxis, and domestic flights connect major towns and tourist sites.
Water Taxis: Regular services operate between the mainland and islands.​
It’s advisable to plan transportation in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

🧳 Any Other Travel Tips?

Language: English is the official language, making communication straightforward for English-speaking travelers.​
Time Zone: Belize operates on Central Standard Time (CST) and does not observe daylight saving time.​
Safety: While Belize is generally safe for tourists, always stay aware of your surroundings, especially in urban areas at night.​
Tipping: Tipping is customary. A 10-15% tip is standard in restaurants if a service charge isn’t included.​
Connectivity: Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and cafes, but speeds may vary. Consider purchasing a local SIM card if you require consistent mobile data.

Final Thoughts: Caye Caulker vs. San Pedro for Families

If you’re wondering whether to stay on Caye Caulker or San Pedro, the answer depends on your travel style. Caye Caulker is quieter and more walkable, perfect for slow-paced family time. San Pedro, Belize, offers more activities, access to the best snorkeling in San Pedro Belize, and varied accommodations for bigger families.

To make the most of your one week in Belize:

  • Spend 3 days on Caye Caulker to relax and unwind.
  • Spend 4 days on Ambergris Caye for snorkeling tours, dining, and activities.

Whether you’re looking for adventure, beach days, or cultural experiences, this one-week itinerary helps you experience the best of both islands. So pack up those travel essentials and enjoy your trip to Belize.

Find your Belize packing guide here:

Caye Caulker vs. San Pedro – Here’s a packing guide for either caye or even the mainland.

More to explore

9 Responses

  1. Omg, Thank You Thank You for all this information. I appreciate you taking the time to give us such detailed information. Going in a couple of weeks to Caye Caulker and now I know exactly what my itinerary looks like.

  2. Today, I went to the beachfront with my children. I found a
    sea shell and gave it to my 4 year old daughter and said “You can hear the ocean if you put this to your ear.” She put the shell to her ear and
    screamed. There was a hermit crab inside and it pinched her ear.
    She never wants to go back! LoL I know this is
    totally off topic but I had to tell someone!

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