Are you deciding between ambergris caye and caye caulker?
So you are heading to Belize and trying to decide which of these two close islands is worth your time? They are both short ferry rides from Belize City and can be connected via ferry. I would say if you have time to explore both you should totally do it as they have different vibes and are both stunningly beautiful. Both islands are located next to the 2nd largest coral reef and provide access to snorkeling, scuba, sailing trips. Let me give you some differences and you can choose where you should go or allot more time!
caye caulker
This small island is only about 5 miles long but offers a more causal and laid back vibe. As it doesn’t officially have a town there are less stores, commercial properties and local inhabitants but you might find yourself feeling like more authentic local vibe because of it’s cozy charm. If you are a backpacker or on a budget this island, is where you should head. To get around you can walk or bike around on the sandy streets. You will be able to get to the reef and sail for a more affordable price. There is an amazing bar at the end of the island that is perfect for watching sunsets. Since is smaller the options for dining are more limited but still amazing. This island also has a more young vibe.
ambergris caye
San Pedro is the only official town between the cayes and it is located here on Ambergris Caye. This island has more commercial hotel, resorts, and dining options. It is also 25 miles long and has more bars, restaurants, and activities. You can get around by renting a golf cart. If you want more resort vibes and more options for dining this may be the island for you. This island is where you would catch a flight if you want to do a scenic flight over the iconic blue hole.
getting to the cayes
The preferred method to get to the cayes is to catch a ferry from Belize City. You can easily get to ferry port and buy the next ticket to the island of your desire. Once on the islands you can purchase your return ferry or a ferry to the other island. You can also take a flight to Ambergris Caye on small flight from Belize City International Airport.
Unique things to do on the cayes
On either island you have to check out the Hol Chan Marine Reserve. You can book a tour on either island and it is well worth it. Also I would highly recommend doing a sunset cruise and most of those are boozy but that is half the fun. You can catch tours from either island.
Caye Caulker
You should check out the split which is a small divide in the island. At the end there is a beach bar called the Lazy Lizard which is incredible for hanging out and catching the sunset. While there we saw the most amazing rainbow over the water!
Make sure you walk around the sandy streets. Since this island is so small you can really get a feel of it just walking around barefoot through the town!
Enjoy the nightlife. Since this island attracts the backpacker crowd you know you can find some incredible bars and nightlife.
Ambergris Caye
Check out the secret beach which is about 35 minute drive on opposite side of the island and not a secret at all.
Get totally into the crab races at Crazy Canuck’s Beach Bar. It’s so much fun to name your crab and see if it crosses the line first. Let’s just say we didn’t pick any winners and it was still a blast.
On a similar scale at Waho’s they do the Chicken Drop where you can purchase a square and collect the prize money if the first poo is on your square.
Take a scenic flight over the iconic blue hole. We took a flight with Tropic Air. It was incredible and worth every penny. You can also visit the blue hole by snorkeling or diving. I did neither but did a lot of research on it since my friends did not have diving certificates. I really think this is best explored by air or by diving rather than snorkeling.
which island would you choose?
Whichever island you choose you are sure to have a most incredible experience. I cannot wait to go back to Belize and when you go you will agree!
