Ambergris Caye in 3 days

Belize's barefoot island where golf carts cruise to the Great Blue Hole and barrier reef. Best time to visit: December-April (dry season). Average daily budget: $60 to $150 USD.

Day 1, Get oriented

Base: San Pedro Town, The lively main town with restaurants, bars, shops and dive operators.

Morning: Snorkel Hol Chan & Shark Ray Alley. Swim with nurse sharks, rays and turtles at the marine reserve.

Afternoon: Explore San Pedro Town, The lively main town with restaurants, bars, shops and dive operators.

Evening: Relax at a beach club. Lounge with cocktails at Secret Beach or a dock bar.

Eat: Fresh ceviche and grilled snapper

Day 2, Go deeper

Base: Boca del Rio (north of town), A slightly quieter zone just over the bridge with beach clubs.

Morning: Dive the Great Blue Hole. Take the bucket-list trip to the famous giant sinkhole.

Afternoon: Explore Boca del Rio (north of town), A slightly quieter zone just over the bridge with beach clubs.

Evening: Watch the sunset on the water. Take a sailing or sunset cruise off the caye.

Eat: Lobster (in season, May to February closed)

Day 3, Hidden side

Base: North Ambergris, The upscale, secluded stretch of resorts and quiet beaches across the channel.

Morning: Cruise on a golf cart. Explore the island the local way, by golf cart.

Afternoon: Explore North Ambergris, The upscale, secluded stretch of resorts and quiet beaches across the channel.

Evening: Day trip to Caye Caulker. Hop to the smaller, even more laid-back neighbour island.

Eat: Belizean rice and beans with stewed chicken

Hidden gems

The shallow, party-friendly sandbar of Secret Beach on the west side.
Snorkelling with seahorses and manatees on certain reef tours.
Quiet luxury and empty beaches on North Ambergris.
Fresh lobster (in season) grilled at a local beach shack.

Getting around

Ambergris Caye runs on golf carts, the island's signature mode of transport, which you can rent by the hour, day or week to explore San Pedro and beyond; taxis are also golf carts. San Pedro town itself is compact and walkable. For North Ambergris, a hand-pulled or motorised water taxi crosses the channel, or you can drive a cart over the bridge (toll applies). Bicycles are another easy option. To reach the island, fly from Belize City's international or municipal airport on a short, scenic hop, or take the water taxi ferry, which takes around 1.5 hours.

Safety

Ambergris Caye is one of the safest places in Belize and very tourist-oriented, with solo travellers, including women, generally feeling comfortable, especially in and around San Pedro. Petty theft is the main concern, so secure valuables, don't leave belongings unattended on the beach and take care after dark in quieter areas. Drive golf carts carefully and don't drink and drive. The main risks are water-related: snorkel and dive with licensed operators, respect currents and boat traffic, wear life jackets and don't touch marine life. Use sun protection, drink bottled water and apply insect repellent for sandflies.

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