Belize offers several amazing off-the-beaten-path destinations, however, many visitors prefer to stick to the typical tourist destinations since they are easy to get to and extremely fun. These popular spots include Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, ATM Cave and even the Great Blue Hole to name a few.
With the following off-the-beaten-path locations in Belize, getting there really is half the adventure. If you consider yourself an intrepid traveler and can endure long, sometimes bumpy dirt road trips and a ride into the open sea, these places are well worth the effort.
10 incredible under-the-radar vacation spots in Belize
1. Sarteneja Village
A quiet fishing village in Corozal, getting to Sarteneja requires a two-hour road trip from Orange Walk on some of the worst roads you can find, as well as crossing bridge-less waters on two hand-cranked ferries. Once you get there, grab a snack and sit on the seawall, taking in the crystal clear water and colorful fishing boats.
Sarteneja is also home to Belize’s only manatee rescue shelter, Wildtracks, which accepts volunteers to help with the care and rehabilitation of these peaceful and adorable mammals.
2. Crooked Tree Village
Located one hour northwest of Belize City, Crooked Tree Village is a small and quiet village best known for the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary. This birdwatcher’s paradise is home to a variety of bird species, including the famous Jabiru stork. The village itself is set on a scenic island surrounded by a lagoon, and the peaceful atmosphere makes it an ideal spot for nature lovers.
Getting to Crooked Tree involves a drive along the Northern Highway, followed by a short dirt road, but the journey is well worth it. Visitors can enjoy boat tours of the lagoon, explore the village on foot, and experience the traditional rural life in the Belize District.
3. Mountain Pine Ridge
Endure a bumpy ride deep back-a-bush in Cayo district, and you will find red dirt and twisted pine trees of Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve that looks like nothing else in Belize. Hidden in the Martian landscape are pocket valleys of lush jungle and secret waterfalls with the most refreshing water you’ll ever discover.
My favourite waterfalls are Big Rock Falls and Butterfly Falls. If caving is more your thing, there are several to explore, such as the Rio Frio Caves. Another great aspect of this area is that you can visit Caracol, Belize’s largest Mayan temple. Mountain Pine Ridge is located 2 hours from San Ignacio.
4. Glover’s Reef Atoll
Located about 45 miles off the coast of Dangriga, Glover’s Reef Atoll is a remote island paradise. This UNESCO World Heritage site is teeming with vibrant coral reefs, colorful fish, and crystal-clear waters. The atoll is one of the best-preserved coral systems in the Caribbean, making it an ideal spot for underwater exploration.
To get there, you’ll need to endure a long boat ride across open water, but once you arrive, you’ll find yourself in a secluded haven where the only distractions are the waves crashing against the reef and the abundant marine life.
5. The Snake Cayes
This destination is the longest journey, but the pristine island is so worth it. The Snake Cayes lie in protected waters off the coast of Toledo. It is about a four-hour drive from Belize City to Punta Gorda Town. Then, to get to the Cayes, you must charter a speedboat and hire a TIDE tour guide. This is surprisingly affordable with a group. An hour or so boat ride brings you to your own private castaway island.
Hang up a hammock and watch the wild hermit crabs scavenge for coconuts or scavenge for coral and shells that have washed up on the perfect white sandy beach. Or climb the observation tower to get a breathtaking view of the mangroves and turquoise waters. And if you’re wondering why the name, it is inherited from an abundance of boa constrictors that once lived on one of the islands.
6. Lighthouse Reef
Lighthouse Reef is the easternmost atoll in Belize, famous for being home to the Great Blue Hole, one of the most iconic dive sites in the world. However, the atoll itself offers much more than just the Blue Hole. The surrounding waters are filled with diverse marine life, and the atoll’s islands, like Half Moon Caye, provide a habitat for rare bird species and pristine beaches.
Reaching Lighthouse Reef requires a long boat ride, typically from Belize City, but the journey is worth it. Whether you’re diving, snorkeling, exploring the islands or camping overnight, Lighthouse Reef offers an unforgettable experience in one of Belize’s most remote and beautiful settings.
7. Tobacco Caye
A tiny island located just 10 miles off the coast of Dangriga, Tobacco Caye is a hidden gem along Belize’s Barrier Reef. This small, laid-back island offers simple accommodations, but its charm lies in the unspoiled beauty of its surroundings. The crystal-clear waters around the island are perfect for snorkeling, with colorful coral gardens and a variety of marine life (including a family of manta rays) just steps from the shore.
Getting to Tobacco Caye requires a short boat ride from Dangriga or Hopkins, and once there, you can spend your days lounging in a hammock, exploring the reef, or simply enjoying the tranquil island life.
8. South Water Caye
South Water Caye is a small, private island located within the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, about 14 miles off the coast of Dangriga. This island is a true tropical paradise, with white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and an abundance of marine life. It’s a great spot for snorkeling, kayaking, and simply relaxing away from the crowds.
To reach South Water Caye, you’ll take a boat from Dangriga or Hopkins, and once you arrive, you’ll find yourself in a serene environment where you can unwind and connect with nature. The island is the perfect getaway for those seeking peace and tranquility.
9. Dangriga
Dangriga is often overlooked by tourists, but it has much to offer for those that like less-visited seaside towns and are interested in Garifuna culture. Along with being the capital of Stann Creek District, this rustic town is known for its rich musical traditions, colorful festivals, and friendly locals. Visiting Dangriga provides an authentic cultural experience, with opportunities to enjoy traditional drumming, dancing, local cuisine and a quick visit to the Gulisi Garifuna Museum.
The town is also a gateway to several nearby offshore cayes like Tobacco Caye and South Water Caye, and nature reserves like the Mayflower Bocawina National Park and the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.
10. Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda, often referred to as “PG” by locals, is the quiet coastal capital of the Toledo District, located in the far south of Belize. It is a melting pot of cultures, including Maya, Garifuna, Creole, and East Indian communities. Punta Gorda is a great base for exploring the less-traveled parts of Belize, with nearby attractions like the Maya temples of Lubaantun and Nim Li Punit, the Rio Blanco National Park, and the remote Sapodilla Cayes.
The town itself offers a laid-back atmosphere, with a small waterfront market, local eateries, and opportunities to experience the local way of life. Reaching Punta Gorda involves a long 4-hour drive along the Hummingbird or Coastal Highways to the Southern Highway or a domestic flight from Belize City International and other Municipal airports.
Have I convinced you to visit any of these off-the-beaten-path locations? I’d love to hear which is your favourite?
What is life like in Belize? How do you make a living? We have 3 children 5 and under. We have been researching different places to live. :Loking at things like safety, making a living and school.
Most expats own or work in tourism businesses. I also know a few that are college or university teachers. Western Belize is probably best for raising a family. The cost of living is cheaper than the coast/ cayes and has good schools.
Another location is Indian Church and San Carlos Villages, both off the beaten path yet near the large archaeological site of Lamanai, there is large fresh water lagoon, ruins, people, birds, howler monkeys, so fun!!!
Wow, that sounds amazing. I’ve never been there.
The Snake Cayes keep coming up on forums. I need to make it there.
Definitely!