It had been 20 years for the reason that final time we visited Caye Caulker; at the moment, we had been backpacking by means of Central America on a scuba diving journey. This time, we had been centered on having fun with all the issues to do in Caye Caulker exterior of finding out for our Dive Grasp’s course, and we had been so excited to be again. Hopping on a flight from Belize Metropolis, we landed on Caye Caulker, which is only a 10-minute flight from mainland Belize. As we flew over the turquoise waters plagued by cayes and atolls, we felt excited to revisit locations like Shark Ray Alley and take a look at new issues, like a scenic flight over the Nice Blue Gap. Oh yeah, this was going to be enjoyable!
Greatest Issues to Do in Caye Caulker
Backpackers have all the time loved the island vibe and low costs of Caye Caulker over the neighboring island of Ambergris Caye. This tiny island is just 5 miles lengthy and one mile huge, the place roads are manufactured from sand and vehicles are changed by golf carts. However you’ll quickly see on this Caye Caulker journey information that what Caye Caulker lacks in measurement, it makes up for in journey.
Keep at El Ban Cabanas on Caye Caulker North
The north facet of Caye Caulker is slowly turning into a luxurious escape from the extra backpacker vibe of Caye Caulker South. We stayed at El Ben Cabañas on the island’s north facet and had complimentary water taxis to Caye Caulker city all through the day on an everyday schedule. Staying right here felt like a tropical paradise as we had a non-public luxurious seaside cabana with air con, an exquisite personal veranda, and two out of doors swimming pools.
El Ban additionally had a wonderful restaurant value visiting, even in case you keep at one of many Caye Caulker inns on the south facet. It’s simple to get to through their free water taxi or the Cut up water taxi shuttle, which prices $5 per individual. It’s then only a five-minute stroll to El Ben Cabañas.
1. Nice Blue Blue Gap Scenic Flight
The Nice Blue Gap is a pure marvel that’s an underwater sinkhole positioned off the coast of Belize, close to the middle of Lighthouse Reef. This exceptional geological formation, roughly 300 meters (984 ft) in diameter and 124 meters (407 ft) deep, is seen from area! (So they are saying)
The Nice Blue Gap is a part of the extra in depth Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System, a UNESCO World Heritage Website. The opening was initially a limestone cave system earlier than collapsing and forming this spectacular vertical cave. It turned well-known after being explored by Jacques Cousteau in 1971, who declared it one of many high scuba diving websites on the planet. And Discovery named it one in every of High 10 Wonderful Locations on earth!
Taking a scenic flight over the Nice Blue Gap was genuinely awe-inspiring. The large darkish blue gap spanning 300 meters (984 ft) throughout stands out from the encircling shallow turquoise of the Caribbean Sea. We booked a non-public flight with Tropic Air, and spent an hour within the air, taking within the Hol Chan Marine Reserve’s views and neighboring reefs.
This was essentially the most stunning scenic flight we’ve ever taken over tropical waters and flown over the Maldives and Exuma Cayes! Our tour left from San Pedro, however flights to the Blue Gap might be organized from Caye Caulker and Belize Metropolis with Tropic Air, and Maya Island Air.
The flight wasn’t solely about seeing the Blue Gap; we noticed San Pedro, Caye Caulker, Caye Chapel, and the Turneffe Atoll earlier than flying over Lighthouse Reef, the place the Blue Gap stands close to its heart. Our flight took us across the Blue Gap 4 instances for optimum viewing. Twice on both sides in order that we each had equal viewing time.
2. Wanderlust Crusing and Snorkel
There is no such thing as a doubt that vacationers love to go to Caye Caulker for its underwater adventures, and one in every of our favourite issues to do in Caye Caulker was to mix a snorkeling and crusing tour with Wanderlust Crusing and Snorkeling
The island of Caye Caulker is a gateway to extraordinary marine adventures, because of the close by Hol Chan Marine Reserve on the Belize Barrier Reef. The Belize Barrier Reef is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System, the second largest barrier reef on the planet after Australia’s Nice Barrier Reef.
Now we have taken scenic flights and crusing journeys over Australia’s Nice Barrier Reef, and maybe my reminiscence is failing me. Nonetheless, throughout our time on the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, I used to be struck by how the water round this Caribbean Island is by far essentially the most stunning I’ve ever seen. Take a look at Diving the Nice Barrier Reef – Australia’s Final Journey
3. Shark Ray Alley Snorkel Tour
We talked about combining a crusing and snorkeling tour of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, however many individuals come to Caye Caulker to see its most well-known snorkeling spot, Shark Ray Alley. Shark Ray Alley is positioned throughout the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and is legendary for its abundance of nurse sharks and southern stingrays.
The world turned a well-liked feeding spot for native fishermen, who would clear their catch, attracting nurse sharks and rays. At this time, it’s a protected zone the place guests can safely swim and snorkel alongside these mild marine animals.
The shallow and calm crystal-clear waters make it the proper spot to witness these creatures of their pure habitat. Don’t fear in case you don’t have snorkeling expertise; this tour is good for inexperienced persons and skilled snorkelers.
Witnessing the nurse sharks and stingrays up shut is spectacular. They barely discover you as you watch the ocean life do their common enterprise.
With the ability to snorkel at three snorkeling websites of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve with an skilled information whereas crusing on a luxurious catamaran from one web site to a different was a dream. We got contemporary water in reusable containers, contemporary fruit, and after we had been completed snorkeling, we had rum punch to sip on as we sailed alongside the coast.
I beloved how Wanderlust Crusing and Snorkeling didn’t use any plastic water bottles and when our information Juan noticed plastic within the ocean, he scooped it as much as take it out of the water. They had been very conscious of conservation and holding a secure distance from the marine life to protect this fragile ecosystem
4. A Style of Caye Caulker Meals Excursions
While you first arrive at Caye Caulker, Belize, we recommend reserving a Style of Cay Caulker Meals Tour. It’s an effective way to get acquainted with the eating places on the island and be taught concerning the native delicacies. Additionally, by the point you end the tour, you’ll have made new pals and really feel heat and welcoming throughout the remainder of your journey.
We visited 4 eating places, sampling scrumptious appetizers, salads, mains, and desserts. I received’t inform you what eating places as a result of you’ll need to take the meals tour to see them, however they had been a wonderful choice of locations that served genuine Belizean Delicacies and immersed us within the native island life.
Our tour was segmented between 4 totally different locations. We began with a conventional Belizean appetizer whereas sitting on a deck overlooking the ocean after which moved on to an exquisite rooftop view to take pleasure in contemporary salads. It was then on to a energetic sports activities bar that was full of folks, and we went upstairs to the patio to pattern 4 predominant dishes.
I actually beloved the principle course, the place 4 massive dishes had been set on our desk household model, and we sampled all of them. All programs had been served with robust cocktails, and by the point we reached dessert at a sandy seaside bar the place we ate scrumptious treats alongside one other scrumptious cocktail, we had been feeling positive and able to benefit from the island life. Ebook your Style of Cay Caulker Meals Tour right here.
5. Parasailing
For individuals who need to do some parasailing, it’s well worth the journey to Ambergris Caye. We took a visit to Boca del Rio Resort with Belize Parasail Ltd for an incredible parasailing journey. Now we have by no means gone so excessive, and our information advised us that we may have gone larger, however I chickened out as soon as we had been far above the Caribbean Sea and gave him the sign that we had been excessive sufficient.
I don’t assume there may be parasailing on Caye Caulker, so making our solution to its neighboring island is quick and straightforward; plus, it’s value making a day journey regardless.
We took a golf cart taxi from San Pedro to Boca del Rio Resort the place we boarded a pace boat for our hour-long tour on the Caribbean Sea. Inside minutes, our boat stopped, and the parachute got here out whereas our guides hooked us up into harnesses and lifejackets.
It wasn’t lengthy till we soared within the air, feeling like a hen over the ocean. We had stunning views of the island and the reef. From above, we may see the colours altering earlier than our eyes. We even spied manta rays from above. We had been within the air for about 20 minutes.
On the finish of the flight, they dropped us off for a cool, refreshing dip within the sea earlier than touchdown safely on board for an ice-cold drink on our approach again. We actually benefit from the tour in addition to the golf cart journey, it was like having two excursions in a single. An island tour and a parasailing journey. Take a look at Belize Parasail Ltd right here.
6. Day Journey to Ambergris Caye
Simply accessible, San Pedro on Ambergris is only a quick water taxi journey away, providing a fast and scenic journey throughout the gorgeous Caribbean Sea. We took a brief 8-minute flight with Tropic Air, from Caye Caulker, which doubled as one other scenic view and landed in downtown. Ambergris Caye is a superb day journey from Caye Caulker.
We took a morning flight to San Pedro and loved a scrumptious breakfast at Blue Water Grill overlooking the sandy seaside. After breakfast we took a stroll to take a look at the downtown space. San Pedro has a couple of extra correct seashores than Caye Caulker, and it was good to stroll alongside the seaside to buy on the distributors lining the shore.
San Pedro’s bustling city ambiance is a pointy distinction to Caye Caulker’s laid-back vibe as golf carts whipped by whereas we strolled alongside the busy streets. San Pedro is the principle city the place most eating places and bars are positioned. Eating places serve all the pieces from contemporary seafood to conventional Belizean fare.
Make sure that to eat at El Fogon Restaurant, an establishment on the island serving conventional Belizean fare in a energetic ambiance. Higher but, it’s regionally owned and operated!
Numerous markets and distributors provide distinctive souvenirs, handmade crafts, and beachwear. The Truck Cease is a delivery container meals truck park that could be a must-visit.
Secret Seashore will not be so secret anymore and is likely one of the hottest locations on the island for seaside time that’s excellent for sunbathing and swimming.
7. Sundown Sail
We had been on the water lots on Caye Caulker and seeing this stunning island from the water at sundown is a should. A sundown sail is likely one of the most romantic issues to do in Caye Caulker. A Sundown sail leaves from the Cut up and is an effective way to see Caye Caulker’s shoreline and the encircling sea.
Many sundown sails embody alternatives for snorkeling, permitting you to discover the colourful marine life because the day transitions into the night. Onboard, chill out with refreshing drinks and lightweight snacks, usually included within the tour. The ambiance is serene and romantic, making it excellent for {couples}, however equally gratifying for households or teams of pals.
8. Go to the Cut up
The Cut up slender waterway, fashioned by Hurricane Hattie in 1961, that reduce the already small island into two distinct elements. Since then, the Cut up has grow to be Caye Caulker’s most well-known landmark.
The world round The Cut up is a bustling hub of exercise, with the legendary Lazy Lizard bar and grill offering loud music and a energetic setting for guests to take pleasure in chilly drinks, contemporary lobster, and sundown views.
The north facet of The Cut up provides a extra tranquil expertise, with serene spots and sandy seashores that are perfect for sunbathing and unwinding.
You possibly can take a water taxi throughout from one facet to a different on demand. It runs all day with the final run at about 10pm.
9. Celebration on the Lazy Lizard
The Lazy Lizard is likely one of the finest locations to hang around on the island to take pleasure in chilly Belikan Beer, contemporary seafood, and a celebration ambiance on the island. Boat excursions from cruises and Ambergris Caye all cease right here to take pleasure in reggae music and dancing. Plus there’s a pure swimming pool proper on The Cut up the place you may cool off. It appears like you’re on a sandy seaside, regardless that it’s all shored up with a sea wall.
Cocktails are dear, however it’s a enjoyable place to hang around for a day. Plus, if you’re actually able to do some partying, strive the Lizard Juice, a frozen inexperienced cocktail that tastes so good, it may be harmful!
10. Sunday Enjoyable Day – Caye Caulker
For those who occur to be on the island of Caye Caulker on a Sunday, you could need to be part of the Sunday Enjoyable Day. On Sundays, you’ll take pleasure in limitless rum punch for $ 25 USD whereas attending to know your fellow vacationers. You’ll take pleasure in video games on the seaside and a sundown cruise on a houseboat.
We didn’t do that, however we met with a couple of folks afterward throughout our free water taxi again to El Ban Cabanas and so they had been feeling no ache. (that’s till the subsequent morning I’m positive)
11. Sundown from Rooftop Bar
Throughout our Style of Caye Caulker Meals Tour, we visited a number of eating places from seaside cafes to sports activities bars and rooftop patios. Among the best issues to do in Caye Caulker is to drag up a chair at a rooftop bar and the very best level on the island is …. the very best place to soak up panoramic views of this tropical paradise. You possibly can from the East to West Facet of Caye Caulker, out to the Caribbean Sea, and all the way in which to the northern Island.
12. Seashore events
No Caye Caulker journey information can be full with out mentioning the well-known Caye Caulker seaside events. Caye Caulker is certainly the social gathering island of Belize and there are popup seaside events all over the place you go. Caye Caulker takes its laid-back fame severely with events that epitomize the essence of Caribbean island life.
Vacationers combine and mingle with one another listening to a mixture of dwell music, starting from reggae to soca, creating an infectious rhythm that invitations everybody to bounce barefoot within the sand. The seaside events sometimes function contemporary seafood together with Belizean rum cocktails, providing a style of the island’s culinary delights. Whether or not you’re trying to social gathering till daybreak or take pleasure in a relaxed night by the ocean, Caye Caulker’s seaside events are a must-do for an genuine and memorable island expertise.
13. Take a Photograph of the Caye Caulker Signal
It’s quick and candy, however you need to cease on the Caye Caulker signal. Actually, there are two Caye Caulker indicators the place you may seize a selfie to show that you’ve got been to the island.
The brand new official Caye Caulker Signal is simply a few blocks from the Cut up on the principle street. This colourful signal captures the texture of all the enduring indicators worldwide. It was in-built 2018 and is a enjoyable cease on the island within the coronary heart of Caye Caulker Village.
Caye Caulker Signal #2
The enduring “Go Gradual” signal of Caye Caulker appears to be gone. (At the least we couldn’t discover it) However this one is positioned close to the principle water taxi pier on the island. The world across the water taxi pier is a central hub of exercise on the island, making the signal simple to search out upon arrival.
14. Go Scuba Diving
Being the second-largest barrier reef on the planet and a UNESCO World Heritage Website, it’s no marvel that folks come to Caye Caulker with just one factor in thoughts: to scuba dive the Belize Barrier Reef. We didn’t go scuba diving on this journey to Caye Caulker, however in 2003, our prime goal was to do as many dives as potential.
This majestic reef stretches over 300 kilometers and has many distinctive dive websites. We’ve already talked about The Nice Blue Gap however loads of different dive websites exist. Head to Hol Chan Marine Reserve simply offshore from Caye Caulker for vibrant coral gardens.
Turneffe Atoll, one other not-to-be-missed dive spot, boasts various ecosystems and the possibility to come across bigger marine species like barracudas and groupers. Whether or not you’re a newbie or a seasoned diver, the Belize Barrier Reef is a superb diving vacation spot with its calm and shallow waters to deep, darkish depths. Skilled divers shouldn’t miss the problem of Sort out Field Canyons, providing deeper dives and the possibility to discover underwater caverns.
15. Feed the Tarpon
Feeding tarpon is a enjoyable expertise that everybody has to do as soon as of their life. Situated on the docks simply down from the Lazy Lizard on the island’s west facet, hungry acrobatic fish are ready for dinner. The fee is 5 Belize {Dollars} ($2.50 US) for a bowl of sardines.
Preserve an eye fixed out for the pelicans; they’re higher at snatching the fish than the tarpins! As within the case of Shark Ray Alley, tarpons had been initially drawn to the docks when native fishermen would clear their catch and discard the stays into the ocean. They’ve returned ever since and demand that vacationers feed them often.
16. Go to the Seahorse Reserve
One other place to go to in Caye Caulker is the Seahorse Reserve. I keep in mind when diving in 2003, it was right here that we lastly noticed seahorses for the primary time.
Situated simply exterior the Iguana Reef Inn on the West Facet of Caye Caulker, simply up from the Tarpon dock, is a tangle of seagrass the place seahorses like to cover. No touching is allowed, however it’s enjoyable to observe them from above. Nevertheless, there may be nothing as particular as recognizing seahorses when diving. It’s such a uncommon alternative.
Caye Caulker is thought for its seahorse conservation efforts. Guests to Caye Caulker can sometimes discover seahorses within the mangrove areas the place they cling to submerged vegetation. The calm and clear waters round The Cut up present a wonderful alternative for snorkelers to identify seahorses of their pure habitat.
17. Paddle Round Caye Caulker
Dave and I really like getting out on the water each probability we are able to get, and if a sundown sail or catamaran tour isn’t within the finances, you may take a extra reasonably priced journey across the calm waters on a kayak or stand-up paddleboards. SUP and kayak leases can be found at many locations across the island; you may see all of it in a day.
In case you are new to kayaking or SUP, begin on the lagoon facet, the place the water is calmer, however if in case you have a relaxed day, many of the water is calm round Caye Caulker.
18. Manatee Snorkelling Tour
We didn’t see manatees throughout our first journey to Caye Caulker, and we missed them once more! However these mild giants might be noticed on a snorkeling tour to the Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary. Plus, we’ve been fortunate to see them in Florida prior to now.
The Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary is nearer to Belize Metropolis than Caye Caulker. It’s only 12 miles off the Belize mainland, however excursions can nonetheless be organized from Caye Caulker.
Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary is particularly recognized for being a haven for the West Indian Manatee. It was established to guard the manatee inhabitants and their pure habitat, and it has grow to be a essential feeding and breeding floor for these mild marine mammals.
A snorkel tour right here provides a novel alternative for guests to watch these creatures as they graze on seagrass beds or playfully glide by means of the water in a accountable and ecologically delicate method.
19. Take a Stroll on the Northern Island – Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker is break up into two elements because of Hurricane Hattie within the Sixties. They usually each have a really totally different really feel. North Caye Caulker is working to draw a extra upscale clientele that also desires to be near the enjoyable laid-back vibe of the South. It’s simple to get to and from every half of the island utilizing water taxis and the resorts have free shuttles on common schedules.
I really feel it received’t be lengthy earlier than the northern island of Caye Caulker sees extra vacationers. Proper now, persons are drawn to the North Island for finer eating and leisure. El Ban Cabanas is thought to have the very best eating on the island. The Northside Seashore Membership (previously Koko King) has a restaurant that nonguests can eat at and is value trying out.
We beloved staying at El Ban as a result of we had outgrown our backpacking days, however we may nonetheless benefit from the chill facet of the island and reminisce about our Caye Caulker Journey in 2003. As soon as we had sufficient of the dreadlock hippy crowd, we may hop on a ship again to peace and luxurious.
20. Scuba Dive The Nice Blue Gap
Most individuals go to The Nice Blue Gap to scuba dive into its deep depths. This large underwater sinkhole reaches about 124 meters (407 ft), attracting divers from throughout the globe. It’s not solely essentially the most well-known dive web site in Belize, however it is likely one of the most well-known dive websites globally, inviting superior divers to discover its deep, cavernous depths and historical stalactite formations.
This exceptional gap was a cave that fashioned over centuries and is now an underwater collapsed sinkhole much like the cenotes of the Yucatan in Mexico. Because the ocean waters rose, the cave flooded and its ceiling caved in. At this time, divers can see stalactites, which had been fashioned when the cave was above sea stage. A number of species of sharks frequent the Nice Blue Gap and divers see colourful fish in its clear blue waters.
The place to Keep in Caye Caulker
The island of Caye Caulker is split into two halves offering utterly totally different experiences. Caye Caulker Resorts on the south island have extra of a seaside hut and rustic really feel; nevertheless, you’re within the coronary heart of all of the motion.
Staying on the northern island is way more luxurious and quiet; nevertheless, you do must take a water taxi again every night time or seize a raise throughout The Cut up, which may add up shortly as it’s $5 per individual a method.
We stayed at El Ban Cabanas, which is the proper mix of luxurious whereas nonetheless being a straightforward and quick journey to Caye Caulker Village or The Cut up.
The place to Eat in Caye Caulker
1. Get pleasure from Contemporary Seafood at The Lazy Lizard Situated on the iconic Cut up, The Lazy Lizard makes a speciality of contemporary seafood like grilled lobster, conch fritters, and ceviche, all seasoned with native spices and flavors.
2. Genuine Belizean Flavors at Syd’s Fried Rooster For these looking for a style of genuine Belizean delicacies, Syd’s Fried Rooster is a must-visit. T
3. Italian Delights at Il Pellicano Cucina Italiana – Craving Italian on a Caribbean island? Il Pellicano Cucina Italiana serves up a pleasant array of Italian classics, from do-it-yourself pasta to delectable pizzas.
4. Vegan and Vegetarian Choices at Namaste Café – Well being-conscious and vegetarian guests will love Namaste Café. This cozy café provides quite a lot of vegetarian and vegan dishes, smoothies, and well being drinks.
5. El Ban Cabanas – Upscale eating with full wine listing
6. Salty’s – A enjoyable seaside bar with native Belizean delicacies.
Get to Caye Caulker
Most individuals go to Caye Caulker from Belize Metropolis through water taxi or ferry. We took a flight from Belize Metropolis with Tropic Air that lasted about 10 minutes. This can be a nice solution to optimize trip time and double as a scenic flight because it takes you over the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve and the Belize Barrier Reef.
For those who’re touring from Ambergris, common water taxis are additionally accessible, making island hopping a breeze. We additionally flew to Ambergris from Caye Caulker; the flight time was 8 minutes.
Getting Round Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker is a small island and you may get round principally by strolling. Nevertheless, golf cart taxis are available if in case you have a farther solution to go or are simply trying to chill out. They price $5 per individual and can take you to wherever it’s worthwhile to go.
When to Go to Caye Caulker
One of the best time to go to Caye Caulker is throughout Belize’s dry season, from late November by means of Could. That is when you should have sunny climate excellent for watersports, snorkeling, and scuba diving. That stated, we visited the second week of December and nonetheless noticed fairly a little bit of rain. Local weather change is taking its toll on vacationer locations worldwide, so be ready.
November by means of Could is the height vacationer season when water temperatures are heat; nevertheless, that is additionally the costliest time to go to Belize, with resort charges at their highest.
The wet season from June to November might be fairly moist. For vacationers looking for a steadiness between climate and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons – early November and late Could – current a candy spot. Throughout these instances, you’ll take pleasure in nice climate with fewer vacationers.
What’s Higher, Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye
Nevertheless, San Pedro has lots to supply, in addition to there are extra resorts and inns to select from, and lots of the actions we did on Caye Caulker will also be finished on Ambergris. However even in case you do make Ambergris Caye a base, make certain to spend at the very least a day or two with its quieter and extra laid neighbor.
Now we have visited each islands and nonetheless favor the quiet Caye Caulker. Caye Caulker’s motto is to “go gradual,” and it doesn’t take lengthy to undertake that perspective as you sip rum punch whereas watching the sundown. There aren’t any vehicles on Caye Caulker and fewer golf carts than Ambergris Caye zipping alongside its sandy streets. Plus in case you keep on Caye Caulker North Island, you may take pleasure in an expensive trip …
We hope we impressed you to go to Caye Caulker in our Caye Caulker journey information.
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