Caye Caulker

Things to See & Do – Caye Caulker

1) Blue Hole

The Great Blue Hole of Belize is a marine sinkhole located in the centre of the Lighthouse Reef, 100km off the coast of mainland Belize. When it comes to viewing this global marvel you have 2 options.

1. Fly above it                              

– Price: 

2. Dive in it (Must be Certified with at least 24 dives) 

– Price for Scuba Dive: $335 USD ($295 + $40 park fee)

– Price for Snorkelling: $255 USD ($215 + $40 park fee)

Both are remarkable options and would be on any divers or adventurer’s bucket list.

2) Half or Full Day Tour

This was my personal favourite and a MUST if you’re visiting Caye Caulker! I’ve never seen so much marine life in 1 trip than this and I only did the half day tour. I got to swim with wild manatees in the morning and immersed myself in hundreds of reef sharks and stingrays at Shark Ray alley in the afternoon.

Prices for each Tour:

1. Half Day Tour: $45USD

2. Full Day Tour: $90USD

3) Scuba Diving

Belize has some of the best dive sites in the world which comes as no surprise as they are home to the 2nd largest barrier reef in the world after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.

You can see many colourful tropical fish, turtles, manatees, spotted eagle rays, as well as different breeds of Sharks such as the black tip reef shark.

Prices for the locals reef closest to Caye Caulker are:

– Local Reef: $110 USD

– Esmeralda $160USD

– Spanish Bay $175 USD

4) The Split

The Split is the passage of water between the 2 parts of the island which is also the most popular part to hang out, swim and enjoy a drink at The Lazy Lizard.

Here you’ll find a bar in the water where it’s possible to feel the warm Caribbean water sit comfortably at hip height, listening to music whilst you enjoy all the beverages on offer.

5) Stingray Beach

Feed the Stingrays and feel them glide past your feet in shallow waters at Iguana Reef Inn Beach. This is a more upmarket beachfront accommodation on the west side of the island which is open to the public.

This place has gained popularity as every day at 4pm the owner feeds the stingrays for groups of approximately 20 people.  The Stingrays have become accustomed to this feeding and gather in the shallows, swimming right up the guests feet giving them the opportunity to feel them brush past their legs.

 Where to stay – Caye Caulker

1) Bella’s Backpackers

One of the top hostels to stay in Caye Caulker as it offers a budget-friendly, relaxed, bohemian and friendly vibe welcoming all backpackers. It is a cabin-like feel with hammocks throughout to relax during the day. It also provides and abundance of activities such as: spearfishing tours, sailing tours, sunset boat cruises, bar crawls and clear bottom boat kayaking.

Cost: $15-20 USD/night

2) Tropical Oasis Hostel

If you are looking for a rustic and island feeling, then this hostel is an excellent option. This laidback hostel lets you feel the sand between your toes as soon as you enter the outdoor area. It has a very community feel to the place and provides plenty of island activities similar to Bella’s Backpackers.

Clubs & Bars – Caye Caulker

1) Barrier Reef Sports Bar

Located on the eats side of the island, this is the go-to spot for backpacker fun! It’s where all the island’s travellers gather at night with music, dancing and karaoke all night long.

It’s nestled right upon the beach with a wide variety of drinks and events on offer all year round.

2) TipSea Beach Bar

A beach bar with excellent vibes and atmosphere, ideal for watching a Caribbean sunset and enjoy a drink with friends.

 What to eat? – Caye Caulker

1) Fried Jack

Fried jack is a traditional dish in Belize and some other parts of the Caribbean. It’s a type of fried dough that’s often served as a breakfast item or snack which can be served with various fillings such as: ham, cheese, sausage, eggs etc.

2) Jerk Chicken

Jerk chicken is a traditional dish that features chicken marinated in a spicy and flavourful seasoning blend known as jerk seasoning. The seasoning typically includes ingredients such as hot peppers, pimento, thyme, garlic, ginger, green onions, soy sauce, and various spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves.

After marinating in the jerk seasoning, the chicken is usually grilled or smoked over a wood fire, which imparts a smoky flavour to the meat. The result is tender, juicy chicken with a bold and spicy flavour.

Jerk chicken can be served in various ways, such as with rice and peas or fried plantains. This traditional meal can also come in the form of Jerk Beef as a variation to Chicken.

 Where to eat? – Caye Caulker

1) The Lazy Lizard (The Split)

A popular beach bar located at The Split where the 2 island meet offering panoramic views of the Carribbean Sea. It’s known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning views giving visitors the chance to relax on the sandy beach or lounge on colourful beach chairs while enjoying the warm tropical breeze and soaking up the sun.

The bar itself is a vibrant and lively hub, serving up a variety of tropical drinks, including classic cocktails like piña coladas and rum punches. It’s also a great place to grab a bite to eat, with a menu featuring Belizean specialties and classic beach fare like fish tacos, ceviche, and grilled seafood.

The casual vibe, stunning location, and friendly staff embodies the essence of island living and is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Caye Caulker.

2) Errolyn’s House of Fry Jacks

Perhaps the most iconic spot on the island to try the popular traditional dish “Fried Jack”. Upon entering Errolyn’s, guests are greeted with the irresistible aroma of freshly fried dough mingling with a medley of tantalising spices. The cozy interior exudes warmth and hospitality, with colourful decor and a laid-back vibe that invites patrons to linger and savour each bite.

The star of the menu is, of course, the fried jack. Each golden-brown piece of dough boasts a crispy exterior that gives way to a fluffy, melt-in-your-mouth interior. Served piping hot, fried jack at Eyrron’s is a culinary masterpiece, offering a perfect balance of savoury and satisfying flavours.

3) Chef Kareem’s Kitchen

This roadside culinary treasure serves traditional Caribbean food at an affordable price. Here you can eat the delicious jerk chicken and beef as well as the freshest locally sourced seafood caught from the ocean. These meals celebrate the Caribbean gastronomy with a homemade local flavour adorning the tastebuds.

If you are looking for the true taste of Belize and Caribbean culture this is a must eat location that won’t break the bank.

Where to Next? – Caye Caulker

1. Mexico (Cancun/Tulum/Playa del Carmen) – Heading North

2. Guatemala – Heading South

To Cancun (Mexico)

1) Boat + Taxi + Bus

1. Caye Caulker to Belize City boat

2. Boat port to Novelo bus station $5USD taxi

3. Novelo bus station (Belize city) to Corozal (border) $13BZ ($6.5USD) 

4. Belize border to Mexican immigration and ADO bus station in Chetumal $12USD in taxi 

5. Chetumal to Cancun in bus $600MXP $30USD

6. Cancun ADO bus station to hotel zone $12MXP ($0.60USD) bus R-1 (across the road from the ADO bus station

To Flores (Guatemala)

1) Boat + Bus

1. Boat from Caye Caulker to Belize City (~$10USD)

2. Taxi from the Belize City Port to Novelo Bus Station ($3.50USD)

3. Bus heading to “Benquefor” ($3.50USD) but get out at the city ‘San Ignacio”

4. From San Ignacio take a taxi to the Belize/Mexico border (Taxi’s with “BVO” written vertically are the cheapest (~$5USD)

5. Cross border and pay $15USD departure fee

6. Bus from Border to Flores

2) Boat + Private Shuttle

1. Boat from Caye Caulker to Belize

2. Private shuttle from Belize City directly to Flores ($60USD)

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