If “off the beaten track” is the only type of vacation you enjoy, you owe it to yourself to spend time on Caye Caulker, the Belize getaway island that’s geologically nothing more than a sand bar over limestone that forms ancient caves atop the ocean floor. This island is so laid back and mellow, nervous business types find it downright irritating, as Caye Caulker is something of a magnet for backpacking, bohemian souls who think nothing of bringing two changes of clothing for a long visit.

Windsurfers adore Caye Caulker because the breezes are powerful and refreshing, and for a little sandbar in the ocean, this island has so much going for it, you may find yourself sticking around longer than you originally intended to see the art galleries, historic sites and attractions. Close proximity to some of Belize’s most outstanding and famous natural sites is just one of the reasons to stay here, so see as much as time allows.

Things to Do in Caye Caulker

There are multiple types of sightseeing tours available that can arranged through lodgings and guides throughout the island. Ask around. You’ll get recommendations. Rent aquatic great at dive shops if you intend to snorkel and scuba, and if that whole off the beaten track truly describes your style, you’ll want to dive deep to see those undersea caves that literally hold up the limestone shelf on which you are vacationing.

One of the most popular spots in this area is Turneffe Reef where you can try your hand at wall diving or go to extremes by dropping into the iconic Big Blue Hole that’s as challenging and majestic as it is frightening. If you prefer to experience that hole from a safer distance, helicopter rides over this massive natural sinkhole offer bird’s eye views of the phenomenon that leaves even experienced divers in awe of Mother Nature.

Want to show off your athletic prowess? Get in on the windsurfing we mentioned earlier or challenge yourself to stand-up paddleboarding or kitesurfing, rigorous endeavors that are not to be attempted by the timid! Happily, there is no shortage of buff, eager dudes ambling around Caye Caulker who are happy to tutor visitors on all aspects if these extreme activities. Not for you? Focus your time on nature and wildlife experiences.

Food and Drinks in Caye Caulker

An amazing variety of food and drink awaits Caye Caulker visitors. Indulge your inner beermeister by sampling Belize-brewed specialties, enjoy chocolate products made from cacao-bean crops that grow here and do try a glass of cashew wine or lizard juice.

Where? Everywhere. If you’re a gourmand, a French eatery on Caye Caulker offers authentic Parisienne cookery at prices that could trigger your exclamation, “Alors!” since dishes on the Au French Corner menu only run from $5 to $12 each. Choose from several Italian dining options ranging from casual (Pasta Per Caso) to not-so-much (Il Pellicano Cucina Italiana). Cool down at the “best coffee shop around,” according to reviewers, by stopping off at Ice and Beans Coffee Shop.

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Where to Stay in Caye Caulker

As if you haven’t already been surprised by the wealth of things to do, see and eat on Caye Caulker, we regret to inform you that there’s a long list of accommodation options that require you to make even more decisions! What’s your pleasure? Hotel; budget motel; hostel; apartment; guest house; B&B? You’ll have your choice of all of them, so let your wallet be your guide.

Are you part of the backpack crowd or do you seek the utmost luxury Caye Caulker has to offer? You’ll find both extremes and everything in-between here. From Dirty McNasty’s and Juan in a Million Hostels to the five-star Treetops Guest House, if you can’t find the right place to stay on Caye Caulker, it probably doesn’t exist.

Getting There

Assuming you fly into Belize’s Philip Goldson International Airport on any of the growing list of domestic airlines serving Belize, you can get to Caye Caulker in one of two ways: Take a cab to the Belize City water taxi depot and catch the shuttle boat that gets you to the island’s dock. Alternately, book a more luxurious 20 minute flight between the airport and Caye Caulker via either Maya Island Air or Tropic Air. Both have advantages, so it could come down to how quickly you want to get to this little slice of paradise.