Top Reasons to Go

Top Reasons to Go

Beaches

The mainland's best beaches are on the Placencia peninsula and around Hopkins. Although they're narrow ribbons of khaki rather than wide swaths of talcum-powder sand, they're ideal for lazing in a hammock under a cocopalm. And you don't have to fight the crowds for a spot—at least not yet.

Jaguars

The world's first and only jaguar preserve is the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Chances are you won't actually see one of these big, beautiful cats in the wild, as they roam the high bush mainly at night, but you may see tracks or hear a low growl in the darkness.

Water Sports

Anglers won't be disappointed by the bonefish, tarpon, and other sports fishing. The Barrier Reef here is 15 mi (25 km) or more off the coast, so it's a long trip out, even with the fast boats the dive shops use, but there are patch reefs around closer islands, with excellent snorkeling. Serious divers will find two of Belize's three atolls, Turneffe and Glover's, within reach. In a charter sailboat you can island-hop in the protected waters inside the reef.

Cultural Experiences

The Southern Coast isn't so much a melting pot as a tropical stew full of different flavors. A seaside Garífuna village recalls Senegal, while just down the road, a Creole village evokes the Caribbean. Inland, Maya live much as they have for thousands of years next door to Mestizos from Guatemala and Honduras who've come to work the banana plantations or citrus groves. Sprinkled in are expats from the northern climes, looking for a retirement home or trying to make a buck in tourism.