I am looking to take a vacation to Belize and I would like to stay on one of the islands and take maybe a day or two and do something on the mainland. I like the beach, relaxing, and sight seeing. I will probably have two teenagers with me so we like to do stuff at night as well ( places to eat, drink, and visit with locals and tourists). Which is the best island to stay at? I do not like the big resort hotels. I would rather stay in a small local hotel.

Thanks for any help!
Aimee

Ambergris is really pretty and probably has the most to do in terms of restaurants and night life. Caye Caulker is popular too, more quiet.

I agree. There is a ton of stuff going on in San pedro to keep everyone busy (or you can just lay back and do nothing if you want!) A few days in Cayo...to do the Mayan ruins or cave tubing or hiking makes perfect sense.

There aren't any large resorts in Belize, so you won't have to worry about that.

On Ambergris, there are choices from simple hotels on the beach for $50.00, up to over $500.00+ per night.

The island is divided by the 'cut', just south of there is the town of San Pedro. North, there are literally dozens of places to stay. What there isn't, is a good road. If you stay far north, and want to come to San Pedro in the evenings, you'll probably be taking a water taxi. The cost adds up...

You can also stay in town or south of town. South of town is my favorite. Pretty quiet, but easy access to town by golf cart or cab.

You can also use bicycles, either north or south, but, I'm thinking the 'road' north would be terribly dark at night.

Thanks for the info. San Pedro might be better for my daughter.

JeanH, when you say south of town, do you mean south of San Pedro?

Yes, I mean south of San Pedro. Sorry I wasn't more clear. It's the only town on the island.

Yep, we stayed south of town at Victoria House. We could use the free bikes to get to town or take a five dollar cab ride. They also have golf carts you can rent if you want to.

Thanks!

Anyone familiar with FFCoppola's resorts in Belize? There is Turtle Inn & Blancaneaux. One is closer to the sea, and the other in the mountain area. Rue-la-la, of all sites, is running a sale....anyone been there or have an opinion?
Thx--it's been awhile since I've traveled, but trying to get back into the swing again!!
PS--Weather wise--a time when not to go?

Turtle Inn is right on the ocean on the Placencia peninsula, a couple miles outside of the village of Placencia. I've never stayed there, but, it looks really beautiful Sort of a Balinese theme. I understand the food isn't very good though. But, you're close enough to the village to have lots of options.

I don't know much of anything about Blancaneaux. Sounds lovely though.

From Ambergris Caye, you could do a day trip to Lamanai.