3 Best Sights in The Southern Coast, Belize

Five miles of golden sand stretch north and south of Hopkins. The in-town sector of beach has a local vibe; the resorts south of the village populate that strand of sand with more international tourists. The water has less seagrass than other mainland beaches, making Hopkins Beach better and cleaner for swimming. The barrier reef lies only 8 to 10 miles (13 to 16 km) out, meaning you don’t have to boat out so far to find good snorkeling. Amenities: food and drink; parking (no fee); toilets; water sports. Best for: partiers; snorkeling; solitude; sunrise; swimming; walking.

Whether the peninsula’s 16 miles (26 km) of sand (the longest in Belize) constitute one beach or multiple is open to debate. All residents do agree that their golden strand stretching from Maya Beach to Seine Bight to Placencia Village is the mainland's best—and most outsiders do, too. Some sections hum with activity, especially those in the village itself; others, you’ll have all to yourself. The Barrier Reef lies a distant 20 miles (32 km) away, making snorkeling immediately offshore not ideal. Amenities: food and drink; parking (no fee); toilets; water sports. Best for: partiers; sunrise; solitude; swimming; walking.

By law, all beaches in Belize are public, and while you won't be permitted to use a resort’s beach chairs and towels without staying there, access is open to all. If your own lodging is not right on the beach—and many in-village accommodations are not—enter the concept of the beach club. A reasonably priced day’s membership gets you access to the club’s beach amenities. Food and drinks cost extra. Two adults-only days per week limit pool use to those 16 and over, but all guests may use the beach and other facilities. The club partners with a few small Placencia lodgings that don't have their own strands of sand. Some toss in membership as part of their rates.