Tucked between Mexico and Guatemala on Central America’s Caribbean coast, Belize, about the size of Massachusetts, is a small but bountiful country when it comes to natural beauty, adrenaline-pumping adventure and utter relaxation. Plenty of people set their sights on the destination’s subtropical climate, rich culture and history, and outdoor pursuits, too: Last year saw record-breaking numbers of visitors.

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One of the country’s major attractions is the Belize Barrier Reef, the largest reef in the Atlantic-Caribbean region and the second-largest living reef system in the world behind Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. Within the Belize Barrier Reef, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996, lies the famed Blue Hole, a perfectly round sinkhole on the Lighthouse Reef Atoll spanning 1,000 feet across and plummeting to depths of more than 400 feet. Scuba divers can follow the hole’s limestone walls downward to see stalactites and limestone formations in underwater caves, while snorkelers can stay on the water’s surface to peep sharks and other marine life. Before booking their trips, aquatics enthusiasts should note the boat ride to get to the Blue Hole can take upwards of a few hours, depending upon where they are staying.

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Aside from the Blue Hole, other popular sites to splash around in the Belize Barrier Reef system include South Water Caye Marine Reserve, the country’s second-largest marine reserve; Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve, with goliath grouper and hawksbill turtles in Ambergris Caye; Half Moon Caye Natural Monument, known for its beaches and red-footed booby nesting colony; and Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve, where eight species of sharks and rays, Nassau grouper, and at least three species of sea turtles live among an impressive showing of marine biodiversity.

Not all of Belize’s adventures happen underwater, though. Those who prefer to keep their feet firmly on the ground will find plenty to see and do, too. Long before Belize evolved into what it is today, the country brimmed with ancient Maya cities, each with its own industries and functions.

Take, for instance, Altun Ha, the closest archaeological site to Belize City, about an hour’s drive southeast of the site. Settled in 250 B.C., Altun Ha served not only as a major ceremonial center but also as an important trading post. In addition to two main plazas and 13 Maya temples and residential structures, a large jade carving of the Maya sun god, Kinich Ahau, was excavated here. The replica of the Jade Head is on exhibit at the Central Bank of Belize, but it is easier to see it on all Belizean money.

In its heyday, around A.D. 300–600, an estimated 50,000 people may have lived in the ancient Maya community of La Milpa, or Maya Farm, in the Rio Bravo Conservation Area. An impressive 85 structures, including courtyards, two ball courts, large temple pyramids, freshwater pools and more, tell the stories of the area’s elite of the day.

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Ailurophiles, or cat lovers, will want to make plans to visit Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary in the rainforest found within the Maya Mountains. The sanctuary, along with the neighboring Bladen Nature Reserve, houses the world’s first jaguar preserve, providing 250,000 acres for the stunning felines to freely roam without fear of poaching. Aside from the jaguars, best spotted on guided night hikes, visitors can see more than 300 different species, including colorful birds like keel-billed toucans and scarlet macaws.

Speaking of birds, ornithologists will delight in knowing more than 500 species of birds call Belize home throughout the year. Even if you do not go on a bird watching-specific trip, chances are you can still mark a few off your life list just by being on the ground.

Belize boasts plenty of activities for land-based adrenaline seekers, too. Fly through the treetops on a zip line, rappel a waterfall and watch the water tumble down, or hike myriad mountain trails to get your steps in.

Travelers can immerse themselves in the country’s culture with a robust calendar of events held throughout the year. In March the annual San Jose Succotz Fiesta celebrates the village’s patron saint through cultural marimba music and traditional cuisines, both of which are deep traditions of the small Maya village. The three-day Benque Fiesta in July celebrates the Mestizo and Maya cultures, and Belize celebrates its independence in September.

Another way to experience Belize is by cruise ship as a port of call on Caribbean itineraries. Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Cunard Line, Explora Journeys, Holland America Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, Ponant, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Viking and Windstar Cruises all call upon the Central American country on select voyages.

However you travel to Belize, you are sure to return home feeling refreshed and recharged, carrying memories that will stay with you for years to come.

LODGING
GAÏA RIVERLODGE, AN SLH HOTEL
For a Belizean adventure, look no further than GAÏA Riverlodge in the secluded Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve. After days filled with activities, retreat to your private casita to recharge.
Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve, Belize
$$$$$

SHAKA CAYE, A PRIVATE ISLAND
A 25-minute boat ride from Belize City delivers you to Shaka Caye on its own pri- vate 7-acre island. Luxuri- ate in the resort’s recently renovated studio, one- and two-bedroom villas.
Little Frenchman Caye, Belize
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TURNEFFE ISLAND RESORT
Escape to a 14-acre private island getaway at Turneffe Island Resort, where you will find just 22 guestrooms and villas and everyone there for the same thing: all-inclusive fishing, diving and snorkeling experiences.
Turneffe Atoll, Belize
$$$$$

DINING
CELEBRITY RESTAURANT & BAR
Three chefs from three continents meld their flavors together to create dishes served at Celebrity, from pastas and curries to seafood, burgers and veggie options.
Marine Parade Boulevard, Belize City, Belize
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CHEF ROB’S GOURMET CAFÉ
Only the freshest local ingredients, from produce to seafood and meats, are used to create tantalizing dishes served at Chef Rob’s Gourmet Café.
1 Sittee River Road, Hop- kins Village, Belize
$$$$$

ELVI’S KITCHEN
What started as a burger take-out stand evolved into one of Belize’s best restaurants serving Caribbean dishes such as ceviche, conch soup and an impressive vegan menu.
Pescador Drive, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize
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INFO TO GO
All international flights from across North America arrive into Philip Goldson International Airport, about 9 miles northwest of Belize City, which serves as a launching point for exploring the country. U.S.-based airlines flying into Belize include Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines and United Airlines. Transit to the city center via airport shuttle, taxi (about $30) or rental car for those traveling farther afield.