The largest city, principal port, and industrial and financial hub of Belize, this city of more than 64,000 residents serves as the gateway to Maya ruins, rainforest jungles, the world’s second- largest reef system, and world-class diving and snorkeling.
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Located 10 miles (a 30-minute drive) from Belize City, Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport welcomes several airlines with direct flights from North American hubs. Car rental services are located directly across from the terminal building, and taxis may be found outside the terminal. Locally, Sir Barry Bowen Municipal Airport, a mere mile from the city center, allows quick passage to Belize’s cayes. John Greif II Airport at San Pedro, a 24-minute flight from Goldson, serves that city and Ambergris Caye. Other forms of transportation include private shuttles and water taxis to nearby cayes.
LODGING
Alaia Belize, Autograph Collection
This property offers a wealth of activities (water sports, bicycling, shopping) and amenities (spa, fitness center, bars and restaurants) for all travelers. Families will especially appreciate the Kids Club and babysitting services.
Sea Grape Drive, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, Belize
tel 501 226 3100
Black Orchid Resort
Nestled in the jungle alongside the Belize River 25 miles west of Belize City, this property is popular with birders and offers a host of amenities including a rooftop spa, freshwater pool, bar, restaurant, conference center and event space, and airport shuttle service.
2 Dawson Lane, Burrell Boom Village, Belize
tel 501 225 9158
Turneffe Island Resort
Choose from multiday fishing, diving or snorkeling packages with beachside accommodations at this luxury private island resort, located just a 1.5-hour boat ride from Belize City.
Turneffe Caye, Belize
tel 800 874 0118
DINING
Bird’s Isle
This waterside restaurant and bar offers up lovely views alongside generous portions of Caribbean and Central American dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options. The drinks menu offers plenty of options, too.
90 Albert St., Bird’s Isle, Belize City, Belize
tel 501 207 6500
Mare Restaurant
Menus change daily, incorporating local fish and fresh vegetables from the on-site organic garden. Options include wood-fired pizzas, ceviche and traditional Dutch Indonesian rijsttafel dinners.
Turtle Inn, GJJQ+C88, Placencia Village, Placencia, Belize
tel 501 523 3150
Riverside Tavern
Enjoy this bistro-style restaurant’s famous burgers or a variety of seafood, steak or pasta dishes on the riverside deck or inside in air- conditioned comfort. The 360-degree English pub-style bar serves up Belizean Belikin beer and other cold brews.
2 Mapp St., Belize City, Belize
tel 501 625 8253
ATTRACTIONS
Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave)
First discovered in 1989 and now part of a national park, this limestone cave system, archaeologically significant as a Maya sacred site, must be explored with a licensed guide. In addition to human artifacts and human remains, these caves also nurture a diverse ecosystem.
MayaWalk Tours, San Ignacio, Belize
tel 501 824 3070
Altun Ha
Located 31 miles north of Belize City, this major Maya ceremonial and trading center offers guided and nonguided tours of its 13 plazas, reservoir and two temples, including the Temple of the Masonry Altars, where the largest Maya carved jade object was discovered.
QM73+R33, Old North Highway, Rockstone Pond, Belize
tel 501 822 2106
Hol Chan Marine Reserve
This 3-square-mile reserve encompasses the reef, seagrass beds, mangroves and Shark Ray Alley and provides an unparalleled diving and snorkeling experience as well as a protected refuge for marine life. Several tour operators provide boats and guides to the area.
2 Barrier Reef Drive, San Pedro, Belize
tel 501 226- 2247
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