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Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker? Which Airport is Best for Island Hopping

Two islands. Two airstrips. One big decision.

Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker are Belize’s most popular island destinations—but when it comes to flying in, which airport makes more sense?

Here’s a full breakdown of flying into San Pedro (SPR) vs Caye Caulker (CUK): what to expect, how much it costs, who it’s best for, and how to island-hop like a pro.

Quick Overview: The Two Airports

Island Airport Code Runway Type Airlines That Serve It Distance from Belize City
Ambergris Caye SPR Paved Airstrip Tropic Air, Maya Island Air ~35 miles northeast
Caye Caulker CUK Small Paved Strip Tropic Air, Maya Island Air ~21 miles northeast

Both airstrips are small, local-style landing strips. No terminals, no security lines—just tarmac, palm trees, and tropical breezes.

    Travel Times & Flight Schedules

    Travel Times & Flight Schedules

    From Belize City Municipal (TZA):

    • To Caye Caulker (CUK): ~10 minutes
    • To San Pedro (SPR): ~15 minutes

    Flights are short and scenic, usually under 20 minutes from Belize City. Tropic Air and Maya Island Air run flights every 30–60 minutes, especially during peak times.

    💡 Pro Tip: Choose a window seat—you’ll get views of the reef, islands, and turquoise waters that look unreal.

    Cost Comparison

    Route Avg. One-Way Price (USD)
    Belize City → Caye Caulker $65–$80
    Belize City → San Pedro $75–$95
    Caye Caulker → San Pedro $40–$50

    mbergris Caye flights tend to cost slightly more than those to Caye Caulker, but not by much. Prices fluctuate by season, and roundtrips can sometimes score you a discount.

    Tip for budget travelers: Departing from Belize City Municipal (TZA) is cheaper than from the International Airport (BZE).

    Which Airport is Best For…

    Airport

    Let’s break it down based on your travel style and goals.

    Best for Divers & Snorkelers:

    ✅ San Pedro / SPR

    Ambergris Caye has more dive shops, closer access to popular dive sites (like the Blue Hole, Lighthouse Reef, and Hol Chan Marine Reserve), and better tour infrastructure. Flights to San Pedro also allow direct same-day connections to diving tours.

    “I flew into San Pedro and was on a dive boat 30 minutes later—super easy.” — Luis, diver from Arizona

    Best for Families or Groups:

    ✅ San Pedro / SPR

    If you’re traveling with kids or a group, San Pedro has:

    • More family-friendly resorts and beach villas
    • Golf cart rentals for easy transport
    • Larger grocery stores and restaurants

    The airport is just 5–10 minutes from most resorts by golf cart or taxi.

    Best for Backpackers & Budget Travelers::

    ✅ Caye Caulker / CUK

    Caye Caulker is laid-back, walkable, and perfect if you’re trying to keep costs down. The airport is located right in the village, and most hostels or guesthouses are within walking distance.

    Bonus? You can save $$ by skipping local flights entirely and taking the water taxi from Belize City for just $20–$25 roundtrip.

    Best for Island-Hopping Base:

    ✅ San Pedro / SPR

    If you plan to visit multiple cayes or take day trips, San Pedro is a more connected hub. You can:

    • Fly to/from other Belize airports (Placencia, Dangriga, PG)
    • Hop a short boat to Caye Caulker (30 minutes)
    • Book combo tours to other reefs and islands

    Logistics: What It’s Like on Arrival

    Logistics

    San Pedro (SPR):

    • Arrive to a bustling strip with golf carts zipping by
    • Immediate access to taxis, golf cart rentals, and beachfront cafes
    • Short walk to central San Pedro town or beach resorts

    Caye Caulker (CUK):

    • Much quieter—feels like arriving on a hidden island
    • No taxis needed—you can walk to most places in 5–10 minutes
    • More relaxed, village-style atmosphere

    Luggage & Check-In Tips

    • Baggage allowance: 40 lbs checked + small carry-on (included in fare)
    • Excess baggage fees: ~$1–$2 per pound
    • Check-in time: 30–45 minutes before flight
    • ID required: Just a passport or photo ID

    💡 If you’re flying internationally and connecting to an island, allow at least 90 minutes between flights for customs and baggage.

    Final Verdict: Which Airport Should You Choose?

    Category Best Choice
    Cheapest overall Caye Caulker (CUK)
    Best for families San Pedro (SPR)
    Best for divers/snorkelers San Pedro (SPR)
    Best walkability Caye Caulker (CUK)
    Best for multi-island trips San Pedro (SPR)

    The bottom line?

    If you’re going for comfort, convenience, and activity options—fly into San Pedro. If you’re traveling light, on a budget, and want a chill vibe—Caye Caulker is your go-to.

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