Guide to Island Hopping in Belize in the Dry Season

Belize is one of the easiest and most rewarding places in the Caribbean to experience island hopping, especially during the dry season from November to May. During these months, the skies stay clear, the Caribbean Sea is calm, and ferries and private boats run consistently. With more than 400 cayes scattered along the Belize Barrier Reef, travelers can easily jump between vibrant beach towns, remote snorkeling islands, and tiny coral spots sitting right on the reef.

Most visitors start their adventure from San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, the country’s most connected island. From there, you can hop your way south to Caye Caulker, continue to the reef-fringed paradise of Tobacco Caye, and finish with a tranquil stay on South Water Caye, one of Belize’s most pristine marine reserve islands.

This guide walks you through the best routes, ferry schedules, private tour options, and what to expect on each stop—so you can plan a smooth and unforgettable dry-season island-hopping experience in Belize.

Why the Dry Season Is the Best Time for Island Hopping

Belize’s dry season runs roughly from late November through May, offering the most stable weather of the year. The Caribbean Sea stays calmer, which makes water taxis quicker and more reliable. Rain showers are rare and short, and visibility for snorkeling or sailing is at its peak.

Here’s why dry season travel matters for island hopping:

1. Calmer Seas Mean Smoother Sailing

This is the period when ocean swells are lowest, making boat transfers comfortable and predictable.

2. Lower Chance of Weather Delays

Storms are uncommon, so ferries rarely cancel departures.

3. Best Underwater Visibility

Clear, bright conditions bring out the blues of the reef and make snorkeling near perfect.

4. Peak Marine Life Activities

Turtles, rays, and reef fish are active along the barrier reef during the dry months.

5. Ideal For Multi-Island Routes

Travelers can move easily from north to south without worrying about rough weather interruptions.

Starting Point: San Pedro, Ambergris Caye

San Pedro is Belize’s busiest island and the main hub for reaching other cayes. It has the most water taxi departures, private charters, snorkeling day trips, and multi-day sailing options.

Ferry Operators in San Pedro

• Belize Express Water Taxi
• Ocean Ferry Belize

Boats depart regularly to Belize City, Caye Caulker, Caye Chapel, and Caye Caulker. You can also access privately planned trips to southern cayes. Many travelers stay a night or two in San Pedro before starting their island-hopping journey.

Stop #1 — San Pedro to Caye Caulker

Things to Do in Caye Caulker

• Swim at The Split – the island’s most iconic hangout spot
• Snorkel Hol Chan or Shark Ray Alley – known for nurse sharks, rays, and turtles
• Explore on bike or golf cart
• Enjoy casual beach bars and local eats
• Try windsurfing, kayaking, or paddleboarding

Caye Caulker is fun, friendly, and great for travelers who want to experience Belize’s island culture before heading south toward quieter, reef-focused cayes.

Stop #2 — Caye Caulker to Tobacco Caye

1. Caye Caulker → Belize City → Dangriga → Tobacco Caye

• Water taxi from Caye Caulker to Belize City
• Bus or shuttle to Dangriga
• Short 30-minute boat from Dangriga to Tobacco Caye

2. Private Charter Boat

Groups of 4–10 can hire a direct boat from Caye Caulker, which cuts travel time significantly.

3. Multi-day Sailing Tours

Some sailing companies offer 2–3 day trips from Caye Caulker to Dangriga, including snorkeling stops and overnight stays on remote cayes (Tobacco Caye is sometimes part of these routes).

Things to Do on Tobacco Caye

• Snorkel the reef directly off the shore
• Kayak around coral patches
• Fish with local guides
• Relax in hammocks over the water
• Enjoy simple island life with no cars, noise, or crowds

Tobacco Caye is one of Belize’s most authentic island escapes—small, slow-paced, and extremely close to the reef.

Stop #3 — Tobacco Caye to South Water Caye

Things to Do on South Water Caye

• Snorkel with vibrant coral and schools of tropical fish
• Relax on calm beaches with views of the reef
• Join guided educational tours run by local marine biologists
• Enjoy fresh seafood meals at beachfront lodges
• Stargaze with almost no light pollution

South Water Caye is perfect for travelers who want a calm, eco-friendly island stay with world-class snorkeling.

Optional Add-On Islands During the Dry Season

If you’re planning a longer island-hopping trip, consider adding one of these highly recommended cayes:

Glover’s Reef Atoll

Ideal for snorkelers who want shallow coral gardens and turquoise lagoons.

Turneffe Atoll

World-famous for wall diving and wildlife sightings.

St. George’s Caye

Close to Belize City and great for quiet couples’ stays.

Laughing Bird Caye

A top snorkeling stop for travelers staying in Placencia.

Transport Options Overview

Island hopping in Belize is flexible because you can mix and match ferries, charters, and sailing routes depending on your schedule.

Sample 4-Day Dry Season Island-Hopping Itinerary

Here’s a simple itinerary that combines adventure, snorkeling, and downtime:

Day 1: San Pedro → Caye Caulker

Take an early ferry, explore The Split, snorkel Hol Chan, and enjoy a sunset dinner.

Day 2: Caye Caulker → Dangriga → Tobacco Caye

Travel south and settle into an over-the-water cabin. Go snorkeling at sunset.

Day 3: Tobacco Caye → South Water Caye

Short boat ride to a pristine marine reserve. Enjoy beaches, coral patches, and peaceful views.

Day 4: South Water Caye → Dangriga → Continue Trip

Head back to Dangriga and connect to Hopkins, Placencia, or fly to Belize City.

Practical Tips for Island Hopping in Belize

• Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral.
• Wear a rash guard to avoid sunburn.
• Carry cash, as smaller islands have limited ATMs.
• Book ferries and long-distance trips early during holiday season.
• Keep belongings in a dry bag when traveling by boat.
• Respect the reef—no touching coral or feeding wildlife.
• Check sea conditions in December when winter winds sometimes pick up.

Final Thoughts

Belize’s dry season is the perfect time for an island-hopping adventure. Whether you start in lively San Pedro, relax in Caye Caulker, snorkel over-the-water at Tobacco Caye, or unwind in the calm marine reserve of South Water Caye, each stop offers its own charm. With reliable ferries, short private boat rides, and bright sunny days, traveling between the cayes from November to May is smooth and enjoyable.

If you want a mix of culture, reef exploration, quiet beaches, and classic Caribbean energy, island hopping in Belize during the dry season is one of the best travel experiences you can plan.