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Belize is basically built for island hopping. With over 400 cayes (small islands) scattered along its Caribbean coast, it’s one of the best countries in Central America to go full-on tropical explorer.
And guess what? Belize City is your main hub for launching into this sea-splashed paradise. Whether you’re heading to popular picks like Caye Caulker, hidden havens like Tobacco Caye, or even venturing farther south to Placencia or Laughing Bird Caye, this guide gives you all the juicy details on how to get there, what to expect, and how to do it smart.
Why Start from Belize City?
As the country’s largest transportation hub, Belize City connects mainland Belize to nearly every island and coastal destination, making it the ideal spot to start your island-hopping journey.
- Ferry terminals (water taxis) run daily trips to northern cayes
- Domestic flights take off to even the most remote islets
- Private boat tours launch from Belize City marinas
- Easy access from Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE)
Let’s break down the best island routes from Belize City and how to navigate them.
Stop #1: Belize City to Caye Caulker
About Caye Caulker:
Vibe: Laid-back, backpacker-friendly, famously slow
Top things to do:
Snorkeling in Hol Chan, chilling at The Split, eating lobster
Getting There by Water Taxi:
- Operators: San Pedro Belize Express & Ocean Ferry Belize
- Ferry duration: 45 minutes
- Cost: $15–$20 USD one way
- Frequency: Runs multiple times daily
Optional: Flying There
- Airlines: Tropic Air
- Duration: 10 minutes
- Price: Around $75–$90 USD one way
- Airport: Caye Caulker Airport (tiny but scenic!)
Travel Tip: Take the ferry there and fly back—best of both worlds!
Stop #2: Belize City to Tobacco Caye
About Tobacco Caye:
Vibe: Tiny (and we mean tiny), off-the-grid, super eco-friendly
Top things to do Diving the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, hammocking, kayaking
How to Get There:
There’s no direct ferry from Belize City, so here’s how to do it:
Travel to Dangriga
- Bus from Belize City: ~3 hours, costs $5–$8 USD
- Private shuttle or rental car: 2.5 hours
Boat from Dangriga to Tobacco Caye:
- Private boats only (usually arranged through your lodge)
- Duration: 30–45 minutes
- Cost: $20–$30 USD per person
Travel Tip: Stay a couple nights—sunsets here are unforgettable and accommodation is usually in overwater bungalows!
Other Island Options from Belize City
1. Ambergris Caye (San Pedro)
- Belize’s largest and most developed island
- Easy access via ferry or flight from Belize City
- Great for nightlife, scuba diving, and luxury stays
- Ferry: ~1.5 hours | Flight: ~15 minutes
2. South Water Caye
- Lesser-known than Ambergris or Caulker, but stunning
- Accessible via Dangriga like Tobacco Caye
- Ideal for divers, couples, or honeymooners
3. Goff’s Caye
- A popular day trip island
- Only 30–45 minutes from Belize City by private boat
- White sandy beach + reef right offshore = snorkel paradise!
4. St. George’s Caye
- Closest island to Belize City (~20 mins by boat)
- Former capital of British Honduras
- Private resorts, great for couples and weekend escapes
Sample Belize Island-Hopping Itinerary
Want to hit a few islands in one go? Here’s a sample plan:
Day 1–2: Caye Caulker
- Arrive via ferry
- Explore The Split, snorkel Hol Chan, eat BBQ
Day 3–4: San Pedro (Ambergris Caye)
- Ferry or short flight from Caye Caulker (~30 mins)
- Dive the Blue Hole, visit Secret Beach
Day 5–6: Tobacco Caye
- Travel via Dangriga
- Chill in a hammock, snorkel right off your cabana
Day 7: Return to Belize City or extend to Placencia
Quick Island Transport Overview
| Island | Travel Time (From Belize City) | Method | Budget Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caye Caulker | 45 min (ferry) / 10 min (flight) | Ferry / Flight | $15–$90 USD |
| Tobacco Caye | 3 hr (bus) + 30 min boat | Bus + Private Boat | $25–$40 USD |
| Ambergris Caye | 1.5 hr (ferry) / 15 min (flight) | Ferry / Flight | $28–$130 USD |
| Goff’s Caye | 30–45 min | Private boat/day tour | $50–$100 USD (tour) |
| St. George’s Caye | 20–25 min | Private boat | Varies – resort-based |
FAQs – Island Hopping from Belize City
1. Can I book ferry tickets online?
Yes! San Pedro Belize Express and Ocean Ferry both offer online reservations.
2. Are boats safe during rainy season?
Generally yes, but weather delays are common—always check forecasts and confirm with operators.
3. How long should I stay on each island?
2–3 days per island is perfect for a relaxing pace. Day trips are possible but can feel rushed.
4. Is island hopping expensive in Belize?
It doesn’t have to be! Mix ferries with local buses and stay at guesthouses or hostels for a budget-friendly experience.
5. Can I go from island to island without returning to Belize City?
Yes! Ferries run between Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye, for example. But for islands like Tobacco Caye, you may need to circle back or go inland first.
Wrapping Up – Pick Your Paradise
Island hopping from Belize City is one of the most rewarding and exciting ways to explore the Caribbean coast of Central America. Whether you’re craving party vibes on Caye Caulker, quiet overwater bungalows on Tobacco Caye, or epic scuba diving near Ambergris, there’s an island (or three) calling your name.
Just remember:
- Plan your transport ahead of time
- Mix ferry rides and flights to balance cost and comfort
- Leave room in your schedule for some spontaneous sand and sea moments