Belize's entire eastern border runs along the Caribbean Sea, and there are also hundreds of cayes found offshore that are completely surrounded by water. As you might imagine, this kind of setup means that you'll find a good amount of Belize beaches to enjoy. The beaches of Belize are not generally as wide as some you'll find at some other Caribbean destinations, but they are quite sufficient by all means. Since most of the mainland coast of Belize is beset with mangrove swamps, wildlife refugees, and national parks, finding a really good beach to enjoy along its stretch can be a bit of a task. This is why those who are seeking the best beach during their Belize vacation often head out to the cayes. However, staying on the mainland, there are some coastal towns that offer access to some pretty nice beaches. The mainland coastal town of Placencia, for example, offers what many consider to be the best beach in Belize. Thankfully, wherever you find yourself in Belize, a nice beach is never too far off. Belize is very small, and though it remains pretty underdeveloped in spots, the tourism infrastructure that does exist is quite effective and efficient. December-April is the peak season for Belizean beach travel, with May being a good month for both good weather and lower rates.

As mentioned, Placencia is a mainland destination where those looking for the best beach in Belize will go. It's the country's premier beach spot, and you'll find a nice variety of accommodations here. Some of the best Belize beach resorts are found in Placencia, such as the Laru Beya Resort and the Chabil Mar Villas. What helps to make Placencia such a good bet for Belize beaches is the fact that it is found on a small peninsula . There's no less than 16 splendid miles of sandy shoreline for visitors to take advantage of. White sand, turquoise water, and swaying palms are what define the beach in Placencia, and you can hardly go wrong with a few days here. Sometimes, a stroll on the beach will be enjoyed in practical solitude, and if you want a little adventure, there is great snorkeling right off the beach. Some of the best fishing in Belize can be enjoyed in Placencia, with the bonefishing and deep sea fishing about as good as it gets. The lagoon and the sea in Placencia can be explored by kayak, and if you want to try scuba diving, the nearby Belize Barrier Reef makes for some unforgettable dives. Some folks even scuba or snorkel the lagoon, where manatees can be spotted. However, there are also crocodiles in the lagoon, and the visibility is not exactly optimal. It's up to you!

There are numerous daily flights to Placencia from Belize City, and you can also find a good number of buses heading this way. Most buses and flights stop first in Dangriga, which is the capital of the Stann Creek District. Dangriga is found on the coast as well, but it's not exactly known for offering any great beaches of Belize. However, a boat ride to nearby South Water Caye will surely reveal what some are naming the new best beach in Belize. The south beach here is gaining an international reputation for being excellent indeed, and since this 15-acre island sits right on top of the Belize Barrier Reef, you can simply wade in with your snorkeling gear and be treated to what can simply be hailed as a brilliant experience. It's a 45-minute boat ride from Dangriga to South Water Caye, and it's worth every second of it. In fact, if it took 45 hours it would still be worth it. Those looking for Belize Beach resorts might find the Pelican's Pouch Beach Resort on South Water Caye to be an ideal fit. Laughing Bird Caye is found just 13 miles from Placencia, and is one of the top day trips for folks enjoying the area. Hire a guide and boat in Placencia, head to Laughing Bird Caye, and you'll enjoy a tropical paradise for sure.

Belize Map

Ambergris Caye, which is found further north off the coast of the Corozal District, is arguably the top vacation destination in all of Belize. There is good reason for this. Besides being a best beach in Belize candidate, it also offers world-class fishing, diving, and snorkeling. Plus, you will find the greatest concentration of Belize beach resorts on Ambergris Caye. Staying at either the Xaman Ek Resort & Spa or the Pelican Reef Villas Resort is sure to satisfy. These are just two of the Ambergris Caye resorts worth looking into. Not far from Ambergris Caye, the smaller Caye Caulker is becoming quite a Belizean beach destination in its own rite. Caye Caulker has managed to avoid over-development to a great degree, and so if you are looking for Belize beach resorts in this area, Ambergris Caye is your best bet. What's great about the Belize beach resorts in all these locations is that they can not only help you arrange island excursions such as fishing, scuba diving, or snorkeling. But they can also help you arrange exciting tours and activities on the nearby mainland as well. Many visitors compliment their Belizean beach getaway with a hiking adventure through a mainland forest, or with a visit to Maya ruins, for example. Hanging out on the beaches of Belize is just one of the many fun things to do in this small, yet dynamically-rewarding country.