Things To Do
in San Pedro
San Pedro sits on the western edge of Ambergris Caye in Belize and is renowned for its turquoise waters, reef-access adventures, and inviting island vibe. The town acts as a hub for snorkeling, diving, sunset cruises, and casual coastal dining just steps from the sea. Its streets are lined with colorful wooden houses, breezy eateries, and a warm, friendly mix of Garifuna, Mestizo, and Creole influences.
Proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef makes marine adventures the centerpiece of any visit, while the laid-back pace keeps days relaxed and memorable.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Touch down in San Pedro and settle into your beachfront accommodation. A gentle Caribbean breeze carries the scent of salt and palm fronds as you step onto the white-sand shore. Sip on a fresh tropical juice as you watch fishing boats drift by in the turquoise sea.
Head to a waterside restaurant for a plate of local ceviche and fry jacks while basking under a palm-thatched palapa. Spend the afternoon strolling the vibrant town streets lined with colorful murals and artisanal shops. Cool off with a swim in the crystal-clear lagoon just steps from your door.
Toast to your first night with rum punch as the sun sets in a blaze of orange over the horizon. Dine on grilled lobster and fresh catch at an open-air seafood shack overlooking the water. After dinner, check out live reggae tunes at an intimate beach bar and dance barefoot in the sand.
Board a boat to Hol Chan Marine Reserve at first light. Glide above vibrant coral gardens teeming with parrotfish, angelfish and turtles. Feel weightless as you drift through underwater canyons with a guide pointing out hidden marine life.
Cruise to Shark Ray Alley for up-close encounters with gentle nurse sharks and southern stingrays feeding in shallow water. Jump off the boat to snorkel alongside these graceful creatures, capturing unforgettable underwater photos. Relax on deck with fresh fruit and chilled coconut water as the boat glides back to town.
Return to shore for a sunset stroll along the pier while pelicans glide overhead. Feast on blackened snapper tacos at a local beachfront shack. Cap the night with a refreshing Belizean beer and live steel drum music by firelight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🧼Basic groceries (weekly for 1) | $50-90 |
| 🍺Beer at bar | $3-6 |
| 🚕Taxi or short ride within town | $5-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel/hostel per night | $25-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Laid-back island vibe with easy accessibility to reefs and beaches
- World-class snorkeling and diving near Hol Chan and the Belize Barrier Reef
- Friendly locals and a compact, walkable town center
- Fresh seafood and a variety of Belizean dishes at market stalls
- Limited infrastructure on the island compared to bigger cities
- Seasonal weather and hurricane risk during certain months
- Higher tourist crowds in peak season can raise prices
- Reliance on boats for mainland trips adds travel time
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "No entiendo" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in San Pedro
Visit one of these nice places.
Early light reflecting off the calm Caribbean, with fishing boats and silhouettes of palm-topped boats creating a photogenic scene.
Vibrant wooden buildings and local storefronts along the waterfront make for lively street photography, especially with boats and locals in motion.
Waterfront silhouettes, soft light, and long shadows as the sea meets the white sand and pastel houses.
Reflective water, boats returning from daytime trips, and the glow of streetlights over calm water—great for long-exposure shots.
Food in San Pedro
San Pedro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Belize’s beloved staple served with coconut rice, stewed chicken, and slaw or plantains at many family-run eateries.
Must-Try!
Fresh fish cured in lime juice with onions, cilantro, and peppers; great as a bright, refreshing meal near the water.
Fluffy fried bread often split and filled with beans, cheese, or eggs for a hearty breakfast.
Crispy, savory fritters made with conch meat and spices, commonly found at beach stalls.
A tangy, tropical pie with a coconut crust and lime filling, a beloved Belizean dessert.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A waterfront hub with stalls for fresh seafood, produce, and local snacks; a great place to sample daily flavors and watch island life unfold.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'hello' or 'good morning' in English; dress modestly in more traditional settings and be respectful of Garifuna and Maya cultural sites.
Keep noise reasonable at night near residential areas; avoid unsolicited photography of locals, and ask permission before taking photos of people or private property.
Safety
Tipping in San Pedro
Ensure a smooth experience
In sit-down restaurants, a 10–15% tip is customary if service isn’t included. Guides, taxi drivers, and hotel staff often appreciate small tips for good service.
U.S. dollars are widely accepted on Ambergris Caye; Belize dollars are also common. Credit/debit cards are accepted at many hotels, tour operators, and larger restaurants; there are ATMs in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid with frequent short showers in the afternoon; breeze from the sea helps; perfect for marine activities but stay hydrated and use reef-safe sunscreen.
Dry season with warm days and cooler nights; ideal for outdoor exploring and snorkeling in comfortable temps, though evenings can be breezy.
Pleasant temperatures with some wind; excellent for sailing, fishing, and nature walks.
Humidity remains high with variable rain and possible tropical activity; fewer crowds, but plan flexible outdoor activities.
San Pedro at Night
Hiking in San Pedro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
For hikers, day trips from Belize City or inland regions offer jungle trails and rainforest scenery; notable sites include hiking routes near the Maya Mountains and forest preserves when visiting the mainland.
Airports
How to reach San Pedro by plane.
Belize City’s international gateway; most travelers fly here first and then take a domestic flight or bus/boat to Ambergris Caye.
Small domestic airport on Ambergris Caye for local flights and quick hops to nearby cayes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A diverse mix including Garifuna, Mestizo, Creole, Maya, and expatriates, contributing to a welcoming, multilingual atmosphere.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A staple activity around the reef with vibrant marine life and easy entry from shore or a short boat ride.
World-class dive sites along the Belize Barrier Reef, including wall dives and wrecks suitable for various levels.
Inshore and offshore charters offering reef and deep-sea options.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Pedro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most places offer veggie versions of Belizean staples; ask for bean-based dishes, salads, or veggie plates, and note that many sauces may contain fish stock—clarify when ordering.