The Belize North Islands are the epitome of tropical paradise, where sun-drenched days demand beach lounging with fruity cocktails and some of the best underwater diving in the world. Speckling the sea by the hundreds, each “caye” is remote enough to feel completely and tranquilly yours, but full of just enough friendly locals and Caribbean nightlife to keep it vivacious rather than overly touristy.

The most popular draws of the Belize North Islands are Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley, where visitors can snorkel or scuba dive near the largest barrier reef in the Northern Hemisphere and the second largest in the world, the Belize Barrier Reef. This stunning reef system covers 185 miles of Belize’s turquoise waters and is proliferating with a stunning array of canyons, coral, and marine life, including the region’s trademark docile nurse sharks. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996 for its complex underwater habitats, the Belize Barrier Reef provides a crucial balance to the famed Mesoamerican marine system and a veritable playground for water adventurers from around the world.

One of the top spots to experience these maritime wonders is Ambergris Caye, Belize’s largest island. Nicknamed “La Isla Bonita” by Madonna herself, this 36-mile long island is immediately adjacent to the barrier reef and provides enviable access to whale sharks, stingrays, and schools of fish painted every color of the crayon box. Even if diving is not on the agenda, Ambergris Caye still serves up the area’s best nightlife and dining scenes in lively San Pedro. Within this southern town’s cobblestone streets is a wide assortment of luxury accommodations, local craft squares, and exquisite restaurants specializing in fresh seafood plucked straight from the ocean outside.

From Ambergris Caye to the smaller Caye Caulker, Belize’s North Islands are as big or as small as you make them and come fully prepared to lead you on any snorkeling, wind surfing, manatee touring, fishing, or beach relaxing adventure you have in mind. Contact Ker & Downey to begin planning your journey to the North Islands today.