Things To Do
in San Pedro
San Pedro is a charming town located on the island of Ambergris Caye in Belize. Known for its stunning turquoise waters and white sand beaches, San Pedro is a popular destination for tourists seeking tropical paradise. The town offers a laid-back island vibe with a mix of local culture and modern amenities, including waterfront restaurants and bars.
Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, and exploring nearby coral reefs.
- "How dih goh?" - How's it going?
- "Wah gwein on?" - What's going on?
- "Mi deh yah" - I am here
- "No wah worry" - Don't worry
- "Tank yuh" - Thank you
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $300
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $50
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $25 - $75
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a snorkeling tour to the Belize Barrier Reef, home to vibrant coral and a variety of marine life. Enjoy the crystal-clear waters as you swim among tropical fish.
After lunch, relax on the soft sands of a nearby caye, such as Hol Chan. Consider taking a guided kayak tour to explore the mangroves.
Enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant overlooking the beach. Wind down with a beach bonfire, enjoying the sounds of the ocean.
Visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture of San Pedro. Sample fresh produce and homemade snacks from local vendors.
Take a guided tour of the San Pedro House of Culture to learn about the area’s history and traditions. Participate in a local craft workshop for a hands-on cultural experience.
Dine at a restaurant featuring traditional Belizean cuisine like rice and beans. End your day with a live music performance at a local hotspot.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and clear waters, ideal for relaxation and water activities.
- Rich marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and diving.
- A vibrant local culture with friendly locals and a variety of dining options.
- Easily accessible with a range of accommodations, from budget to luxury.
- Opportunities for adventure tours, including fishing, sailing, and exploring nearby islands.
- Tourist areas can be overcrowded, especially during peak season.
- Higher prices in tourist spots compared to local markets.
- Infrastructure can be limited, leading to occasional inconveniences.
- Weather can be unpredictable, with tropical storms possible during certain months.
- Limited options for nightlife compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in San Pedro
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life in one of the most popular snorkeling spots in Belize.
Experience world-class scuba diving in the Great Blue Hole and the Belize Barrier Reef, with guided tours available for all skill levels.
Paddle through the stunning mangrove forests and lagoons, taking in the natural beauty and wildlife of this protected area.
Join a fishing charter for deep-sea or fly fishing, targeting species like tarpon, bonefish, and snapper.
Relax at this beautiful, secluded beach known for its clear water and soft sand, perfect for swimming and sunbathing.
Take a guided tour to spot local wildlife, including crocodiles, birds, and manatees, in their natural habitat.
Visit nearby islands such as Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye, enjoying beautiful beaches and local culture.
Try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding for a fun way to explore the coastal waters and bet on your balance.
Tours
Uncover the best of San Pedro with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in San Pedro
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, Hol Chan Marine Reserve offers stunning underwater and above-water photography opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset.
The pristine beaches of Ambergris Caye provide picturesque views of the Caribbean Sea, with powdery white sands and clear turquoise waters, perfect for sunset photos.
This serene beach features shallow waters and a relaxed atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for coconuts in hand and breathtaking sunset shots.
Located on Caye Caulker, just a boat ride away, The Split offers stunning views of the turquoise water and perfect conditions for Instagram-worthy photos.
The colorful buildings and lively streets of San Pedro provide a vibrant urban backdrop for photos, capturing the essence of local life in Belize.
A short ferry ride from San Pedro, Caye Caulker is known for its laid-back vibe, beautiful views, and the famous 'Go Slow' sign, perfect for capturing the Belizean lifestyle.
Food in San Pedro
San Pedro Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A staple of Belizean cuisine, this dish features savory stewed chicken paired with red beans and rice cooked in coconut milk, accompanied by a side of creamy coleslaw. A must-try that highlights the country's culinary heritage.
Must-Try!
Prepared with locally caught conch, these fritters are seasoned and fried to golden perfection, offering a delicious taste of the sea. They are often served with zesty dipping sauces and make for a great appetizer or snack.
These savory corn pastries are filled with flavorful mixtures of fish, beans, or chicken, then deep-fried to create a crispy shell. Often paired with a side of fresh salsa, they are a popular street food in Belize and a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Unique Experiences
Get to know San Pedro better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Located in the heart of San Pedro, the food stalls at Central Park offer an array of authentic Belizean street food, including delicious tamales, tacos, and garnaches, as well as refreshing tropical fruit juices. This vibrant market is a must-visit for those seeking a genuine taste of local flavors.
Held every Saturday, this bustling market is lined with stalls offering a variety of fresh produce, homemade salsas, locally caught seafood, and traditional Belizean snacks. It's a fantastic place to immerse yourself in the vibrant food culture of San Pedro and discover unique ingredients.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to show respect for local customs and practices. For instance, greet locals warmly and engage in polite conversation, showing interest in their culture and way of life.
While San Pedro is a laid-back beach destination, it is advisable to dress modestly when visiting local communities or religious sites. Swimwear is appropriate at the beach, but cover up when in town or attending local events.
Before taking photographs of people or their property, always ask for permission. This shows respect for their privacy and personal space, and helps to foster positive interactions with the locals.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of San Pedro with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in San Pedro
Ensure a smooth experience
In San Pedro, Belize, tipping is generally expected in the service industry. Standard practice is to tip around 10-15% of the bill in restaurants if service is not included. In bars, rounding up the bill or adding a dollar or two is common. For taxi drivers, a tip of 10% is appreciated. Tipping is seen as a way to show appreciation for good service.
Most establishments in San Pedro accept both cash (Belizean dollars and US dollars) and credit cards. However, smaller businesses may prefer cash only. It's advisable to carry some cash for tips and small purchases. ATMs are available, but fees may apply for international cards. Always check with your bank about foreign transaction fees before traveling.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into San Pedro.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit San Pedro, Belize is during the dry season when the weather is sunny and warm, ideal for beach activities, diving, and exploring the barrier reef. Expect crowded tourist spots and higher prices for accommodations.
The rainy season can bring heavy showers, especially from June to August, but it also offers fewer crowds and better deals on accommodations. Expect lush landscapes and occasional storms, but still enjoy warm temperatures.
This period is a mix of the dry and rainy seasons, providing mild weather and fewer tourists. Expect some price reductions on hotels and tours, making it a great time for a quieter experience.
San Pedro at Night
Hiking in San Pedro
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Although primarily known for its snorkeling and diving spots, the trails around Hol Chan offer scenic views of marine life and coastal ecosystems.
Located nearby, this park features coastal trails with opportunities to see diverse flora and fauna, as well as stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.
Offering a unique blend of hiking and water activities, the trails along the coastal areas provide pathways through mangrove forests and breathtaking ocean vistas.
While the area is more famous for its beaches, there are several walking and hiking opportunities that lead you through the island's natural beauty.
Explore the coastal paths and wildlife viewing opportunities in this nature reserve, while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into San Pedro through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach San Pedro by plane.
The main international airport serving Belize, located approximately 65 miles from San Pedro.
Located in Cozumel, Mexico, it is about 45 miles from San Pedro and serves several international flights.
A major international airport located in Cancún, Mexico, around 200 miles from San Pedro.
An international airport located in the vicinity of the Belize-Guatemala border, approximately 100 miles from San Pedro.
Located in San Pedro Sula, Honduras, it is around 250 miles from San Pedro, Belize.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in San Pedro, consisting primarily of people of mixed European and Indigenous descent.
A significant demographic group with African ancestry, known for their distinct culture and traditions.
Indigenous people with ancestral ties to the ancient Mayan civilization, contributing to the cultural heritage of the region.
A group of Afro-Indigenous descent, known for their unique music, dance, and cultural practices.
Includes smaller populations of expatriates and immigrants, such as Europeans and North Americans, contributing to the diversity of San Pedro.
The Soul of San Pedro
Discover the essence of San Pedro through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in San Pedro, with local teams, regular matches, and a passionate fan base.
Basketball is widely played in San Pedro, with several courts available and community tournaments held throughout the year.
Given its coastal location, beach volleyball is a favored recreational activity among locals and visitors alike.
San Pedro is known for its proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef, making diving a popular sport for both residents and tourists.
Cycling is a popular way to explore the island, with many residents using bicycles for transportation and leisure.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting San Pedro.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
San Pedro boasts eateries that cater specifically to vegetarian and vegan diets. Many restaurants offer plant-based versions of traditional Belizean dishes, while some establishments focus exclusively on innovative vegetarian and vegan cuisine, ensuring a satisfying dining experience for those with dietary preferences.
Visitors adhering to a gluten-free diet will find that several restaurants in San Pedro are attentive to their needs, offering gluten-free versions of local specialties and incorporating gluten-free ingredients in their diverse menus. Additionally, the island’s emphasis on fresh seafood and tropical produce contributes to the availability of naturally gluten-free options.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of San Pedro with these cultural adventures.
