The Ultimate San Pedro Travel Guide: Where to Stay, Eat, and Explore in Belize
- Aug 10, 2025
- 9 min read
Updated: Oct 12, 2025
After years of visiting San Pedro—on girls’ trips, family vacations, and even solo getaways—we’ve picked up more than a few tips. What started as a one-time trip turned into a repeat destination that keeps pulling us back, again and again. Whether you’re headed to Belize for the first time or returning to soak in that easy, sun-soaked vibe all over again, this guide is packed with everything we’ve learned along the way to help you make the most of your own island adventure.
Getting There + Getting Around
Getting to Belize
We live in the Midwest, so our travel day usually starts with a 6:00 a.m. flight. We’re almost always on the island by 1:20 p.m.—yes, really. It’s one of the reasons we love this destination so much: it’s far enough to feel like an escape but close enough to make the travel day totally doable.
We fly into Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City, then hop on a quick 15 minute flight to San Pedro via Tropic Air or Maya Island Air. Both offer stunning views and smooth service. The other option is a water taxi, which is less expensive but takes longer.
Pro tip: On your flight into Belize City, you’ll be handed a customs and immigration form. Every person needs to fill out the front side, but only one person per family needs to complete the declaration of goods on the back. Bring your own pens—trust me, you'll thank yourself later.
Once you land, you’ll go through customs, and you’ll see two exit lines:
One for those declaring goods
One for those not declaring
After clearing customs, head to the domestic check-in area to catch your puddle jumper. The whole process—from wheels down in Belize City to sitting at the local gate with a cold drink—takes us about 45 minutes, give or take.
Getting Around San Pedro
Once you land in San Pedro, the real fun starts. We always rent a golf cart for the week—it's the primary way people get around the island. Your rental company will likely meet you right at the airport with the cart. We dropped a link to the one we use, but many hotels and resorts also offer rentals directly.
A few tips:
Roads are rough in places—think potholes, puddles, and cobblestones. It's part of the charm, so just take it slow and enjoy the ride.
Lock your golf cart when you park it, and don’t leave valuables inside.
I always feel safe in San Pedro, but I also stay aware. Smart + chill = the best travel combo.
Where to Stay in San Pedro
San Pedro offers a wide range of accommodations—from casual beach cabanas to upscale resorts—and we’ve stayed in several that we truly love. Where you stay can shape your trip, so it’s worth thinking about your travel style: are you looking for walkable access to town, quiet mornings, or a perfect halfway point to Secret Beach?
Our Favorites (So Far)
Residence Inn at Barrier Reef This is our current go-to. It's located just north of town and about halfway to Secret Beach, which makes getting there a breeze (especially by golf cart). We love the peace and quiet of this location—you're close enough to town for dining and shopping, but far enough out to really unwind. It’s a great mix of comfort and convenience, with the bonus of ocean views and a relaxed vibe.
Ramon’s Village Resort If you’re dreaming of thatched roof cabanas, lush landscaping, and a classic Belizean resort feel, Ramon’s delivers. It’s located right in town, so everything is walkable—including the beach. A quick note: while the restaurant and bar are open and charming, they don’t serve alcohol. You’re welcome to bring your own liquor and mixers to make drinks by the pool or in your room, which we’ve done happily!
Sunset Caribe If you’re looking for a more modern, resort-style stay, Sunset Caribe is a great option. The pool is one of the best on the island, and the sunset views are unreal. The location gives you great access to town without being right in the middle of the bustle, and the rooms have a fresh, upscale feel.
Other Great Options on Our List
While we haven’t stayed at these (yet), they come highly recommended and are on our radar:
Coco Beach Resort – Elegant, family-friendly, and beachfront
Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club – A Hilton property with a private beach
Belizean Shores Resort – Spacious, laid-back, and good for families
Victoria House Resort & Spa – Gorgeous setting, high-end feel, and a spa that’s worth a visit even if you’re not staying
Belize Tradewinds Paradise Villas – A great option near town with beach access
Marbucks Bed and Breakfast – Cozy, personal, and loved by repeat guests 18 and older
Pro Tip: Read the Reviews
Whether you’re booking a resort or an Airbnb, always take the time to read recent reviews. It's my go-to strategy for choosing the right place—and it’s saved me from more than a few disappointments. Pay attention to mentions of cleanliness, customer service, road conditions nearby, and beach access. You’ll get a better sense of what’s really waiting for you when you arrive.
Beachfront Tips
Belize has stunning turquoise water, but beach experiences can vary, especially on the east (seaside) side of the island. Sargassum (seaweed) can build up at times, which may limit swimming or beach play directly in front of your resort.
Pro tip: Always ask your hotel what their beachfront is like before booking. Many resorts provide docks, pools, or swim platforms if the beach isn’t swimmable.
For that postcard-perfect beach day, head to the leeward side (west). Secret Beach is calm, warm, and ideal for kids and adults alike. There’s also a beachfront park in town with a designated swim area and a great play space for younger kids.
And if you’re traveling with family or just like a little peace of mind: there are markets, pharmacies, and a medical clinic nearby, so you’re never far from what you need.
Our Favorite Places and Experiences
In no particular order, because we truly love them all, here are some of the places and experiences that make every trip to San Pedro unforgettable:
Scuba Diving with Chino at Castaway Caye Dive Shop (Oceanic Expeditions Belize)
If you’re diving in Belize (and you absolutely should), book with Chino. He’s calm, experienced, and makes even the most nervous diver feel like a pro. Exploring the reef with him is always a highlight.
Secret Beach: Mistico, Maruba Klub & Blue Bayou
Secret Beach isn’t so secret anymore, but it’s still worth the hype. We love spending a lazy afternoon between Mistico (my new favorite, laid back spot that’s Instagram photo worthy), Maruba Beach Klub (for great drinks and music) and Blue Bayou (where you can wade out and still have a cold drink in your hand). Bring water shoes, order something tropical, and stay for the sunset.
There’s a Bar and Restaurant for Every Vibe
San Pedro has everything - casual beach bars, cozy breakfast spots, seafood shacks, and romantic dinner views. Whether you want to grab a beer in your flip-flops or dress up a bit for a nice dinner, there’s a place that fits.
The Chicken Drop at Wahoo’s Lounge & Crab Races at Nauti Crab
Yes, you read that right. Bet on where a chicken will “drop” its business, cheer like a local, and maybe win a prize. The Chicken Drop at Wahoo’s is legendary, and the crab races at Nauti Crab are just the right mix of ridiculous and fun. Go early, grab a drink, and enjoy the show.
Sunset Sail Tour
There’s something magical about watching the sun dip below the horizon from the water. The sunset sail tours are relaxed, scenic, and often come with snacks and rum punch, which is exactly how every day should end.
Where to Eat + Drink
From beachfront breakfasts to upscale date-night dinners and late-night street food, San Pedro’s food scene is packed with flavor and personality. Here’s a roundup of our favorite spots, broken down by vibe, because sometimes you want a table with ocean views… and sometimes you want a Nutella-stuffed street crepe.
Must-Try Breakfast: Fry Jacks, Everywhere and Always
Belize’s beloved breakfast pastry is flaky, fluffy, and highly addictive. Honestly, no fry jack is a bad fry jack, but here are a few standout spots:
Aji’s Tapas Bar – Their house-made jam + warm fry jacks? Game-changer.
Estel’s by the Sea – Ocean views + a plate stacked with eggs, beans, cheese, and fry jacks = the dream.
Fry Jack House – Simple, fast, and very satisfying.
Pro tip: Order extra. You’ll want more than you think.
Casual & Can’t-Miss Eats
For a laid-back lunch or dinner (or anywhere you can roll up in a sundress and flip-flops), these spots are crowd-pleasers:
The Truck Stop – Outdoor food park with rotating vendors, games, a beer garden, and a super fun vibe.
Aji’s Tapas Bar – A cozy beachside spot that feels a little hidden and a lot magical. Be sure to say 'hi' to Dakota, the resident greeter.
Castaway – Chill, tucked-away bar and grill with cold drinks and good eats.
Nauti Crab – A total locals’ favorite with fun events (think trivia and karaoke nights) and solid food + drink deals.
Sandbar – Great beachfront hangout with affordable food, cold drinks, and even hostel-style lodging if you're traveling on a budget.
Up North – A few great hidden gems if you’re up for the golf cart ride—worth it for the golf and ax throwing alone.
Upscale (and some Sunset-Worthy) Dinner Spots
Looking for a slightly elevated dinner? These spots serve up great food and ambiance:
Purple Pelican – A go-to for a nicer night out. Classy, but still full of island charm.
Pineapples on the Beach (at Ramon’s) – Beachfront, beautiful, and their steak-on-a-stone and pineapple boat are musts.
Elvi’s Kitchen – Island-famous for a reason. Local flavors meet a warm, welcoming vibe.
Blue Water Grill – Go on sushi night! Add the beachfront view and you're set.
Rain (at Grand Caribe) – Amazing sunset views, elevated menu, and a breezy rooftop setting.
Caramba Restaurant & Bar – Super fun spot where you can pick your own fresh seafood, and they’ll cook it up your way.
Street Food = Always a Good Idea
Don’t skip the street eats! These are some of our favorite bites came from a cart:
Marquesitas – Crispy, rolled crepes filled with Nutella or cheese. Yes, cheese. Yes, it works.
Town Center near Central Park – Lots of great options in this area—tacos, grilled meats, tamales, and more.
Rule of thumb? If it smells amazing, follow your nose and get in line.
Quick Tips for First-Timers
Belize is a stunning country in Central America with so much to explore. While Ambergris Caye and the vibrant town of San Pedro are our go-to favorites, other gems like Caye Caulker, Hopkins, and the Placencia Peninsula are absolutely worth a visit too.
Language
English is the official language, which makes traveling here super easy. You’ll also hear Creole spoken widely—colorful, musical, and full of personality. Many locals speak Spanish as well. It’s a unique blend of cultures that makes Belize feel incredibly rich and welcoming.
What keeps us coming back to San Pedro again and again? The people—genuinely warm, funny, and kind. And, of course, the incredible views don’t hurt either.
Currency
Belize uses the Belize Dollar (BZD), pegged at a fixed rate of 2 BZD = 1 USD. The best part? US dollars are accepted nearly everywhere, and most prices are listed in both currencies. Pro Tip: Always double-check whether the price is in BZD or USD before paying—it’s easy to mix them up if you’re not used to the conversion.
Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and shops. For smaller vendors or tips, it’s helpful to carry a bit of cash in Belize dollars. There are ATMs and a couple of banks on the island if you need more.
Climate
Belize has a tropical climate, which means it’s warm year-round—highs in the 80s–90s°F and balmy evenings.
Dry season: Late November to mid-April (peak season for a reason!)
Rainy season: May through October (brief, heavy afternoon showers are common)
Ocean temps: Warm all year—perfect for snorkeling and swimming
What to pack:
Lightweight, breathable clothing
Swimsuits + coverups
Reef-safe sunscreen
Bug spray
A hat and sunglasses
Water shoes or flip-flops
A rain jacket or poncho (especially during the rainy season)
Dramamine or motion sickness meds (for boat rides or the puddle jumper)
A good bra if you’re taking a golf cart ride to Secret Beach 😄
Refillable water bottle or Stanley-style cup
A small backpack or crossbody bag for day trips
Wi-Fi & Safety
Most hotels, restaurants, and cafes in San Pedro have Wi-Fi, and cell service is decent on the island if you’re using an international plan like Verizon TravelPass. WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are widely used by locals and businesses—great for confirming tours or reservations.
Safety-wise, we’ve always felt very comfortable here. San Pedro is a small town with a close-knit community vibe. As always, use common sense—lock your golf cart, don’t leave valuables unattended, and trust your instincts.
There are pharmacies, clinics, and a hospital on the island if you need them. During our trip, we stopped by a local pharmacy for mastitis meds and had no trouble getting what we needed quickly.
Wrap-Up
Planning your own San Pedro adventure? I hope this gave you a helpful head start! Drop your questions in the comments or shoot me a message—I love helping first-timers discover this special place.
Next up:
Belize is waiting. You better Belize it!
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