The sunny island of Ambergris Caye, off the coast of Belize in Central America, is famous for its great weather, beautiful beaches, and incredible barrier reef system—the largest in the Northern Hemisphere—offering some of the best diving, snorkeling, and fishing in the world.
Though not a large island (at just 25 miles long), it is Belize’s most popular island, with guests coming from around the world to experience its idyllic blend of laid-back beach lifestyle, outdoor adventuring on land and water, and upscale, modern amenities.
Home to lush mangrove lagoons, underwater parks, as well as the galleries, shops, and restaurants of the friendly main town of San Pedro, there’s plenty to see and do on Ambergris Caye—all set against a backdrop of stunning turquoise water and dramatic natural vistas, just a short flight or scenic ferry ride from the mainland.
We recently asked our Destination Manager for our Ambergris Caye home to come up with her ideal itinerary for three perfect days in this island paradise. Fun, food, and exciting adventures await!
DAY 1: Fun and Sun 
Start your day with an early breakfast prepared by your private chef we arranged at the villa. You’ll love the Belize staple — fry jacks, delicious golden and crumbly fried dough very similar to the New Orleans beignet, served with savory accompaniments like beans, bacon, and eggs. With the menu selection made ahead of time and a kitchen fully stocked with your favorite foods, you’ll enjoy a leisurely wake up, knowing everything is taken care of. Have your meal in the spacious, light-filled dining room or make it extra special by dining outdoors on the home’s covered terrace, with views of palm trees, the pool, and the vast blue-green sea below.
A visit to Ambergris Caye means time in or on the water, so after breakfast, you’ll head out with an experienced guide for an exciting day of flats fishing in the clear blue shallows around the island. Often a bucket-list excursion for fishermen, you’ll explore the near-endless turtle grass flats in search of tarpon, bonefish, and the elusive permit fish while soaking up the fresh air and enjoying a packed lunch of juicy chicken sandwiches and chips while you’re out.
Of course, if fishing isn’t your thing, you may opt for a private custom catamaran cruise instead. Sail out on a luxury catamaran yacht to Cay Caulker, snorkel alongside the amazing fish and marine life at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, chill on board, or cruise to party-friendly Secret Beach for guided snorkeling, watersports, and lunch at the popular Pirates “Not so Secret” Beach Bar & Grill where the garlic ginger butter grilled lobster tail, sweet chili shrimp skewers and coconut husk smoked pork chops are perfect for sharing. These sailing trips are fully customizable based on your interests, so you kick off your first day in Belize exactly the way you want.
After your day out, spend the late afternoon relaxing by the pool or walking along the shore before having dinner and drinks at the open-air Stella’s Sunset restaurant. The lobster grilled cheese and ceviche are not to be missed. Enjoy, live music, and views of the sun setting pink and orange over the water.
DAY 2: Mainland Exploration
Grab a quick coffee and light breakfast of pastries and fresh fruit at the Flight Café in San Pedro before heading over to the mainland for a day of fun and exploration. Your local host will arrange your transportation by water taxi or small plane to Belize City, where you’ll be met by a knowledgeable guide who will take you on a thrilling full-day journey through the rich history, culture, and jungle landscape of the Mayan world.
Tour the ancient Mayan temple ruins of Altun Ha, where you can climb to the top of the grassy mounds and structures for views of the surrounding forest, see the large jade carving of “Kinich Ahau” (Belize’s most prized historic artifact), and hear interesting tales about the people that once called this place home. Afterwards, hike deeper into the jungle to go tubing along a peaceful river and through several caves. Then, wrap up your excursion with an exhilarating zipline experience high above the canopy. If you’re looking for a unique outdoor adventure during your vacation, this is one Belize daytrip that’s not-to-be-missed!
Back at the villa, take a late afternoon siesta in one of the hammocks or go for a refreshing swim in the pool before taking the golf cart out for the night. Enjoy San Pedro for the evening with a fantastic dinner of local seafood and seasonal Central American and Mexican-inspired cuisine at the lovely Elvi’s Kitchen. Try the conch fritters or coconut shrimp appetizers, the Mayan fish entrée (perfectly spiced and steamed in a banana leaf) or Chef Jennie’s signature curry, but make sure to save room for dessert or one of their frozen specialty cocktails.
DAY 3: Food & Adventure
Wrap up your stay in Ambergris Caye, Belize with more fresh, fabulous food and another day of unforgettable adventure.
Start your morning with a once-in-a-lifetime private helicopter flight over the island, enjoying amazing panoramic views of the sights, including Mayan ruins, waterfalls, and the barrier reef. Or see the reef up close with a dive or snorkeling tour at the famed Great Blue Hole, a large underwater limestone sinkhole formed during the last ice age.
Snorkelers may explore the reefs around the hole, teeming with color and a diverse variety of fish and other marine life, while divers will descend along the wall of the hole to a depth of about 130 feet. There you’ll find large stalactites, formed from dripping water when the cave was above sea level, as well as plant life, sharks, and more. Whichever you choose—seeing the reef and Great Blue Hole from the air or in the water—it’s sure to be an adventure you’ll never forget.
In the afternoon, see more of San Pedro and do some refueling with a guided, walking food tour. Eat like a local and sample a variety of traditional dishes—adobo chicken tacos, chilmole with egg, fresh fruit peletas, and sweet cane juice—at some of the best off-the-beaten path, mom and pop eateries on the island. Learn more about the food from your guide and local chefs while enjoying a rum tasting.
Spend the rest of your day and evening on the quiet beach at the residence, followed by a special, private chef prepared dinner on the home’s terrace. Ocean views, gentle sea breezes, and a final night of island luxury is the perfect way to cap off an incredible Belize adventure vacation.
At Home in Belize with Equity Estates
Your luxurious Belize residence is a classic oceanfront stunner, featuring a private 100-foot pier, beach hammocks, sparkling pool, and lush tropical landscaping, all set on more than an acre of land. With five spacious bedrooms and baths, an open, airy floorplan, and plenty of indoor and outdoor living spaces, this well-equipped villa is the ideal home for your next island adventure.
Your concierge will work with you to plan your itinerary before you arrive and make sure your stay is effortless by arranging reservations for activities, transportation, and dining. Leave the details to us, and arrive to a fully stocked kitchen and bar with groceries of your choice from the local market. With Equity Estates, comfort and luxury are yours.
Travel with Equity Estates for a unique and memorable experience. If you would like more information about investing with Equity Estates, please reach out to our Investor Relations team at 404.445.8501 or tap this link to schedule a call. Your incredible Belize getaway awaits!
