If a picture tells a thousand words and a memory lasts a lifetime, then what better way to create such lasting memories of your Belize adventure than through photographs? Below is a list of the best photo ops on the island of Ambergris Caye — spots that will remind you of the island’s best treasures and bring those memories back into sharp focus after your tans fade away.

• The Las Terrazas Resort Swing Set. Situated just outside our Belize beachfront hotel, guests of Las Terrazas Resort are invited (and encouraged!) to splash into the water and swing their hearts out under our very own hand painted and wood carved Las Terrazas Resort sign and swing set. This is one photo op that is impossible to replicate anywhere else on Ambergris Caye and is much more than a picture to take – it’s an experience to be had. Don’t forget to swing by and snap a picture the next time you’re in Ambergris Caye.

• Secret Beach. This not-so-secret beach is a favorite among tourists and locals alike. Hailed as one of the top 5 swimming spots in Ambergris Caye, this laidback beach is the perfect spot to take a dip, float on a tube, rent a water toy, or even eat lunch in. The shallow water picnic tables ensure that you don’t have to choose between food and fun while on their shore. The beach itself is livelier with food trucks, beach tunes, and bars, but there are places to wander off and escape the energy if you so desire. Nearby palapas offer a serene place to relax and enjoy the view of the mangrove islands in the distance or to enjoy some peace and quiet as you overlook the beautiful turquoise water for which Belize is famous. Reclining beach chairs and hammocks line the shore, promising a blissful snooze as you soak up the sun and listen to the lapping waters. Whether you are looking to relax, swim, snooze, party, or play, Secret Beach really does have it all, and their enormous sign may just be one of the best parts. Pose on the letters for a picture-perfect moment of your time at the beach.

• The Truck Stop. Building with shipping containers is all the rage right now, and there is no better way to utilize them than by filling them with food. The first shipping container food park on Ambergris Caye, The Truck Stop is the place to be on the island. Great food and an abundance of fun and laughter are shared in this local hot spot, where weekly cornhole tournaments, movie nights, game shows, trivia nights, live music, and more are scheduled on the regular. The food trucks offer a variety of options, from a bar to an ice cream shop and mouthwatering menus that boast of Southeast Asian and Latin American flavors, even pizza. A photograph by this unique San Pedro Belize shipping container sign will contain memories for years to come.

• Belize Signage. Want to show others exactly where you are? Be sure to stop by both of these colorful Belize signs for prime pictures to post. This cute sign belongs to the magazine My Beautiful Belize, but with such little display room of their own, it is hung on the large wall space on the side of RC Elementary School. Their hand painted Belize sign is the perfect place to stop for a selfie.

• If you are heading to mainland Belize for an excursion or day trip, you must stop by the Belize Sign Monument in Belize City. These bright, bold, rainbow color letters are placed just in front of the aquamarine waters of the Caribbean Sea, making it perhaps one of the most popular photo ops in the entire country. This sign and its picture-perfect background make for fabulous photos and the letters are great for climbing on, laying across, jumping in front of, or happily posing next to. This is a sign you definitely don’t want to miss.

• Poco Loco. Situated on Front Street on Ambergris Caye, Poco Loco is a miniature food court with a giant and colorfully painted San Pedro sign. With multiple food stalls, Poco Loco offers a plethora of unBELIZEable flavors with something for everyone. Whether you have a hankering for burritos or burgers, soup or salad, or even cocktails, crepes, or ice cream, you are sure to find what you are looking for at Poco Loco. The San Pedro sign at their entrance will help you find them, but their food will make you stay. A great meal AND an Insta-worthy picture? What’s not to love?!

Stay tuned! Our next post will feature even more prime photo ops that are sure to wow your family and friends back home and keep you reminiscing about your time on the island. Until then, head on over to our reservations page to book your trip today. Don’t just look at our pictures – get yourself(ie) to Belize to take some of your own.

Summer vacations mean exploring new worlds and making memories with your loved ones. If you thought the cold winter months were ideal for escaping to the natural beauty of Belize, think again! Why not spend your summer days with your toes in the white sand beaches of Belize with an ice cold Belikin in your hand? With our rich culture and amazing cuisine, summer is an ideal time to explore the diversity that is Belize. Recharge your batteries in the luxurious setting of Las Terrazas Resort, located on stunning Ambergris Caye, Belize.

Here are 7 reasons to visit Belize this summer:

1. Your safety is our priority

Las Terrazas Resort is a Gold Standard Resort, meaning we adhere to the highest cleanliness and safety standards as set forth by the Belize Tourism Board. You can be assured that your safety is our priority.

In addition, traveling to Belize is easy. Simply show your proof of negative PCR test taken within 96 hours of arrival or negative rapid test taken within 48 hours.

For your convenience, Las Terrazas Resort offers concerige covid testing (at your expense) prior to your return to the US.

Questions about traveling to or within Belize? Visit our up-to-date informational page or contact our US-based Reservations Office at (713) 780-1233.

2. Weather

Belize is gorgeous any time of the year. During the summer months, the average temperature is in the mid-80s during the day. Although the mainland receives over twice as much rain as we do on Ambergris Caye, visitors can expect regular rain showers, mainly at night. For those rains that dare to interrupt summer vacation days, they usually hang around for a quick 5 to 10 minute shower – nothing strong enough to disrupt your plans for long. We welcome those quick bursts of rain that push out the humidity and cool the air. Pack light clothing and a pair of sturdy hiking shoes for days that you might dare venture away from Las Terrazas Resort’s private white sand beach. Throw in a good sun hat, and you’ll be all set for an unBELIZEable summer adventure.

3. So many fish in the sea

Whether you prefer to observe them in their natural environment or reel them in, Belize is a fish lover’s paradise. Belize’s commitment to the protection and conservation of its natural resources is clearly visible in the pristine waters and unspoiled beauty of the famous Belize Barrier Reef. The second largest barrier reef system in the world is over 185 miles long. Conveniently, it is located less than 1 mile off the coast of Ambergris Caye. With a plethora of superb snorkeling sites such as Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, and Mexico Rocks located only minutes from Ambergris Caye, snorkelers will see manatees, nurse sharks, sting rays, groupers, eels, and turtles, not to mention sea fans and elkhorn, staghorn, and brain coral.

Summertime is considered to be the best months for fishing in Belize because the famous 3 (tarpon, bonefish, and permit) are plentiful. Tarpon are one of the most popular targets around Ambergris Caye, with most catches averaging 60-90 lbs and some reaching 100-150 lbs. Large schools of bonefish are waiting for you in the lagoons and flats. And if you are looking to nab your first ever permit, Belize is a must. Snook, barracuda, snapper, grouper, and jackfish are also plentiful in the area. 

4. Lobster Season

In order to protect the lobster from overfishing (overlobstering??), lobstering is only allowed in Belizean waters for about 8 months per year. Residences and businesses alike are not allowed to sell, serve, or even have lobster in the freezer once the season closes. So, we will all rejoice in Belize when the summer lobster season opens again on July 1, 2021. Lobster ceviche, grilled lobster, lobster kebabs – Bubba Gump would be proud of all the ways that we serve up this local cuisine on Ambergris Caye. It’s not easy, but guests have speared their own lobsters while snorkeling and on fishing excursions. (Just make sure you are not in a protected reserve!) And we will gladly cook up your catch to your liking at O Restaurant at Las Terrazas Resort. 

5. So many festivals

Yes, we love our lobsters on Ambergris Caye! The biggest festival of the summer is the San Pedro Lobster Fest, typically a 10-day festival celebrating the opening of lobster season in Belize. You will find special activities and celebrations all around town. Local eateries – and Las Terrazas Resort’s onsite O Restaurant – serve up delicious lobster-themed delicacies. The 2021 Lobster Fest will look a little different than in years past, but it is definitely worth celebrating after being cancelled last year. This year’s festival has events from June 29 – July 10, 2021.

Visitors also flock to the International Costa Maya Festival during the first week of August. Miss Costa Maya, selected from one of the 8 countries represented at the pageant, is crowned on Thursday night. Festivities continue throughout the weekend with live music concerts and summer beach parties at bars all over the island. **Of course, every year is different, and we are still awaiting details on the 2021 ICMF. You can verify specific dates of activities on a number of FaceBook pages, or call us at the US-based Reservations Office.

6. “Go Slow” on Caye Caulker

Take a boat from Ambergris Caye to visit tiny Caye Caulker. Stroll the length of the island and browse the craft and jewelry booths for souvenirs for friends back home. Colorful beach chairs and hammocks dot the shore. Your day on Caye Caulker is a great day to relax in the shade with a refreshing summer cocktail from one of the many bars. Dining options abound, but definitely try the local catch. You can eat pizza every other day of the year. For a more active Belize vacation, try your hand at kitesurfing or take a dip at the split. And if you find a local in the know, ask where you can find the seahorse habitat.

7. Summer Specials

Whether visiting Belize with a group of friends, your family, or as a couple, Las Terrazas Resort is offering a variety of summer specials to suit your needs. Take your kids for a walk on the wild side and make precious memories. When you book one bedroom for mom and dad, you’ll receive the 2^nd bedroom free for the kids. Submerge yourself in the rich culture of Belize (and the turquoise Caribbean Sea surrounding Ambergris Caye) and receive one night free when you stay 4 or 5 nights. Bonus! Receive two nights free with a stay of 6 or more nights. Or are you looking for a sampling of the luscious Belize rainforest to go with your beach vacation? Ask us about the Reef and Rainforest package. 

Of course, all our special packages include accommodations in our luxury accommodations. Las Terrazas Resort’s oversized residences feature 1, 2, or 3 bedrooms with 2 or 3 full bathrooms, full sized kitchen, dining and living rooms, private balconies or terraces to enjoy Belize’s sweet summer nights, full sized washer and dryer inside every residence, as well as free WiFi throughout the resort. All our specials are available online, and our Reservations Manager is available to answer all your questions.

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We know that traveling to a new country raises questions about what to expect and how to create the best experience during your beach vacation. For those planning your first trip to Ambergris Caye, Belize, let us help you come prepared. Below are 21 things, in no particular order, that you should know before experiencing the island and our Belize luxury resort for the first time. 

1. We take COVID precautions seriously here in Belize, but we guarantee that you will still have a fantastic adventure. A negative rapid test is required upon landing in Belize City, masks are to be worn in public, and you must stay at a Gold Standard hotel such as Las Terrazas Resort. You may find more information on our website and in the Belize Health App. Other than that, you may still explore the Belize Barrier Reef, venture into the rainforest to the Mayan Ruins, head offshore to fish, and lounge by our 70’ infinity pool or white sand beach. 

2. Free Wi-Fi. Las Terrazas Resort makes it easy for you to stay connected to home from our island resort – free Wi-Fi is available to all guests, both in the residences and throughout the hotel, helping your international vacation feel as close to home as possible. 

3. The early bird gets the worm! The sun rises bright and early – around 5:30am year-round. Ease into your day with a traditional Belizean breakfast and fresh-pressed juices while relaxing by the infinity pool or opt for a beachside brunch at the one of the best Ambergris Caye restaurants the island has to offer. Or rise with the sun and get a head start on adventure; the island has many fantastic excursions to offer. Not an early riser? That’s okay! Our resort in Belize offers luxury rooms complete with heavy drapes to keep your room cozy and dark, giving you permission to laze the day away if you so wish.

4. If you are traveling from the US, no adaptors are needed. The standard voltage in Belize is 110/220V and the typical 3 prong outlets used in America are used on the island and at Las Terrazas Resort hotel as well. 

5. Don’t overpack – our Belize Spa Resort provides luxury bath amenities, including shampoo, conditioner, soap, and lotion. Also available for your use are hair dryers, umbrellas for those surprise pop up showers, and yoga mats. Your kitchen will come fully stocked with plates, silverware, paper towels, coffee, cream and sugar. Pharmacies and grocery stores can be found in San Pedro town, and ask us about grocery stocking service prior to arrival. 

6. Water. Your safety is a priority at Las Terrazas Resort. While you should drink bottled water while out and about, Las Terrazas Resort has an on-site Reverse Osmosis plant where well water goes through a series of filters to purify it and is tested quarterly to ensure its safety. Our luxury island resort is the best place to drink your heart out – both in terms of water, and by way of our fantastic O Bar on site. 

7. No rental cars or GPS necessary. There’s almost zero risk of getting lost as the island is literally three streets wide, with Front Street running along the coast, Middle Street that runs from Las Terrazas Resort straight into town, and a third street on the lagoon side of the island. Las Terrazas Resort offers printed maps should you desire one, but otherwise this is a safe and easy island to blindly navigate on your own. From golf cart rentals (yes, you can really scoot your way around the island this way— see number 8) to land and water taxis, getting around is easy and affordable.

8. Las Terrazas Resort wouldn’t be a true Belize beach resort if we didn’t have golf carts available for rent. This is a fun, unique alternative to public transportation and is an easy, breezy way to explore the island. Unlike many other countries, you can feel safe and at ease on our island roads— just watch out for pedestrians. There are no sidewalks in San Pedro so be mindful of those traveling on scooters, bikes, or by foot. 

9. When in Ambergris Caye, you will be on “island time.” Expect a laid-back approach to life, where everything moves at a nice, slow pace that allows you to soak up all the island has to offer. Ambergris Caye is a place where you can leave your worries behind and slow down for a change.

10. Speaking of island time, Belize offers a casual, happy hour vibe. Bars tend to be tame at night as people are more likely to retire early in order to hit the waters the next morning. Belize is home to the Belikin Brewery and to order a “beer” here means to expect a Belikin in return. One helpful tip: If your beer comes decorated with a napkin, use it to wipe off the mouth of the beer. When the salty air hits the recycled glass, rust tends to form so a quick wipe down will do your body (and your drink) good. 

11. Be sure to tip in Belize. In some countries, tipping can be taboo or even offensive, but this is not the case in Belize. This generous gesture is comparable to the American practice; 15% and up is a good rule of thumb.

12. Check your passports before booking your trip. All visitors must have a passport to enter the country, and passports must be valid for no less than six months after the intended period of stay. Most individuals don’t require a tourist visa to enter Belize. 

13. Contrary to what you may have heard, Belize is not a third world country; it is more accurate to describe it as “developing” or “emerging”. While more rural areas might fit the third world description a bit more accurately, this is not the case on the island of Ambergris Caye. With high-speed internet, cable TV with channels in multiple languages, electricity, indoor plumbing, A/C, international airport, sophisticated transportation system, advanced and easily accessible healthcare, and impressive high literacy, low infant mortality, and high life expectancy rates, Belize is modern and advanced. While some maintenance standards might be lower than travelers live with, it is certainly nothing inconvenient or unsanitary, and these differences are hardly noticeable once you get acclimated. 

14. Traveling with children? We love kids! US airports as well as Belize immigration require children under 18 years must travel with a valid passport. Immigration officials might also ask to see kids’ US birth certificates. Children traveling with one parent require a notarized letter of authority from the other parent indicating travel consent. Be sure to include your dates of travel, hotel name and location, name of the child, and who they are traveling with. Our Reservations Manager will provide additional information upon booking your reservation.

15. Just like on many beaches across the world, sand flies – or “no-see-ums” – are present on Ambergris Caye. They are thought to be most active in the sand after a rainstorm, but a few simple tricks should help you avoid these pesky bugs. Wearing baby oil on your legs is a great deterrent as they can’t bite through it. DEET works and is also a great repellant for the mosquitos – especially between the hours of 5-7pm, as they are most active at dusk.

16. Despite the assumption that many developing or central American countries are unsafe, you will find Belize to be relatively safe – and this is especially true of Ambergris Caye.  There are few violent crimes, though petty theft does occur on occasion. Pay attention to your belongings, don’t flaunt your things, and don your fanny pack or money belt if you dare. Las Terrazas Resort also has in-room safes to keep your valuables secure. What’s important to you is important to us, and your valuables are safe in our care.

17. While our luxury island resort is a paradise on its own, we encourage our guests to get out, mingle with the locals, and experience authentic Belizean life on the island. Belize is known for the warmth, hospitality, and easy camaraderie found among its citizens. You truly won’t meet a stranger while on our turf. 

18. Unlike other tourist destinations, in Belize you will not be overwhelmed by vendors hoping to sell things to you. Entrepreneurs invite you to buy – it is their job after all – but the culture here is much more laid back. A simple “no thanks” will do the trick; vendors will let you peacefully move on to shop. On the other hand, if you enjoy bartering and want to find the best deals, this style of shopping is acceptable among the open-air vendors in town (think flea markets). Belize is known for its jewelry and wood carvings, and the best place to shop for them on the island is along Barrier Reef Drive. The vendors are friendly and can usually provide you with a neat back story on their business and how their items were made. 

19. Speaking of island shopping, it is helpful to know that the currency exchange rate is set at $2BZD to $1USD. Currency exchange is available at the airport, but American currency is widely accepted on the island and credit cards are accepted at most Ambergris Caye resorts and restaurants. It is worth mentioning that AmEx is not widely used on the island and ATMs don’t always have cash available. Should you pay in cash, you may receive Belize currency in change (which works great for tipping), but heads up that there is not an exchange service when you depart from the airport.

20. A tropical island like Ambergris Caye is more affordable than you may think. Enjoy local fare, like stewed chicken, rice, and beans for just $5USD. Local beer and alcohol typically run for less than $3USD per drink. The island has a plethora of affordable options available to you, but let’s not forget what draws us all to Ambergris Caye in the first place – its natural beauty! The Belize Barrier Reef, Mayan jungles, Caribbean Sea, and ancient ruins are some of the many astounding reasons people are drawn to the island.

21. Belize is known for its beautiful beaches, but please know that they are not always 100% pristine. In fact, sea grass and sargassum seaweed are to be expected on the beaches. Sea grass grows completely underwater, is a valuable part of the ecosystem, and is what the sea life here dines on. This means awesome snorkeling, from the famous Mexico Rocks and even right off the shore at Las Terrazas Resort. Sargassum, on the other hand, floats on the water, and ocean currents take it to beaches all over the Caribbean. While this does not always make for the most attractive beach, Las Terrazas Resort rakes the beach daily to minimize damage to the beach while making it most attractive for your vacation photos. We guarantee that you will experience a beautiful and pristine beach while on our property!

And there you have it…. The top 21 things that first-time visitors to Ambergris Caye should expect! You’ve been warned: once you come to Ambergris Caye, you may never want to leave.  

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While some people prefer to use their beach vacations as a break from working out, others like to remain active even while traveling. Regardless of the category you fall in, Ambergris Caye, Belize, is the destination for you! Offering both complete relaxation and an abundance of fitness options, the little island of Ambergris Caye can meet all of your fitness goals. And while our boutique island resort does not have an on-site gym, we do offer several amenities at Las Terrazas Resort, such as bicycles, kayaks, and Hobie Cats that all allow for both an awesome beach workout while also exploring the island and nearby Caribbean Sea. If you are looking for something a bit more specific or extreme, then look no further than the island of Ambergris Caye itself. Below are several other activities that are sure to meet your fitness preferences during your Belizean vacation.

1. CrossFit. The W.O.D. Zone is a local CrossFit gym on Ambergris Caye that is owned and operated by Sushil and Lucien Pollard, who make other people’s fitness goals their own personal priority. So well-known is their gym that they actually have the highest drop in rate of any CrossFit facility in all of Central America and the Caribbean! Catering to the many travelers who vacation in Belize, this facility offers a $30 BZE drop in rate for one class, or a weekly pass for $100 BZE (6 classes, including Saturday). Be sure to check out CrossFit San Pedro Town for their address and class schedule. And a tip, just for free: You might want to drop in for an active Saturday class as rumor has it, they sometimes have mimosas! 

2. Fun in the Sun Aquafit. While Las Terrazas Resort’s 70’ Infinity pool is perfect for lounging, taking a casual swim, and delectable pool side dining, if you are looking for a more strenuous water workout, be sure to check out Fun In the Sun Aquafit. Trainer Eileen Jamison will not only whip you into shape on vacation but will keep you laughing while doing so. She is famous for helping you maintain what she calls a “beauteous gluteous” and for getting rid of that pesky muffin top. Classes are held on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from 10:00-11:00 and are only $15 BZE to attend. A steal of a deal for an hour of fitness, free equipment, and fun in the sun!

3. Mixed Martial Arts. For martial artists visiting Ambergris Caye, be sure to check out Dawson’s Pit Fighters. Run by local coach Martin Dawson, this MMA school champions both people and values and trains in self-defense techniques such as Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, kickboxing, and Lima-Lama. Dawson’s Pit Fighters also seeks to empower the community; they recently partnered with Hope Haven, a nonprofit children’s home in Belize, where they offer the organization’s young girls free monthly self-defense tactics meant to empower and protect. You can check out Dawson’s website to see about current class times or contact him here to inquire about visiting a class. 

4. Cardio Dance Fitness. Looking to get your Zumba on while on vacation? Located next to Barrel Bar just north of San Pedro High School, this cardio dance class will get you moving and grooving as you raise your heartbeat through fast paced, fun-filled active dance moves, punching, and kicking. Classes are $15 BZE for a week and are offered on weekdays at 6:00 am and 6:00 and 7:00 pm. Get your groove on as you sweat your heart out.

5. Yoga.  The discipline of yoga can be both physical and spiritual and with the view of the aquamarine Caribbean waters, the salty breeze drifting through the air, the sound of the waves lapping nearby, and the adoption of physical postures meant to strengthen your body and purify your mind, this is one practice that will truly appeal to each of your senses. Las Terrazas Resort offers yoga mats for your own personal use, or with the purchase of our popular Wellness Package we can arrange for your own private lesson on our signature dock that overlooks the Caribbean Sea! 

6. Gym. If you are looking for a more traditional gym experience, the Train Station Fitness Club is the facility for you. Famous for their quality equipment, professional and well-trained staff, and delicious smoothies and shakes, this is Ambergris Caye’s most popular gym. The Train Station offers a wide variety of free weights, weight machines, cardio equipment, personal training, and group fitness classes and has a little bit of everything for everyone to stay active while on vacation. Check them out the next time you are visiting Belize. 

7. Hiking. While Ambergris Caye itself is fairly flat, the beach does offer a 25 mile stretch for oceanside walking or beach runs. If more traditional hiking trails are what you are looking for, consider an excursion to mainland Belize for a dose of historical, architectural, natural, and active adventure. A day trip to Actun Tunichil Mucknal (or ATM Cave for short) includes hiking through flat shaded nature trails through the jungle as well as through three different knee deep steams, followed by a trek through caves that are often chest deep in waters. This day trip from Las Terrazas Resort is moderate in difficulty and is the perfect blend of physical activity and exploration through ancient Mayan civilization.

Ambergris Caye is a perfect option for those who enjoy a fit and active beach vacation. Be sure to check out any or all of these fitness options when planning your next trip to Belize. Contact our Las Terrazas Resort reservations office to book your trip today! 

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