Belize Is Fun Blog

San Pedro: A Town in the Tropics on Ambergris Caye

Posted by ECBR on Jan 29, 2013 9:00:08 AM

Ambergris Caye Barrier ReefSan Pedro is the only town on the island of Ambergris Caye off the northeastern shores of Belize in Central America. The sprawling seaside settlement has a population under 13,000. The town had its official start in the mid-1800s, and it is currently a resort area popular with visitors from all over the world looking for an island retreat near a barrier reef.

San Pedro

San Pedro town has many features that make it a beloved spot for island getaways and permanent living. One of its best features is its natural setting. The white sands of the shoreline, the blue of the water and the palm trees with their branches swaying in the breeze work together with the sunshine and mild temperatures to make an island paradise.

When it comes to transportation, several options are available. Arriving on the island is handled by plane since the town has a small airport or by boat. The most common way to navigate the island town is on foot, but golf carts are also rented and water taxis.

Within the small urban center are many buildings, but no skyscrapers. Like any contemporary city, the town has banks and miscellaneous businesses as well as shops and places to eat.

Local Attractions

Here are just some of the many things to see and do on the island:

Beach Road - A self-tour in a rented golf cart is a pleasant way to see the best of the waterfront area.

Boat Rides - For transportation or sightseeing, all visitors should take at least one boat ride while they are on the island.

Day Spas - Part of the relaxed island life found here on Ambergris Caye, getting messages or other spa treatments help bring relief to tight muscles and help the body feel rejuvenated.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve - About 4 miles out from town, Hol Chan Marine Reserve has a mature coral reef habitat that is a superb place to go scuba diving and snorkeling.

Shark Ray Alley - This section of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve is where rays of many types and nurse sharks congregate, and these gentle marine animals welcome the companionship of visiting humans.

Local Island Dining

The prices of any imported food item will be more expensive on the island, but the local grocery shops have a good selection of fresh fruit and vegetables that are inexpensive and excellent eating. Seafood and meats of different types are sold fresh and of good quality.

Here are a few top favorite restaurants and cafes in town:

D and E's Frozen Custard & Sorbet - For a cool treat in the downtown area, D and E's Frozen Custard & Sorbet has delectable and refreshing choices.

Lick's Beachside Cafe - This cafe on the beach provides authentic dining on the island, serving the freshest local food in a friendly and casual atmosphere.

Robin's Kitchen - For the best of Jamaican flavors and dishes, Robin's Kitchen is worth a wait for one of most delicious and satisfying dinners on the island.

The Ambergris Caye Experience

For one of the best beach resort towns near a barrier reef on the entire globe, the urban center on Ambergris Caye is a winner. The official language is English, but Spanish is also widely spoken. A getaway in this town means relaxing in a tropical paradise.

ECBR

Written by ECBR

Topics: Things to Do