Top 10 Things to Do in San Pedro (Ambergris Caye), Belize
San Pedro is the kind of place where you instantly slow down — ocean breeze, colorful streets, and a relaxed island vibe. I only had two full days here before heading north to volunteer with manatees, and instead of racing through a checklist, I spent most of my time wandering, resting, and soaking in the Caribbean atmosphere. Whether you want adventure or easy days by the water, San Pedro offers a bit of everything.
Here are my top 10 picks for making the most of your time in San Pedro 👇
1. Snorkel the Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley ⏳ Missed This
You can’t visit San Pedro without getting in the water! Hol Chan is one of the Caribbean’s most famous snorkel sites—filled with colorful coral, turtles, and schools of tropical fish. A short boat ride away, Shark Ray Alley gives you a chance to swim beside gentle nurse sharks and stingrays. Don’t worry—they’re more curious than scary!
💡 JD’s Tip: Book an early-morning tour for calm water and fewer boats.
2. Take a Day Trip to Secret Beach ⏳ Missed This
“Secret” might be a stretch—it’s now one of the most popular hangouts on the island—but it’s still worth the trip. Rent a golf cart, bump along the sandy road, and spend the day swimming, paddleboarding, or lounging in an overwater hammock. Grab a coconut cocktail and enjoy the sunset vibes.
💡 JD’s Tip: Bring cash—most bars here don’t take cards, and drinks are pricier than in town.
Sometimes the best plan in Belize is no plan at all — just beach, breeze, and bliss.
3. Dive the Great Blue Hole ⏳ Missed This
For certified divers, this bucket-list experience is just a boat ride away. The Great Blue Hole is one of Belize’s most iconic sights—a massive underwater sinkhole that drops over 400 feet. It’s eerie, beautiful, and absolutely unforgettable. Not a diver? You can still book a scenic flight for jaw-dropping aerial views.
💡 JD’s Tip: Only attempt this dive if you’re advanced or very comfortable with deep descents.
The Great Blue Hole — Belize’s most famous natural wonder and a diver’s dream come true.
4. Explore Town by Golf Cart ⏳ Missed This
There are no big highways here—just sandy lanes lined with colorful houses, souvenir shops, and beach bars. Rent a golf cart and cruise the island at your own pace. You’ll find hidden bakeries, local art, and friendly faces everywhere you go.
💡 JD’s Tip: Drive slowly—locals, tourists, dogs, and bikes all share the same narrow roads.
The best (and only) way to get around San Pedro? By golf cart — even the police drive them!
5. Eat Your Way Through Local Flavors 🌟 Did This
From fresh ceviche and fry jacks to grilled lobster (in season!), San Pedro’s food scene is incredible. Stop by Elvi’s Kitchen for island classics, or grab tacos from a street cart. For breakfast, don’t miss Estel’s Dine by the Sea—beach views included.
💡 JD’s Tip: Try fry jacks for breakfast at least once—they’re a Belize staple!
Because food just tastes better when you’re sitting above turquoise water.
6. Watch the Sunset at a Beach Bar 🌟 Did This
The sunsets in San Pedro deserve their own category. Head to Palapa Bar, The Truck Stop, or Wayo’s Beach Bar for happy-hour drinks over the water. Some spots even have inner tubes so you can float with your beer while the sky turns pink.
💡 JD’s Tip: Arrive 30 minutes before sunset to grab a good waterfront seat.
Overwater dining done right — the kind of view that makes you forget what day it is.
7. Visit The Truck Stop ⏳ Missed This
This outdoor food park made from shipping containers is a local favorite. There’s everything from Asian fusion to ice cream, plus live music, trivia nights, and a pool with a swim-up bar. It’s fun, social, and always buzzing with travelers and locals.
💡 JD’s Tip: Check their weekly events schedule—trivia and movie nights are surprisingly popular.
8. Go Sailing or Take a Catamaran Cruise ⏳ Missed This
Spend a day gliding along the reef with the wind in your hair. Most tours include snorkeling stops, rum punch, and a stop at Caye Caulker for lunch. Sailing back at sunset with reggae music playing might just be your favorite memory from Belize.
💡 JD’s Tip: Afternoon cruises give you the best chance of catching a stunning sunset.
9. Visit Caye Caulker for the Day ⏳ Missed This
Just a 30-minute water taxi away, this tiny island lives by the motto “Go Slow.” It’s the perfect contrast to San Pedro’s busier vibe. Spend the day at The Split, grab a smoothie, and watch pelicans dive for fish. Then head back to San Pedro before dark.
💡 JD’s Tip: Buy your return ticket right after you arrive—boats fill up fast in the evening.
Hop over to Caye Caulker for a day — island vibes, turquoise water, and a reminder to slow down.
10. Support Marine Conservation at the Hol Chan Marine Reserve Office ⏳ Missed This
Learn more about the reef ecosystem that makes Belize so special. You can chat with local guides, book eco-tours, or volunteer opportunities if you’re staying longer. Every visit helps keep the reef thriving for future generations.
💡 JD’s Tip: Ask about reef-friendly sunscreen recommendations before heading back out on the water.
Final Thoughts
San Pedro is one of those places that’s hard to leave. The rhythm of the waves, the warmth of the locals, and the endless adventures make it feel like home in no time. Whether you’re diving deep or just sipping coconut water on the sand—Belize will capture your heart.
I couldn’t resist snapping a photo of this manatee statue — the perfect reminder of where I was heading next: volunteering with these gentle giants.
Next Chapter
Next, I was heading to the mainland to volunteer with rescued manatees — an experience that completely changed how I see Belize. You can read about that part of my journey, plus travel tips and stories from the sanctuary, on the full blog at unsettledjd.com/blogs
