Written by Emma Brode

Welcome to Belize, a small yet vibrant Central American country nestled between Mexico and Guatemala that’s known for its laid-back lifestyle and incredible natural beauty. Its diverse culture, influenced by Mayan, African, European, and Caribbean traditions, is reflected in its music, dance, and cuisine. Combine this with lush rainforests, ancient Mayan ruins, and the world's second-largest barrier reef, and you’ve got an irresistible country that’s perfect for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike.

We’re zooming in on our community’s favorite places in Ambergris Caye and San Ignacio, two of Belize's most enchanting havens that offer distinct yet complementary experiences. Ambergris Caye, the largest island in Belize, is known for its crystal-clear waters, vibrant marine life, and the charming town of San Pedro. Here, visitors can indulge in some of the best fresh seafood, tropical cocktails, and water activities like snorkeling and diving at the Great Blue Hole. In contrast, San Ignacio, located in the heart of the Cayo District, is a gateway to Belize's rich cultural and historical heritage. The town is surrounded by dense jungles, natural caves, and important Mayan ruins like Xunantunich and Cahal Pech. Together, Ambergris Caye and San Ignacio encapsulate the essence of Belize, offering a harmonious blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion.

A big thank you to local residents and friends of ECT, Stephen Lighter,Food and Beverage Director of Matachica Resort & Spa and GAÏA Riverlodge, Edwin Gonzalez, founder of Edwin’s Adventures, and Victoria House’s Don Williams, plus ECT Clubhouse members Haneen K., Maggie M., and Morgan H. who helped curate this list of local favorites for eating, drinking, shopping and sight-seeing your way across this fascinating country.

Stay

Retreat to Matachica, a luxurious and sustainable resort just 5 miles north of San Pedro. Offering a serene and exclusive Belizean beach experience near the Belize Barrier Reef, it’s home to 32 colorful casitas and villas, each with an authentic thatched roof, private patio, and hammock overlooking the sea. Even if you’re not a guest, consider booking a day pass. “I’d recommend at least getting a resort pass to use the pool and go to the spa,” says an ECT Clubhouse member. “My friends and I all did the 3-hour spa experience and it was a highlight of the trip.”

Also included in the guide:

• An “absolutely magical Airbnb” recommended by an ECT member that’s artfully decorated and surrounded by greenery

• A boutique resort that’s the perfect homebase for planning offshore diving trips to Belize’s world-renowned Blue Hole

• A locally-run hotel that’s integrated into lush rainforest on the banks of the Mopan River and boasts stunning French architecture

Eat

Guava Limb Restaurant & Cafe offers farm-to-table cuisine made from fresh, organic ingredients. The open-air restaurant uses produce from a 32-acre Mayan farm and local dairy and meat products to enhance the Caribbean and Latin American flavors of its menu. Designed for sharing, the daily specials reflect Belizean and Latin-Caribbean culinary traditions, with highlights being the jerk chicken quesadillas, spicy shrimp pasta, and cantaloupe mojitos.

Also included in the guide:

• A San Pedro establishment that serves up Belizean breakfast specials and barbecue right on the beach

• A local favorite for its street corn and seafood like conch soup, poached grouper, coconut-fried fried shrimp, and seafood curries

• The best French-style bread in town served at an out-of-the-way bakery

Drink

Wine and dine in the most stunning of settings at Poolclub, an upscale venue that “feels like Tulum meets Belize.” The open-air restaurant and bar is surrounded by palm trees and lush greenery and serves a European-style menu. Be sure to pack your swimsuit—the swimming pool and surrounding loungers will certainly tempt you to stay a while.

Also included in the guide:

• An outdoor beer garden with a swim-up bar, ping pong tables, cornhole, and a stage for live music and film viewings

• A secluded and quiet beach bar that’s a local favorite for fresh cocktails and flame-fired pizzas

Join the ECT Clubhouse—our digital community of well-traveled experts and women—to access the full guide. Get a two-week free trial to get inside and start exploring right away.

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