Hello Sirenian Bay friends!
Nothing says Caribbean vacation like a stay on a private island. Fortunately the picture-perfect coast of Belize is dotted with stunning island destinations that are great for vacationers.
You can spend your whole vacation there or splurge on a few days as part of a larger trip. Getting to the islands from the mainland is easy – just take a boat from Belize City or Placencia; some islands have airstrips, too.
Narrowing down the list is no easy task, but here are some of our favorite private island destinations.
Cayo Espanto
This is the place to be if you want to rub shoulders with celebrities. This luxurious resort claims to be the most prestigious in South America, and has housed Harrison Ford, Tiger Woods and Robert DeNiro. You can stay in one of five private villas, some of which have their own pools. Sun, sand and endless blue water abound, and you can kick back in a hammock and enjoy a tailored-to-you menu lovingly prepared by the island’s chef.
Glover’s Atoll Island Lodge
Adventure seekers, this one’s for you. Get back to nature at Glover’s Atoll, which features 15 rustic cabanas, solar power and composting toilets. There’s a national park and a long list of activities including kayaking, surfing, fishing and diving. There are on-site chefs who will cook and dine with you, but for other amenities you’ll have to wait to get back to shore.
Caye Chapel
Feeling a bit fancy? Caye Chapel is aimed squarely at the golfing set. An elegant beachfront resort delivers exquisite accommodations, and activities include golf, tennis and cycling. An on-site spa offers high-end treatments, and a fitness center and fine dining round out the amenities. Arrive by boat or plane – there’s a small airstrip on the island.
Tobacco Caye
If the Belize Barrier Reef is on your must-see list, so is this island on the tip of the South Water Caye Marine Reserve. This five-acre coral island sits directly atop the barrier reef, making it an ideal location for swimming, snorkeling and diving. Expect to spy parrotfish and angelfish in the water – and maybe catch a snapper for dinner.
St George’s Caye
A national landmark, St George’s Caye was the original capital of Belize. Today it’s a thriving resort island with quality accommodations and world-class diving. With no cars or roads, it’s a tranquil island destination perfect for relaxation. Close to the Great Blue Hole and Lighthouse Reef, yet just a few minutes from Belize City, it gives you easy access to the ocean, the jungle and urban experiences.
Hatchet Caye
The Casa family was lucky enough to spend some time at this stunning island in 2017. With pristine white sands, gentle tides and great conditions for swimming and snorkeling, it’s well worth a visit. You’ll enjoy first-class accommodations, delicious food and plenty of outdoor activities. Snorkelers and divers will also want to visit the tiny Silk Caye, just five minutes away. Hatchet Caye is about 45 minutes from Placencia.
Planning a trip to Belize and need some help organizing your private island stay? We can help you incorporate a night or two into your stay at Sirenian Bay. Drop us a line!
This is Hugh Manatee signing off for now – stay tuna-ed for the next installment from Sirenian Bay!