Understand: First, Caye Caulker is pronounced “key corker.” And once you arrive, you’ll realize that even the name moves at island speed.
Just 32 km north-northeast of Belize City, this tiny limestone coral island in the Caribbean Sea is a haven for backpackers, budget travelers, and anyone craving a laid-back escape. With no paved roads, no cars, and no stress, Caye Caulker’s motto—“Go Slow”—isn’t just a slogan. It’s a way of life.
🏝️ Island Vibes & Local Life
Caye Caulker is home to around 2,000 residents, and its cultural heartbeat is a blend of Mestizo, Garifuna, and Creole influences. You’ll hear reggae beats drifting from beach bars, smell coconut oil being made by hand, and see fishermen hauling in their catch just steps from your guesthouse.
The island’s history is as colorful as its sunsets. Early British maps called it “Cay Corker,” possibly because sailors stopped here to cork their water bottles at La Aguada, a freshwater source. Others say the name comes from boats being caulked in the protected bay. The Spanish name, Cayo Hicaco, means “island of the cocoplum.”
In the 19th century, Mestizo refugees from the Mexican Caste Wars settled here, bringing sustainable farming and fishing practices. Coconut oil production still survives in small batches, and fishing remains a vital part of the local economy.
🚤 Getting There (at the time of writing)
The most popular way to reach Caye Caulker is by water taxi from Belize City. The ride takes about 45 minutes, continuing on to San Pedro.
- San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi
- $15 USD one-way / $28 USD round-trip
- Loyalty card holders: $27 BZ round-trip or $17 BZ one-way
- Departs from Brown Sugar Marketplace
- From Mexico (Chetumal)
- Direct boat to San Pedro then Caye Caulker
- Departs daily at 3PM and 3:30PM
- $35 USD / 2.5 hours
Tip: Sit near the back of the boat for a smoother ride on windy days.
🚲 Getting Around
There are only three main sandy streets: Front Street (east coast), Middle Street, and Back Street (west coast). Everything is walkable—20 minutes from the Front Pier gets you nearly anywhere.
- Bike rentals are plentiful
- Golf carts available from C&N Golf Cart Rentals and Caye Caulker Golf Cart Rentals
- Recommended: Hire Peter Rash for a 45-minute golf cart tour and hear stories of his Mayan heritage
🌊 What to See & Do
🐠 Snorkeling & Diving
Caye Caulker is a launchpad for world-class underwater adventures.
- Half-day snorkeling tours: ~$70 BZ
- Depart at 10:30 AM & 2:30 PM
- Visit Coral Garden, Shark Ray Alley, and the local reef
- Full-day snorkeling tours: ~$130 BZ
- Depart at 10 AM, return ~4:30 PM
- Includes Hol Chan Marine Reserve
- Some tours offer lunch, snacks, and rum punch
- Dive trips:
- Hol Chan / Spanish Bay: $90 USD (2 tanks)
- Turneffe Atoll: $150 USD (3 tanks)
- Blue Hole: $225 USD + $40 USD park permit
The Split is a free snorkeling spot with 25-foot-deep water and metal steps for easy access. Gear rentals available on Front Street.
🐋 Manatee Watching
Visit Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary, founded by local conservationist Chocolate Heredia. Manatees are visible year-round, especially in summer. Tours often include snorkeling stops and visits to nearby cayes.
🐦 Nature & Wildlife
- Caye Caulker Forest Reserve: 100 acres of mangroves and birdwatching
- Caye Caulker Marine Reserve: Visible from shore, teeming with reef life
- Hol Chan Marine Reserve: Larger fish and more biodiversity
- Shark Ray Alley: Swim with nurse sharks and stingrays
🛶 Other Activities
- Sea Kayaking: $20 BZ/hour for two-person kayak
- Best on the leeward (west) side of the island
- Sailing Tours: Multi-day trips with snorkeling and fishing
- Mainland Excursions: Maya ruins, cave tubing, and jungle hikes
🍽️ Food & Drink
Caye Caulker is packed with eateries—from beach BBQs to street pupusas.
- Local favorites: Fry jacks, ceviche, grilled lobster, and Marie Sharp’s hot sauce
- Happy hour: Try The Lazy Lizard at The Split for drinks with a view
- Budget tip: Street food stalls offer delicious meals for a fraction of restaurant prices
Caye Caulker isn’t about ticking off sights—it’s about slowing down, soaking up the sun, and letting the island’s rhythm reset your own. Whether you’re diving into the Blue Hole, sipping rum punch on a sailboat, or chatting with locals about coconut oil and manatees, this little island leaves a big impression.
So pack light, go slow, and let Caye Caulker work its magic.