Best Places & Tours to Explore While in Belize

Belize is a vibrant mix of turquoise waters, lush jungle, ancient history, and rich culture — and from your base at Playa De Sala, you’re perfectly positioned to experience the best of it all. Whether you're looking for adventure, romance, or relaxation, here are our top picks for unforgettable day trips and must-see destinations:

Explore the incredible ATM caves.

From Our Shores: San Pedro's Best Island Tours

Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley Snorkeling
Swim in crystal-clear waters with colorful fish, friendly nurse sharks, and stingrays. It’s Belize’s most popular tour for good reason — a short boat ride from Playa De Sala.

Sunset Catamaran Cruise
Set sail into the golden Caribbean sunset with cocktails, music, and stunning views. It’s the perfect romantic experience to end your day.

Blue Hole Scenic Flight or Dive
Fly over the world-famous Great Blue Hole for a breathtaking aerial view, or for certified divers, book a full-day excursion to dive its deep, mysterious depths.

The Adventure is waiting for you.

Mainland Magic: Jungle & Ancient Maya Adventures

ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal)
Voted one of the most sacred cave sites in the world. Trek, swim, and climb through an underground world filled with Maya artifacts and crystalized skeletons. A must for thrill-seekers and history lovers.

Xunantunich Maya Ruins
Climb to the top of “El Castillo” and soak in panoramic jungle views. Combine it with a river ferry ride and a cultural lunch for a rich Belizean experience.

Cave Tubing & Ziplining Combo
Float through ancient cave systems, then fly through the rainforest canopy — a thrilling full-day tour packed with adventure and beauty.

The trifecta for mainland tours.

Cultural Connections & Southern Serenity

Garifuna Cultural Experience in Hopkins
Learn to drum, dance, and cook like the Garifuna people — one of Belize’s most vibrant cultures. This heartwarming, hands-on tour is both educational and fun.

Monkey River Wildlife Safari
Take a boat ride through mangrove forests, spot howler monkeys, crocodiles, exotic birds, and maybe even manatees — a nature-lover’s dream.

Island Hopping & Fishing from Placencia
Escape to untouched cayes, enjoy beach barbecues, and try your hand at fishing Belizean-style. Private charters can be arranged for a personalized experience.

Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path

Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve
Venture inland to visit cascading waterfalls, natural pools, and majestic caves. Highlights include Big Rock Falls, Rio On Pools, and Rio Frio Cave — all within a day trip from San Ignacio.

Let Us Handle the Details

At Playa De Sala, we’re happy to arrange any of these tours or create a bespoke package for you with our trusted partners. Whether you want something private and intimate or high-energy and adventurous, just let our concierge team know — and we’ll take care of everything so you can focus on relaxing and exploring Belize.

Sala’s Travel Tips: Your Ultimate Guide to San Pedro, Belize

Welcome to Sala’s Travel Tips, your go-to guide for making the most of your stay at Playa De Sala in beautiful San Pedro, Belize! Whether you’re here for a romantic getaway, a relaxing escape, or an adventure-filled vacation, we’ve got the best insider tips to ensure an unforgettable experience.

Navigating Belize: The Best Ways to Get Around

Belize may be a small country, but it offers diverse and convenient ways to travel between its breathtaking beaches, lush jungles, and charming towns. Whether you prefer the freedom of a rental car, the speed of domestic flights, or the scenic routes by boat, here’s everything you need to know about getting around Belize with ease.

By Car: Drive at Your Own Pace

Renting a car gives you the flexibility to explore Belize on your own schedule. International car rental companies like Crystal, AQ, and Avis operate at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport, making it easy to pick up a vehicle upon arrival. While major highways are well-maintained, side roads can be rough, so an SUV or 4x4 is recommended for rural adventures. If you’re unfamiliar with the area, using GPS or Google Maps will help you navigate.

💡 Tip: If you’re staying at a resort or jungle lodge, booking a private transfer might be more convenient than driving yourself.

By Air: Fly Across the Country in Minutes

For those looking to maximize their time, Tropic Air and Maya Island Air provide quick and scenic flights between Belize City, San Pedro, Placencia, and other major destinations. Domestic flights take as little as 15 to 30 minutes, offering stunning aerial views of the Caribbean and lush inland landscapes.

To get the best fares and availability, it’s a good idea to book in advance, especially during peak season.

By Boat: Island Hopping Made Easy

Many travelers rely on ferries and private boats to reach Belize’s stunning islands. Water taxis run between Belize City, Caye Caulker, and Ambergris Caye, with San Pedro Belize Express, Caribbean Sprinter, and Water Jets International as the main operators.

Prices vary depending on your route, but expect to pay between $30 and $77 USD for a one-way ticket. If you're headed to a private island resort, your accommodation may provide a complimentary shuttle boat.

💡 Tip: If you’re traveling from Chetumal, Mexico, there’s a direct ferry to San Pedro, Ambergris Caye—a great option for those entering Belize from the north.

FAQs: Common Traveler Questions

What’s the best way to get from Belize City to San Pedro?

  • The fastest way is by domestic flight (about 15-20 minutes), while the more budget-friendly option is the water taxi(90 minutes).

Does Belize have Uber or Lyft?

  • No, Belize does not have ride-sharing apps, but taxis and private shuttles are widely available.

Are buses a good way to get around Belize?

  • Public buses are affordable but can be slow and uncomfortable. For a smoother experience, opt for private transfers, flights, or car rentals.

Plan Your Belizean Getaway

No matter how you choose to travel, getting around Belize is simple and full of adventure. For a seamless stay, book your accommodations at Playa De Sala Boutique Hotel an Adults-Only getaway in San Pedro, where we can help arrange your transfers, flights, or boat rides.

🚖Find Car Rentals ✈️Domestic Flights Tropic Air | Maya Island Air ⛴️ Check Water Taxi Schedules

Start planning your Belize adventure today! BOOK NOW