There are many things to do in Caye Caulker, Belize. From snorkeling, diving, and fishing to savoring Caribbean style street food - Caye Caulker (interchangeably referred to as "Key Caulker" by many travelers) is a tropical lifestyle enthusiast's dream come true. This idyllic island just off the coast of Belize, accessible by airplane or ferry boat, is the perfect destination if you're looking to soak up the sun and enjoy the very best of the west Caribbean.
In this video, I take you on a walking tour of Caye Caulker (also spelled Key Caulker) and showcase some of the best street food, tropical drinks, and party venues which are not to be missed.
I've been fishing, diving, and exploring Belize for almost eight years, and I can tell you first hand, that each island has its own distinctive personality. Caye Caulker has a stronger Garifuna influence than San Pedro town, which is evident in the low key tropical vibe that defines the island. Walking the main strip on Caye Caulker affords you the opportunity to enjoy a variety of beach barbecues, a myriad of charter boats which can take you out to explore the coral reefs, and of course - a variety of beach bars which specialize in all kinds of tropical libations.
Is Caye Caulker safe? Absolutely. While you should always exercise good judgement and avoid seeking out trouble anywhere you go - Caye Caulker is safe for tourists. The island depends on tourism to support its community, and they make safety a priority whether you're drinking, eating, diving, or staying in one of the many hotels or hostels on the island.
If you're wondering how to get to Caye Caulker - it's easy! You can fly direct to Caye Caulker from Belize City on Tropic Air or Maya Air - or - you can take a ferry boat. If you're staying on nearby Ambergris Caye (san pedro town) there is a ferry to Caye Caulker which departs every hour. Needless to say, don't stress about how to get to Caye Caulker. It's extremely easy.
When it comes to things to do in Caye Caulker, or "Key Caulker" in English, there is no shortage of activities for everyone to enjoy. The most popular things to do in Caye Caulker include snorkeling, diving, walking around the island, drinking at one of the dozen or so famous tiki bars, or shopping for artisan crafts. You will never run out of things to do in Key Caulker, as long as you are inclined to enjoy water sports and enjoy Caribbean lifestyle.
I'm often asked is Caye Caulker a party island? And the answer is - yes! There is always a party somewhere on the island, whether its one of the beach bars hosting a DJ, or a outdoor dancehall where the reggae jams blast late into the night. Caye Caulker is a party island, which is ideal for travelers who are looking to drink and dance, but there's certainly many other things to do.
Is Caye Caulker Belize expensive? Not at all. Activities, accommodations, and dining on the island are much more affordable than nearby Ambergris Caye. But with that in mind, Caye Caulker is not a "fancy" or "extravagant" place. This is a tropical island - so expect sandy floors, unpaved roads, outdoor dining, and dusty conditions. One of the best things about visiting Caye Caulker is that it is an affordable place to really enjoy the best of the Caribbean. Drinks range from $2US to $9US and you can eat a seafood meal consisting of lobster or snapper with rice and beans for less than $15US. You can certainly find ways to spend your money faster than you realize, but without questions, Caye Caulker Belize is not very expensive compared to other Caribbean destinations which offer similar things to do.
Is it better to stay on Caye Caulker or Ambergris Caye? That depends on your lifestyle. Caye Caulker attracts a younger, adventurous, and celebratory demographic - typically backpackers and travelers making their way through Central America. Ambergris Caye attracts a broader demographic of travelers, from budget backpackers to ultra affluent retirees - and there is no shortage of fine dining or luxury accommodations around San Pedro town. The best thing to do is experience both islands - spend a few days on Ambergris Caye, then take the ferry over to Key Caulker and hang out until it's time to depart through Belize City for your next destination.