international travel

If you’re an outdoorsy, nature-loving family looking for the ultimate destination that combines family-friendly adventure with a healthy dose of relaxation, then add Belize to your bucket list. From ancient Mayan ruins to lush rainforests and tropical beaches, Belize has it all! As a mom of three (who knows a thing or two about traveling with kids), I know you want a vacation that will keep the whole family entertained, provide unique experiences, connect you with nature, and still provide plenty of time for relaxing. My family recently spent a week exploring Belize, and I can’t wait to share every detail with you! In this post, we’ll dive into why Belize is the perfect destination for families, especially if this is your first international trip with little ones. From snorkeling in the world’s second-largest barrier reef to zip-lining through the jungle, I’ll share tips on what to pack, where to stay, and how to keep kids of all ages entertained. Plus, I’ll sprinkle in some honest advice on handling the inevitable moments of chaos. Are you ready to explore Belize?!

*This post is sponsored by Coco Beach Resort. Accommodations and some activities were exchanged for review purposes. All opinions expressed, and all photos contained herein belong to the author.

Exploring Belize with kids

Exploring Belize with kids is a blast! The country offers a variety of outdoor activities, diverse nature, a rich culture, and a welcoming personality. When you arrive in Belize with your family, one of the first things you’ll notice is the warmth and friendliness of the locals. Belizeans are incredibly kind and accommodating, and they love kids! Don’t be surprised if strangers wave to your little ones or go out of their way to make them smile. Safety is also a top priority in Belize, which means you can focus on having fun and making memories without worrying about the little things.

In Belize, it’s easy to find outdoor activities and unique experiences that interest the whole family. From snorkeling the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean to exploring the jungle where you might spot howler monkeys swinging through the trees or going back in history to ancient Mayan ruins like Xunantunich or Caracol, Belize it all.

The diversity of experiences ensures that there’s something for everyone in your family, whether your kids are into history, wildlife, food, music, or outdoor adventure. And because Belize is a relatively small, compact country, where nearly everyone speaks English, you don’t have to spend hours traveling from one place to another, making it perfect for families with little ones who might not have the patience for long road trips. With so much to see and do, you’ll quickly discover why Belize is one of the best destinations for families looking for both adventure and relaxation.

International travel considerations

To travel internationally from the US to Belize with kids, you’ll need to ensure you have the proper documentation. Here’s what you need to do and what documentation to prepare:

Passports: Each traveler, including children, must have a valid passport. Ensure that the passport is not expired and has at least six months of validity remaining from the date of your return trip. If you’re applying for passports for your kids, be sure to give yourself plenty of time. We submitted our kids’ passport applications about four months prior to travel and they were issued in about a month (giving us plenty of time to spare.

Consent forms: If you are traveling solo with your children or if someone other than the legal guardian is accompanying them, you must have a notarized consent form from the non-traveling parent(s). This form should grant permission for the child to travel internationally and may be required by border officials or airline personnel. This is required even if the parents are divorced or you’re meeting the other parent there.

Travel insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and other travel-related risks. This is especially important when traveling with kids.

Customs forms: You might need to fill out customs and immigration forms upon entering Belize. These will be given to you on the plane or when you arrive in the country. Make sure you have these completed as required. 

Copies of essential documents: Bring additional identification for children, such as a copy of birth certificates or school IDs, especially if there’s any question about guardianship or identity. This can be useful in various situations, including at border control or when proving a child’s age for certain activities. We also had copies of our passports (and took photos of them on our phone), so we didn’t need to carry passports with us while we traveled within the country.

About Belize

Belize is a democratic, English-speaking nation in Central America. Belize is located just south of the Yucatán Peninsula, bordered by Mexico to the north, Guatemala to the west and south, and the Caribbean Sea to the east. Formerly called British Honduras, Belize achieved independence in 1981, but it has retained its historical link with the United Kingdom through membership in the Commonwealth. 

Belize has a rich and fascinating history. The Maya civilization spread across the territory of present-day Belize around 1500 BC, and flourished until about 900 AD, leaving behind more than a dozen ancient ruins such as La Milpa, Xunantunich, Altun Ha, and Caracol. Today, Mayans, Creole (African and British ancestry), Meztisos (mixed Mayan and Spanish heritage), and Garinagu (descendants of the Carib Indians and Africans) are the most common ethnic groups in Belize. 

As for industry, the service and tourism sector of the economy accounts for the largest share of Belize’s GNP, taking over from farming. Fishing, boating, swimming, and diving along the Belize Barrier Reef are popular on the coast and islands, and ecotourism is a leading industry in the interior, which has grown exponentially over the past few decades. 

Areas of Belize

Northern Cayes

Belize’s primary tourist areas are the northern Cayes (islands) and atolls. There are hundreds of islands between the mainland and the Belize Barrier Reef. The reef, easily visible from many of the cayes, offers some of the world’s best snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing. The most developed cayes (Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker), have numerous hotels and small resorts, while some of the less developed cayes maintain the feel of fairy-tale desert isles.

Cayo District/Western Belize

The Cayo District in Western Belize is a mountainous district near the Guatemalan border and Belize’s second most popular tourist destination, where you can stay in one of many jungle lodges. The limestone mountains of this region are dotted with numerous caves, sinkholes, jagged peaks, underground rivers, and waterfalls. There are clear-flowing rivers for swimming and canoeing and miles of unexplored jungle forests full of exotic wildlife and birds. This is also where you’ll find Belize’s largest and most impressive Mayan ruins, Caracol, one of the largest known Classic Maya cities ever uncovered. Closer to the main town of San Ignacio, you’ll find Xunantunich, Pilar, and the smaller Cahal Pech.

Southern Belize

Southern Belize encompasses two districts, Stann Creek and Toledo. The former includes the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and the coastal towns of Dangriga, Hopkins Village, and Placencia. Dangriga is the country’s center of Garífuna culture, and Placencia has the country’s best beaches. Farther south, the jungles of the Toledo District are home to numerous Kekchi and Mopan Mayan villages. The Toledo District is emerging as an ecotourism destination, with the country’s richest, wettest, and most undisturbed rainforests.

Northern Belize

In northern Belize, you’ll find Orange Walk Town and Corozal Town; both have a strong Spanish feel and influence. The Maya lived here, as evidenced by the ruins of Altun Ha, Lamanai, Cerros, and Santa Rita. The land was once submerged and is still primarily swamp and mangrove. Sugar cane, bananas, citrus fruits, and pineapples are grown where the land is cleared. Northern Belize has some of the country’s best nature lodges and prime destinations for bird watchers, including the Shipstern Nature Reserve and Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.

Nature in Belize

Belize is a land of mountains, swamps, caves, plains, jungles, and tropical islands. Belize has an incredibly wide variety of natural outdoor spaces and nature-based adventures for everyone. Whether you’re looking for palm tree-lined beaches, cascading waterfalls, tropical rainforests, or limestone caves, Belize is a one-of-a-kind paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

The abundant wildlife of Belize includes such animals as tapir, deer, jaguar, puma, crocodile, howler monkeys, and manatee, as well as many species of turtles, tortoises, birds, reptiles, insects, and fish. The herbivorous Baird’s tapir can weigh as much as 600 pounds and has a protected status as the national animal of Belize.

Belize is also home to the world’s second-largest barrier coral reef system (and this hemisphere’s longest). Many cayes are surrounded by the reef, which is easily accessible to snorkel or scuba dive. The reef lies one-half mile east of the Ambergris Caye shoreline and runs the entire 25-mile length of the island. This has made San Pedro Town the dive and water sports capital of Belize and Central America. The Great Blue Hole, Turneffe Islands, Shark Ray Alley, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Mexico Rocks, Lighthouse Reef, and many other diving areas are all only a short boat ride away from the island.

Why Belize?

There are so many reasons why we chose Belize for our first international trip with kids. Here are a few of the top reasons for traveling to Belize with kids:

Proximity to the US – Belize is surprisingly easy to get to with kids, thanks in part to its proximity to the United States. Our direct flight from Houston to Belize City was under 2 hours! This meant we didn’t have to deal with any long flights, overnight travel, or jetlag! 

No language barrier—With English being the official language of Belize, communication is simple, making it easy to navigate and interact. Spanish and Creole are both spoken in Belize, so we did have a chance to hear other languages, but we didn’t have to worry about miscommunication, translation issues, or teaching the kids non-English phrases. 

Affordability – With an advantageous exchange rate and lots of affordable accommodations and food, traveling to Belize does not have to break the bank. Most places in Belize also accept US dollars, and converting to Belizean dollars was easy enough for the kids to understand ($1 Belize = $2 US). 

Culture and history – Belize has a rich and absolutely fascinating history. Our tour guides were so knowledgeable about the history of the country, the industries, and the people. We learned a ton, in a way that felt authentic (and not like learning for the kids). Plus, there are multiple ancient Mayan ruin sites to visit, without tons of tourists.

Access to nature – This may be my top reason to visit Belize…nature is all around you! Belize offers a wide variety of ecosystems, from remote tropical islands to rainforest jungles. The wildlife is abundant, the scenery is gorgeous, and the weather is lovely. 

Range of activities – Our family loved (and appreciated) the wide variety of outdoor activities and adventures offered in Belize. My kids have a wide range of interests and vary in age, but it was easy to find things to do that the whole family loved. From world-class snorkeling and diving for the teens to cave tubing and jungle safaris for younger kids, there’s something for everyone in Belize.

Safety – Belize is safe for families. While traveling anywhere internationally with kids, there will be safety concerns, care to exercise, and places to avoid. However, tourism is important industry, and tourists are well-cared for and appreciated. 

Food – The food in Belize is amazing! It’s a mix of Caribbean, Mexican, and Central American influences, heavy on seafood and fruit, making it both unique, healthy and comforting for families traveling with kids. 

Getting to Belize

Traveling to Belize with kids was surprisingly simple and easy, thanks in part to its proximity to the United States. Just a few hours’ flight from many major US cities (our flight from Houston was under 2 hours), Belize City serves as a convenient gateway to an international adventure without jetlag or overnight travel.

Many airlines offer direct flights to Belize City, so you can skip the stress of layovers and get to your destination quickly. This shorter flight time is a game-changer for parents who know all too well how antsy kids can get on long-haul flights. Plus, with the small size of the country, you can land in Belize City and be exploring the jungle or relaxing on a beach within hours. 

We flew Southwest and used miles (and a companion pass) to cover most of our travel, making it very affordable. Prices vary widely by the season that you’re traveling and the days of the week. From St. Louis, we had a 1.5-hour flight to Houston and then another 1.5-hour flight to Belize City. The short flights made it super easy on the kids and we arrived in Belize City just after lunchtime. 

Navigating customs in Belize was straightforward and easy, even traveling with kids. The lines move quickly, and the customs officers are friendly and used to families. Belize is an English-speaking country, so there’s no language barrier to worry about, which is a huge relief when you’re trying to manage kids, luggage, and travel documents.

Belize City is a modest-sized port city located on the mainland, at the mouth of the Belize River. It is Belize’s transportation hub, with the only international airport, an active municipal airport, a cruise ship dock, and all the major bus-line and water-taxi terminals. From Belize City, you can get anywhere in the country in a variety of ways.

Getting to Ambergris Caye

We stayed on Ambergris Caye (an island off the coast of Belize), so we opted for a commuter flight to the island from Belize City. Two airlines (Maya and Tropic) fly back and forth to and from the islands multiple times a day from the international airport. Both airlines are reputable and similar in pricing. Flights can be purchased directly online and were about $130/person each way. The flight takes about 15 minutes. 

We gave ourselves a little over two hours from the time we landed in Belize City for our flight to San Pedro and did not have any issues or feel rushed. Getting through customs was a relatively easy process (just make sure you have all necessary documentation and the paperwork filled out ahead of time). We flew Maya Air, and the experience was amazing! The planes are small, which the kids really got a kick out of. And if you’re lucky, you might even get to ride in the jump seat up front with the pilot!

Alternatively, you could take a water taxi from Belize City to Ambergris or any of the other islands. Belize City Airport is about 25 minutes away from the ferry terminal in a taxi, which is easy to get outside the airport. Water taxi rides are about 90 minutes to San Pedro and are significantly less expensive than flying (about $30/person each way). 

Where to stay

Deciding where to stay (which part of the country) in Belize is the first step in planning your trip. Because we wanted easy access to water for snorkeling, boating, swimming, and fishing, we knew we wanted to stay on one of the islands so we’d have easy access to the ocean and barrier reef. With so many islands, there are a lot of options to choose from. We opted to stay on Ambergris Caye, the largest and most developed island, which gave us tons of things to do and places to explore. 

While we usually opt for a vacation rental home when traveling with kids, for this trip, we knew we wanted to stay at a hotel/resort, which would give us access to concierge services and family-friendly amenities (such as golf cart rental, pool, restaurant, bar, etc.). However, we were not interested in an all-inclusive (I’m not even sure there are any all-inclusive resorts in Belize) because we love to explore and get off-site to try new things. At Coco Beach Resort, we found everything we wanted. 

Coco Beach Resort on Ambergris Caye

Coco Beach is a 4-star luxury resort located 3 miles north of San Pedro Town. We stayed in a two-bedroom ocean-view suite equipped with a full kitchen, two bathrooms, a dining room, a living room, and a wrap-around balcony. This gave our family of five plenty of space to spread out! I can’t tell you how nice it was for the kids to have their own bedroom (with a door we could shut when the little one went to bed early) and to have a fully-equipped kitchen (for cooking and having snacks on-hand). 

Situated right on the beach, the resort has a dock (for boat access and water shuttles), a swimming area, and is within kayaking range of the coral reef. Because the barrier reef breaks the waves offshore, the beaches are a bit different in Belize (see note below on this). The waters off the coast are shallow and calm (no big waves here), which allows seagrass to take root. It’s probably not the white sandy beach you expect, but if you like to fish, it’s the perfect place for shallow wading and catching bonefish, barracuda, and snook (which my husband and son did daily!). 

Coco Beach has two pools for swimming: a deep “adventure pool” with a water slide out of a rock structure and a shallower pool with zero entry (great for toddlers) with a volleyball net. There’s also a hot tub and a heated swim-up pool bar for adults. Tables and chairs are located all around both pools, with a full-service wait staff, serving a comprehensive menu from the on-site restaurant for poolside drinks and dining. 

Coco Beach Resort services and amenities

I honestly can’t say enough good things about Coco Beach Resort. We felt completely taken care of (and totally spoiled) while we were there. It’s definitely one of the nicest resorts on the island and probably the nicest place we’ve ever taken the kids! There were lots of other families there, along with a good mix of older and younger couples.

Here are a few special touches and services that really made Coco Beach Resort stand out for us, as a family of five:

• Airport shuttle service – From the minute we arrived in San Pedro town, we were taken care of. A representative from the resort met us when we deplaned, helped us with our luggage, and loaded us on a very nice (air-conditioned) shuttle van. There is a $30 surcharge for shuttle service to/from the airport, but it was definitely worth it. Our driver provided us with bottles of cold water and gave us great information about the island and San Pedro town as we made our way to the resort. The ride is only 3 miles but takes 20-30 minutes. 
• Full kitchen – Having a full kitchen in our suite was a game-changer for us. I don’t know about you, but we spend a lot of time outside, my kids are hungry! All the time. Having our own kitchen meant we were able to stock the fridge with all kinds of snacks and beverages, make our own meals (particularly breakfast, which saved us money), and bring home delicious leftovers from our meals out. 
• Gear & golf cart rentals – Coco Beach has daily (FREE) kayak, SUP board, golf cart, and bicycle rentals on a first-come, first-serve basis. If you know you want to have access to a golf cart for your entire trip, you can pay to reserve one for the day/week at a very reasonable rate. (We found the hotel rate to be a bit cheaper than it was in town and about ten times cheaper than what we’re used to paying in Florida.) 
• Concierge services – I was so impressed by how helpful and responsive the concierge services were. They can help you book tours and excursions with the most reputable providers on the island. They’ll make all the arrangements and provide you with details on what to pack, what to expect, and helpful tips. They’re located in the main lobby but also available via WhatsApp, which is as easy as texting questions, concerns, or requests. 

• Towel service –  Bringing beach towels for an entire family takes up a ton of space in your suitcase. And no one wants to repeatedly use a wet dirty towel for a week. Beach towels are provided by the resort (one per person) and can be swapped out for a fresh, clean, dry new towel at the main desk any time! This may sound like a small thing to offer, but we used it more than I ever expected.
• Variety of room options – 
• Spa services – While (unfortunately) we didn’t have the chance to use their services, there is a full-service spa on-site at the resort. They offer a complete menu of services and use all locally sourced organic products. You can even choose to have your manicure, pedicure, facial, or massage done in your room or on your balcony! This would be such a fun option for a mother-daughter bonding activity if you have teen/tween girls. 
• Other on-site activities – There’s more to do on-site than just the pool. There’s a life-size outdoor chess board and tabletop tennis. There are outdoor barbecues and buffets set up around the pool. Water aerobics and yoga. I was really surprised by how much there was to do there, without the “big resort” feel. 
• Resort restaurant – While there are plenty of amazing dining options on the island, it was really nice to have a restaurant on-site for times when we didn’t feel like cooking or going off-site to eat. The food was really good, and the menu had lots of options that the kids and the adults liked. You can eat poolside, at the Copacabana restaurant, or have food delivered to your room. They even cooked the fish we caught from our fishing trip for dinner for us one night! 
• Safety – When traveling with kids, safety is always a concern. We felt incredibly safe at the resort (and everywhere we went on the island). There was always staff around, gated security off the main road, and the resort was well-lit at night. 

Exclusive discount – Coco Beach Resort

If you’re interested in staying at Coco Beach Resort, they’re offering our readers (that’s YOU) an exclusive 40% discount from now through August 2024! Click this link and use the code RUNWILDMYCHILD.

This is your chance to create lasting family memories without breaking the bank. With this fantastic deal, you can take advantage of everything Coco Beach Resort has to offer, from its family-friendly amenities to its convenient location. Imagine spending your days snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters, exploring ancient Mayan ruins, or simply relaxing at the pool with a drink in hand while your kids play.

Getting around on Ambergris Caye and San Pedro Town

Ambergris Caye is the largest island in Belize, and San Pedro is the only town on the island. San Pedro is a bustling small town filled with restaurants, shops, homes, and businesses. Getting around on Ambergris Caye is part of the adventure, especially when you realize that golf carts are the primary mode of transportation. They’re such a fun and easy way to explore the island, and kids absolutely love golf cart rides.

Renting a golf cart is easy, with many rental agencies in San Pedro town offering hourly or daily rates. Our resort offered complimentary golf carts on a first-come first-served basis, or you could rent one by the day/week to make sure you had one (that’s what we did). You drive on the right side of the road (just like the US). Just watch out for potholes, speed bumps, and the occasional crocodile crossing! (Yes, you read that right.)

What to do on Ambergris Caye: family-friendly activities

Snorkeling – Hol Can Marine Reserve

If your family enjoys snorkeling, this is the place to go! Snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve is one of the most popular things to do in Ambergris Caye, and for a good reason…it’s amazing!

Hol Chan Marine Reserve is located just a few miles off the southeast coast of Ambergris Caye in a protected 3-mile area. It’s a quick boat ride, and most tours combine a visit with Shark Ray Alley (see below). Outside of Hawaii and Australia, this is one of the best places to snorkel in the world. The water is shallow and crystal clear along the barrier reef and you’re guaranteed to see a wide variety of sea life.

You have to go with a guide service – we used Amigos del Mar, and our guides were fantastic! They were so friendly, knowledgeable, accommodating, hilarious, and great with kids. We combined our snorkeling trip with a day on the water, exploring Caye Caulker and the surrounding area. They picked us up from our resort’s dock in the morning, outfitted us with the right gear, and made sure we had everything we needed for a full day of adventure. As the mom who’s always packing the stuff and planning the adventures, it was so nice to be taken care of and have guides that were great with the kids and made sure everyone had fun. Amigos del Mar also offers a variety of other snorkeling, fishing, and scuba diving excursions. I highly recommend them if you’re snorkeling with kids.

At Hol Chan, we checked in at the preserve, got wristbands, and learned the rules for snorkeling. We got fitted up with our gear and jumped in the most gorgeous water. As we snorkeled, we saw turtles, eels, sharks, rays, barracuda, lobster, and so many colorful fish. It felt like swimming through an aquarium! This was the first time snorkeling for my kids and they did great! My littlest guy (age 5) stayed with our guide, using a lifejacket for support. The guide was wonderful with him, showing him exactly what to do and pointing out all the fish. The big kids were blown away by how amazing the snorkeling experience was! We’re still talking about it daily, months later! 

Swim with sharks – Shark Ray Alley

Our next stop was Shark Ray Alley. As you might expect, this is the place to swim with sharks and stingrays. Our boat pulled up, and we had the option to jump in the water or stay on the boat to watch from a safe distance. We all chose to jump into the shark-infested waters, and it was incredible!

Underwater, we got up close and personal with some giant nurse sharks. They brushed up against us and came inches from our faces. It was a relatively quick stop, but absolutely amazing! I could have stayed here all day! My oldest son has always been interested in sharks and stingrays, so this place was a dream come true. Definitely a bucket list experience. 

Island hopping – explore Caye Caulker

The island of Caye Caulker is an ideal spot to explore with kids for a day trip or a few hours of fun. Known for its relaxed “go slow” attitude, Caye Caulker is easy to navigate on foot or by bike, laid-back, and fun! We only had a few hours to explore the island, but absolutely loved every minute of it.

One of the highlights of Caye Caulker is “The Split,” a narrow channel that divides the island into two sections. This split was made when a powerful hurricane ripped through the area, dividing the island in two. Now, it’s a popular spot that’s great for families to swim, snorkel, or just relax by the water. The shallow, clear blue waters are perfect for kids. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can jump off the raised platform into the water (we all loved this!) or rent kayaks or paddleboards and explore the area.

There are a few lively beach bars right here and we had lunch at a place called the Sip ‘N Dip, which was right on the water with swings and hammocks, so the kids could splash around and play while we waited for our food. The laid-back vibe, with reggae music playing in the background, the ocean access and the gentle breeze from the Caribbean, made this one of our favorite meals! After lunch, we explored the island’s quaint streets, with charming little shops selling handmade jewelry, local art, ice cream, and souvenirs.

Right off the coast of Caye Caulker, you can feed the tarpon! There’s nothing quite like waving a sardine over the side of the boat while giant tarpon swim below, ready to leap into the air and grab the sardine from your extended arm! It’s such a rush! You can also head over to Stingray Beach, where you can spot seahorses in a protected area, and pet stingrays! These gentle giants love rubbing up against your legs and feet as you stand in the water with them! It was an incredible experience! 

Food tour

One of my favorite ways to get to know any new destination we travel to is by doing a food tour! We absolutely loved our experience with Belize Food Tours. It’s a great option for families of all ages, as it gives you something to do for a while that everyone can do, and it feeds you!

My two littlest kids (ages 5 and 9) joined me for the “Belizean Bites” lunch tour in San Pedro town. We had a small group (about 12 people with a few other families) and got to venture a bit off the beaten path to some absolutely amazing “mom-and-pop” kitchens in the area. During the tour, we made six stops (the whole thing took about 2.5 hours) and got to sample a wide variety of local favorites! 

We got to choose our “bites” and beverages at each location, which the kids appreciated. All the food was local and delicious! From traditional rice and beans with chicken (my 9-year-old said this was the best meal of her life!) to seafood soup, from rum-cream to chocolate! This was such a fun and unique way to get to know/explore the local area, learn about the country’s history and culture, and, of course, discover some amazing food and restaurants! My kids tried (and loved) foods they never would have ordered off the menu, which was a nice surprise. We loved a few of them so much we went back for dinner with the whole family! 

Chocolate class 

If you’ve ever wanted to learn how chocolate is made, definitely take the Chocolate Class at Belize Chocolate Company in San Pedro. Chocolate Class is held on weekdays at 10:30 am. Groups are kept small so that you can really get the full experience, ask a million questions (it’s super interesting) and taste chocolate at each stage of the process. The class is held outside on the back patio, overlooking the beach, with a lovely breeze!

The class goes through the entire chocolate making process, starting with the cacao, which is picked when ripe and fermented – it was slimy and tasted like a tropical fruit!  Next, the beans are separated and roasted. The shell rubs off (and can be blown away), leaving you the “nibs,” which are ground down with a stone. They one they were using ancient Mayan (THOUSANDS of years old) and made from an unknown volcanic material. At this point, the taste is very intense and bitter. The Mayans combined this with water and spices to make a drink, which we also got to try. And then we added some sugar to make a delicious ground chocolate paste. 

I love that the kids had a chance to be involved in the process and got to take their turn at grinding down the beans. Tasting the product along the way made us so appreciative of all the work that goes into this process. At the end of the class, we got to taste the final product – dark chocolate, milk chocolate, and white chocolate! All were delicious! 

Secret Beach

Secret Beach on Ambergris Caye is anything but a secret! This fun hot spot is tucked away on the west side of Ambergris Caye, offering stunning views, clear blue waters, tons of beachside food and drink options, a floating obstacle course, and a laid-back vibe that’s perfect for families.

Getting to Secret Beach is an adventure in itself, as it involves a golf cart ride through the island’s sandy roads and tropical landscapes. From San Pedro town, it’s about a 45-minute ride, but the journey is part of the fun, especially when you’re exploring with kids who will enjoy the bumpy ride and the scenic surroundings.

The shallow, calm waters are ideal for swimming and wading, making it a safe spot for younger children to splash around. It’s location on the West side of the island means that there are no waves and it’s protected from the strong winds that came in from the sea. There is no reef on this side but there are crystal clear waters with stunning craggy limestone shores and sandy bottoms. The water is still and relatively shallow. You have to walk a good way out to get above your waist in some areas.

Grab a table in the water or a beach chair on the sand and soak up the sun while sipping on a refreshing coconut drink. Let the kids live out their American Ninja Warrior dreams at the Secret Beach Waterpark—a floating monstrosity that my kids loved. The place can get really crowded, but there’s room to explore and spread out if you look around.

Fishing

If your kids have any interest in fishing (like mine!), Belize is paradise! Fishing with kids in Ambergris Caye is an unforgettable experience. The island is renowned for its world-class fishing, with a variety of options suitable for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re into fly-fishing, reef fishing, or deep-sea fishing, there’s something here for everyone.

I recommend chartering a fishing guide to get you started. Most guide services offer full-day or half-day options. Guides are incredibly knowledgably about where to go, helpful with hooks and handling fish, and great with kids, ensuring they have a safe and enjoyable experience. If you don’t have much fishing experience, guides will help teach your kids the basics of fishing, like casting and reeling, and share their knowledge about the local marine life, keeping everyone entertained during the trip.

The most common fish to catch are snapper, grouper, and barracuda. If you’re into fly fishing, you can also fish for tarpon, bonefish, and the elusive permit! My husband and son spent two days on the water with a guide from Tres Pescados Fly Shop and caught enough fish for our family to eat for dinner! The restaurant at our resort prepared the fish for us, and it was amazing!

Exploring San Pedro

San Pedro town with kids is a delightful experience, as it’s a lively, yet manageable place to explore. The town is filled with colorful buildings, friendly locals, and a variety of shops and restaurants. Take your time to explore Front Street and Pescador Drive, where you can find everything from artisanal crafts to delicious ice cream. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Belizean Arts Gallery for some local artwork or to stroll along the beach to find a spot for lunch. 

What to do on the mainland of Belize – family-friendly activities

One of the best things about staying on Ambergris Caye is that you’re not limited to staying on the island and you don’t have to spend a lot of time traveling between ecosystems! The mainland (and all the adventures to be had there) is only a short flight or boat ride away from Ambergris Caye. Many mainland excursions can be done in a day (and you can pack multiple stops into one trip over), making it easy to explore the whole country, from the beach! We booked our mainland excursion through our resort with Tuff-E-Nuff Tours. Our guide was fantastic – he was incredibly knowledgeable, great with the kids, a wonderful storyteller, took great care of us, and made the whole experience amazing.

Mayan ruins

If you’re in Belize, exploring the ancient Mayan ruins is a “must do” activity. Exploring any one of these incredible sites is like stepping into a real-life history lesson, filled with mystery, culture, and adventure.

Belize is home to some of Central America’s most significant Mayan archaeological sites, offering families a glimpse into the ancient civilization that once thrived here. The Mayans were renowned for their advanced knowledge of astronomy, mathematics, and architecture, and their legacy is preserved in the towering temples and intricate stone carvings found throughout the country. A visit to any of these ruins can spark curiosity and inspire young minds to learn about the rich history of the Mayan people, making it an educational and engaging experience for kids.

Which ancient Mayan ruin should you visit?

Among the most accessible and family-friendly ruins in Belize is Xunantunich, located near the town of San Ignacio. To reach the site, you take a hand-cranked ferry across the Mopan River, which is always a hit with kids. Xunantunich is known for its impressive El Castillo temple, standing over 130 feet tall and offering breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle and Guatemala’s border. Climbing to the top is a rewarding experience, and there’s plenty of open space for kids to explore safely. My husband and I visited this ruin back in 2009 when we were there for our honeymoon. It’s incredible. 

Another excellent site for families is Altun Ha, situated closer to Belize City (this is the ruin pictured on the Belikin beer bottle). Altun Ha is smaller in scale but has beautifully restored structures and is easy to navigate with younger children. The site’s central location makes it an ideal day trip for families staying in Belize City or on the nearby islands, and a trip here can be combined with other fun mainland activities (that’s what we did!). 

For any history buffs who want a more immersive experience, consider visiting Caracol, the largest Mayan site in Belize, located deep in the Chiquibul Forest Reserve. Caracol’s vast expanse and towering structures, like the Caana pyramid, offer a sense of the Mayan civilization’s grandeur and influence. The journey to Caracol is a bit longer, but the scenery along the way is stunning, and the site itself is worth the trip.

Belize Zoo

The Belize Zoo, located about 29 miles west of Belize City, is a must-visit destination for families with little kids. Established in 1983, the zoo began as a rescue center for wild animals that had been used in a documentary film about tropical forests. What started as a small collection of animals soon transformed into a full-fledged zoo dedicated to conservation and education.

The Belize Zoo prides itself on providing a naturalistic environment for native wildlife, and it has become a sanctuary for over 175 animals representing more than 45 species, all native to Belize. Its unique setting in a tropical savannah makes it an immersive experience, allowing visitors to see jaguars, tapirs, monkeys, and a variety of birds in their natural habitats.

My kids loved the tapirs, howler monkeys, otters, birds, and jaguars. It’s crazy to me how different the wildlife is here, which was such a short plane ride away! Our guide so great at calling to the animals and getting them to interact with us, which was such a fun surprise. There are a ton of great educational signs (and funny poetry), as well as a great café where we had lunch.

Cave tubing

One of the most unique and incredible experiences you can do in Belize is cave tubing! Did you know that Belize is known for its extensive network of limestone caves, many of which were sacred sites for the ancient Maya? The ancient Maya believed the limestone caves of Belize were entrances to Xibalba, their ancient underworld, and were used as ceremonial sites. 

Cave tubing in Belize combines adventure, natural beauty, and a touch of mysticism. It’s a family-friendly activity that involves floating through underground caves on large inflatable tubes, allowing you to explore the stunning cave systems carved out by ancient rivers. Our cave tubing experience started with a short hike through the jungle, which added an extra layer of excitement for kids. Our guide pointed out various plants and animals on the hike, including giant anthills and allspice trees.

Once we reached the river and the entrance to the cave, we loaded up in our tubes (all tied together) and floated into the mouth of the cave. We were surrounded by limestone rock formations, including stalactites and stalagmites. The gentle flow of the river makes it safe for kids, and the guides provide helmets with headlamps, so everyone can see the captivating scenery within the caves. There were a few places where we all turned out our lights and the darkness was crazy cool!

Wear clothes you don’t mind getting wet and shoes for hiking and crossing rivers. Bring a waterproof bag for phones or anything else you don’t want to get wet. There is a minimum height requirement for the cave tubing (40 inches), but my kindergartner (5 years old) was tall enough.

7-day family-friendly Belize itinerary (from Ambergris Caye)

Day 1

• Arrive in Belize City
• Travel (via Maya Air) to San Pedro
• Shuttle from airport to Coco Beach Resort
• Unpack, swim in the pool, grab a drink and snack at the bar, explore the resort property 
• Hop on a golf cart
• Dinner at The Truck Stop

Day 2

• Full-day Caye Caulker tour with snorkeling through Amigos del Mar (can be booked  through the resort)
  • Boat pick-up from your dock
  • Pit stop at Amigos del Mar shop to sign waivers and get equipment
  • Snorkel Hol Chan Marine Reserve
  • Swim with the sharks at Shark Ray Alley
  • Look for manatees
  • Explore Caye Caulker (grab lunch at the Sip ‘N Dip)
  • Feed the tarpon
  • Pet the stingrays/see the seahorses
  • Boat ride back to resort
• Relax poolside and have dinner at Coco Beach Resort

Day 3

• Golf cart ride into San Pedro
• Belize Food Tour in San Pedro town for lunch (can be booked  through the resort)
• Explore/shop in San Pedro
• Check out the Iguana Eco-Sanctuary
• Back to Coco Beach for pool time, hammock time, spa services
• Evening fishing from the beach/dock
• Dinner at Aji’s Tapas Bar (the kids will love the bathroom!)

Day 4 

• Mainland excursion with Tuff-E-Nuff Tours (can be booked  through the resort)
  • Boat pickup from your resort dock
  • Short walk to the airport in San Pedro
  • Flight to Belize City and meet your tour guide
  • Head to Altun Ha ancient Mayan ruins
  • Belize Zoo (have lunch here)
  • Cave Tubing 
  • Flight back to San Pedro and return to resort
• Dinner at Tipsy Lobster (ask to see the crocodiles!)

Day 5

• Fishing with a guide (full-day or half-day)
  • We recommend guides from Tres Pescados or El Pescador 
  • Boat pick up from resort dock
  • Spend a few hours on the water catching fish
  • Return to the dock and clean the fish with your guide
• Fresh-caught dinner at the resort 
  • The resort restaurant will cook your catch for you! Eat at the restaurant or have dinner delivered to your room and relax.

Day 6 

• Breakfast at Etels’s Dine by the Sea
• Chocolate class at Belize Chocolate Company
• Golf cart ride to Secret Beach
  • Spend a few hours swimming and playing at Secret Beach (about a 25-minute golf cart ride from the resort)
  • Let the kids try the inflatable ninja course at the Secret Beach Waterpark
• Dinner at Blue Water Grill in San Pedro

Day 7 

• Breakfast burritos from Sol Cafe (across the street from resort)
• Pack up while the kids swim at the resort pool
• Shuttle to airport in San Pedro
• Flight to Belize City (Maya Air)
• Flight home (look through your photos and marvel at what an adventure you just had!)

Belize FAQs & things to note

What is the best time of year to visit Belize with kids?

Is there ever a bad time for adventure?! No! Anytime is a great time to visit Belize, and it depends on what you want to do and where you stay.

The dry season runs from late November to mid-April. This period is characterized by warm, pleasant weather, with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities like snorkeling, diving, and exploring ancient Mayan ruins. During this time, you can expect daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, perfect for beach outings, jungle adventures, and other family-friendly activities. We’ve been both in December (over Christmas break) and March (over Spring break). However, summer is also a great time to visit. Since this is considered off-peak travel season, you won’t have to deal with the crowds and can take advantage of lower prices. 

Is Belize safe for families?

Belize is generally very safe for families, with a welcoming and friendly atmosphere that attracts tourists from around the world. The country’s tourism industry is well-established, and many popular destinations are specifically designed to cater to families, offering safe activities and amenities for children. We felt very safe everywhere we traveled in Belize.

However, like any travel destination, you’ll want to take common-sense precautions to ensure your family’s safety. Stick to well-known areas and reputable tour operators, especially when exploring remote locations like the jungle or ancient Mayan ruins. In larger cities like Belize City, be mindful of your surroundings and follow local advice on safe areas to visit. Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, Placencia, and the various Mayan ruin sites are generally considered safe and welcoming for families.

Can you drink the water in Belize?

It’s generally not recommended to drink tap water in Belize, especially for visitors who aren’t accustomed to it. To avoid any risk of illness or upset stomach, it’s best to stick to bottled water or filtered water. Most hotels, resorts, and restaurants in Belize provide bottled or filtered water for guests, so you won’t have trouble finding safe drinking water. When you’re out exploring or participating in activities, bring bottled water to stay hydrated. 

Are there good beaches in Belize?

One thing to note about Belize is its lack of pristine, sandy white beaches. Beaches in Belize are different, but don’t let this turn you off. Because Belize is protected by the Belize Barrier Reef, there’s less wave action, resulting in calm, shallow waters. While this is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities, the reef’s presence also means that the beaches can have seagrass and other marine vegetation, which may not be as visually appealing to some visitors (although, it makes for great fishing!). On Ambergris Caye, there are designated swimming locations with more of a beach feel, or you can swim off-shore a bit from some of the boat docks. 

Plan your trip to Belize with kids – exclusive offer

If you’re dreaming of a family vacation that combines adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories, then it’s time to book a trip to Belize and experience the magic of Coco Beach Resort. Coco Beach is a paradise for families, offering luxurious accommodations, all the amenities you could want, and endless activities to keep everyone entertained. Whether you’re exploring the nearby Belize Barrier Reef, taking a leisurely ride on a golf cart to Secret Beach, or just lounging by one of the resort’s two massive swimming pools with water slides, there’s something for every family member to enjoy.

And now, we’re thrilled to offer our readers an exclusive 40% discount on trips booked through the end of August! Just use the code RUNWILDMYCHILD when you book through this link.

But hurry, this special offer won’t last long! Don’t miss out on the ultimate Belizean family getaway—book your stay at Coco Beach Resort now and take advantage of this incredible discount! Your dream vacation awaits, and you won’t want to miss it.

Is exploring Belize with kids on your bucket list? 
What are you waiting for?! 

About the author

Sara McCarty is the Founder of Run Wild My Child, a resource website, online community, and podcast, all about connecting families through outdoor activities and adventures. Run Wild My Child offers busy parents helpful content about outdoor activities, nature crafts, kid-friendly travel, gear recommendations, parenting advice, and more. Sara’s a mom of 3, a wife, and a former corporate securities lawyer turned writer. She lives in St. Louis, Missouri, and is determined to raise her city kids to be as wild and feral as possible. You can usually find her family exploring a creek, fly fishing, hiking, duck hunting, camping, canoeing, biking, or geocaching. She’s passionate about reading, photography, plants, coffee, cooking, and key lime pie.