Most people planning a Belize island trip start by searching Ambergris Caye or San Pedro, because it is the bigger name. Caye Caulker is the next island south on the same barrier reef. We have owned a home on Caye Caulker since 2015, so take this as one owner’s view, but these are the differences groups ask us about most.
Getting there
Both islands are reached from Belize City by a short flight or by water taxi. Caye Caulker is the first stop, so the boat ride is shorter. Ambergris is the stop after it.
Cost
Caye Caulker is considerably cheaper as a destination. Meals, drinks, tours and getting around all cost less, which adds up quickly when you are paying for a group.
Getting around
Caye Caulker has no cars. People walk, bike or take a golf cart taxi, and nothing is far from anything else. San Pedro on Ambergris is a real town with golf cart traffic and longer distances between where you stay and where you eat.
Pace and people
The motto on Caye Caulker is Go Slow, and it is meant. The island leans toward honeymooners, families and travelers under 50. Ambergris has more resorts and a larger community of retirees and long term expats.
The reef
The snorkeling and diving are the same reef. From Caye Caulker the reef is about two minutes away by boat, and day trips run to the Blue Hole and Turneffe Atoll.
Where a group stays
This is where the islands differ most for large groups. Ambergris has many resorts and condos. Caye Caulker has very few large houses. Casa Vista Belize is a six bedroom beachfront Main House that sleeps 20, with a two bedroom apartment below it that brings the total to 26, a 50 foot pool, a rooftop deck and a private dock on the quiet north side.
Which to choose
Choose Ambergris if you want resort services, more nightlife and more restaurants to pick from. Choose Caye Caulker if you want your whole group in one house on the water, lower costs and an island you can cross on a bike.
Questions about dates or group size: call or text Will at (303) 506 4914.