spot guide
Central America - Belize
Caye Caulker
Updated: June 4, 2018
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Caye Caulker is perhaps the Caribbean's best kept secret for kiting. Shallow, crystal clear waters that stay warm year round as well as steady winds offer an amazing tropical kiteboarding adventure. Chances are you might have this light wind dreamland in Belize all to yourself. Caye Caulker is a non-crowded kite spot that is great for all levels of riders.
local information
air temperature
Average During Peak Season: 25 – 30 °C
water temperature
Average During Peak Season: 25 – 27 °C
Launch Site on Caye Caulker, Belize
wind speed
Peak Season: 11 – 17 Knots
Popular Kite Sizes: 9m, 12m, 14m
special considerations
As there is no real beach here, launching and landing may require the wrapping of lines // Kiting as the current is going out will aid in going upwind and cause more flat water spots to be found around the island // Booties may be helpful in walking in the shallow water // Use caution if kiting in Split, the current is strong and could pull you into offshore winds.
ability level
The launch is tricky, but due to local school proximity the spot is okay for a beginner as well as advanced levels.
water conditions
West side of island is much glossier, but has strong currents and off shore wind. East side is smooth with some chop.
Launching & Landing
There is plenty of space on the sand to pump up a kite and run out lines. While people have launched kites from the sand and hopped over the seawall, the safest way to launch is to inflate your kite, attach your lines and then wrap them. Once wrapped, walk down the stairs with your gear. You will need to self launch or have a partner launch you. Caye Caulker is home to a great community of kiters that are friendly and willing to lend a hand.
As you ride in after kiting, tap your head to see if someone is available to hop in the water and land you. If someone lands your kite, wrap up your lines and buy that friend a Belikin! If no one is available, you will have to self land. The easiest way to do this is self rescuing. Give yourself proper space, the water is shallow but the current is strong and there are people and obstacles around.
A helpful tip once you land: once you have made your way to your kite, while still in the water, lock your struts and deflate the leading edge. As you do this, be careful to not get salt water in the bladder. From here, the kite can be folded up into a “burrito”, making it easy to carry the kite back up the seawall ladder safely.
kite schools & rentals
Kite xplorer
KiteXplorer has been on the island since 2002 and runs frequent lessons intent on getting out daily. Kuba is a great source for local information on kiteboarding Caye Caulker. This shop rents gear for kiting, windsurfing and SUPing.
- www.kitexplorer.com/caye-caulker
- + 501 652 7308
- kuba@kitexplorer.com
non-Wind activities
Caye Caulker offers up so much to do, the options seem limitless. Whatever island life you have dreamed of, it’s likely possible here. Caye Caulker is a family friendly, fun-filled destination that will have you stoked whether it’s windy or not!
Kayaking & Sups
Many guesthouses around the island provide kayaks, canoes or SUPs to guests. If your accommodation does not, no worries there are many places to rent gear for relatively inexpensive all over the island. While paddling around the island is a fun challenge, the leeward (western) side of the island will have mellower water with a less aggressive current and may be more suited to those who want a relaxing adventure. Check with locals for tide information. Bugs can be an issue close to shore in the mangroves, toting along some bug spray is not a bad idea.
Diving
Caye Caulker is located two km west of the second largest barrier reef in the world; providing an excellent playground for water enthusiasts looking to go below the surface. Sites around the island offer calm, clear conditions great for divers of all levels. The Blue Hole, Belize’s most famous dive site, offers amazing visibility in waters that plunge 124 m deep. Advanced divers should plan to check that off the bucket list. Caye Caulker is home to a few reputable dive shops; Belize Diving Services is a professional shop running a number of great diving tours.
YOga & Spa
Feeling like this trip needs a little extra self love? RandOM yoga offers classes every day except Sunday for a donation. Classes are run out of the Namaste Cafe and mats are provided. Check out their website for current schedule and updates.
Continue the treat. yo. self. vibe and check out some of the great massage stands around the island. As a general rule of thumb, the outside massage stands will be less expensive than the indoor locations. Javi’s comes highly recommended and he has great prices (around $60 BZ for an hour). Look for his stand across from the KiteXplorer building.
Snorkeling
Checking out the second largest barrier reef on Earth is a must while visiting the island. Caye Caulker has numerous companies offering similar itineraries at comparable prices. Most full day tours will include a visit to one of the Coral Gardens, Shark Ray Alley and Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Tours out of Caye Caulker tend to be much smaller and more intimate than those that come out of San Pedro. French Angel, E-Z Boys, Caveman and Raggamuffin are popular outfitters on the island, among others. After checking out various itineraries and boat options on the island, we choose to go with Caveman tours. To learn more about our day swimming with sharks, eating fresh conch, and scoping out manatees check out our review of Caveman Snorkeling!
Snorkeling around the island may be tempting, but with strong currents, heavy boat traffic and low visibility, not to mention potential saltwater crocodiles lurking, snorkeling closer to the reef with a guide is worth the money.
Excursions
With Guatemala and Mexico close by, adventure abounds! Frequent boats and flights offer inexpensive and easy escapes to nearby countries and sites. For a boat taxi to Chetumal, Mexico, check out San Pedro Belize Express. Of course there’s always mainland Belize to explore as well with sites like ATM Cave (care to check out Mayan skeletal remains?), Cockscomb Jaguar Reserve, and Placencia’s whale shark filled waters. Numerous operators facilitate tours, however, typically they are booked in advance online. Up Close Belize is one operator which runs trips from Caye Caulker to ATM.
Bicycle Riding
Many accommodations on the island rent or provide bicycles to guests for free. This is a great way to explore all the nooks and crannies of charming Caye Caulker. Keep in mind streets are not paved and the official “Go Slow” motto of the island applies to bicycles too. Take some time to navigate the island, check out the local art galleries, let your nose lead you to the best jerk chicken stand and bask in glorious island life.
Sailing
Raggamuffin is the main operator with single hull boats and catamarans in their fleet. They feature day trips and multiple day excursions to nearby atolls and cayes. Their trips cater to a more adult crowd. E-Z Boys also runs sailing trips, some of which appeal specifically to families. We did not opt for a sailing tour, but instead lucked out on a special sunset sail with a friendly fellow kiteboarder living his dream on a boat in the Caribbean.
Relaxing At The Split
Ah, the ultimate Caribbean experience? A bucket of beers, a great view and the warm tropical sun lulling you to sleep. There’s no better place to live this fantasy than at the Split. Hurricane Hattie caused the island to separate into two pieces, creating the ideal hang out spot referred to as “The Split”. The space has a party atmosphere, but is also frequented by families looking for a great place to chill out and swim. Home to the Lazy Lizard, travelers gather here to pick up a frozen drink or Belikin and soak in the sun’s rays. The Lazy Lizard has sectioned off a part of the sea wall to create a small pool not too affected by the current.
Looking for more beach? On the northern side of the island is the lush KOKO King hangout, complete with pool, well maintained beach area and top notch facilities. There may be a day use fee. Look for a boat near the Lazy Lizard to bring you across the Split.
Stay
getting there
airport information
& customs
Nearest International Airport: Philip S.W. Goldson (BZE) in Belize City, Belize
Nearest Local Airport: Caye Caulker (CUK) [currently closed for construction]
Vaccinations: Routine Vaccinations
Visa Information: No visa requirement for most countries.
Language: While Spanish is the official language, English is widely spoken.
Currency: Belizian Dollars (BZD)
In Belize City and Caye Caulker currency is fairly interchangeable, with many places accepting U.S. Dollars in addition to Belizian Dollars.
travel to location
Plane
- Flight Duration: 1 Hour
Currently, the local airport on Caye Caulker is closed. Maya Air and Tropic Air are the island’s main carriers.
Boat
- Taxi Duration: 25 Minutes
- Boat Duration: 45 Minutes
There are two main companies providing water taxi services to Caye Caulker, Belize Water Taxi and Ocean Ferry Belize. The boat terminal is a 25 minute ride from the airport and 45 minutes from Belize City to Caye Caulker. Due to traveling during a busy holiday weekend we opted to do a complete package through Belize Water Taxi which included pick up from the airport. The employees were super friendly and the entire process was a breeze.
Fixed taxi fare from International Airport to Belize City is $50 BZ, though it may be possible to find one for slightly less.
getting Around
Prepare to go slow, island style. Golf cart and bicycles are great ways to get around. In busier times, such as the Easter Holiday, walking is your best bet to navigate the crowds.
ACCOMMODATIONS
Being a popular island, Caye Caulker is home to various accommodations to fit all types of budgets. Please remember as this is an island, the average price is more than on the mainland. Listed below are a handful of locations we either visited personally or came highly recommended through fellow travelers.
Yumas House
Drifted Coconut Hostel
Blue Wave Guest House
Iguana Reef Inn
Sophie's Guest House
Colinda Cabanas
Budget
Yumas House Belize
Very low key hostel with simple digs, located close to ferry dock. Yuma’s prides itself on being a very relaxed and easy going environment. Dorms and private rooms are available with shared spaces. Hostel located close to boat ferry dock offering dorms and private rooms.
$35 BZ – $90 BZ
- www.yumashousebelize.com
- + 501 206 0019
- yumashousebelize@gmail.com
Drifted Coconut Hostel
A social hostel in a great location offering packed dorms and private rooms. Don’t expect too quiet of a nights sleep here, particularly during the islands busy time. Restaurant and lounge downstairs hosts your included breakfast and the hostel’s free rum punch parties.
$24 BZ – $110 BZ
- www.driftedcoconut.com
- + 501 635 4265
- driftedcoconut@yahoo.com
mid-range
Blue Wave Guest House
Offers a variety of room options, with great deals on private rooms with shared bathrooms. Low frills here, but helpful staff. Facilities include wifi, an outdoor kitchen and private dock that has amazing sunrise views. Great location that is close to kite beach.
$66 BZ – $180 BZ
- www.bluewaveguesthouse.com
- + 501 206 0114
- info@bluewaveguesthouse.com
Sophie's Guest House
If you’re looking for a location close to the kite beach but in a more secluded and quiet area, this is it. Sophie’s came highly recommended from multiple people on the island. Sophie’s offers private rooms with shared bathroom, a minimum two night stay is required. Amazing sunset views and great swimming area in front of guest house. Clean and basic beachfront rooms would be great for families. Very friendly staff and free coffee in the morning.
$68 BZ – $88 BZ
- http://sophiesguestrooms.com
- +501 661 2715
- besophiesguest@gmail.com
high-end
Colinda Cabanas
Colinda Cabanas is the farthest from the kite beach, but has a lot to offer. Offering various sizes of cabanas, all rooms come with coffee, purified water, snorkel and kayak use and access to a private dock with great sunrise views. A no-frills type of place, with a lot of offerings which make your stay feel very comfortable.
$128 BZ – $378 BZ
- www.colindacabanas.com
- + 501 226 0383
- info@colindacabanas.com
Iguana Reef Inn
One of the most top notch accomodations on Caye Caulker, expect true island luxury here. Rooms range from private standard to ocean view penthouse. Facilities include free breakfast and bike use, and an on site fresh water swimming pool. Soak in one of the best places to see the sun set in all of Caye Caulker as you relax next to Iguana Reef’s own sea horse preservation area and in house bar.
$338 BZ – $1018 BZ
- www.iguanareefinn.com
- + 501 226 0213
- reservations@iguanareefinn.com
eat
Not quite Central American, not quite Caribbean and not quite Belizian, the food on Caye Caulker finds itself in a tropical sweet spot, with savory flavor influencing the island’s culinary theme. Seasonal fishing runs the name of the game here; fresh seafood rotates on menus and grills around the island. Spicy curry and jerk aromas will send your nose on an adventure around the island and bring the fresh flavors of the tropics to your palate.
Top Local Eats
Fry Jacks
Fluffy and airy, you’ve never had anything quite like a fry jack. A staple of Belizian food, the fried dough is traditionally eaten at breakfast and can be stuffed with a variety of simple ingredients. While some restaurants in Caye Caulker serve fry jacks, check out the smaller stands specializing in the delectable puffs.
Local Seafood
Open season on the island brings with it a bounty of tasty sea fare. From lobster to conch, or even the invasive lionfish, grills around the island are in a year round rotation of bringing justice to the fresh gifts from the ocean. And as always, while a grilled snapper drenched in butter might fulfill your desires the island is not shy to break out the deep fryer and serve up some conch fritters. Remember to show respect and never eat anything out of season.
Belikin Beer
“Onli Eena Belize!” Whether it is the classic lager or tasty variations, Belikin Beer is an essential part of the Caye Caulker food scene. Find it anywhere and everywhere.
We were on a hunt in Caye Caulker for soursop juice. An tropical fruit hailed for its health properties, our palates were curious to try something new and exotic. It took much searching until a random shop on Calle Aguado, across from the soccer field, told us they had just made some fresh soursop juice. The shop which sells a variety of fresh produce and meat is one of the few places to pick up a cup of the milky, slightly sweet juice. It’s not as sour as the name alludes, and has a bit of a fibrous texture. It won’t be a drink that inspires an all morning adventure to find again, but it was fun to try something new!
Breakfast
errolyns fryjacks
There might be a wait, but it’s worth hanging around to try one of Errolyn’s incredible fryjacks! There are over 15 different variations: from as simple as “beans” to a fryjack with eggs, chicken, ham, beans, and cheese!
Burritos are also offered here.
Price: $1.50 BZ – $5.00 BZ (fryjacks)
Amor y Cafe
This is a place on the island that embodies the “Go Slow” style of living. Sit down, grab an iced coffee and watch the sandy streets wake up. The breakfast sandwiches are popular, as well as fresh fruit plate and enormous granola bowl. Expect a slightly pricey menu and packed house. Service charge is added to all bills.
Price: $6.00 BZ – $15.00 BZ (fryjacks)
ice and beans
Super hungry? Don’t want to wait for your meal? Better yet, want delicious samples as you wait in line trying to decide between fancy waffles and yummy coffee drinks? Look no further and hold out your hand for that free mini doughnut! Ice and beans has strong, local coffee and a great breakfast selection as well as friendly staff.
Price: $1.00 BZ – $12.00 BZ
Belize is known for their coffee, it’s worth seeking out a great local cup. Many places on the island offer Belizian grown coffee, and proudly advertise so. Listen for the banana bread man! Early in the morning he can be seen biking around the island, selling baked goods and meat pies. Around the island are great juice stands, of the few we tried our favorite was Julia’s. Located across from the basketball courts, Julia’s has bottles of fresh squeezed tropical fruits for great prices. Our huge bottle of banana papaya pineapple was $7 BZ. Many mornings in Caye Caulker we roamed the streets like happy, hungry dogs; letting the scents of bakeries and grills lead us to our next breakfast snack. Line up with the locals and take it easy.
Lunch
Pura Vida FOod Cart
One of our favorite places to grab a bite, this bustling stand is popular among locals and tourists alike. Mouthwatering chicken quesadillas, pupusas, homemade sauces and flavorsome burritos make this place popular. Located in front of the basketball courts, expect a line. This cart opens up midday and stays open late. Having exact change and the ability to order quickly in Spanish is helpful.
Price: $10 BZ (Quesadillas), $5 BZ (Pupusas)
Jenny's To Go Food
Located down Crocodile Street off Playa Asuncion, Jenny’s shack quickly whips up classic Belizian street food like salbutes, fryjacks, panades, and garnaches for great prices. If the line at Errolyn’s is too long, come wait here with locals for a faster meal that is just as tasty! Open 6 am – 2 pm.
Price: $1 BZ – $5 BZ
At lunchtime keep an eye out for street stalls barbecuing kebabs and jerk chicken. The lunchtime deals on the island offer up some of the most generous portions of delicious food at incredible prices.
Dinner
Pasta Per Caso
Armando and Anna are fun, energetic hosts who’ve made a name for themselves as THE place to eat Italian in perhaps all of Belize. The menu changes nightly, with two pasta courses offered alongside salads. Closed Thursday and Friday, reservations are recommended.
Price: $20 BZ – $30 BZ
Il PelLicano
Located on Pasero street, down from Errolyn’s Fryjacks, sits a warmly lit oasis. Walk through a tunnel of beautiful plants and flowers and prepared to be amazing and the elegant, yet relaxed, feel of this place! Excellent service and delicious food make Il Pellicano a great choice if you are celebrating something special, like the joy of being alive!
Price: $25 BZ – $45 BZ (Mains)
Wish WIlly
Though we never visited, talk of the mouth watering Wish Willy reached our ears multiple times. Pull up a chair and enjoy great food made with passion. Expect fresh seafood, authentic flavors and a friendly atmosphere.
Price: $8 BZ – $14 BZ
There are many great places with enticing displays; restaurants along the main street Playa Ascunsion will do their best to gain your attention with the hopes of serving you. Our first night on the island, Ryan and I strolled through the streets wondering what our first great Belizian meal would be! We were both doubtful when preparing for the trip as we came across multiple guidebooks which insisted Caye Caulker was home to some amazing Italian food. Amazing Italian food on a Caribbean Island? We rolled our eyes a bit at this, but sure enough our first night on the island as we lazily strolled the streets exploring dinner options we stumbled upon the crowded Pasta Per Caso. Armando, the owner, noticed us peeking in at the commotion, greeted us and helped us squeeze into the last two seats in the place. We were amazing at how delectably soft the freshly made pasta was and couldn’t help oogling the affogato being served next to us. Our skepticism on this Italian home away from home went out the door as quickly as our noses followed wafting garlic aromas. It seems as though “When in Rome” is a notion best appreciated worldwide!
food shopping & Supplies
The local bakery is a great option to pick up snacks on the go!
Small markets are numerous along Playa Ascunsion, with similar prices throughout. These prices are more than mainland Belize, and pricier than most other Central American countries. Fresh bottled water is found throughout the island. A great souvenir and token of Belize to make your vacation feel even longer is a bottle of Marie Sharp’s Belize Habanero Pepper sauce. On every table and fry jack counter, you quickly learn a hearty splash of it makes everything taste even more delicious. We brought one bottle home and finished it very quickly. If you’re a fan of spice, give it a try!
Thank you for checking out our Spot Guide for Caye Caulker, Belize!
We hope it helps you plan an amazing trip and get stoked to kite in a wonderful and unique place.
Feel free to email us with any thoughts, questions, comments or concerns:
