When it comes to offering diverse and captivating experiences, Belize’s Stann Creek District excels. Above all else, what makes this district so appealing is its proximity to both jungles and beach adventures. Stann Creek provides visitors with the best of both worlds – an irresistible combination, to say the least. With plenty of popular destinations and hidden gems, too Stann Creek has no shortage of places to discover. From jungle exploration to offshore adventures, here is a look at how to best experience this southern district.
Coastal Gems
An aerial of Placencia Peninsula’s pointe. Photo by Belize My Travels (@belizemytravels)
If you’re drawn to a lively atmosphere, diverse activities, and a taste of Belizean culture, Placencia could be your dream destination. This coastal gem effortlessly blends the attraction of beautiful beaches with the intrigue of inland exploration, creating experiences that cater to every traveler’s desires. Nearby, you’ll discover some of Belize’s most breathtaking cayes, offering the perfect setting for beach adventures and island hopping.
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- An aerial of the northern part of Hopkins. Photo by Hopkins Bay, A Muy’Ono Resort in Belize
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- The charming streets of Dangriga Town in Southern Belize. Image via Pelican Beach Resort – Dangriga
Looking for a more laidback escape? Opt to visit Hopkins Village or Dangriga Town. Both of these coastal settlements are brimming with culture. They’re the perfect place to witness Belize at it’s most authentic and undiluted.
Explore the Cayes
Photo courtesy of Rhythm Reef Caye
There is no shortage of idyllic islands to explore just off the coast of the Stann Creek District. For a day trip, consider the newly opened Rhythm Reef Caye, Moho Caye, or even Laughing Bird Caye.
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- Photo Credit Belize My Travels / Ray Caye Island Resort
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- Thatch Caye in Southern Belize. Photo by Muy’Ono Resorts
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- Laughing Bird Caye. Image by @BelizeMyTravels on IG
For a longer vacation, book a stay at dreamy resorts like Ray Caye Island Resort, found offshore Placencia, or Thatch Caye found just east of Dangriga. Each promises unforgettable experiences surrounded by turquoise water and sandy shores. For those inclined towards water sports like snorkeling and diving, reputable tour operators such as Hamanasi in Hopkins or Spalsh Dive Center in Placencia stand ready to facilitate thrilling underwater adventures.
Jungle Adventure
Mayflower Bocawina National Park. Photo by Hamanasi
If your wanderlust leads you inland to uncover Belize’s lush jungles, Stann Creek also provides easy access to plenty of jungle exploration. Explore some of the best jungle adventures in the south like Mayflower Bocawina National Park, Maya Center, and the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary where you can enjoy hiking trails, waterfalls, and river tubing.
Belizean Culture
Drumming Lessons at the Lebeha Drumming Center. Photo by @rafellurhs on Instagram
If you want to immerse yourself in Belizean culture, visit Hopkins village or Dangriga Town for everything from traditional museums to Garifuna drumming lessons. Or, learn how to make chocolate in Maya Center Village. Meanwhile, inside Placencia Village, plenty of cultural experiences await. That includes Creole cooking classes and traditional Garifuna Drumming at local hangout spot, Tipsy Tuna.
Featured Photo by Hamanasi Resort