If you have been to Belize’s largest island Ambergris Caye yet still want to experience what the atmosphere was like pre-tourism boom, many will tell you to visit Caye Caulker. Reminiscent of Ambergris some decades ago, spend some quality time on Caye Caulker’s coast, specifically: its popular ‘The Split’ beach. This corner of Caye Caulker is an ideal place to spend a relaxed day with access to everything you need, including food, drinks, and even a party atmosphere if you are in the mood to dance. Not to mention, The Split boasts deep, clean water perfect for swimming, cannonballs, and practicing water sports. The Split is a highly recommended destination and here, we tell you what you can expect when visiting this popular swimming spot in Caye Caulker.
A brief look at the historic swimming hole is because there is a channel dividing the island in two, thus the nickname of ‘The Split’. It is believed that the island was split during the infamous Hurricane Hattie to hit Belize in 1961, while others believe it was dug out by settlers living there in the last century. Whichever is the correct theory, The Split is where everyone wants to be when they visit Caye Caulker today.
Water taxi is a common mode of transport to the island from the mainland of Belize. Image by HeyCiara.com
Traveling from Belize City is the most common mode of transportation, a water taxi like San Pedro Belize Express gets you there within 45 minutes. From San Pedro Town on Ambergris Caye, it takes just 30 minutes by boat. You can also take a very short flight on any of the local airlines in small Cessna planes, like Maya Island Air.
A golf cart perched on the sandy streets of Caye Caulker. Image by Little Wanderbook
As soon as you get on the island, you have the option to hire a taxi to head towards The Split, especially if you arrive by air since the airstrip is on the opposite end of the island. However, if you get to the island by water taxi, I recommend you enjoy the short walk instead of getting a cab.
The Caye Caulker sign. Photo by Meritt Thomas on Unsplash
It will take you less than 10 minutes to get there and during your stroll, you can admire the island a bit more, including its shops and vistas as you make your way northward toward the edge of Caye Caulker.
The Split in Caye Caulker. Image via Belize Tourism Board
A huge ‘The Split’ sign will welcome you to this gorgeous swimming spot. This is a good opportunity to take some pictures in front of the sign and immortalize the experience. Then, make your way to the area of the famous Lazy Lizard restaurant. The place is usually crowded with tourists and locals and the party and social atmosphere will encourage you to stay there the entire day.
The Split at Caye Caulker. Photo via Unsplash
While there, you must try the signature ‘lizard juice’ drink, a neon-green frozen cocktail that’s a fan favorite for everyone hanging out at The Split. Don’t forget to bring your sunscreen if the day is bright, although a hat or cap will be your good friend all the time. Take the opportunity to make new friends with others that choose to Go Slow; strong swimmers can plunge into the channel, maybe grab another lizard juice, and get a suntan. If you are craving more action in the form of beach or water sports, jump into a game of volleyball or even beach soccer. Trust me: it’s never boring at The Split.
Wakeboarding at sunset in Caye Caulker. Image by Little Wanderbook
But if all you want is total relaxation, sit on a wooden lounge chair and sip on something refreshing like a rum & coke, a margarita, or perhaps another lizard juice. Enjoy the music and be enticed by the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. There is also the option to rent a thatched beach cabana to enjoy in a private and much more comfortable setting.
A Caye Caulker sunset. Image via Belize Tourism Board
If you have time to stay for the sunset, this is another highlight of a day spent on Caye Caulker’s Split that you don’t want to miss. However, if you need to leave before this colorful show, then make it a date to return to La Isla Carinosa for an overnight to experience more than just The Split for a day on Caye Caulker.