Hopkins and Dangriga are coastal fishing towns with distinctly Belizean culture. While you’re here you can listen to traditional Garífuna drums and ask locals about fishing hotspots. Leave the mainland to visit the beaches of Belize’s cayes — you can experience hippy backpacker vibes at Caye Caulker, and a well-developed diving and snorkeling destination at Ambergris Caye.

Placencia Peninsula has two lovely beaches, and a charming beach town called Placencia Village. From there you can pack a beach bag to swim and sunbathe at Seine Bight and Maya Beach.

You can visit the Turneffe Islands to stay in luxurious resorts. People come here for the white sands and clear water — you’ll have excellent visibility as you swim around the nearby reef. Turneffe Islands also put you within access of the Belize Blue Hole. Find more remote beaches at Glover’s Island Atoll, which besides visitor amenities is uninhabited.