Located one mile west of Belize Barrier Reef, Caye Caulker is a a four mile long island, part of a chain of islands forming the Belize Barrier Reef. It is basically a sandy limestone coral island. Caye Caulker is divided into two parts by a small channel. The north end is mostly mangrove and is not developed. The south houses the town. Caye Caulker has a relaxing atmosphere with white sand streets, golf carts for transportation, and casual dress with no shoes. The weather is usually quite pleasant year around. You can enjoy sailing, diving, birding, jungle tours, fishing, and windsurfing in the clear azure waters of the Caribbean. You can get anywhere on Caye Caulker with a short, beautiful bicycle ride. Originally a fishing village known for it's spiny lobster harvest, gradually tourism has taken over as the primary industry. The island is divided into two parts by the split. The main village is located in the southern portion of the island. Hurricane Hattie in 1961 divided the island at the split, a narrow waterway between the two islands. Mother Nature took over and tidal forces have formed it into a wider, deep, swift moving channel that truly divides Caye Caulker into its two islands. There are over 30 hotels, and many restaurants, but Caye Caulker remains friendly and easy-going avoiding the commercialism of other destinations. Tours are available to the reef, to Mayan ruins, jungle river trips, trips to see manatees, to the World famous Blue Hole for diving, birding tours, and sailing excursions among others.
The Caribbean culture and English language enrich the relaxing atmosphere. At night there are many restaurants, clubs, and local music for your enjoyment.
Many local boatmen can take you to the
reef or to the nearby Marine Reserve of Hol Chan. There are friendly rays at Shark Ray Alley you can stop to mingle with on
the way. Some guides appear to know
some of them personally. A few friendly nurse sharks mingle with
them too.
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