About Belize

Discover the Beauty of Belize and Ambergris Caye

A Jewel in the Caribbean

Located about 35 miles northeast of Belize City, Ambergris Caye is Belize's largest and most popular island destination, with the vibrant San Pedro Town at its heart. Just a short distance from the Belize Barrier Reef, the island is a haven for adventure seekers and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the stunning underwater world while snorkeling at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, filled with colorful marine life, or enjoy close encounters with nurse sharks and rays at Shark Ray Alley. The island also offers exceptional diving, fishing, and sailing experiences in its crystal-clear waters. With its blend of natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and lively local culture, Ambergris Caye truly stands out as the crown jewel of Belize, drawing travelers from all corners of the globe.

About Belize
About Belize

Preserving Paradise: Belize Barrier Reef

The Belize Barrier Reef and the thriving marine environment are essential for maintaining a healthy coastal ecosystem. The reef safeguards our coastal communities and marine ecosystems, creating tranquil waters. The absence of strong wave action allows seagrass to flourish, with some of it washing ashore. Seagrass removal is regulated due to its significance in maintaining the Reef. Our resorts lack traditional walk-in beaches, but guests enjoy swimming off the docks, preserving our coastal environment. Intermittently, coastal areas of southern USA, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean will experience periods of Sargassum Seaweed washing ashore. Sargassum comes from the Sargasso Sea in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean and is normally kept at bay by water temperatures and currents. Additionally, our dedicated grounds teams work hard to clear any seagrass drift that washes ashore, ensuring a pleasant environment for all. Guests should be aware when visiting coastal areas that seaweed may be present on beaches. By managing seagrass on our beaches and preserving the delicate balance of our coastal ecosystem, we ensure that Belize's natural beauty remains a highlight for all visitors.

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Unique Ecosystems and Marine Biodiversity:

The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System (BBRRS) is home to over 1,400 species, painting a vivid tapestry of marine life, including threatened species like the West Indian manatee, green turtle, hawksbill turtle, loggerhead turtle, and the American crocodile. Diverse marine life, along with numerous flora like scleractinian coral, hydroids, mollusks, sponges, marine worms, crustaceans, and fish species, adorns the reef system. This pristine ecological gradient spans various habitats, ensuring robust and resilient reefs.

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Sustainable tourism in Belize is a collaborative endeavor, involving government initiatives and external parties. Belize enforces rigorous environmental regulations and responsible tourism policies, working alongside NGOs, conservation groups, and local communities to protect natural resources.

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About Belize

The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System

The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System (BBRRS) spans over 300 kilometers and is part of the 900-kilometer Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System. As the largest reef in the northern hemisphere, this UNESCO World Heritage Site protects coastlines and boasts vibrant coral species like elkhorn, brain, and fire corals. Highlights include the Great Blue Hole and Turneffe Atolls, showcasing its incredible biodiversity and ecological significance.

  • Protected Areas
  • Marine Reserved

Marine Reserve

The Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Mexico Rocks are two of Belize's most treasured marine sanctuaries, offering breathtaking underwater experiences for snorkelers and divers. Hol Chan, meaning "Little Channel" in Mayan, is renowned for its diverse marine life and vibrant coral formations, making it a prime spot for observing sea turtles, nurse sharks, and colorful reef fish. Mexico Rocks, located north of San Pedro, features stunning coral patches and an abundance of marine species in shallow, crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkelers of all levels. Both sites are integral to Belize's conservation efforts, showcasing the beauty and biodiversity of the Belize Barrier Reef while promoting sustainable tourism and environmental stewardship.

About Belize
About Belize
About Belize
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About Belize

Conservation Initiatives

Belize's management of conch and lobster seasons exemplifies its commitment to marine conservation. Seasonal closures safeguard reproductive periods and prevent overfishing, supporting ecosystem health and local economies.
The annual Lobster Fest celebrates sustainable harvests.

San Pedro Lobster Fest kicks off the opening of the lobster season with a two-week celebration filled with festivities, local cuisine, and vibrant cultural events. This annual event commemorates the start of the season, drawing visitors and locals alike to enjoy the delicious bounty and lively atmosphere.

Lobster & Conch Season
  • Conch season from October 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024
  • Lobster season from July 1st, 2024 - February, 2025

Sustainable Tourism at Sandy Point Resorts

At our resorts, we are deeply committed to sustainable practices that protect and enhance our natural environment. From eco-friendly amenities and energy efficiency to local sourcing and waste reduction, we strive to minimize our ecological footprint. Our initiatives, including refillable drinking water stations, rainwater collection, and restaurant composting, demonstrate our dedication to sustainability. By supporting local artists and farmers, purchasing seasonal seafood, and using sustainable cleaning supplies, we ensure that our operations align with our values and the needs of our guests.

  • Refillable Drinking Water Stations: 5-gallon water bottles in rooms and a lobby water filling station at each resort.
  • Eco-Friendly Amenities: Refillable shampoo and soap dispensers.
  • Energy Efficiency: Energy-efficient bulbs and on-demand water heating.
  • Local Sourcing: Source food from local farmers and providers.
  • Rainwater Collection: Collect rainwater to conserve resources.
  • Green Purchase: Buy high-quality products that meet guest needs and support sustainability.
  • Restaurant Composting: Compost organic waste.
  • Seasonal Seafood: Purchase seafood only when in season.
  • Artwork Decor: Support local artists for room decor.
  • Sustainable Cleaning Supplies: Purchase cleaning supplies in large quantities to reduce packaging waste.
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Challenges and Achievements

The Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System (BBRRS), an ancient and diverse ecosystem, is threatened by climate change impacts like coral bleaching and rising sea levels. Human activities such as mangrove removal, coastal development, overfishing, and offshore oil concessions have exacerbated these challenges. Despite being listed as World Heritage in Danger in 2009, collaborative efforts and protective measures led to its removal from the list in 2018

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Sustainable Tourism

Sustainable tourism in Belize is a collaborative endeavor, involving government initiatives and external parties. Belize enforces rigorous environmental regulations and responsible tourism policies, working alongside NGOs, conservation groups, and local communities to protect natural resources.

About Belize
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