Tobacco Caye

Tobacco Caye is a tiny, five-acre islet located in the Stann Creek District, positioned perfectly atop the Belize Barrier Reef. It is the ultimate off-the-grid destination, offering a stark contrast to the bustling resort towns. There are no roads, no cars, and limited electricity, allowing visitors to completely disconnect and embrace a slow, island-time pace. The primary appeal of Tobacco Caye is the unparalleled access to marine life. Because the island sits directly on the reef, within the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, you can literally step off the sandy beach and start snorkeling among lively coral formations, sea turtles, and eagle rays. It is also a fantastic base for scuba divers wanting to explore deeper surrounding drop-offs. Accommodations on the island are small, rustic, and family-run, typically providing meals caught fresh from the sea that very day. The entire island can be walked in less than ten minutes, creating a highly intimate and communal atmosphere among guests. Tobacco Caye is reached by a 30-minute water taxi ride from the coastal town of Dangriga. The best time for clear skies and calm waters is between January and May.

Nearby cities

Belize City

The country's largest city and a historic port.

San Pedro

The only town on the island of Ambergris Caye.

Belmopan

The small, inland capital city of Belize.

San Ignacio

A town in the Cayo District, base for eco-tourism and Maya ruins.

Dangriga

The cultural center of the Garifuna people in Belize.

Rendezvous Caye

Rendezvous Caye is a tiny, picturesque private island on the Belize Barrier Reef, ideal for exclusive snorkeling and relaxing beach days.

St. George's Caye

St.

Ambergris Caye

The largest island in Belize, known for its water sports, scuba diving, and proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef.

Turneffe Atoll

Turneffe Atoll is the largest and most biologically diverse coral atoll in Belize, famous for its extensive mangrove forests and world-cl…

Glover's Reef

Glover's Reef is a remote, partially submerged atoll known for its central lagoon dotted with hundreds of patch reefs and secluded island…

Half Moon Caye

Half Moon Caye is a crescent-shaped natural monument in Lighthouse Reef, famous for its protected red-footed booby colony and spectacular…

History & landmarks

Belize Barrier Reef

The second largest coral reef system in the world (UNESCO World Heritage).

Hol Chan Marine Reserve

Popular marine reserve for snorkeling near Ambergris Caye.

Ambergris Caye

The largest island of Belize, famous for its beaches and water sports.

Placencia

A popular coastal village known for its beautiful beaches and narrowest street.

Belize Zoo

A small but famous zoo that houses exclusively native animal species.

Actun Tunichil Muknal

A cave that houses human remains and ancient Maya artifacts.

Big Rock Falls

A stunning waterfall with a large natural pool perfect for swimming.

Nature

New River

An important waterway in northern Belize leading to the Lamanai ruins.

Five Blues Lake

A beautiful inland lake surrounded by limestone hills.

Macal River

A scenic river flowing through the Cayo District.

More places

Caye Caulker

A small limestone coral island with a relaxed backpacker vibe.

Baron Bliss Lighthouse

A monument and lighthouse built in honor of Belize's greatest benefactor.

Caribbean Sea (Belize)

The vast turquoise ocean bordering Belize's eastern coast, home to the world-famous barrier reef.

Altun Ha

Well-known Maya site near Belize City, where the Jade Head was found.

Cerros

An ancient Maya site located directly on the coastline.

Lamanai

Maya ruins in the jungle that are best accessed by boat.

Mountain Pine Ridge

A national park featuring pine forests and spectacular waterfalls.

Lubaantun

Maya site known for its unusual construction without mortar.