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San Pedro, Belize – Diving, Lobster, and Golf Carts on Island Time
San Pedro, Belize – Diving, Lobster, and Golf Carts on Island TimeIntroduction
I decided to embark on a trip to San Pedro after reading that it’s one of the best diving spots in the world, thanks to the Belize Barrier Reef which runs parallel to the coast. Throw in a chance to explore the legendary Great Blue Hole, and this was a place I couldn’t skip.
I arrived by boat from Bacalar, Mexico (check out my Bacalar article if you’re curious), and the moment I stepped onto San Pedro’s pier, I had a feeling this trip would stick with me. As we docked up from the boat at the San Pedro boat terminal the immigration the people were incredibly friendly, making sure we had a lift back to our accommodation, as we shared a few lighthearted jokes, which wasn’t something I was accustomed.
Travel Tip: You can fly to San Pedro 
, but flights from Belize City are limited book your trip. Ferries are more frequent and offer scenic views—it is an island, after all.
Arrival and First Impressions
San Pedro greeted me in a haze of sunshine and the faint whir of golf carts—the unofficial vehicle of the island. I stayed at the Royal Caribbean Hotel, which I’d heard had a social vibe, though I quickly discovered the entire island has a friendly, chilled-out atmosphere. There’s definitely an American influence here—lots of dive bars, English menus, and conversations about country music.
One of the first things I did was head for the shoreline. The reef is visible from land—a shimmering turquoise ribbon about a kilometre out. As I strolled one of the many wooden piers, I saw a stingray gliding beneath me in the shallows – see picture below if you don’t believe me. That moment kind of set the tone for the trip. This was going to be all about the sea.
When I returned to my cabin at the Royal Caribbean Hotel I was greeted by an iguana that lived beneath. He seemed to like the banana I fed him. I then wondered off to toast bar which is right on the Hotel’s estate with plenty of friendly folk ready in time to enjoy the sunset and plan my diving experience for the week ahead.
Everyone moves slower here. The locals are on island time, and by day two, so was I. The area had a really calming, relaxed ambience. I’m not going to beat around the bush – the average age is slightly older than the other places like Bacalar. A burger and chips are the price you would expect from a lobster. There’s a charm to it all though—American country singers apparently love touring the island, and I can see why.
Most Iconic Diving Location in San Pedro (and The World!)
Following my perfect sunset and planning for the diving ahead, I went to the local dive shop Ramon Village to pick up a few leaflets and speak to the instructors in charge. I had researched about San Pedro hosting the best dive spots in the world and had been excited to come here for years to experience its magic. I have given a list of the top spots which are world renowned within the global diving community, including the top excursions for each of the locations. No matter what your diving experience there a suitable option without compromising the magic you will witness underwater. Each diving location is unique in its own right.
🐢Hol Chan Marine Reserve
Hol Chan is great for beginners and night dives. You will reach depths of 8 – 10 metres. You’ll likely see coral canyons, green turtles, spotted eagle rays, nurse sharks, and schools of snapper.
Book your trip to Hol Chan Marine Reserve.
🦈Shark Ray Alley
If you are into snorkelling this place is the diving spot for you. You can also enjoy diving as the depths reach up to 8 metres. It is famous for close encounters with nurse sharks and southern stingrays drawn by the scent of fish chum. The nurse sharks will often follow boats awaiting their next meal (the bait).
Book your trip to Shark Ray Alley.
🪸 Mexico Rocks
Mexican rock is better for shallow dives and snorkelling as the water only reaches depths of 5 – 12 metres. You will be able to see coral formations, lobsters, eels, juvenile reef fish.
Book your trip Mexico Rocks.
⚓ Tackle Box Canyons
If you are a more experience diver, then I would recommend Tackle Box Canyon as it can reach far greater depts of 18 – 30 metres. The highlights of the area include deep coral canyons, groupers, moray eels, and the occasional reef shark.
Book your trip: Refer to one of the dive shops given in the next section.
🌪️ The Blue Hole
I have mentioned The Blue Hole because it is Belize’s and probably the most famous dive spot in the world although it is located a 2 hour by boat ride from San Pedro. You would be looking at dives which are up to 40 meters. It is recommended that this is suitable for experience divers because it is a deep dive into a submerged sinkhole with stalactites and Caribbean reef sharks.
Book your trip: Refer to one of the dive shops given in the next section.
Dive shop comparison in San Pedro
Dive shops offer comprehensive tours of most, if not all, of the magical locations above. If you are like me and looking for a more proper diving experience and a way to get you PADI diving certificate, then you may be better suited to looking via the diving shops.
Dive Shop
Best for
Group Size
Notable Features
Link
Belize Pro Dive Centre
Professional service and safety
Small
Fleet boats, experiences staff
Belize Diving Adventures
Personalised and friendly experience
Small
Local ownership, flexible scheduling
Ramon’s Village Divers
Resort guests and comprehensive package
Medium
Well maintained equipment, PADI courses
Chuck & Robbie’s
Relaxed atmosphere
Small
Surface intervals at dock, patient instructors
Ambergris Divers
Convenience and variety of options
Medium
Located at SunBreeve Hotel, combo trips
White Sands Dive Shop
Customised dive experience
Small
Personalised service, night dives
San Pedro Climate And The Best Time To Go Diving
June to October is the wet season and often has hurricanes ripping through so not the most recommended time to go. The dry season is typically between December to April.
I chose to go in January as it is recommended that between November and May is the best as there are few crowds, cheaper prices (30%-50% in some cases) while still being warm. You can also avoid the long northern hemisphere winters. I would pack something warm as it can get cold particularly after your dive when the wind starts blowing.
For a detailed, interactive overview of San Pedro's climate throughout the year, visit the San Pedro Climate Guide on WeatherSpark.
Getting Around – Island Style
If you do one thing upon arrival, it is essential to rent a golf cart 
It was my first purchase and worth every Belizean dollar. I became slightly obsessed with it. I never felt unsafe — loads of speed bumps and max speeds that wouldn’t impress anyone.
There are taxis too 
if you fancy a few rum punches and don’t want to self-drive back into town. But truthfully, the golf cart was half the fun.
You will be able to navigate your way around the island very easily; there is one road running from the top to the bottom of the island. If you know whether you’re going up or down you will be fine. This is because, although San Pedro is small, they managed to build a runaway on the island, which means you likely to be adjacent to it most of the time.
Don’t be put off by the airport as planes are few and far between, boats and the preferred method of transport. You can take you gold cart and explore San Pedro hidden gems, if you get bored of diving.
One thing you may want to be aware of is that there are mangroves around – and you know what that means – big crocodiles! I didn’t have the pleasure of meeting one of these ancient beasts, but I was told by one of the American that had bought himself a huge holiday home by the sea, that he witnessed two nights ago a seven footer meandering from the mangroves to the sea. They usually do this in the evening, when it is dark to go hunting in the sea. You should be fine though.
Culinary Delights – Lobster, Snapper
San Pedro is a dream if you’re into seafood. To start, I had lobster that had been caught that very morning—fresh doesn’t get fresher. From there, I’d hop into my trusty golf cart and cruise from place to place like some island foodie vigilante, sampling the best flavours along the way.
My culinary highlights included:
- The Maya Dinner Experience – A dinner meets performance that starts at 6pm sharp, offering a unique mix of culture and cuisine.
- Caramba Restaurant & Bar – Colourful, chaotic and absolutely delicious.
- ZZ’s Beach Bar and Grill – Beachfront, relaxed, and fun, perfect for unwinding with ocean views.
💡 Pro tip: above all, try the coconut rice with grilled snapper. It’s not optional.
My experience: Exploring the Belize Barrier Reef: Diving in San Pedro
Diving in San Pedro was the real reason I came to San Pedro. The Belize Barrier Reef is a short boat ride from town, and its home to an incredible mix of sea life—even as a novice diver like me, you feel like you’ve entered a new world.
I was warmly welcomed at the reception of Ramon’s Village Dive Centre, a highly regarded dive centre as I mentioned in the comparison table above, located on the beach. It’s a proper setup: PADI-certified, eco-conscious, and staffed by people who truly know these waters. It was the first place I went to get all in information and local tips, maps and guides.
If you’re unfamiliar with PADI-certified diving, you can find out more on the PADI official website. It details what is included in the course and how your diving certificate allows you to dive internationally – from San Pedro to Thailand.
I have summarised the available courses:
- Discover Scuba Diving (DSD) – a half-day intro & specific location (incl. the Great Blue Hole).
- Open Water Certification – 3-4 day full course.
- Advanced & Specialty Courses – night diving, Nitrox, and many more.
- Fishing – Catch a Turneffe or Tarbon in the day and eat it for dinner.
Pro tip: There will be some people trying to sell you dives but it is not something I would recommend – at your own risk.
My Diving Experience: From Stingrays to Nurse Sharks
My guide Dave was incredibly reassuring, despite being on classic island time (a little late). Dolphins escorted us on the boat ride out from Ramon’s Village Dive Centre to the Belize Barrier Reef, which was a surreal start. Once in the water, I was all nerves until I found my buoyancy groove. I saw another stingray—maybe the same one from the pier? The coral was the most vibrant I’d seen in the Caribbean.
After the dive, we did a bonus snorkel session. Dave started tossing bait overboard and encouraged us to jump in. Below me? Three nurse sharks. I paused. He insisted they were harmless. Eventually, I got back in and was treated to the jaw-dropping sight of 20–30 nurse sharks feeding right beneath us.
🪄 My Gear Tip: If you want to get crystal-clear footage and no leaks footage of your dive, I bought the GoPro Hero13 with waterproof housing. Ensure you place a jumper as it can be cold on the boat after the dive.
Beyond Diving: Excursions to Explore in San Pedro
While diving in Belize Barrier Reef is a must, there’s plenty more to experience if you are looking for a change of pace. Particularly if you were roped into a diving experience with the other half and find the water cold, the sea scary, these activities below offer the perfect exciting alternative.
- First, why not unwind on a sunsetcruise? ⛵ Expect mellow vibes, strong rum, and – if you are lucky – turtle gliding past your boat.
- Next, thrill seekers will love watersports like parasailing and jet skiing. 🤽Speed across the crystal-clear waters and take in the breathtaking views from above.
- For a unique adventure, cave Kayaking or tubing & ziplines will take you deep into San Pedro/Belize’s natural wonders 🗿. These experiences combine adrenaline and scenery – I highly recommend doing one of these this ziplining tour – it was so much fun!
- Why not try something unique and learn a new skill by going to a Belizean cooking class with a top chef.
- If you have no interest in diving but want to take advantage of the tranquillity of the area (or your husband is a diving fanatic and your not), you could do a soul soothing Yoga Tour.
- Finally, if you prefer a more relaxed day on the water, opt for private fishing private fishing 🎣 . Spend a full day in the Belize Cayes, where you might reel in a Turneffe or Tarpon before enjoying it for dinner.
No matter what you choose, San Pedro has something for every traveller. Click through to explore more and make the most of your time here! 🌊🚀
Beyond Diving: Excursions to Explore in San Pedro
While diving in Belize Barrier Reef is a must, there’s plenty more to experience if you are looking for a change of pace. Particularly if you were roped into a diving experience with the other half and find the water cold, the sea scary, these activities below offer the perfect exciting alternative.
- First, why not unwind on a sunsetcruise? ⛵ Expect mellow vibes, strong rum, and – if you are lucky – turtle gliding past your boat.
- Next, thrill seekers will love watersports like parasailing and jet skiing. 🤽Speed across the crystal-clear waters and take in the breathtaking views from above.
- For a unique adventure, cave Kayaking or tubing & ziplines will take you deep into San Pedro/Belize’s natural wonders 🗿. These experiences combine adrenaline and scenery – I highly recommend doing one of these this ziplining tour – it was so much fun!
- Why not try something unique and learn a new skill by going to a Belizean cooking class with a top chef.
- If you have no interest in diving but want to take advantage of the tranquillity of the area (or your husband is a diving fanatic and your not), you could do a soul soothing Yoga Tour.
- Finally, if you prefer a more relaxed day on the water, opt for private fishing private fishing 🎣 . Spend a full day in the Belize Cayes, where you might reel in a Turneffe or Tarpon before enjoying it for dinner.
No matter what you choose, San Pedro has something for every traveller. Click through to explore more and make the most of your time here! 🌊🚀
Where to Stay in San Pedro?
Thanks to my trusty golf cart and a healthy dose of curiosity, I managed to explore most of San Pedro and scoped a variety of hotels. If only i had of know about these gems before my trip! Here are my top picks to suit different travel styles:
- 🛏️ Ramon’s Village Resort – perfect for divers, this resort offers unbeatable convenience with its beachfront location. There’s no need to venture far when you’ve got everything at your doorstep.
- 🏖️ Mahogany Bay Resort – A chic, full-service beach resort that combines elegance with relaxation. This is where luxury meets laid-back island vibes.
- 🌿 The Palapa House – A boutique and budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on charm. Ideal for travellers looking to balance comfort and cost.
Local Vibe & Nightlife
San Pedro offers plenty of ways to unwind after a day of diving. Curious about where to go and what t do besides diving, I asked my guide Dave for recommendations. He simply grinned and said, “Anywhere on the beach!”. He wasn’t wrong, the beachside spots truly are the heartbeat of San Pedro’s nightlife.
No single hotspot dominates the scene – everywhere brings with its own unique energy. Whether you’re into laid-back vibes or lively music, San Pedro has it all. In fact, music seems to be the nightly tradition here, ranging from mellow acoustic sets to sull on karaoke showdowns that pull everyone together.
🎶My Favourite top spots:
- Wayos Beach Bar – Known for its happy hour specials, classic bar food and lively atmosphere, this is the perfect spot to kick off your evening.
- Coco Loco’s Beach Bar – A more relaxed choice with great cocktails and a chilled-out beachfront vibe – ideal for soaking in the ocean breeze.
- Island Wonder Beach Club – A fun and energetic place for beach-front drinks and good times with friends.
And speaking of karaoke, I managed to drag myself on stage one night one night – and it didn’t disappoint! The local, tourist were all really into each song, which certainly helped. If the night couldn’t get any better, for the first time in my life, I heard someone belt Chop Suey by System of a Down… if you know, you know… It was magical, unforgettable, and so distinctly San Pedro.
Final Thoughts
San Pedro is one of those places that slows you down and soaks into your bones. Every moment feels like it’s carved from something special, whether you’re diving alongside nurse sharks and graceful stingrays, singing your heart out at karaoke, or simply watching the sun melt into the Caribbean.
It’s an island full of vivid contrast and unforgettable characters, where Caribbean charm meets lively energy in a way that feels uniquely own. I left with sand between my toes, sun on my skin, rum in my veins and a heart completely captivated.
🚀FAQ on Diving in San Pedro
Is San Pedro good for diving?
Yes — San Pedro offers access to the Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world. You’ll find vibrant coral gardens, reef sharks, eagle rays, and some of the Caribbean’s clearest water.
What are the best dive sites near San Pedro?
Top sites include Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Shark Ray Alley, Tackle Box Canyons, and Mexico Rocks. Advanced divers may also take day trips to Blue Hole and Turneffe Atoll.
Do I need a diving certification to dive in San Pedro?
For most dive trips, yes — you’ll need an Open Water certification. However, many shops offer discovery dives (no cert required), where an instructor stays with you at all times.
How much does diving cost in San Pedro?
Prices vary, but expect to pay around:
-
$100–130 USD for a 2-tank local dive
-
$180–250 USD for a Blue Hole day trip
-
$400–500 USD for PADI Open Water certification
Is diving in San Pedro safe?
Yes, diving here is generally very safe. Reputable dive shops follow PADI/SSI safety standards. That said, always check the shop’s certifications, equipment quality, and reviews.
What is the best time of year to dive in San Pedro?
Diving is good year-round, but conditions are best from March to June: calm seas, great visibility, and minimal rain. Whale sharks are also seen seasonally near Gladden Spit.
What marine life can I expect to see?
Common sightings include nurse sharks, stingrays, eagle rays, turtles, groupers, and a kaleidoscope of reef fish. Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley are great for close encounters.
Are there beginner-friendly dive sites in San Pedro?
Yes! Sites like Hol Chan and Mexico Rocks have shallow depths, gentle currents, and excellent visibility — perfect for first timers and divers getting back into the water.
