BELIZE DISTRICT

This swath of coastline, islands, and lowlands is where the country was born, in the area surrounding Belize City, where mahogany poles floated down from upcountry and were loaded onto ships bound for the rest of the world. Today’s ocean-side “city” of 60,000 or so is a steamy, 21st-century version of those raucous old days, and it boasts just enough sights and goings-on to make it worth a one- or two-day visit. If you don’t appreciate the grit and grime of Belize’s one-time capital, the surrounding district offers several remote experiences, all well under an hour from the airport. Shack up at the Community Baboon Sanctuary, Crooked Tree or Monkey Bay Wildlife Reserves, or near the Altun Ha ruins. You can stay in any of these places, or you can book a room in Belize City, make day trips to the above parks, and enjoy the evening Caribbean breeze over your Belize City happy hour by night.

Fort George Area: When you first arrive in Belize City, take a stroll through this pleasant neighborhood with its beautiful colonial homes and upscale hotels. Start out at the lighthouse along the waterfront to enjoy the sea breezes and views of cayes and ships. (read more)

Art Galleries: Check out Belize’s exciting art scene, starting at The Image Factory Shop and Gallery. In addition to browsing, you can learn about concerts and cultural events in the city. Also visit the Fine Arts Gallery, right on Front Street, then skip to the Southside and walk by the Bliss Institute and Government House/House of Culture just down the seawall. (read more)

Gales Point: The path less traveled lies to the south, along the Manatee Road to the Southern Lagoon, a vast, wild estuary, and to this peaceful fishing village on the ocean. (read more)

Altun Ha Ruins: Head north to this ancient Maya trading center, the most extensively excavated ruins in all of Belize. You might even combine this trip with a visit to the Maruba Resort Jungle Spa. (read more)

The Community Baboon Sanctuary: A visit guarantees monkey sightings—the area is thick with black howlers who wander just outside a number of simple Creole villages. This community-managed eco-tourism venture offers an excellent menu of wildlife hikes and canoe trips. (read more)

Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary: Drive an hour north to this habitat for hundreds of resident and migratory birds for a full day of bird-watching on a boat tour. (read more)