I can’t stop thinking about Belize since my month-long trip exploring this stunning Caribbean paradise. Between waking up to howler monkeys in the jungle and watching the sunset paint San Pedro’s waters gold, I found myself asking the same question over and over: “Could I actually live here?” Spoiler alert: the answer might be yes.
My time in places like Placencia, where I spent mornings kayaking through mangroves and afternoons working from beachfront cafes, showed me exactly why the best places in Belize are drawing in more permanent residents every year. Whether you’re dreaming of a seafront condo on Ambergris Caye or a jungle retreat in Cayo, these 12 locations offer that perfect blend of paradise and practicality you’ve been searching for.
Most Beautiful Places to Live in Belize
Looking for the best places to live in Belize? Experience island life in Ambergris Caye, known for its stunning beaches and vibrant expat community. Enjoy the laid-back charm of Caye Caulker, a paradise for snorkeling and relaxation. Settle in Placencia, offering a mix of beachfront beauty and local culture, or choose Corozal District for its affordability and proximity to Mexico. Whether you seek adventure, tranquility, or a tropical lifestyle, these are some of the top places to live in Belize.
- Best for beach life and expat community: Ambergris Caye
- Best for laid-back island life: Caye Caulker
- Best for serene beach living: Placencia
- Best for safety and tranquility: Corozal District
- Best for a mix of nature and town life: San Ignacio
- Best for eco-friendly living and outdoor adventures: Cayo District
- Best for vibrant local culture and beach access: San Pedro
- Best for nature enthusiasts and cultural diversity: Toledo District
- Best for authentic coastal living and community: Punta Gorda
- Best for urban living and cultural experiences: Belize City
- Best for peaceful seaside living: Sarteneja
- Best for modern city amenities in a natural setting: Belmopan
1. Ambergris Caye
Ambergris Caye is Belize’s crown jewel, where turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and a vibrant expat community create an unbeatable quality of life. At its heart is San Pedro, a lively town where golf carts replace cars, beach bars hum with reggae, and fresh seafood is always on the menu. The island’s real draw? The Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO-listed wonder just offshore, offering world-class diving, snorkeling, and fishing.
Despite its growing popularity, Ambergris Caye retains a small-town charm. Residents spend mornings kayaking through mangroves, afternoons at Secret Beach, and evenings enjoying sunset cocktails at Palapa Bar. While real estate prices have risen, options range from luxury waterfront villas to budget-friendly condos. With its friendly atmosphere, easygoing lifestyle, and endless outdoor adventures, Ambergris Caye is perfect for those craving an idyllic island escape without sacrificing modern comforts.
- Read Next: Top Places to Live in Central America
2. Caye Caulker
If barefoot living and a slow pace sound like paradise, Caye Caulker is the place to be. This tiny island just off the Belizean coast is a car-free haven, where bicycles and golf carts roll past colorful wooden houses and beachside cafés. The island’s motto, “Go Slow,” isn’t just a saying—it’s a way of life.
Surrounded by crystal-clear waters, Caye Caulker is a playground for snorkelers and divers, with hotspots like Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley just minutes away. The Split, a natural channel dividing the island, is the go-to spot for sunbathing, swimming, and sunset drinks at Lazy Lizard.
Despite its laid-back vibe, Caye Caulker has a strong community feel, with a mix of locals, backpackers, and long-term expats. Housing is more affordable than in Ambergris Caye, making it an attractive choice for those seeking an authentic, no-frills island lifestyle.
3. Placencia
For those craving secluded beaches with a touch of charm, Placencia delivers. This charming village boasts some of the best beaches in Belize, with powdery white sand and calm Caribbean waters. Placencia itself is a blend of fishing town traditions and upscale comforts, where you’ll find everything from local taco stands to boutique resorts.
The Placencia Sidewalk, once named the world’s narrowest main street, is the heart of the village, lined with cafés, art galleries, and beachfront bars. Offshore, the Silk Cayes and Laughing Bird Caye offer world-class snorkeling and diving, while inland adventures include jungle treks and Mayan ruins.
Expats love Placencia for its relaxed pace, strong community, and affordability compared to Ambergris Caye. Whether you’re seeking a beachfront home or a simple cabana, Placencia offers a perfect balance of tranquility, culture, and adventure.
4. Corozal District
Just a stone’s throw from the Mexican border, Corozal District is perfect for those who want coastal serenity with easy access to modern amenities. Overlooking the Bay of Chetumal, this area is known for its affordable living, friendly expat scene, and peaceful atmosphere.
Corozal Town, the district’s hub, offers colorful markets, seaside parks, and historic Mayan ruins like Santa Rita. Locals and expats gather at Cerros Sands or Serenity Sands Beach to enjoy calm waters and stunning sunsets. The nearby Chetumal, Mexico, provides access to shopping malls, hospitals, and international flights, making life here convenient and cost-effective.
With low property prices and a laid-back lifestyle, Corozal is ideal for retirees or anyone looking to escape the crowds. It’s a place where neighbors know each other, nature is abundant, and life moves at an easy rhythm.
5. San Ignacio
Nestled in Belize’s lush western highlands, San Ignacio is the perfect blend of adventure and culture. Known for its cooler climate, rolling hills, and access to nature, this town is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
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San Ignacio is the gateway to Belize’s most famous Mayan ruins, including Xunantunich and Cahal Pech. It’s also home to the Macal River, where locals kayak, swim, and spot toucans in the trees. Weekends are best spent at the San Ignacio Market, where farmers, artisans, and food vendors bring the town to life.
With its low cost of living, strong expat presence, and proximity to Guatemala, San Ignacio is a top pick for those who want a nature-focused lifestyle with modern conveniences. Whether you prefer hiking, caving, or simply soaking up the town’s vibrant energy, San Ignacio has something for everyone.
6. Cayo District
For those who love eco-friendly living and the great outdoors, Cayo District is Belize’s ultimate adventure hub. Covering a vast expanse of rainforests, rivers, and rolling hills, this region is perfect for off-grid retreats, organic farms, and nature lodges.
The area is home to some of Belize’s most iconic sites, including the ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal)—a mystical cave filled with ancient Maya artifacts—and the breathtaking Big Rock Falls. Wildlife thrives here, from howler monkeys in the treetops to scarlet macaws soaring above.
Towns like San Ignacio and Santa Elena provide modern amenities, lively expat communities, and easy access to Guatemala for international travel. Whether you’re after a riverside cottage or a self-sufficient jungle hideaway, Cayo District offers a peaceful, nature-immersed lifestyle with plenty of adventure at your doorstep.
7. San Pedro
Located on Ambergris Caye, San Pedro is where island charm meets modern convenience. This bustling town is a favorite among expats, offering stunning beaches, lively nightlife, and easy access to the Belize Barrier Reef.
The town’s colorful streets are lined with beachfront bars, seafood restaurants, and boutique shops, creating a lively yet laid-back atmosphere. Locals and expats alike gather at Secret Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and overwater bars. For divers and snorkelers, Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley provide some of the best underwater experiences in Belize.
With a strong tourism-driven economy, reliable infrastructure, and a variety of housing options, San Pedro offers a comfortable island lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a luxury beachfront condo or a cozy island home, this vibrant town has something for everyone.
- Read Next: Best Things to Do in the Caribbean
8. Toledo District
For those seeking untouched nature and cultural authenticity, Toledo District is Belize’s best-kept secret. Located in the southernmost region of the country, it’s a paradise of lush rainforests, pristine rivers, and thriving indigenous communities.
The district is home to Mayan villages, cacao farms, and breathtaking waterfalls, offering a truly off-the-grid experience. Adventure-seekers can explore the Blue Creek Cave, Rio Blanco Falls, and Payne’s Creek National Park, while food lovers can visit local chocolate farms to see traditional cacao production in action.
Despite its remote feel, Toledo has a tight-knit community of expats and locals. Punta Gorda, the district’s main town, has essential amenities, fresh seafood markets, and a scenic coastline. For those who want to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying an affordable, peaceful lifestyle, Toledo District is an ideal escape.
9. Punta Gorda
Punta Gorda, or PG, is a hidden coastal gem where culture and nature intertwine. Known for its Garifuna, Maya, and East Indian influences, this southern town offers an authentic Belizean lifestyle away from the tourist crowds.
Life in PG revolves around the sea. The town’s fishermen bring in fresh catches daily, while lively drum circles and cultural festivals keep the community spirit alive. Nature lovers can explore nearby rainforests, rivers, and Mayan ruins, or take a boat to the Sapodilla Cayes for incredible snorkeling.
Compared to northern Belize, real estate is more affordable, and the pace of life is slower. While it lacks large-scale development, PG appeals to those looking for peace, nature, and a strong sense of community. If you’re searching for a coastal retreat that stays true to Belizean culture, Punta Gorda is an excellent choice.
10. Belize City
As Belize’s largest city and commercial hub, Belize City offers the most urban lifestyle in the country. While it’s not a beach paradise, it provides access to top-tier healthcare, international airports, shopping centers, and modern conveniences that smaller towns lack.
The city’s historical charm is evident in landmarks like the Swing Bridge, St. John’s Cathedral, and the Belize Museum, while the waterfront area is home to lively seafood restaurants and bustling street markets. Events like the September Celebrations and Belize International Music & Food Festival bring the city to life, showcasing its vibrant Creole and Garifuna culture.
Many expats settle in quieter, upscale neighborhoods like Bella Vista or Buttonwood Bay, where homes offer ocean views and a suburban feel. For those who want a cosmopolitan atmosphere with deep cultural roots, Belize City is the ideal blend of history, convenience, and opportunity.
11. Sarteneja
For those seeking peaceful seaside living away from tourist hotspots, Sarteneja is a hidden treasure. This fishing village on Belize’s northern coast offers a slower pace of life, affordable living, and stunning waterfront views. Unlike busier coastal towns, Sarteneja retains its authentic charm, with traditional wooden boats dotting the shoreline and locals gathering for fresh seafood feasts.
The village is known for its breathtaking sunsets over Corozal Bay, as well as its booming eco-tourism scene. The nearby Shipstern Nature Reserve is a haven for wildlife lovers, home to jaguars, howler monkeys, and hundreds of bird species. With affordable property prices and a welcoming, tight-knit community, Sarteneja is ideal for those looking to disconnect from the modern rush and embrace a simpler, nature-focused lifestyle. Whether you’re into sailing, fishing, or just soaking up coastal tranquility, Sarteneja is a true sanctuary.
12. Belmopan
The capital of Belize, Belmopan is a unique mix of modern convenience and natural beauty. Unlike chaotic capitals, it’s calm, well-planned, and surrounded by lush greenery, making it one of the safest and most livable cities in Belize.
With government offices, international embassies, and reliable infrastructure, Belmopan is a great choice for professionals and families. The city is also an educational hub, home to the University of Belize and top-rated international schools. Its central location makes it easy to explore the Cayo District’s Mayan ruins, national parks, and cave systems, offering adventure just outside your doorstep.
Belmopan’s expat community is steadily growing, drawn to its affordable housing, strong security, and clean environment. Farmers’ markets, local festivals, and diverse dining options add to its appeal. For those who want a city experience without the crowds, Belmopan strikes the perfect balance between urban life and outdoor adventure.
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