Belize City Vacations
Belize was once known as British Honduras, and Belize City was its capital. In 1970, the capital changed to Belmopan, although Belize City still holds around two-thirds of the country’s populace.
Colorful outdoor markets and bustling indoor shopping plazas feature local vendors selling their wares from fresh fruits and vegetables to local crafts.
Region:
Belize
Featured Belize City Hotel
Welcome to this rainforest hideaway and former family retreat of Francis Ford Coppola. Private decks overlooking the lush landscape and complimentary experiences put you at one with nature.
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Overview
Running through the center of Belize City is Haulover Creek, a tributary of Belize River, which flows into the Caribbean Sea, dividing the country’s largest city in half.
Belize’s main port and center of commerce, Belize City was once a Mayan city known as Holzuz, meaning “sandy landing place,” and later established by British lumber harvesters in 1638.
Old Belize, on the north side of Haulover Creek, offers an impressive overview of the country’s myriad of natural wonders and cultural history, including a logging camp, ceremonial Mayan cave and replicated Garífuna home.
Kukumba Beach, with its 90-foot water slide, rope swing and floating trampoline, provides a great starting point for families looking to cool off before heading out to the incredible rainforests, ancient ruins and tropical seas of Belize.
What To Do
Visit St. John’s Cathedral, Central America’s oldest Anglican church, the Baron Bliss Lighthouse and the beautifully preserved colonial-style Government House, formerly the home of the Governor General, during a tour of Belize City via van or even horse-drawn carriage.
Explore Old Belize, north of Haulover Creek, for an informative look into the history, culture and natural wonders of the region.
Learn about Belize’s fascinating history at the Museum of Belize, a former jailhouse built in 1857, and its Houses of Culture (HOCs).
Discover one of the country’s most amazing Mayan ruins, Altun Ha, about an hour outside the city.