Getting around San Pedro is half the fun. There are almost no cars on Ambergris Caye. Instead, the island runs on golf carts, bikes, boats and the occasional taxi.

Getting around is easy once you know the rhythm. Here’s everything we tell our guests before they arrive.

Getting to the island

Most people fly into Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City. From there, you’ve got two ways over to San Pedro.

By air

Small local planes fly from Belize City to San Pedro all day. The hop takes about 15 minutes, and you’ll see the reef from the window. Grab a window seat if you can.

Fastest option by far
Luggage limits are tighter on small planes, so check before you pack
San Pedro’s airstrip is right at the edge of town

By water taxi

Water taxis run from Belize City to San Pedro, usually with a stop on Caye Caulker. Expect about 90 minutes.

Cheaper than flying
A fun first look at the cayes
You’ll need a taxi from the airport to the water taxi terminal in Belize City

Either way, let your concierge know your arrival time. It makes the first hour much smoother.

Golf carts: the island’s main ride

If you do one thing before you land, book a golf cart. It gives you the freedom to go into town for breakfast, pop to the beach, or wander north on a whim.

Renting your cart

Book ahead. Carts go fast from January to April and over holidays.
Bring your driver’s licence from home. Rental companies will ask for it.
Choose the right size. Four-seaters suit couples and small families. Six-seaters are worth it for groups.
Gas or electric? Gas carts handle the longer drive north better. Electric works well for trips into town.

We work closely with Luxury Golf Cart Rental, and your concierge can set one up so it’s waiting at your villa.

Rules of the road

Drive on the right, same as Canada and the US.
Go slow. Speed bumps are everywhere, and some are hard to spot.
Turn your lights on after dark. Locals drive fast at night and roads aren’t always well lit.
Watch for pedestrians, bikes and dogs, especially in town.
Lock up or take the key when you park. Most carts have a key, and it’s an easy habit.
Never drink and drive. Rules apply to golf carts too.

Into town vs. up north

The island has two very different moods, and it helps to know which you’re heading into.

San Pedro town

Town is busy, colourful and close to the village. You’ll find the bakeries, beach bars, shops and most of the restaurants here.

Go early or go late. Mornings and evenings are calmer than midday.
Park and walk. Front Street is easiest on foot once you’re in the middle of town.
Expect traffic around lunchtime on the main roads.

North of the bridge

Cross the bridge north of town and the island slows down. Fewer people, more palm trees, longer stretches of quiet road.

The road can be bumpy. Take it easy and enjoy the ride.
Pack water, sunscreen and snacks.
Secret Beach, on the lagoon side, is about 45 minutes by cart from the village. Go on a weekday for the quietest sand.

Water taxis and boats

Boats are how you get to the good stuff.

The M&B boat shuttle. Leaves from the village marina and takes about 15 minutes. Stays of three nights or more include: A complimentary boat shuttle for every guest, plus a complimentary drink and VIP service at Mistico Beach Club.
Caye Caulker by water taxi. About 30 minutes south. A great day trip for lunch and a stroll.
Reef tours. Most pick you up at a dock in town. Some will collect you closer to the village, so ask when you book.

Taxis, bikes and walking

Taxis are easy to find in town. Agree on the fare before you get in.
Bikes are great for short trips. Some villas have them, or you can rent one in town.
Walking works inside the village. The restaurants, Poolclub, grocery and pharmacy are all within a few minutes.

Stress-free logistics: our top tips

Carry small bills. US dollars work almost everywhere. Change usually comes in Belize dollars, at 2 BZD to 1 USD.
Download offline maps. Signal can drop up north.
Allow extra time. Island time is real. Nothing is rushed, and nobody minds.
Plan the big days around the weather. Reef trips need calm water, so save town days for windy ones.
Ask us anything. That’s what the concierge is for.

The short version

Fly or float over from Belize City. Grab a golf cart. Go into town early, go north when you want quiet, and take the boat when you want sand.

Getting around San Pedro FAQs

Do I need a golf cart for getting around San Pedro?

Inside the village, no. The restaurants, grocery, pharmacy and Poolclub are all a short walk. For trips into town, beach days up north and late dinners, a golf cart makes life much easier.

Can I drive a golf cart with my home licence?

Rental companies usually ask for a valid driver’s licence from home, so bring yours. Check with your rental company when you book.

Is it safe to drive a golf cart at night?

Yes, getting around San Pedro at night is safe. Remember to turn your lights on, keep your speed down and watch for people walking. If you’re planning a big night out, take a taxi home instead.

The best part of island life is coming home to your own villa at the end of the day. When you’re ready to plan, find your villa at M&B Luxury Villas and we’ll help with the rest.

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