Beaches or other options without an excursion?

[Crusin' & Chillin']

Hello -

 

We will be visiting Belize for the first time next March via a cruise ship. Would rather not do an excursion, but wondering if there are any close beaches, shops, or what we will find very near to where the tenders come to shore. We are traveling with kids, and would love to simply be able to get in the water. No need for fancy, all inclusive beaches. Suggestions? Or am I crazy to think that you can find something without having to take an excursion? (We would likely just be in the water for an hour, so can't see going on a beach excursion!)

[ABQrobin]

NO. Belize is one place you need to do an excursion.

The tender takes you into a little village that has a few shops and bars, nothing more. No beach, just boats coming in and out.

[crewsweeper]

I agree with ABQrobin. You'll be better served with an excursion- cave-tubing, snorkeling, maya ruins, city tour. These excursions are offered by independent vendors as well as cruise ships. Pros and Cons for choosing either. Lots of discussion on this board.

 

But first, while the Tourism Village where the tenders dock is called a village, it's not a village. Just a long line of shops and a couple of restaurant/bars.

 

And second there is a local beach, Cucumber Beach, in Old Belize that's about a 15-20 minute cab ride from the pier. It's manmade and used primarily by locals. Plus there are other historic exhibits around.

 

http://www.oldbelize.com/

 

Might not be your Red Solo Cup but it is an option.

 

You can do a self directed walking tour, flea market, lighthouse, St John's Church, couple of museums, local restaurants not catering to tourists, or a local restaurant catering to tourists. All within walking distance (little over a mile to the Church and old Governors Mansion you see from the tender). You can also pickup a horse carriage tour of the city outside the gates. Many cruisers cringe at the vendors hawking their tours right outside the gates, but a block from the pier and you'll have no issues.