A guide to Afro-Caribbean owned Belize
Explore some of the country’s best places to eat, sleep, and explore.
Hugging the northeastern edge of Central America, Belize is celebrated for its picture-perfect beaches, lush landscapes, and diverse cultural tapestry. But there is a vital, unsung chapter of its story that's often missed by travelers: the profound contributions of the country’s Black community. The first Black Belizeans are believed to have arrived in the country in the middle of the 18th century, as enslaved people caught in the struggle for control of the island between the British and Spanish. In the roughly 300 years since, Belize has been shaped by many elements of African heritage that weave through its past and continue to leave an indelible mark on its present.
Whether you’re headed to the islands of Caye Caulker, looking to get off the beaten path in culture-rich Dangriga, or finding yourself in the heart of Belize City, read on to discover some of the thriving Black-owned businesses that are well worth a visit.
Where to eat
Located on a small peninsula jutting out from Belize City’s shopping district, this open-air eatery is right on the water at the end of Albert Street. Though you'll need some patience when it comes to getting a table (especially during busy lunch hours and on Thursday evenings for karaoke night), the ocean views and extensive cocktail list will help the wait time pass quickly. Popular orders here are any of the stewed beef, pork, chicken, or oxtail (when available), all accompanied by a hearty side of rice and beans.
This family-run local institution has been in business for more than 60 years and is now run by the third generation—and its menu is as short as the legacy is long. Load up on entrees like rice and beans with succulent stewed beef or whole fried fish. Be sure to save room for dessert, too: Dit’s is known for its coconut pie and cassava pudding. Located on King Street, a five-minute walk from the Swing Bridge, the restaurant is beloved among locals for its wallet-friendly prices and welcoming vibe.
Just steps from the ocean, this unassuming beach hut on Ambergris Caye in San Pedro serves up Jamaican-influenced fare including oxtail, curried goat (served on Sundays), and jerk chicken, their most ordered dish. There's plenty for vegetarians, with a menu of soy-based curries, too. Headed up by a father-and-son team (the operation got its moniker from the nickname of the dad, owner John Harvey Sr.), the laid-back spot has been in business for over 11 years and earns raves for its friendly service and generous portions. Head over to Las Paletas, a popsicle shop next door, for a fresh fruit dessert.
Travelers say: "Our fishing captain told us to bring our catch here and that was good advice! They cooked our fish three different ways—grilled, sautéed and curry. It was out of this world. The jerk chicken smelled so good on the grill that we had to try that too. Awesome! Highly recommend stopping in for lunch and grabbing a couple bottles of beer from the place next door."—@jillv999
This cozy family-run restaurant is on the Northern Highway in Biscayne, a small village surrounded by verdant jungle. Though it’s about 40-minute drive from Belize City, it’s well worth the stop for Creole-Belizean cuisine, including fish fritters, stewed chicken, and breadfruit tacos.
While in the area, consider a visit to the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, a 12,000-acre nature reserve where you can spot over 300 bird species, along with crocodiles, howler monkeys, and regional fauna (about 20-minute drive from The Rasta Family Pot), or visit the nearly 3,000-year-old Mayan ruins at Altun Ha (about 30-minute drive from the restaurant).
Where to stay
Belize City is a common arrival point for tourists, but accommodations can be somewhat limited. That’s why Melissa Shanti Williams’ tranquil inn (which she co-owns with her mother, who grew up in Belize City) is a welcome sanctuary with its cheerful candy-colored cottages and prime waterfront location on the Belize River. Guests can opt to add yoga classes and workshops to their stay (Williams is a certified yoga instructor), as well as therapeutic wellness treatments from reiki and acupuncture to hydrotherapy and hot stone massages. Be sure to stop by the onsite vegan cafe for refreshing smoothies and cold-pressed juices.
Unlike many hotels in the beloved beach town of Caye Caulker, this spot doesn't face the shop-lined boulevards on the main drag—instead, it overlooks the water. Run by a husband-and-wife team, the vibe here is familial and relaxed, with unfussy but comfortable rooms and convenient amenities like free pickup and dropoff to the ferry station or airport. Get a taste of Caye Caulker’s “go slow” lifestyle by borrowing one of the kayaks available onsite and heading to the hotel’s private beach just steps away, or kicking back on the ocean-facing rooftop at sunset.
What to do
This small but thoughtfully curated museum is dedicated to the Garifuna people, an ethnic group descended from Africans and indigenous Caribbeans with a large population in Belize. A substantial amount of Belize’s Garifuna population lives in Dangriga, and you can see the cultural heritage reflected in the region’s music (the paranda and punta styles features drumming and chants) and celebrations (every December, Junkanoo festivals—dance-centric fetes with Garifuna roots—are held in towns with Garifuna populations).
A scenic drive on the Hummingbird Highway takes you to Dangriga (about an hour from Belmopan, or just over two hours from Belize City) where the museum resides. Learn about the history of the Garifuna people, charting their arrival in Belize in the 19th century and the powerful imprint their culture has made on the country in the centuries since, while taking in Garifuna poetry, paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts on display.
Just under three hours’ drive south of Belize City, you’ll find the beautiful beach town of Placencia, a popular vacation spot for locals and a major diving hub. First-timers and experienced divers alike can head to dive shop Go Sea Tours for a guided underwater adventure. One of the outfitter’s most adrenaline-pumping offerings is diving with whale sharks, but snorkeling excursions and sunset cruises are on offer, too. The experienced crew here also offers certification courses, if you’re interested in diving deeper into the sport.
Travelers say: The [Go Sea] guides were incredibly knowledgeable, pointing out fish and different types of coral as we swam around [Silk Caye]. Then we went to a different spot out by an anchored boat and snorkeled with nurse sharks, sting rays, and giant sea turtles! ...Delicious lunch too!—@eccochra
This restaurant and immersive experience in San Pedro makes for an incredible introduction to Garifuna culture and cuisine. The site is the brainchild of owner Julia Martinez, a former teacher who has been involved in many local efforts to educate Belizeans and travelers about past and present Garifuna life. Take in a drumming show or a documentary film, often supplemented by commentary from Martinez, who stops by tables and helps to facilitate demonstrations of dance, cooking, music, and traditional clothing. This is also a great spot to try Garifuna staples, such as hudut (a traditional stew combining snapper, coconut broth, and plantains), ereba (cassava bread), and sahou (a creamy cassava-based drink).
