San Marcos Belize is a small, charming village located on the Caribbean coast of Belize. It is known for its stunning beaches, lush jungle, and vibrant culture. From the Mayan ruins of Xunantunich to the pristine white sand beaches of Placencia, San Marcos Belize has something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a thrilling adventure, here are the top 20 places to see in San Marcos Belize.
1. Xunantunich: Xunantunich is an ancient Mayan archaeological site located just outside San Marcos Belize. It is one of the most impressive Mayan sites in the country and is home to two large pyramid temples. The ruins are located atop a hill and offer stunning views of the surrounding jungle and countryside.
2. Placencia Beach: Placencia Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Belize. It is known for its white sand and crystal clear waters. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
3. San Marcos Village: San Marcos Village is the main village in the area and is home to a vibrant culture and welcoming locals. The village is home to a number of small shops, restaurants, and bars. It is a great place to get a taste of local life and experience the culture of Belize.
4. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary: The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area of jungle and rainforest. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, ocelots, and tapirs. The sanctuary is a great place for hiking and bird watching.
5. Lubaantun: Lubaantun is another ancient Mayan site located near San Marcos Belize. The site is home to several pyramid temples and is known for its unique architecture. It is a great place to explore and learn about the history and culture of the ancient Mayans.
6. Actun Tunichil Muknal: Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) is an impressive cave system located near San Marcos Belize. The caves are home to a variety of artifacts and Mayan relics, as well as a number of spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.
7. Punta Gorda: Punta Gorda is the largest town in the Toledo District of Belize. It is home to a vibrant culture and a number of small shops, restaurants, and bars. It is a great place to explore and experience the local way of life.
8. San Pedro Columbia: San Pedro Columbia is a small village located near the Guatemalan border. It is known for its traditional Mayan culture and is home to a number of craftsmen and artists. It is a great place to explore and buy handmade souvenirs.
9. Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary: The Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area of wetlands and jungle. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including Jabiru storks, howler monkeys, and a variety of birds. The sanctuary is a great place for bird watching and wildlife spotting.
10. Goff's Caye: Goff's Caye is a small island located off the coast of Belize. It is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The island is a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
11. Hopkins: Hopkins is a small village located on the Caribbean coast of Belize. It is known for its traditional Garifuna culture and is home to a number of small shops, restaurants, and bars. It is a great place to explore and experience the local way of life.
12. Blue Hole National Park: Blue Hole National Park is a protected area of jungle and rainforest. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, ocelots, tapirs, and howler monkeys. The park is a great place for hiking and bird watching.
13. Sittee River: The Sittee River is a stunning river located near San Marcos Belize. It is known for its crystal clear waters and lush jungle. The river is a great place for swimming, canoeing, and kayaking.
14. Belize Zoo: The Belize Zoo is a small zoo located near San Marcos Belize. It is home to a variety of native wildlife, including jaguars, pumas, ocelots, and tapirs. The zoo is a great place to learn about the local wildlife and experience the beauty of Belize.
15. San Ignacio: San Ignacio is a small town located near the Guatemalan border. It is known for its vibrant culture and is home to a number of small shops, restaurants, and bars. It is a great place to explore and experience the local way of life.
16. Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve: The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is a protected area of jungle and rainforest. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including jaguars, ocelots, tapirs, and howler monkeys. The reserve is a great place for hiking and bird watching.
17. Caracol: Caracol is an ancient Mayan archaeological site located near San Marcos Belize. It is home to several large pyramid temples and is known for its impressive architecture. The site is a great place to explore and learn about the history and culture of the ancient Mayans.
18. Barton Creek Cave: Barton Creek Cave is an impressive cave system located near San Marcos Belize. The caves are home to a variety of artifacts and Mayan relics, as well as a number of spectacular stalactites and stalagmites.
19. San Pedro Island: San Pedro Island is a small island located off the coast of Belize. It is known for its stunning white sand beaches and crystal clear waters. The island is a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing.
20. Caye Caulker: Caye Caulker is a small island located off the coast of Belize. It is known for its laid-back atmosphere and is home to a number of small shops, restaurants, and bars. It is a great place to explore and experience the local way of life.