Embarking on a journey with your toddler can be an adventure in itself, and our recent trip to San Pedro, Belize, proved just that. Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant culture, San Pedro offers a remarkable mix of relaxation and adventure—a perfect destination for families looking to escape the norm.

Getting to San Pedro

Our journey began with a flight from Charlotte to Belize City on American Airlines, utilizing British Airways Avios for cost-efficient travel. Once in Belize, we took a short but scenic Tropic Air flight to San Pedro, a quick 15-minute trip that provides stunning aerial views of the Belize coastline. Take note, for those less fond of flying, a water taxi option is available, offering a more tranquil approach by sea.

Our accommodation was the beautiful Alaia Belize Autograph Collection, a Marriott property situated along the serene beachfront of San Pedro. This new and sleek hotel is perfect for families, offering spacious studio suites with private balconies. Thanks to our Marriott points, we enjoyed a five-night stay for the cost of four nights, which included an upgrade to a Vista Suite that boasted a separate living area and fully equipped kitchen.

Dining and Activities in San Pedro

One local tradition we were thrilled to experience was at Wahoo's Lounge for Chicken Bingo night. The concept is simple yet entertaining—you win money depending on where the chicken poops! While the food itself wasn't the highlight, the experience was incredibly novel and a must-try for anyone in San Pedro.

Dining in San Pedro presents diverse and mouth-watering options, with Hidden Treasure Restaurant topping our list of must-visits. Known for its exquisite seafood dishes, this dining venue combines an intimate setting with top-notch culinary offerings like their fresh ceviche and coconut rice dishes. Every meal here was a delightful blend of local flavors and superb cooking.

For a day of sheer relaxation, we headed to Secret Beach, a slice of paradise that’s just far enough to feel remote yet accessible with a taxi or golf cart ride. Sunset Palace Beach Club was our chosen spot to enjoy the sun, sand, and exceptionally refreshing beach massages that melted away any travel tension. Whether you prefer a bustling crowd or solitude, Secret Beach accommodates all with its vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere.

Before leaving San Pedro, don't miss the chance to dine at Blue Water Grill. This restaurant embodies everything one seeks in a perfect beachside dinner—amazing seafood, a diverse menu, and picturesque sunsets. The fish of the day, often grouper, is prepared to be both savory and lightly spiced, making it an ideal culinary memory to close out your Belize adventure.

Travel Tips for Families

Traveling with little ones requires a bit of finesse. Keeping a well-planned bedtime routine can help manage a child's mood, ensuring a restful end to energetic days. Belize offers plenty for family adventurers, with practical options like renting a golf cart or taking quick, scenic flights for getting around. Also crucial is understanding local COVID-19 travel requirements to ensure a smooth trip.

Travelers to Belize should plan for necessary COVID-19 paperwork, such as proof of vaccination, and consider purchasing Belizean insurance for extra peace of mind. Always double-check your flight reservations and keep your itinerary flexible to accommodate any last-minute changes.