How to Spend One Day in Corozal, Belize

Corozal Town doesn’t get as much attention from tourists as Belize’s popular beach destinations, but this charming community on the stunning Bay of Chetumal is worth a visit. You can spend an enjoyable day getting away from the crowds. Its closeness to Mexico lends a distinctly Mexican flavor to the culture and food of this town. Here are some fun ways to spend the day here.

Enjoy the Bay

The Bay of Chetumal, known locally as Corozal Bay, is a gorgeous stretch of blue water with an untouched shoreline. It’s a great place to go swimming or sunning. Bay waves are gentle, and the beach has soft sand.

If you prefer not to swim, take a walk along the bay. Benches along the shore provide excellent places to sit in the shade and watch the town’s quiet activities.

Check Out the Town Center

The central plaza is the heart of Corozal. It’s where you’ll see most of the residents going about their business. Visit the Town Hall to learn about Corozal’s history. Be sure to check out the historical mural painted by Belizean-Mexican artist Manuel Villamor Reyes. It depicts the town’s history from the Maya era to the days when sugar cane plantations dotted the region.

The plaza is also the site of the town’s weekly farmer’s market. Get a taste of local produce, fresh fish, handmade artifacts and other unique items.

See the Cerros Maya Ruins

Maya ruins are everywhere in Belize, and Corozal is no exception. The ruins here are noteworthy because they are partially submerged in water. Cerros was a major Maya trading center. The temple on the shoreline is worth the climb. You’ll get a breathtaking view of Belize, the bay and the Mexican coastline.

Have a Locally Made Lunch

If all your activities have made you hungry, stop and eat at one of Corozal’s local favorites. June’s Kitchen is a friendly, family-run diner where you can get a huge breakfast featuring all your favorites, including French toast, egg platters, waffles, locally made sausage and freshly squeezed juice.

Corozo Blues offers cocktails, al fresco dining and upscale food at affordable prices. Its beautiful setting is the perfect place to watch the bay waves while you sip on a freshly made rum cocktail while enjoying traditional and vegetarian meals.

Visit Sarteneja Village

The sleepy fishing village of Sarteneja is a one-hour ferry ride from Corozal. Get a taste of true Belizean fishing culture here. The local artisans are famed for their wooden sailboats, and a visit to their workshops is a rewarding experience.

While you’re here, set time aside to visit Shipstern Conservation and Management Area. This impressive wildlife preserve features one of the most ecologically diverse sanctuaries in Belize. It has rainforests, mangroves, wetlands and lagoons. You can spot manatees, crocodiles, butterflies and hundreds of colorful birds.

Don’t Miss This Beauty by the Bay

Corozal Town will charm you with its beauty, serenity and friendly people. If you’re looking for something different, you’ll find it here by the bay.

Get a copy of The Ultimate Belize Bucket List! Written by Larry Waight, a local with more than twenty years of experience in the travel industry, the book is packed with tips, information, and recommendations about all of the best things to see and do in Belize