Tobacco Caye

About this place

Tobacco Caye is a tiny island in Belize, only about 1.2 hectares, around 16 km east of Dangriga. It measures 240 m by 125 m and has about 20 permanent residents, yet it sees a steady stream of travellers thanks to its five small lodges, making it one of the simplest and friendliest of the islands. It is believed to be named for early tobacco growing here, and it appears on old European charts. It lies within the South Water Caye Marine Reserve, part of Belize's system of protected waters, with limits on fishing. You can walk all the way around it in minutes, as it sits right on the edge of the barrier reef. From a boat it looks like a clump of palms on the water. Colourful timber houses look out over clear water and short jetties ending in small huts. The reef lies close to shore, so you can snorkel straight from the beach, with no boat needed. The water turns from pale green to deep blue beyond the line of breakers. You arrive by boat from Dangriga, with schedules depending on the sea, so do not plan a flight for the very next day. Book your lodge in advance, as beds are few, facilities basic and fresh water limited. Do not touch the coral, and bring enough cash. One or two nights are better than a short trip.