A small Caribbean island with sandy streets and no cars. Palm trees line the beaches where local fishermen bring their daily catch to beachfront grills.
A narrow channel separates Caye Caulker North Island from the main island of Caye Caulker in Belize. At Northside Beach Club, you'll find white sand beaches with shallow swimming areas and wooden cabanas. The 100-acre forest reserve contains thick mangrove forests where frigate birds build their nests in the branches. Manatees often swim in the calm waters near the shore, and the Belize Barrier Reef rises from the sea just a mile away.
Getting to North Island
Cross The Split, a 20-foot wide channel, to reach the north section of Caye Caulker. Ferries run between the two sides from morning until sunset. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards from vendors near The Split. The crossing takes about five minutes by ferry or fifteen minutes by kayak, making it an easy day trip from the main island.
Northside Beach Club Experience
Northside Beach Club stretches along a wide sandy shoreline with clear, shallow waters. You can rent beach chairs, paddleboards, and snorkel gear at the club. The beachfront restaurant prepares fresh seafood and cold drinks. Several wooden cabanas line the beach for shade. During full moon nights, local musicians and DJs play Caribbean music at beach parties.
Wildlife and Nature
Red mangroves, black mangroves, and palm trees fill the Caye Caulker Forest Reserve at the northern tip of the island. Walk the trails through the reserve to spot yellow warblers, white ibis, and roseate spoonbills. The waters around the island belong to the Caye Caulker Marine Reserve, which extends from the lagoon to the barrier reef. Local guides take snorkelers to areas where nurse sharks and spotted eagle rays swim.
Best Times for Visiting
Visit between November and March when skies are clear and temperatures stay between 75-80°F (24-27°C). The water remains warm enough for swimming throughout the year, but snorkeling conditions are best during the dry season. While hurricane season runs from June through November, major storms rarely hit the area. In July, the island celebrates Lobsterfest with daily fresh catches from local fishermen.
Daily Life on North Island
North Island maintains an undeveloped character with no paved roads or permanent residents. Since golf carts can't cross The Split, you'll need to explore on foot. A few small food stands near the beach club sell drinks and snacks. Early mornings are typically quiet, with more visitors arriving from the main island in the afternoon.
