Our Guide To Getting Around Ambergris Caye, Belize

The Road North: A Guide to Zipping Up the Coast

So, you’ve spent a night in San Pedro, your belly is full of fry jacks, and you’re ready to hit the “Lodge Life.” At Low Tide Lodge, we’re located at the northern end of Ambergris Caye, right near the edge of the nature preserve.

The journey from town to the lodge is one of our favorite parts of the week. It’s a scenic, breezy trek that takes you away from the hustle of the town and into the wild beauty of the island. Here’s everything you need to know about navigating the island like a local.

Step 1: Secure Your “Island Ferrari” (The Golf Cart)

On Ambergris Caye, the golf cart is the gold standard. To get to us, you’ll want a reliable gas-powered cart (electric carts struggle with the long-distance trek north).

• Requirements: You must have a valid driver’s license from your home country. Keep it on you—local traffic stops are rare but they do happen!
• The Cost: Expect to pay between $35–$65 USD per day. Most companies offer significant discounts if you’re renting for a full week.
• The Pro Tip: Many rental companies will deliver the cart directly to your hotel in town or meet you at the Tropic Air terminal.

Step 2: Crossing the Sir Barry Bowen Bridge

To head north, you have to cross the bridge at Boca del Rio. This is the gateway to the North Side.

• The Toll: For private rental carts, the bridge is usually free or the toll is already covered by the rental company (look for a sticker on the windshield or under the seat). If you’re asked to pay, it’s typically just a few Belizean dollars.
• The View: Pause for a second as you cross; the view of the river meeting the sea is the perfect “Welcome to the North” moment.

Step 3: The Drive North

The road starts as smooth cobblestone pavers, but as you get further north, it transitions into hard-packed sand and lime-rock.

• Distance: The drive to the lodge takes about 45 to 60 minutes depending on the road conditions and how many iguanas you stop to photograph.
• The Terrain: It can be bumpy! We call it the “Belizean Massage.” Take it slow, enjoy the breeze, and keep an eye out for exotic birds and the occasional “Secret Beach” signpost.
• Pit Stops: About halfway up, you’ll pass a few roadside bars and small grocery stores. This is your last chance to grab a cold Belikin or a bag of chips before the houses start to thin out and the nature preserve takes over.

Navigation & Safety Tips

Watch the Speed Bumps
We call them “sleeping policemen.” They are everywhere near resorts and residential areas. Hit them too fast in a golf cart, and you’ll find out why we suggest holding onto your hat!

Lighting the Way
If you’re traveling at night, the road north is very dark. Ensure your cart’s headlights are working before you leave town. There are no streetlights once you pass the main resort areas, just the moon and the stars.

Fueling Up
There are a couple of gas stations in town and one just north of the bridge. Don’t skip the North station. While our carts are efficient, you don’t want to be “that guy” running out of gas near the nature preserve!

The road north is a great place to spot wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for Roseate Spoonbills (the big pink birds) in the lagoons on your left. Also, remember: Drive on the Right. It’s easy to forget when you’re looking at the ocean, but the traffic rules are the same as back home.