The time zone is the same as US Central Standard Time. Belize does not observe daylight savings time.

Belize comprises an area of 8,867 square miles. More than 65 percent of the country is forested. There are over 150 offshore islands, and Belize boasts the second-largest barrier reef in the world.

The total population is 321,115. English is the official language, but almost half the population speaks Spanish. Garifuna (Carib), Maya, and Creole are also spoken as well as a German dialect (by the Mennonites).

The official currency for Belize is the Belize Dollar. The exchange rate is approximately BZ$2 to US$1, and travelers can exchange currency at banks and hotels. Most businesses accept US Dollars and Credit Cards (American Express, Discovery, Master, and Visa Cards). The tourism industry is the number one foreign exchange earner, followed by marine products, citrus, cane sugar, bananas, and most recently, oil.

All rates and any activity include a service charge. Tipping is customary in Belize, and 10-15% is standard. As always, tipping is at your discretion. You can leave a cash tip or tip on your credit card during checkout.

US Travelers: Passports are required for all travelers, including children. Passports must be valid for the intended length of stay. Visas are not required.

• If traveling from another country, please refer to your government for specific entry and exit requirements.

We highly recommend you purchase travel insurance to protect you and your family from the unexpected before and during your trip. 

To have mobile cellular service in Belize, an unlocked GSM (Global System Mobile Communication) 1900 MHz cellular phone is required.

When traveling to Belize, please remember to bring all your prescription medication. There is a small pharmacy located at the International Airport and in Placencia.

Driving in Belize is safe in the more populated areas as the roads are paved. For Belize adventure touring, getting a four-wheel drive vehicle is recommended if you are exploring a great deal of the country. Most of the drive from Belize City to Placencia is on the stunning Hummingbird Highway.

The climate is subtropical, with a cooling breeze from the Caribbean Sea. Belize has an annual average temperature of 79 degrees Fahrenheit. Summer high temperatures seldom exceed 96 degrees Fahrenheit, and winter lows are rarely below 60 degrees Fahrenheit. The rainy season is between June and August, and the dry season is from February through May.

Belize is an informal country with a very casual lifestyle. Bring your shorts, T-shirts, bathing suits, and some comfortable shoes. Ambergris Caye, Belize is barefoot luxury at its best! Other suggestions for your Belize adventure tours: A cap to protect your head from the tropical sun when you are boating or fishing. Loose-fitting, light-colored cotton pants and shirts, and comfortable hiking shoes are recommended for exploring the mainland or trekking through the rainforest. A backpack, water bottle, snacks, camera, and binoculars are also handy accessories for travel in Belize. Evenings can be cool in winter, and a light wrap is suggested.

We do not recommend drinking tap water. We provide bottled water in all guest rooms.

Voltage is 110 and outlets are the same as in the USA.

Turtle Island Resort is a 5-minute boat ride from Ambergris Caye. We offer complimentary boat shuttles to town for you to enjoy all the liveliness Ambergris has to offer. Ask the front desk for recommendations and local events.

Ambergris Caye (Am-BUR-gris or Am-BUR-grease Key) is the largest of over 300 cayes along the coastline of Belize, situated in the clear waters of the Caribbean Sea near Mexico’s Yucatan. This island is 25 miles long, up to a mile wide, and boasts a unique blend of wooden houses with Mexican, Caribbean, and English colonial architectural styles in its town. Visitors can explore a variety of gift shops, boutiques, bars, cafes, and nightlife along Front and Middle streets (now Barrier Reef Drive/Pescador Drive). The relaxed, barefoot atmosphere and social evening scene are defining features of Ambergris Caye. In addition, tour agencies in the area offer opportunities for activities such as visiting ancient Maya sites, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

Turtle Island Resort is a 5-minute boat ride from Ambergris Caye. We offer complimentary boat shuttles to town for you to enjoy all the liveliness Ambergris has to offer. Ask the front desk for recommendations and local events.

Ambergris Caye (Am-BUR-gris or Am-BUR-grease Key) is the largest of over 300 cayes along the coastline of Belize, situated in the clear waters of the Caribbean Sea near Mexico’s Yucatan. This island is 25 miles long, up to a mile wide, and boasts a unique blend of wooden houses with Mexican, Caribbean, and English colonial architectural styles in its town. Visitors can explore a variety of gift shops, boutiques, bars, cafes, and nightlife along Front and Middle streets (now Barrier Reef Drive/Pescador Drive). The relaxed, barefoot atmosphere and social evening scene are defining features of Ambergris Caye. In addition, tour agencies in the area offer opportunities for activities such as visiting ancient Maya sites, scuba diving, and snorkeling.

Yes. All accommodations at Turtle Island Resort include air-conditioning.

Yes. Each room has a television, phone, and WiFi access.

Yes. Wireless internet service is available in all rooms on Turtle Island Resort and throughout common areas.

No. We do not allow pets on the island due to the conservation efforts and rehabilitation center for turtles.