Hopkins Belize is a true Caribbean oasis. Renowned for its Garifuna culture – an amalgamation of African, Caribbean, and indigenous influences – Hopkins provides an unforgettable Caribbean experience. Does your family get excited when vacation is mentioned? Does their inner adventurer spring to life with every mention of an exciting travel plan?
Visit during the dry season between late November and April for optimal conditions.
1. Kid-Friendly Activities
Belize may not boast resorts with kids’ clubs and activities, but that doesn’t mean this English-speaking Caribbean nation lacks child-friendly attractions for families. From Mayan temple exploration to snorkeling the world’s most pristine coral reef, Belize provides endless entertainment. Even picky eaters will delight in sampling local seafood and farm-fresh produce!
Hopkins lies to the south of Placencia and boasts a sizeable Garifuna population. This cultural hub provides an engaging experience that’s easy to immerse oneself into; visit Lebeha Drum School for a fun yet educational way of experiencing their vibrant culture, or just listen to their beats at Ella’s Cool Spot nearby bar!
One way to connect with locals is by visiting the Luba Garifuna Museum and learning more about their history and traditions. A stroll along Sittee River will allow you to meet some locals as you observe their daily lives.
No visit to Hopkins would be complete without spending some time relaxing on its expansive and uncrowded beach, perfect for relaxing and creating lasting memories. The waters are calm and welcoming for all levels, offering up some stunning wildlife sightings including Howler monkeys.
For something a bit more active, why not venture out on horseback for an excursion through the jungle? Gentle animals and lush jungle scenery will ensure everyone in your party will have an incredible time, learning about medicinal plants, herbs, wildlife, and even Mayan ruins while on your ride.
Belize Zoo will give your children an unforgettable wildlife experience! They’ll get to interact with exotic birds, curious anteaters, and cunning jaguars while exploring exhibits. Or opt for an exciting nighttime safari which allows visitors to see them in their natural environments!
2. Accommodations
Though Hopkins may be a small beach town, it offers plenty of family-friendly attractions and accommodations. Plus, with several wildlife reserves nearby and Belize Barrier Reef nearby, planning day trips for families who love nature and exploration is made simple.
Hopkins is at its ideal between November and April when temperatures are warm and sunny with little rainfall, however, this period also represents the busiest season of Belize so expect higher prices and larger crowds. However, you might even be able to score great deals on flights to Belize from the US during this period.
Families traveling to Hopkins can choose from an assortment of accommodations, ranging from luxury resorts to eco-friendly hostels. Many offer all-inclusive packages which can make a trip more affordable and stress-free; most Belize resorts also accept US dollars, making budgeting for your vacation simple.
Hamanasi Resort in Hopkins provides luxurious suites and bungalows with private terraces that overlook the sea, providing convenient access to beaches, reefs, Mayan ruins, and other natural landmarks in Hopkins.
Muy-Ono Resort in Hopkins provides cozy yet spacious rooms designed with comfort and style in mind, including tropical cabanas and suites as well as all-inclusive packages that include room, food, transportation, and activities.
Funky Dodo Backpackers Hostel provides budget-minded travelers with an alternative accommodation option in its family-friendly hostel, featuring dormitory-style rooms to private rooms as well as an informal common area to make friends easily. Situated conveniently nearby, its central location makes exploring other areas easy on foot or bicycle.
Coconut Row Boutique Hotel provides budget-conscious visitors with affordable lodging in Hopkins. This eco-friendly guest house features ocean views, free Wi-Fi access, and an infinity-edge pool – proximity to restaurants, shops and grocery stores also makes this lodging choice attractive.
3. Food
Hopkins may be small, but that doesn’t stop it from boasting an array of excellent restaurants and bars. From pizza to coconut-crusted fish to vegetarian fare; most meals draw upon Garifuna culture with popular items including Hudut (fish stew) and Cassava Bread dishes.
Beachgoers and snorkelers looking for quick bites while snorkeling or scuba diving will find plenty of eateries offering seafood, Central American and Caribbean cuisine, live music or drumming performances, open to the public – many are located at Muy’Ono Resort where most serve fresh ingredients harvested directly from its farm.
Hopkins offers plenty of dessert spots to satisfy your sweet tooth, from formal settings to thatch roof shacks or family businesses. Many also serve Belizean rum mixed with ginger beer – you can sample this delectable beverage at Rhum Shack, Love on the Rocks, Ella’s Cool Spot or Chef Rob’s Gourmet Cafe for example.
Guava jelly, made from fermented and boiled guava fruit, is another beloved treat made locally and served with butter and ice cream. Kids of all ages will surely enjoy its delectable and healthy goodness! Other sweet options worth trying include wangla (Belizean candy made of sugar and sesame seeds) or chile verde which consists of mashed fried green beans mixed with lime and peppers.
Hopkins is renowned as a fishing village and serves up some delicious seafood dishes. You can indulge in lobster and conch at Love on the Rocks or Ella’s Cool Spot restaurants or an exciting boat tour to spot marine life or snorkel off its protected, UNESCO-listed barrier reef.
Village life in Garifuna is known for its arts and crafts. There’s even a community Garifuna drumming school offering lessons to visitors as well as local children. Additionally, you’ll discover numerous locally made handicrafts that make great souvenirs back home for friends and family members!
4. Safety
No matter if you are traveling alone or with children, safety should always be top of mind when planning a visit to Hopkins. As this village is home to the Garifuna community, their rich heritage can be seen everywhere you turn. Although the village offers some upscale resorts, restaurants, and beach bars for accommodation purposes, its atmosphere remains one of an authentic coastal town with welcoming locals.
Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize City offers flights that land directly at Hopkins. Once there, you have three transportation options to get there: shuttle or taxi ride; rental car from either Dangriga or Philip Goldson itself and driving; taking the bus is another possibility; however many all-inclusive hotels include transport as part of their travel packages.
Hopkins offers visitors many attractions, with beautiful beaches and snorkeling and diving the Southern Barrier Reef being its primary draws. Additionally, you may wish to venture further afield and visit islands, coral cayes, or marine reserves nearby for even more exciting trips – between March and June, it may even be possible to spot whale sharks!
Garifuna culture is an appealing draw for many visitors to Hopkins, and you can easily experience it here. Join drumming and dance classes or learn about traditional Garifuna cuisine such as Hudut and Bundiga dishes (fish stew with plantains and cassava bread).
Outdoor adventure seekers can hike in nearby national parks or visit ancient Mayan ruins. Additionally, this village makes an excellent place for shopping handmade gifts like wood carvings, Garifuna hats, handbags and jewelry – not to mention plenty of friendly faces to say hi!
If you’re feeling adventurous, Davis Falls provides an exciting zip lining or kayaking adventure just a short drive from Hopkins. At this open-air cenote, you can slide down its sheer limestone walls for an exhilarating ride down its waterfall.
An unforgettable family-friendly vacation to Hopkins is essential if you want a slice of paradise. Hopkins boasts unspoiled beaches, friendly locals and rich cultural offerings that will create lifelong memories. So make plans now to experience Hopkins! Anywhere’s Local Experts can assist with customizing an itinerary specifically tailored for your trip needs in Belize.
