Choosing a beach in Belize is rather difficult - you can't select a bad one! There are over 180 miles of sandy, sunny coastline to choose from with more than 400 cayes offshore, the majority of which are deserted. So while it's impossible to choose the 'best' beach in Belize here are three great spots to lay down a towel and catch some sun:-
Placencia
At the end of a peninsula in southern Belize, this rustic settlement sits on 5 kilometres of soft, white beach. The warm Caribbean water is crystal clear, as is your view of the Cockscomb Mountains. String up a hammock between coconut palms, play in the waves or saunter over to the lagoon side of the peninsula and try to spot manatee!
Hopkins
Even more low-key than Placencia, Hopkins is a quiet Garifuna fishing village with 3 kilometres of khaki sand that you'll probably have mostly to yourself. The beaches here provide arguably the best windsurfing in Belize and the diving is excellent. However, the easiest activity is sitting on a chair on the beach and enjoying the breathtaking views of the Maya Mountains, the bay, the rainforest or the endless blue horizon.
Ambergris Caye
There are several resorts on Ambergris Caye, but that has not spoiled the beaches at all. Shaggy green palms lean out over the sand as the turquoise surf gently laps at the shore. The spongy sea grass supports a multitude of marine life which means the snorkelling here is not to be missed. Despite the Caye's popularity, it's easy to be alone, just take a short walk down to the sand and you've got your own private beach!