Coastal Belize
Belize City is over 300 years old and serves as the main commercial area and seaport. It is the country’s biggest city, and is a mixture of colonial architecture, functional wooden buildings and historic cathedrals. Sights include the oldest Anglican cathedral in Latin America, St John’s, and Government House, the Belize City residence of the British Governor, built in 1814. Around 32km (20 miles) south of the city is Belize Zoo on the Western Highway, with more than 100 species of indigenous animals, including monkeys, jaguars and tapirs.
Cerros is located on the fringe of a beautiful expanse of blue-green water which is ideal for watersports. Across the bay is an archaeological site. Dangriga (Stann Creek) provides a good base for excursions to the offshore islands and nearby forests. Natural waterfalls can be seen at the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary situated at the foothills of the Maya Mountains. Close by lies the diving and snorkelling haven, Southwater Caye.
Placencia is a village situated at the tip of the 20km- (12 mile-) long Placencia peninsula. Its protected lagoon and sandy beaches make it an ideal place for fishing, swimming and sunbathing.
The fishing village of Punta Gorda is the southernmost outpost of Belize. 40km (25 miles) north of here off the Southern Highway is the Mayan ruin of Nim Li Punit, with the tallest carved stele in Belize.
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