Top 10 Things to Do in Hopkins, Belize
Top 10 Things to Do in Hopkins, Belize
Nestled between the Caribbean Sea and the lush Maya Mountains, Hopkins is a charming Garifuna village and one of Belize’s best destinations for culture, adventure, and nature. Whether you’re here for relaxation or exploration, Hopkins offers a mix of reef, rainforest, and rich traditions.
As a locally owned tour company in Hopkins, Belize, we’ve guided thousands of visitors to experience the very best our village and surrounding areas have to offer. Whether you’re here for adventure, culture, or relaxation, this guide highlights the Top 10 Things to Do in Hopkins Belize—activities you simply can’t miss on your trip.
1. Snorkeling at the Belize Barrier Reef
Just 14 miles offshore, the Belize Barrier Reef—the second largest in the world—is a snorkeler’s paradise. From Hopkins, you can take a half-day or full-day snorkeling tour to explore colorful coral gardens, swim alongside schools of tropical fish, and spot sea turtles, stingrays, and even nurse sharks. Crystal-clear waters make this an unforgettable experience for all ages.
Book your Barrier Reef Snorkeling tour today!
2. Reef Fishing Adventures
Belize is world-renowned for its fishing, and Hopkins is an excellent starting point. Local guides will take you out to the reef, where you can catch snapper, grouper, barracuda, and jacks. Many tours even include a “catch and cook” experience, where your fresh catch is grilled right on the beach.
Book your Belize fishing tour from Hopkins now!
3. Island Hopping Day Trips
Hopkins is the gateway to some of the most beautiful cayes in Southern Belize. Spend the day island hopping between postcard-perfect spots like South Water Caye, Tobacco Caye, King Lewey's Island or Moho Caye. Relax on sandy beaches, snorkel vibrant reefs, and enjoy a picnic lunch under swaying palms.
Experience Belize islands—reserve your Hopkins island hopping tour today!
4. Bioluminescent Night Tour
One of the most magical experiences in Hopkins is the bioluminescent tour in Anderson Lagoon. On moonless nights, the water glows as you move your hands or paddle a kayak, thanks to millions of tiny organisms called dinoflagellates. This natural phenomenon feels like swimming in a sea of stars.
Book your Bioluminescent Tour from Hopkins today! Please note this tour runs seasonally from December to May.
5. Sunset River Cruise
End your day with a tranquil river cruise along the Sittee River. As the sun dips behind the mountains, you’ll spot howler monkeys, iguanas, and exotic birds. Some tours also include cocktails or dinner onboard, making it the perfect romantic or family-friendly outing.
Reserve your Sunset River Cruise from Hopkins today!
6. Cockscomb Jaguar Preserve Waterfall & Jungle Hike
Located just 30 minutes from Hopkins, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is the world’s first jaguar reserve. Hike through lush jungle trails, cool off in refreshing waterfalls, and learn about Belize’s diverse flora and fauna. While jaguar sightings are rare, you’re likely to see tapir tracks, colorful birds, and butterflies.
Reserve your Jaguar Preserve Waterfalls & Jungle Hike from Hopkins today!
7. Explore Xunantunich Mayan Ruins
Take a day trip from Hopkins to one of Belize’s most iconic Maya sites, Xunantunich. Climb the towering El Castillo pyramid for sweeping views of the jungle and the Mopan River, with Guatemala visible in the distance. Guided tours bring the ancient history and myths of the Maya civilization to life.
Book your Xunantunich Mayan Ruins Tour from Hopkins today!
8. Cave Tubing at St. Herman’s Cave
Combine adventure and relaxation as you float through underground rivers at St. Herman’s Cave, part of the Blue Hole National Park. Equipped with a headlamp and inner tube, you’ll drift past stalactites, stalagmites, and crystal-clear pools in a truly otherworldly setting.
Float through Belize’s caves—reserve your Cave Tubing Tour from Hopkins!
9. Mayan Chocolate-Making Experience
Discover the ancient art of chocolate-making with a hands-on cultural tour. Visit a cacao farm or traditional workshop to see how cacao beans are roasted, ground, and transformed into delicious chocolate. You’ll get to taste everything from raw cacao to sweet chocolate drinks made the traditional way.
Reserve your Chocolate Making Tour from Hopkins today!
10. Garifuna Cultural Experience
Hopkins is considered the cultural capital of the Garifuna people, a UNESCO-recognized heritage group. Take part in drumming lessons, traditional cooking classes, or storytelling sessions. Learn how to prepare hudut (a coconut-based fish stew) and dance to the beat of live Garifuna drums—an authentic cultural immersion you’ll never forget.
Book your Garifuna Traditional Cooking Classes in Hopkins!
Plan Your Hopkins Belize Adventure
From the Caribbean Sea to the Maya Mountains, Hopkins truly has it all—marine adventures, jungle hikes, and unforgettable cultural experiences. Whether you’re here for a day or a week, these top 10 activities will make your Belize vacation extraordinary.
Book adventure tours from Hopkins with Julian Transfers & Tours for trusted service, local expertise, and experiences you’ll never forget.