Secret Beach is San Pedro's most famous destination, and it's only accessible by golf cart or water taxi. Here's your complete guide. Need a cart? See Secret Beach golf cart rental.
What is Secret Beach?
The Basics
- Location: West side of Ambergris Caye
- Distance from town: 7 miles north
- Drive time: 25-35 minutes
- Setting: Shallow, calm, Caribbean waters
- Vibe: Laid-back beach paradise
Why It's Special
- Crystal clear water
- Shallow for hundreds of yards
- Famous water swings
- Multiple beach bars
- Stunning sunsets
- Safe for families
- Instagram-worthy scenery
Getting There by Golf Cart
The Route
From San Pedro Town:
- Head north on Front Street
- Continue past town limits
- Follow main coastal road
- Watch for "Secret Beach" signs
- Turn west at marked intersection
- Follow dirt road to beach
Road Conditions:
- Paved to turn-off point
- Dirt road final 2 miles
- Paving work is under way in 2026 (what's changing on the road)
- Generally well-maintained
- Bumpy sections possible
- Slow down for rough spots
Timing Your Visit
Best Times:
- Weekday mornings: Least crowded
- Weekends: More party atmosphere
- Sunset (4-6 PM): Most stunning
- Avoid: Busy holidays
Time Investment:
- 30 min drive each way
- 2-4 hours beach time
- Minimum: 3 hours total
- Recommended: Full afternoon
What to Bring
Essentials
- Sunscreen (reapply often!)
- Cash (most places)
- Swimsuit & cover-up
- Sunglasses
- Hat
- Beach towel
Recommended
- Waterproof phone case
- Snorkel gear (some bars have)
- Change of clothes
- Cooler with drinks
- Camera
- Dry bag
Not Needed
- Food (bars have great food)
- Large umbrella (rentals available)
- Too much stuff (keep simple)
Beach Bars Guide
Blue Bayou
Atmosphere: Relaxed family vibe Features: Food, drinks, swings Best for: Lunch and swimming Price: $$
Legends Beach Resort
Atmosphere: Upscale casual Features: Pool, bar, restaurant Best for: Day pass experience Price: $$$
Wet Willy's
Atmosphere: Party central Features: Live music, events Best for: Afternoon fun Price: $$
Secret Paradise
Atmosphere: Quiet retreat Features: Hammocks, calm area Best for: Relaxation Price: $$
Sunset Beach Bar
Atmosphere: Laid-back local Features: Great views, swings Best for: Sunset cocktails Price: $$
Activities
Swimming
- Shallow water perfect for kids
- Walk out hundreds of yards
- Still knee-deep water
- Crystal clear visibility
- Safe and calm
Swings
- Multiple bars have them
- Iconic photo opportunity
- Various styles
- Best at high tide
- Queue during busy times
Relaxing
- Lounge chairs (rent or free with order)
- Hammocks available
- Shaded palapa areas
- Beach blankets work great
Eating & Drinking
- Full restaurant menus
- Fresh seafood
- Tropical cocktails
- Local beer
- Reasonable prices
Photos
- Swing shots
- Sunset pictures
- Drone allowed (check)
- GoPro water shots
- Group photos
Golf Cart Tips
Parking
- Designated cart areas
- Free parking
- Attend your cart
- Don't leave valuables
- Shade if possible
Fuel Considerations
- Full tank easily makes multiple trips
- Excellent fuel efficiency
- Rarely need refueling during rental
- Plan long trips accordingly
- We provide roadside assistance if needed
During Visit
- Check on cart periodically
- Keep belongings locked
- Wipe sand off before sitting
- Shake out towels
- Clean feet before entering
Cost Expectations
Food & Drinks
- Beer: $3-5
- Cocktails: $6-10
- Lunch: $10-18
- Snacks: $5-12
Amenities
- Chair rental: $5-10 or free with purchase
- Locker rental: $5-10
- Snorkel gear: $10-15
- Paddleboard: $20-30
Total Budget
- Minimum: $30 per person
- Comfortable: $50-80 per person
- Splurge: $100+ per person
Insider Tips
Timing
- Arrive before 11 AM for best spots
- Stay for sunset (worth it!)
- Weekdays less crowded
- Full moon parties monthly
Money
- Bring enough cash
- Some places accept cards
- ATM in town only
- Round up for tips
Comfort
- Apply sunscreen before arrival
- Reapply every 2 hours
- Stay hydrated (drink water)
- Seek shade regularly
- Bring hat and sunglasses
Photography
- Morning light best for blues
- Sunset for golden hour
- Swings at high tide
- Drone for aerials
- GoPro for water shots
Family-Friendly Info
For Kids
- Safe shallow water
- Easy swimming
- Kid-friendly menus
- Bathrooms available
- Changing facilities
For Babies
- Bring shade umbrella
- Pack extra diapers
- Change of clothes
- Water temperature perfect
- Easy cart access
Couples' Experience
Romantic Elements
- Stunning sunsets
- Quiet morning spots
- Swing photos together
- Beachside cocktails
- Sunset dinner
Best Spots
- Corner hammocks
- End bar swings
- Sunset view tables
- Private beach areas
Party Scene
When It's Busy
- Weekends
- Holidays
- Events and concerts
- Full moon parties
- Spring break
Party Bars
- Wet Willy's (most lively)
- Blue Bayou (afternoon)
- Various events
- Live music common
Return Journey
Timing Sunset
- Allow 30-40 min return
- Before full dark better
- Headlights work
- Road clear at night
- Take your time
Evening Plans
- Dinner in town
- Rest at hotel
- Night activities
- Early bed (beach tiring!)
Alternative Access
Water Taxi
- Available but pricey
- Schedule dependent
- Less flexible
- No storage
- Group rates available
Golf Cart Advantage
- Go anytime
- Stay as long as wanted
- Bring everything
- Stop anywhere
- Explore en route
Nearby Attractions
Along the Way
- North Island resorts
- Beach bars and restaurants
- Photo stops
- Local neighborhoods
- Other beaches
Extended Trip
- Combine with north tour
- Multiple beach stops
- Lunch + Secret Beach
- Full day adventure
Safety Considerations
Beach Safety
- Watch belongings
- Don't swim alone
- Know your limits
- Stay hydrated
- Respect ocean
Drive Safety
- Slow on dirt roads
- Watch for others
- Drive defensively
- Use lights evening
- Charge fully first
Real Visitor Experiences
"Secret Beach was our favorite day! Having the golf cart meant we explored the whole north island too." - Adventurous Couple
"Kids loved the shallow water and swings. Easy drive, worth every minute!" - Family of Four
"Sunset at Secret Beach with our cart parked nearby = perfection" - Romantic Travelers
Your Secret Beach Adventure Awaits
Book your golf cart and experience San Pedro's most famous beach your way!
Planning a Secret Beach trip? Call +501 673-4454 for route tips and recommendations.
Secret Beach isn't so secret anymore, but it's still spectacular. Go discover why!
