Caye Caulker – ever heard of it? No? Well, luckily for you this is a judge-free zone and I’m here to tell you more about this beautiful Caribbean island.
Caye Caulker is located a short ferry ride off the small central American country of Belize. It’s a beachgoer’s and diver’s dream destination! And let’s not forget about the beautiful mangrove forests and birdlife too. This one’s for outdoor enthusiasts and ornithologists alike.
More importantly, I’m here to provide you with some of the best hostels in Caye Caulker. These options are the best out there. So now, all you need to do is book that flight!
Whether you’re heading off on a diving retreat, are a solo backpacker seeking your next thrill, or are a travelling couple, there’s something for you on this list.
Let’s dive in! (Not into the crystal clear waters of the Belize Barrier Reef, just yet.)
Quick Answer: The Best Hostels in Caye Caulker
- Best Overall Hostel in Caye Caulker – Tropical Oasis
- Most Affordable Hostel in Caye Caulker – Bella’s Backpackers
- Best Hostel with Private Rooms in Caye Caulker – Sophie’s Guest Rooms
What to Expect from Hostels in Caye Caulker
Almost everyone who’s travelling to Belize finds themselves in Caye Caulker. It’s important to note that Caye Caulker is a SMALL ISLAND! For this reason, hostel options on the island are quite limited, but they do exist.
Now, as a fellow traveller myself, I will always try and find the most affordable accommodation option while on the road. Accommodation can be one of the biggest costs when travelling and can completely destroy your budget.
That’s where hostels come in! They’re generally the most cost-effective accommodation type and are also a great way to meet fellow travellers – if you want to.
Hostels are usually the best place for backpackers to stay, and Caye Caulker is no exception to the rule. Backpacking and hostel life come hand in hand.
As I mentioned before, Caye Caulker is an amazing diving and beach holiday destination. Probably the best place to stay in Belize, to be honest.
Because the vibe is centred on the ocean and beaches, think more along the line of long beach days and exploring the local reefs and underwater paradise that is the Belize Barrier Reef. Evenings are for sunset beers and cocktails and having a locally-inspired Caribbean dinner.
The inverse is also true here – smaller dorm with better amenities, higher price. You can expect to pay around $13 – $17 for a dorm bed and about $30 – $45 for a private room.
Finding and booking a hostel has never been easier thanks to Hostelworld. The hostel options are listed on their site and you can easily browse the various options, search and filter amenities, see photos of the hostel, and ultimately book your bed or room. I also really like Booking.com as an alternative site. 🙂
So, now that we’ve got the nitty-gritty out the way, let’s get cracking!
Best Hostels in Caye Caulker
As I mentioned before, hostel options in Caye Caulker are super limited but do exist. I’ve found you the two best options on this small but gorgeous Caribbean island that will more than meet your accommodation expectations.
Here they are!
Tropical Oasis – Best Overall Hostel in Caye Caulker
My pick for the best overall hostel in Caye Caulker for 2024 is (insert drum roll here)…Tropical Oasis! Why have I given it this prestigious title, you ask? Well, quite frankly, it ticks all the boxes.
It’s got that real rustic, laidback kind of feel that epitomizes the Caye Caulker lifestyle. And, to be honest, this is not just one of the best hostels in Caye Caulker, it’s one of the best hostels in Belize!
Do you know that sand-between-the-toes, hammock-chilling, beers-around-the-evening-barbecue feeling? Well, that’s why. To support this laidback, rustic feel, Tropical Oasis has all the amenities you’ll need to ensure you have both a comfortable and connected stay.
I’m talking about free Wi-Fi, safety lockers in every room, a fully equipped kitchen, and even an epic outdoor barbecue area.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Small, intimate vibe
- Epic outdoor kitchen to rustle up meals
- The rustic feel and laidback vibe
Furthermore, guests of Tropical Oasis will benefit from its amazing location on Caye Caulker. The beach is close by, the local supermarket is around the corner, and one of the favourite hang-out spots, The Lazy Lizard, is conveniently located. The local water taxi is also only a few blocks away so getting to and from the hostel from the mainland is easy.
The hostel can also arrange fishing trips in the nearby Caribbean waters, snorkelling outings, kayak rentals, and kneeboard and tubing adventures. Stock up on time here, you may need to alter your Belize itinerary and extend a few more nights… I did. You can be sure that there’s not going to be any shortage of fun when staying at Tropical Oasis!
Bella’s Backpackers – Most Affordable Hostel in Caye Caulker
When it comes to the most affordable hostel in Caye Caulker, the obvious choice is Bella’s Backpackers. Located on the backside of the island, Bella’s Backpackers also has that chilled, island feel to it. It’s a short stroll from the picturesque Caribbean Sea and has unparalleled sunset views over the lake out back.
The hostel is also family-run which is really put across into the hostel as you feel very much at home when staying there. It feels super safe and the best part – it’s the most affordable hostel on the island!
The hostel also offers free canoes to all of its guests to use. That’s right, FREE CANOES! Go wild and paddle on the lagoon and capture that Instagram-worthy sunset from the water. Thank me later!
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Backyard Sunday Funday
- Great places to chill
- A short stroll from the Caribbean Sea
Aside from these already attractive offerings, Bella’s Backpackers also has a whole host of amenities on offer that make this affordable hostel even better. There are barbecue facilities, there is a fully-equipped kitchen, and of course, free Wi-Fi and internet access.
Last but not least, the backyard Sunday Funday is not to be missed. So, make sure you’re there over the weekend, and more importantly, Sunday! Think backyard barbecue, beers, and beats – it’s time to get a bit social on the island.
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View on Osprey View on REISophie’s Guest Rooms – Best Hostel with Private Rooms in Caye Caulker
It is important to note that Sophie’s Guest Rooms is more of a budget beachside hotel than it is a hostel. However, it offers many of the same amenities that a hostel does and definitely has more of a laid-back, hostel feel to it. There are a total of five rooms available, with four of them budget and one having slightly more amenities to offer.
Although Sophie’s is located on the quiet end of the town, the ever-popular Lazy Lizard is close by so there is no shortage of partying and good times to be had. However, if you’re looking for some wild parties, then Sophie’s is not the place for you.
Why you’ll love this hostel:
- Close to the beach and the Lazy Lizard
- Private rooms that can sleep up to 3 people
- Amazing sunset photo ops
Aside from its great offering of amenities, Sophie’s is highly attractive because of its limited number of rooms. This means that it’s not as wild and busy, making it a great place for those looking for a more relaxed island vibe.
The private rooms also make it a great option for couples or friends sharing to have something a bit more secluded than a dorm room. The rooms also sleep up to three people and make use of both a double and single bed – perfect for families who are travelling with a child.
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Hide Yo’ Money!Other Budget Accommodation in Caye Caulker
Now, because the Caye Caulker hostel offering is a bit slim, I’ve included a couple of other budget accommodation options that might interest you.
Popeyes Beach Resort Caye Caulker
Location, location, location – that is the major drawcard when it comes to Popeyes Beach Resort. The resort is a short walk to the beach, water taxis, bars, restaurants, and snorkel day trips. It is important to note that Popeyes Beach Resort is not a hostel but another option for budget accommodation on Caye Caulker.
That being said, the amenities and attractions don’t stop there! Every room has a modern AC unit to keep you cool during those hot summers as well as a beachfront pool to dip in.
There are a few different room types available, starting around $44 for the basic double-bed private room with an en suite. The rooms all have free Wi-Fi, linen, and towels included so all you need to do is rock up and enjoy the island life!
Go Slow Guesthouse
The Go Slow Guesthouse runs much the same way as a hostel does, but it’s just not referred to as one. There are both dorm and private rooms available, starting at around $20 a night for a dorm. This puts it in the same ballpark as a hostel but without the party association.
Now one of the best parts about Go Slow Guesthouse is it’s a short distance to the beach (and the Belize Barrier Reef)! If you have a strong arm, you can literally throw a stone from the accommodation and land it on the beach.
There are also barbecue facilities on offer, free Wi-Fi, linen and towels, and private parking. The accommodation also has a garden and a terrace and has a very spacious feel about it.
What to Pack for your Caye Caulker Hostel
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
Trust us, this is an absolute game changer. Super compact, a hanging mesh laundry bag stops your dirty clothes from stinking, you don’t know how much you need one of these… so just get it, thank us later.
Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
Forget about Poker! Monopoly Deal is the single best travel card game that we have ever played. Works with 2-5 players and guarantees happy days.
Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
Always travel with a water bottle! They save you money and reduce your plastic footprint on our planet. The Grayl Geopress acts as a purifier AND temperature regulator. Boom!
Check out my definitive Hostel Packing list for even more top hostel packing tips!
Caye Caulker Hostels FAQs
You might regret not asking that question when you had the chance! Find out all the necessary information beforehand on places like the US Travel Advisory so that it doesn’t cost you in the long run.
Here are a few of the FAQs I’ve come across:
How much do hostels in Caye Caulker cost?
Depending on the offering, hostels can set you back between $13 and $17 for a dorm room and around $30 – $35 for a private room. Other budget accommodations will set you back around the same price ($30 – $45) for a room.
What are the best hostels in Caye Caulker for couples?
Popeyes Beach Resort is an ideal budget accommodation for couples in Caye Caulker. It is clean, beachfront and centrally located, and with a pool.
What is the best hostel in Caye Caulker near the airport?
Bella’s Backpackers is the most affordable hostel that offers an airport shuttle service for an additional fee, near the Caye Caulker Municipal Airport.
Don’t Forget Insurance When Visiting Caye Caulker!
TravelliHow much do hostels in Caye Caulker cost?ng without insurance is stupid. Don’t be stupid. You’re not stupid.
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
Final Thoughts on Hostels in Caye Caulker
Caye Caulker is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a little island getaway. The birdlife is amazing, the weather is great outside of hurricane season, and of course, the beaching and diving are second to none.
Along with this, the hostel offerings on the island are slim but the ones that are available are both affordable and authentic. Along with the other budget accommodation offerings, they are designed to attract solo travellers, digital nomads, and couples alike.
I personally had a great time at Bella’s Backpackers because I met the most lovely people there, it’s a very social hostel and I would recommend it for that reason.
If it’s a party hostel and the vibe that you’re after, the Caye Caulker might not be your best option. Rather seek out another location in the Caribbean (hint – there are plenty of party hubs!).
Whichever hostel or accommodation option you pick, you can rest easy knowing you will have something decent that isn’t going to break the bank. After all, we all want to travel as far and as wide as we can and spend the least cash possible.
I hope that this guide helps you to find your perfect Caye Caulker hostel or other budget accommodation option. And by all means, if there’s a new spot that I’ve missed or any other information about the island, be sure to let me know!
Safe travels!
- Check out our extensive guide to backpacking in Belize for a wealth of info!
- Check out the best places to stay in Belize before you arrive.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.Â
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
