Embarking on a journey to the tranquil shores of Hopkins in Belize is an exciting adventure. It all begins with your international flight landing at the Philip S. W. Goldson Airport in Ladyville, just nine miles north of bustling Belize City. Belize City serves as the country’s pivotal transportation center, acting as your gateway to the stunning beauty of Hopkins. Whether you’re starting from Belize City or the International Airport, an array of travel options awaits your selection.
For convenience, a taxi is the way to go – a straightforward albeit pricier choice. Recognizing licensed taxis is easy, thanks to their distinctive green license plates. With a simple wave, securing a taxi and discussing fares is a breeze. Taxi drivers are friendly and eager to take you across the entire country, Hopkins included.
While Hopkins lacks an airfield, multiple daily flights between Belize City and Dangriga (DGA) provide seamless connectivity. This swift aerial journey sets the stage, bridging the distance between the two locations. Once in Dangriga, you have the flexibility to choose taxis, buses, or even personal vehicles for the remaining leg of your trip.
The airborne voyage from Belize City to Dangriga takes just 15 minutes – a brief yet exhilarating experience. Subsequently, a 30-minute drive from Dangriga brings you to the serene embrace of Hopkins, ready to indulge in its coastal charm.
Belize’s well-established inter-city bus system makes traversing the country accessible. Beginning your journey in Belize City, look out for buses headed to the southeastern coastal town of Dangriga. This budget-friendly option comes at a nominal fee, though expect some crowding and intermittent stops along the route.
Plan for around three hours of travel from Belize City to Dangriga. There, you’ll switch buses for the final stretch to Hopkins. Two daily departures from Dangriga – at 12 noon and 5:00 PM – offer a convenient and economical route to the captivating shores of Hopkins.
Embarking on a picturesque road journey offers multiple paths to reach Hopkins by car. Some digital maps may suggest the Coastal Highway route, despite it not being along the coast. A notable 2023 update: the newly rebuilt Coastal Highway is now a prominent route to southern Belize, cutting about an hour from the drive to Hopkins.
Alternatively, opt for the older route via Belmopan. Begin on the George Price Highway, also known as the Western Highway. Transition to the Hummingbird Highway, leading to Dangriga. From there, the Southern Highway guides you to the Hopkins Road exit – a clear path into the heart of the village. Although this route adds an hour compared to the coastal option, it’s celebrated as the country’s most scenic highway, ensuring a captivating drive.
For a streamlined journey, consider Barefoot Services. They stand ready to arrange shuttle or private transfer services tailored to your preferences, including route choice. This promises a hassle-free and enjoyable voyage from Belize City to the captivating shores of Hopkins.