Matt Weidert
Tobacco Caye is a beautiful, palm-fringed island located off the coast of Belize. Known for its shallow reef with brilliant water colors, this small island offers a serene retreat with excellent opportunities for fishing, swimming, and snorkeling.
Anchoring and Mooring Information at Tobacco Caye
Anchoring at Tobacco Caye is best done to the west of the island in 5-10 feet of water. While the area has a lot of seagrass, it’s important to look for sandy patches to ensure good holding. Reports from cruisers suggest that holding in sandy patches is excellent, even in winds of 20-25 knots. However, it’s worth noting that the island itself doesn’t provide much protection from winds, though the reef does help to calm the waves. If the weather deteriorates, you can seek better shelter in the well-protected lagoon at Man O War Cay, which is just two miles away.
Things to Do at Tobacco Caye, Belize
Tobacco Caye is an ideal destination for those looking to relax or explore the underwater world. The island is small, home to around 15 local families, and offers a few vacation cabins for visitors. The resort on the island, Reef's End Lodge, provides additional accommodation and dining options, making it a comfortable spot for a laid-back getaway.
- Snorkeling and Diving: The reef surrounding Tobacco Caye is just minutes away, offering excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. The vibrant coral formations and diverse marine life make it a popular spot for underwater exploration. For those looking for more adventure, Island Divers, located nearby, offers dive trips to the famous wreck of the Lesleen-M, a 165-foot freighter sunk to create an artificial reef, as well as Rosamond's Trench.
- Fishing: The waters around Tobacco Caye are known for great fishing. Local guides can offer trips, or you can try your luck fishing directly from your anchored boat.
- Relaxation: If you’re looking for something more laid-back, you can simply enjoy the island’s beaches, palm trees, and tranquil atmosphere. The small community on the island is friendly, and there are opportunities to meet travelers from around the world.
Practical Information
While Tobacco Caye offers a beautiful setting, it’s important to be aware of some practical considerations:
- Moorings: Be cautious of the quality of mooring anchor cables. Some older reviews suggest tethering directly to the anchor if there is any doubt about the mooring’s condition.
- Environmental Considerations: The island is small and can feel a bit crowded, especially during peak tourist times. Despite this, efforts are made to protect the local environment, including following strict fishing regulations and managing waste carefully.
- Facilities: The island is relatively basic in terms of facilities. Most accommodations are simple, and the island runs generators only at night. There is a small supermarket for basic provisioning, but it’s recommended to stock up on essentials before arriving.
- Dining: The Reef's End Lodge has a bar and restaurant that serves visitors. Other dining options may be available depending on the season and the number of visitors on the island.
For more information on staying at the resort, you can visit Tobacco Caye’s official website and Reef's End Lodge.
