The Changing Face of Ambergris Caye

Let’s face it—Ambergris Caye has been evolving ever since the first visitor set foot on our sandy shores. From the moment the Holiday Hotel opened its doors, Coral Beach Dive Shop offered its first tour, Elvi’s Kitchen served its first plate of food, and Tropic Air made its inaugural landing, the island has been on a journey of transformation. Change has been inevitable as more and more people discovered our paradise and decided to keep coming back.

We can’t expect our quaint island to stay the same when we all desire the conveniences of modern life. Whether it’s the coffee shops we can’t live without, the latest Samsung or iPhone, sushi for dinner, or the variety at our grocery stores, our lives have naturally expanded, and so has Ambergris Caye. Air-conditioning to beat the heat is no longer a luxury but a necessity for many of us.

Yes, the changes on Ambergris Caye come with their challenges—more traffic, congestion, noise pollution, and larger buildings than we ever imagined. But here’s the thing: San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, is still incredibly BEAUTIFUL! Downtown San Pedro may not be the quiet, sleepy village it once was, but that’s because we’re striving to meet the demands of a growing community and the tourists who support our livelihoods. The hustle and bustle are signs of progress, of a place that continues to thrive and grow.

Is Ambergris Caye the Same Place it was Before…

I often see comments online like, “I miss San Pedro. It’s sad it’s gotten so populated,” or “The island has changed so much; it’s not the same place I remember.” And while it’s true that San Pedro has changed a lot, it’s still La Isla Bonita—our beloved island by the Caribbean Sea, with its swaying palm trees, aquamarine waters, hammock-filled beaches, and the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

Don’t get me wrong, I get nostalgic too. I remember my childhood here with fondness—sandy, empty streets, the gentle hum of the generator that powered our small wooden homes, and a simple, peaceful way of life. I miss the old landmarks: Jaguars Night Club is being torn down, Ruby’s Hotel (now The Caye Hotel), the original Pedro’s Inn is gone, BC’s Bar turned into El Diamante, Alaia Belize reshaping Mar de Tumbo, and Heritage Bank replacing the Barrier Reef Hotel. These changes tug at my heartstrings, but they’re also part of the island’s story—a story of growth, adaptation, and resilience.

– the old Ruby’s Hotel/Cafe is no more – new modern hotel takes its place

– the iconic Barrier Reef Hotel was replaced years ago by the new Heritage Bank building

Let’s face it—Ambergris Caye isn’t the same as it was years ago, and that’s okay. We have our challenges with development, but this island remains La Isla Bonita, our paradise. The beauty that first captured the hearts of visitors and residents alike is still here. Just head to the beach at sunrise, dig your toes into the sand, step into the crystal-clear water, and exhale. Ambergris Caye is still home, still magical, still the place we fell in love with.

– pic by Kirian Vasquez – REMAX Island Realestate 

For more nostalgic pictures/stories of old Ambergris Caye Visit our Flashbacks Page