Hopkins
Hopkins is a small and peaceful town on the Caribbean's central coast. It has a long and beautiful beach strip, a large freshwater lagoon, and a Garifuna population committed to preserving its traditions. Hopkins has a population of slightly more than 1,000 people. The town's main road is quite extensive and runs along the coast. Because the road is ballast and bumpy, many people prefer to travel by bicycle or golf cart, both of which can be rented in the village.
The majority of the hotels, guest houses, and restaurants are located along the coast, with luxury resorts on the outskirts of town. The beach is, of course, the main draw here. With nearly 5 miles (8 kilometers) of sand, visitors can unwind under one of the many palm trees that line the coast. The beaches near most hotels are cleaned regularly. Hopkins is distinguished from other Belizean beach towns by its strong Garifuna cultural presence. You can hear Garifuna drums echoing throughout town, and those interested in percussion can take private lessons or join percussion groups with one of the drum masters.
You can also sample Garifuna cuisine at Hopkins. Inquire at your hotel about the restaurant that serves the local specialties. The most popular tours departing from Hopkins are snorkeling and diving in the Cayos Aguas del Sur Marine Reserve, as well as kayaking tours through the extensive freshwater lagoon north of town, which is home to crocodiles, birds, and other wildlife.
Hopkins is also close to the Mayflower Bocawina National Park, where you can go on a canopy tour, swim in waterfalls, hike through the jungle, and explore some simple Mayan ruins. Day trips to any of these locations are simple to plan and convenient for Hopkins residents.
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Location: On the Coast of Stann Creek, Belize