We get asked this all the time. If you have registered for our free map, you will see that it is split into two different pieces: North and South Caye. You may ask yourself why? Well, no worries! I have the story.
What caused the split?
In 1961, Hurricane Hattie swept through the Caribbean. The most devastating of the hurricanes that occurred in 61', it is the reason that there are two parts to Caye Caulker. It swept through Caye Caulker and created what we so fondly refer to as "The Split."
Who uses the split today?
The Split has become quite a tourist spot for vacationers today. The Lazy Lizard is a bar that set up shop at the split many years ago. Serving lunch, dinner, and drinks, this bar is quite a destination for people all over the world to visit. It is the biggest attraction on the island due to its proximity to the water. The water is also mainly free of seaweed, so it is a beautiful spot to take a dip! A place to "Go Slow" and get a drink while on the island! Also, if you are feeling adventurous, I would recommend swimming to North Caye. You can take some water shoes and explore, or just have the satisfaction of making it across the current in the split.
North Caye
The North Caye of the island currently has limited power. The homes on the island are run on solar energy mostly although electrical lines started to show up in 2015. Most of the Caye is owned by one owner and is a nature preserve that you can visit and tour. IF you haven't, you can read my article on the North Caye Preserve to learn about how to see it.
South Caye
The Southern Caye is where the main village of Caye Caulker thrives. This village used to be a fishing village, and still has many fishermen that make a living that way; however, today, tourism is the number one moneymaker for their economy. This is the Caye you will more than likely be staying on during your stay. You can rent a kayak and paddle to North Caye if you want to!
All done here.
I think we are all done here! North and South Caye Caulker was split in 1961 when the Hattie Hurricane swept through the Caribbean. These two Cayes work harmoniously and have made the Lazy Lizard the biggest attraction for vacationers today. North Caye currently runs mostly on solar power but has a beautiful nature preserve that you can tour while vacationing. The Southern Caye is where the main village is and is more than likely where you will stay while visiting the beautiful island of Caye Caulker.