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Coconut
Tree |
Hopkins is a small Garifuna village located on the coast,
eight miles south of Dangriga town. Hopkins is an excellent
place to experience Garifuna culture, and the people of
the village are more than willing to share their traditions
with you. The Garinagu came to Belize in 1832, originally
from the island of St. Vincent. Also known as “Black
Caribs”, they are a mixture of Arawak Indians, Caribs
and Africans. The Garifuna in Hopkins still use dug out
canoes for fishing, and weave their own nets. Fishing is
a major economic activity, while tourism is on the increase.
In Hopkins, visitors can enjoy the Garifuna food and dance,
as well as distinct drum music, arts and crafts.
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Child
Riding on Hopkins Road |
This sleepy village is accessible by a partially paved road,
going east off the Southern Highway (be on the lookout for
coastal birds). There are several places to stay in the
village, mostly small guesthouses and bed & breakfasts.
The larger resorts are located just south of the village,
near Sittee Point.
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Hopkins
Beach |
The area is quiet, without crowds. The beach sand is golden
brown, and swimming is good almost anywhere offshore. It’s
possible to sit on the beach without sharing too much of
the sun, as there are few people in sight. Pelicans and
seagulls share the mood of peace and tranquility, yet action
and adventure can be found nearby. The barrier reef is just
thirty minutes away by boat, with even closer spots for
snorkeling, fishing and diving. Glover’s Atoll is
directly east of Hopkins. Thirty minutes in the opposite
direction are options of moderate to strenuous hikes on
jungle trails, waterfalls, and the only Jaguar Preserve
in the world. Hopkins Day is also celebrated annually, with
lots of food and entertainment. It is usually held in August.
Getting to Hopkins is easy, either by road or by plane.
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Seagulls
on Hopkins Pier |
It is also accessible by boat. The road to Hopkins from
the Southern Highway is a quick 10-minute drive, with most
of the road newly paved. There are several flights a day
from Belize City to Dangriga, and resorts in Hopkins can
arrange road transfers from Dangriga.
Places nearby: 
Interests:
