This is my first in what I hope are a number of features profiling small private island boutique resorts. Given the prevalence of sprawling “depersonalized” resorts in popular tourist areas I think it’s important to highlight these specialty resorts which offer a more authentic and environmentally friendly travel experience.

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In 1977 Cully Erdman created Slickrock. Back then it was a small kayak school in Colorado. In the 1980s the company expanded to Belize. Along with Lucy Wallingford they created the Belize trips that they continue to run to this day. Today Slickrock emphasizes adventure travel offering everything from windsurfing instruction, to cave exploration and PADI certification.

Recently Belize has experienced significant development, particularly around its costal private islands. Slickrock was quick to take advantage of growing interest in private islands and purchased a private island in an uncrowded area of Belize’s Marine system. Slickrock purchased Long Caye an idyllic 5 acre island that sits Glover’s Reef a UNESCO world heritage site. The island is perched on the brink of the continental shelf, on the slender coral ring in the middle of the Caribbean Sea putting it in the heart of one of the world’s best diving locations.

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The owners have developed the island to maintain its rustic, tropical charm all while providing comfortable accommodations. Rather than large villas or hotels, guests stay in small thatched roof cabanas with porches that overlook the pounding serf. Its open air kitchen is the centre of community life and with approximately 30 guests and 6 staff it truly feels like a community. Solar power electric system, along with thorough bug control, are just a few of the “extras” you will not find on other adventure tours.

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The facilities and setting are world class, making Long Caye a spectacular setting for both adventure and relaxation. Staff provide high-quality equipment and instruction so you can take to the water for thrilling sea kayaking, windsurfing and of course world class snorkeling and diving that is just a few yards off shore. The underwater environment is teaming with life, harboring everything from flamingo snails, to powerful spotted eagle rays.

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There is no substitute for having your own island. However, Long Caye at Glover’s Reef rivals even the best private islands and private island resorts. When traveling all the way to Caribbean islands, make the extra effort to visit an island that has maintained its Caribbean charm. Visiting these resorts reduces your ecological footprint and is environmentally and socially responsible.

I just wanted to thank the staff at Slickrock for all of their help with this article. If you would like to book your own adventure click here: