Discover St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park — Belize’s Inland Gem
- Craig Densham
- Dec 18
- 3 min read
Just two hours from Placencia, Belize’s rainforest reveals one of its best-kept secrets — a natural wonder where jungle, caves, and turquoise waters meet.
Adventure Awaits in the Heart of Belize
If you’ve heard of the Great Blue Hole off Belize’s coast, you’ll love its inland cousin — St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park, located just outside Belmopan. This lush 575-acre reserve offers a completely different adventure: crystal-blue cenotes, tropical hiking trails, ancient Mayan caves, and refreshing swimming holes surrounded by dense rainforest. It’s part of Belize’s protected Maya Mountains, managed by the Belize Audubon Society, making it both a natural and cultural treasure.
What Exactly Is St. Herman’s Blue Hole?
The “Blue Hole” here isn’t a massive ocean sinkhole — it’s a collapsed limestone cavern filled with sapphire-colored freshwater. Fed by an underground river system, it’s roughly 25 feet deep and 100 feet wide, creating the perfect natural pool to cool off after exploring the nearby cave systems. Locals and visitors love it for:
A quick, refreshing swim in turquoise water
Photography surrounded by lush tropical canopy
A peaceful, lesser-known alternative to the coastal Blue Hole
Explore St. Herman’s Cave and the Mayan Connection
Just a short walk from the swimming area lies St. Herman’s Cave, one of Belize’s most accessible ancient Mayan ceremonial sites. You can enter the cave with a guide and walk along lighted trails that reveal:
Ancient Mayan pottery shards and artifacts
Stalactites and stalagmites formed over thousands of years
The underground river system that connects to the Blue Hole itself
It’s a fascinating combination of archaeology and adventure, offering insight into how the ancient Maya viewed caves as sacred gateways to the underworld (“Xibalba”).
What to Do Inside the Park
Whether you’re here for adventure, relaxation, or photography, St. Herman’s offers a bit of everything:
Swim in the Blue Hole – Bring swimwear and water shoes.
Cave exploration – Choose from self-guided or guided spelunking tours.
Hiking trails – The park has several short jungle trails, great for birdwatching.
Picnic & relax – There are shaded picnic tables, restrooms, and changing areas.
Birdwatching – Keep your eyes open for toucans, motmots, and hummingbirds.
Getting There from Ocean Breeze Beach Resort
From Placencia, the trip to St. Herman’s Blue Hole takes about 2 hours by road — making it an excellent day trip during your stay at Ocean Breeze. Many of our guests combine this inland adventure with:
The Inland Blue Hole swim
A visit to Belize Zoo
Mayan ruins like Xunantunich or Cahal Pech
Our team can arrange a private, guided excursion that includes comfortable transportation, park entrance fees, a certified guide, and lunch.
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoes
Bathing suit & towel
Bug repellent & sunscreen
Camera (or waterproof phone case)
Curiosity for Belize’s natural wonders
Why Stay at Ocean Breeze Beach Resort for Your Blue Hole Adventure
Ocean Breeze is perfectly located for exploring both Belize’s reef and rainforest — the ultimate “Sea to Jungle” experience.
Start your day with a sunrise over the Caribbean, then venture inland to discover waterfalls, caves, and jungle trails. Return in the evening to:
A cocktail at Toucan Jack’s Tiki Bar
A dip in the pool or walk on the beach
A relaxing night in your ocean-view suite
When you stay at Ocean Breeze, every Belize adventure is just a booking away.
Experience Belize Beyond the Beach
Whether you’re chasing waterfalls, exploring caves, or simply soaking in Belize’s natural beauty, St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park offers an unforgettable inland escape. From the sea to the rainforest, Ocean Breeze Beach Resort makes it easy to experience the best of Belize — all from one perfect home base.
Plan Your Adventure
Book your stay today and ask our concierge about adding the St. Herman’s Blue Hole & Cave Tour to your itinerary.
Discover the ultimate seaside escape at Ocean Breeze Beach Resort — where comfort, Caribbean charm, and ocean views come together for an unforgettable stay.
👉 Read our Ultimate Belize Travel Guide for everything you need to know before you visit Belize.
👉 For more local tips, check out our Placencia Village Belize Travel Guide — your key to exploring the best of southern Belize.
About the Author
Craig Densham is the owner of Ocean Breeze Beach Resort, a boutique seaside resort in Placencia, Belize. With years of local experience and a passion for hospitality, Craig loves helping guests discover the best of Belize — from hidden beaches to authentic local cuisine. Follow Ocean Breeze Beach Resort on Facebook and Instagram for travel inspiration.
