Belize Unplugged - A Digital Detox on Half Moon Caye, Lighthouse Reef

A digital detox is a term we are hearing more often. But what does this mean? It's a period during which a person refrains from using electronic devices such as smartphones or computers.

But why is it important for us to do this? Research says technology can be stressful and this is something that most people can relate to. It's harder than ever to switch off from work with the ever-present digital connection and constant need to keep checking emails, texts, and social media. Technology can also disrupt our sleep, has been linked to poor mental health and makes it harder to maintain a healthy work/life balance.

Taking time to refrain from using digital devices has shown to improve deeper connections with family and friends, better posture, clearer memory, more-efficient sleep and new perspectives to improve career relationships and health and fitness goals.

One of the easiest ways to go on a digital detox is on a vacation. In a new environment it’s much easier to step away from the daily routine, and set your mindset and email to ‘out of office’.

Belize is a fantastic location to experience a digital detox. Spend a carefree vacation here ignoring the outside world, surrounding yourself with family and friends and most importantly, looking after your mind, body and soul.

One of the most perfect and pristine locations in Belize to do this is on Half Moon Caye on Lighthouse Reef Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Fifty miles from the mainland, you’ll find empty beaches, untouched coral reef and the protected waters of Halfmoon Caye Marine Reserve providing exceptional snorkelling and diving in its clear waters.

Here are just a few of the incredible things to do on Half Moon Caye, that will make you forget all about those demanding emails and messages.

It's time to sign off, relax, and enjoy this incredible tropical Belizean paradise.

Get back to basics but with all the comforts.

Getting ‘back to basics’ is at the core of a digital detox. Experience simple living at our Lighthouse Reef Basecamp on Half Moon Caye. It’s about as perfect a tropical Island setting you could dream of, with serene beaches and awesome walk-in snorkelling sites. Sleep in a private beachside tent-cabana surrounded by a billion stars and the sound of waves from the Caribbean Sea. Stroll to the western end of this protected island where you will find a nesting colony of red-footed boobies and frigate birds croaking and squawking.

Lighthouse Reef Basecamp on Half Moon Caye

Fill the tech void

Everyone will love the variety of guided daytime activities offered at the Lighthouse Reef Basecamp, but especially for families looking to fill the 'tech void' for the kids!. Sea kayak or paddleboard to a shipwreck washed on the reef or snorkel the shallow waters of the ‘Aquarium’. Paddle and snorkel to the great ’Blue Hole’ of Jacques Cousteau fame.

In the evening, there will be no apps or TV shows, but evenings will be filled with the simple pleasure of beachcombing along the deserted western beaches of Half Moon Caye or enjoying an evening of Garifuna music, drums, dance and songs.

Snorkeling the Blue Hole

Namaste

We have certified yoga instructors at our Lighthouse Reef Basecamp on select departures during our season. A morning yoga sun salutation sequence is a great way to wake up, stretch out, and prepare for a day of exploring the reef.

Yoga at the Lighthouse Reef Basecamp on Half Moon Caye

Hammock time

The days are filled with adventures exploring Lighthouse Reef, but there's always time in the day to kick back in a hammock and relax with a good book!

Hammock time

Immerse into nature

It's easy to enjoy the benefits of immersing yourself in nature on Half Moon Caye. Studies have shown that time in nature is an antidote for stress. It can lower blood pressure and stress hormone levels, reduce nervous system arousal, enhance immune system function, increase self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and improve mood.

Take time to walk the trails and view the many species of birds that nest on the island, including a 4000 red-footed booby colony. The Belize Audubon Society has built a series of viewing platforms so you can observe the many nesting sites and get some great pictures.