Where to stay in Belize will depend on your budget and what you want to experience during your vacation. The country has various locations each offering a different side of Belize whether it is sand and beach, Maya ruins, immersive culture, jungle experience, fishing, diving, caves, total relaxation, soft and hard adventure. The country’s Caribbean coast, islands, and cayes are perfect for sand, sun, and sea activities. The mainland towns and villages are excellent for ecotourism adventure and jungle adventures. Belize is a medium-sized country so most tourists can get the opportunity to sample beach and jungle adventures in a small amount of time. Most of these hotels, inns, lodges and guesthouses are small, owner-operated places. Belize All-Inclusive Resorts can be found at the main tourist areas. On this page, we list only properties that we believe are the best choices in each category.
Are There Five Star Hotels In Belize? There are no 5 Star Hotels In Belize. One of the industry requirement for a 5 star hotel is that it must have a 24 hour restaurant. No Top Belize Hotel has this – yet. The most popular vacation spots in Belize are the islands (cayes)and where the Caribbean sea kisses the Belize coast: Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, remote coral atolls like Glover’s Reef and small cayes such as Tobacco Caye are also sought out by travelers who enjoy seclusion.
Placencia and Hopkins and Sitee River are the most visited coastal locations, these are located near each other in the Stann Creek District of Southern Belize. For popular jungle destinations, the Cayo District draws the most visitors, with the twin towns of San Ignacio and Santa Elena serving as its principal hub for ecotourism, while districts such as Orange Walk and Toledo draw a few visitors. Corozal is the least visited tourist destination but, like Western Belize, is popular with retirees and expats from Canada, the U.S. and, Europe.
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Top Ten Beach Resorts
Here are our picks for the Top 10 Beach Resorts in Belize. These are more upscale properties.
See why so many travelers make Cayo Espanto their resort of choice when visiting San Pedro. Providing an ideal mix of value, comfort and convenience, it offers a romantic setting with an array of amenities designed for travelers like you. As your “home away from home,” the resort rooms offer a flat screen TV, air conditioning, and a minibar, and getting online is easy, with free wifi available. Guests have access to a concierge and room service while staying at Cayo Espanto. In addition, Cayo Espanto offers a pool and free breakfast, which will help make your San Pedro trip additionally gratifying.During your visit, be sure to check out one of San Pedro’s popular tapas restaurants such as Casa Picasso and Red Ginger, all a short distance from Cayo Espanto Hotel. If you’re looking for something to do, Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a nice way to spend some time. Cayo Espanto Ambergris Caye Email: reservations@aprivateisland.com Tel: +1 888-666-4282
The Phoenix Resort is a beachfront luxury boutique resort located on Ambergris Caye, Belize. We are located on the beach in San Pedro, walking distance to just about every shop, bar, and restaurant you may want to visit. Red Ginger is our on-site restaurant that serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, & room service, in addition to brunch on weekends. We also have a pool bar and rooftop lounge that is available for special events. Sol Spa is our on-site day spa. Direct telephone: +501-226-2021
The unique layout of this premier resort provides the entire 1 bedroom, 2 bedroom and 3 bedroom condos with an unobstructed panoramic view of the second largest Barrier Reef! The residences are beautifully appointed with spacious, fully equipped kitchens. The living rooms and bedrooms have flat screens and all accommodations also have ipod docking, DVD and internet service. Concierge can arrange local flights, golf cart rentals, all tours including snorkeling, diving, fishing, sailing, mainland excursions, private charters, private chefs and babysitting. North Ambergris Caye – Telephone 501 280 4726
Experience the best of Belize on and offshore! Hamanasi is a naturally secluded, casually elegant eco-resort. Unwind in spacious private tree houses, beach front rooms and suites with AC, private porches and gorgeous hardwood furnishings. On property has a full service restaurant, bar, pool, lush gardens and a PADI 5-star Marine Facility. Onshore, explore Mayan ruins, Jaguar Preserve, caves, jungle rivers and rain forest waterfalls. Telephone +501-523-7073
Unique, Boutique, Romantic and Eco-friendly! Kick off your shoes and stroll amongst the natural vegetation, past the water features and onto the beach. Breathe in the fresh ocean air as you wander down the long pier to relax on the sun loungers under the thatched palapa, and gaze out over the barrier reef to the deep blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. Settle in and experience the uniqueness of the monolithic dome buildings and enjoy the romantic setting of your private veranda. When you are ready to explore, visit the friendly staff at the front desk to arrange tours or to use the complimentary bicycles, paddle boards and kayaks. Xanadu is a quiet, gorgeous, tropical resort away from the noisy downtown area. The staff is incredibly friendly and attentive. Not crowded, comfortable and quiet accommodations. Lush tropical vegetation placed perfectly. Staff is so helpful and attentive. Excursions well planned and many to choose from. Shark snorkel is very cool! Many great restaurants on the island. Ambergris Caye – Contact: info@xanaduislandresort.com – 011-501-226-2814
Of all the luxury resorts in Belize, Pelican Reef Villas Resort is undoubtedly one of the finest. Named one of the Best Small Hotels in Belize,it stands out among other Belize Island resorts with its beautiful natural environment and world-class Ambergris Caye luxury hotel features.Pelican Reef Villas Resort is an exclusive Belize resort property conveniently located 2.6 miles south of San Pedro on the island of Ambergris Caye. With only twenty-four suites we are one of the smallest and most exclusive hotels in Ambergris Caye. This ensures a personalized vacation experience that you won’t get from any other Ambergris Caye, Belize hotels. Come Experience Luxury! Swaying Palms, sandy beaches, and warm ocean breezes welcome you to Pelican Reef Villas. Experience unparalleled luxury, and service that is raising the standards, in one of our 2 or 3 bedroom villas. Pelican Reef Villas blends deluxe amenities and breath-taking views with a discreet location 2.6 Mls South of San Pedro to give your trip seclusion with real panache. The resort is far enough from town, so that is quiet and laid-back. Close enough to San Pedro that you can take a quick golf cart ride, although we found Pelican Reef had everything we needed: a terrific pool, nice snorkeling off the end of the pier, terrific hammocks to enjoy the breeze on the beach. Telephone: +501-226-4352 www.pelicanreefvillas.com
- Chabil Mar Villas, Placencia – Telephone (501) 523-3606
- Turneffe Island Resort, Turneffe Atoll – Contact: info@turnefferesort.com
- Victoria House, San Pedro, Ambergris Caye – dining@victoria-house.com – 011-501-226-2067
Top Ten Jungle Lodges
These are our picks for Top 10 Jungle Lodges in Belize.
Nestled in the lush rainforest of central Belize, Caves Branch Jungle Lodge offers visitors the opportunity to immerse in a culture of mid-range to extreme adventures. From the guest rooms that are open to the sights and sounds of the jungle, some of which are thatched in the ancient style of the Maya to our luxurious Treehouse suites, your experience should be something that must be experienced to be believed and once experienced, truly-never forgotten! Hummingbird Highway info@cavesbranch.com 1-866-357-2698 www.cavesbranch.com
Chan Chich Lodge has pioneered private conservation since the 1980s. The only Belize resort nestled in 30,000 acres of wilderness, surrounded by half a million acres of conservation lands, provide what many believe to be the best wildlife-viewing opportunity in the Americas. At Chan Chich Lodge you will experience what expeditions of past centuries set out to find: architectural wonders of the ancient Maya lost in the jungle. With an unparalleled abundance of wildlife (and the best chance to see the elusive jaguar in its natural habitat) Chan Chich is an extraordinary destination for naturalists, birders and for those seeking an authentic retreat to the jungle. Each guest, by staying at Chan Chich Lodge, is directly contributing to our ongoing efforts to protect both the natural and cultural patrimony of Belize. Gallon Jug, Orange Walk District Telephone: +501 223-4419
Hidden Valley Inn, a Luxury Life Style Boutique Hotel with only 12 rooms, is located on a 7200 acres private reserve in the Mountain Pine Ridge, Cayo District in Belize. This intimate eco resort offers quality accommodation, fine gourmet food and attentive service in a natural environment. The flora, wildlife and bird watching here are truly unique in the region. Guests staying at this Intimate Luxury Boutique Hotel enjoy exclusive access to over 90 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails as well as many secluded Crystal Pools and Waterfalls set in a tropical jungle. For those seeking romance, one of the waterfalls may be reserved exclusively for the day. Situated in the Maya mountains, also serves as a convenient base for visiting the various scenic and historical attractions of the area. For hikers and nature-lovers – exclusive access to rivers, waterfall and great vistas, plus excellent service. it’s in the jungle on the Pine Ridge. First impression of the reception and lounge area is “this is a place I could happily live” . The bungalows are lovely and the beds very comfortable. There is a fireplace and logs and kindling should you need it. There are private hiking trails, all well sign posted, to some beautiful spots. Mountain Pine Ridge, Cayo District – Direct Telephone: +501 832-8055
Agritourism-chic in Punta Gorda: a Jungle Lodge, organic farm and a 12,000-acre nature reserve. Set in the verdant hills above the Caribbean coast of southern Belize in the town of Punta Gorda. From our dock you can embark on our tranquil cruises on the jungle reaches of the Rio Grande, or our guided snorkeling and fishing adventures on the Caribbean Sea. Nim Li Punit and many other attractions are located nearby. At the heart of Copal Tree Belize is the Main Lodge with the Garden Table Restaurant, the Rum Bar, the Jungle Spa, lounge areas, a swimming pool, and observation decks that open to stunning vistas of the coast, the Maya Mountains and a seemingly endless pristine rainforest. The property is stunning and our canopy suite was one of the most spectacular accommodations we have ever stayed at – beautifully designed, spacious and clean, with an absolutely incredible view over the rainforest and Maya Mountains. The canopy units are very private with their own infinity pool atop the hill, sprawling views of jungle and the Rio Grande below, an abundance of birds, howler monkeys in nearby trees- it was a truly fantastic and memorable experience. Punta Gorda, Toledo District – Telephone: +501-822-1272
Situated on a 105-acre jungle reserve along the Macal River, settle into 10 intimate, eco-friendly cabanas, nosh on farm-to-table cuisine, sip tropical cocktails, cool off in our infinity pool, and wander with resident donkeys through our working, organic farm. Take to the river by canoe or tube, hike jungle trails, and allow us to plan your excursions to the many natural wonders and Mayan sites in Belize. able Rock Jungle Lodge is an eco-lodge in a canopied rainforest setting unlike any other in the Cayo Distict of Belize. With only 10 cabañas on our 105-acre Macal River reserve, you can enjoy the intimate rainforest setting and the sights and sounds of the Belizean jungle. Hike, swim, canoe, birdwatch, or just indulge in serious relaxation. Close to all the major Mayan archaeological sites and natural wonders of Belize, and only 5 miles outside of San Ignacio, Table Rock is the ideal location for your next adventure holiday. Everything was good about this place. Setting beautiful and well arranged, rooms quiet and comfortable, staff super friendly and helpful, restaurant/bar incredible ambience and great food, river access with free canoes and tubes is great. The tours they arrange are with very competent guides. The setting is gorgeous. The lodgings are spacious and beautifully furnished. The food is phenomenal. Every member of the staff is friendly, welcoming and helpful; they are genuinely devoted to making sure you have a great stay. They do a wonderful job of arranging tours (e.g., Xunantunich, Caracol, night hike, bird watching, etc., etc.) There’s a nice swimming pool and very convenient tubing and canoeing in the river. The donkeys, bunnies and playground make it all that much better for little kids. Email: info@tablerockbelize.com Telephone: +501-672-4040 www.tablerockbelize.com
- Blancaneaux Lodge, Mountain Pine Ridge, Cayo District – Email: frontdesk@blancaneaux.com
- Lamanai Outpost Lodge, Indian Church Village, near Lamanai Maya site, Orange Walk District – Local Telephone: 501 670-3578
- Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge, Hummingbird Highway, Cayo District – Telephone: +(501) 822-3851
- The Lodge at Chaa Creek, near San Ignacio, Cayo District – Telephone: +501-880-0409
- Sweet Songs Resort (duPlooy’s Lodge), near San Ignacio, Cayo District – Telephone: +501 832-8130
Top Ten Budget / Value Hotels
Maya Beach Hotel is ready for your arrival. Sitting on a pretty stretch of natural sand beach dotted with palm trees, the Maya Beach Hotel is a small mid-range beach resort for couples who need comfort, but not luxury. The hotel rooms are air conditioned with queen beds, our king suites have king beds and kitchenettes and we also offer some beach house and apartment rentals in different price ranges. The Bistro and plunge pool are a gathering place at the end of a day filled with snorkeling, diving, fishing, kayaking, jungle hiking, spelunking, climbing Maya ruins, or just plain relaxing on the beach. The restaurant was also has also been awarded “Restaurant of the Year” twice by the Belize Tourism Board, and it remains a highlight of a stay here. Placencia is a super quiet and laid back vacation spot, and while Maya Beach is a bit of a trek from the main Village, we are sure you will love Maya Beach. Less people and congestion, you will feel like you have the beach to yourself and easy access to taxis if you want to head into “town”. Maya Beach, Placencia Belize, Central America Phone: +501-523-4040 www.mayabeachhotel.com
Sea Dreams Hotel is a family-run boutique hotel on the quaint island of Caye Caulker. We are located at the north end of the village- next to the The Split/Lazy Lizard Bar & Grill- which affords a three-sided view of the Caribbean Sea. Our dock, located on the leeward edge of The Split, is the entry into a unique slice of paradise: perfectly clear and calm, chest-deep, turquoise water with a white sandy bottom. Every evening, guests watch the sun melt into these waters and cast pastel shades across the skies. When guests are not diving, snorkeling, fishing, or touring Mayan ruins, they relax at the hotel with a tropical drink at our rooftop bar, a book in a hammock, or a canoe/paddle board ride to feed the local Tarpon. Accommodations range from intimate courtyard rooms to one-, and two-bedroom apartments, cabana, and home. Located on a side street adjacent to the Split, the view from the Orchid Cabana was so lovely! The staff, especially Stephanie, was so helpful. The room was island rustic, with tropical wood throughout, comfy bed, nice little kitchenette, very cozy and clean.
Though it was a little over our $150 a night budget for a small boutique hotel, we went for it to avoid being on the main street, and for the extras they add in. We were so glad we did! Extras include free breakfast, cooked each day on the rooftop where you have a view of the ocean on both sides of the island. Delicious and different meals each day. They also have a happy hour on the rooftop, complete with appetizers. Free bikes were available for our use anytime to explore the town, as were kayaks and beach towels. The fridge was stocked with Belizean Beer and sodas (for a nominal fee). We thought we would cook in a bit, but between free breakfasts and great nearby restaurants, we didn’t. It was nice to have a place to keep and heat leftovers from our restaurant meals though. We truly enjoyed our stay and wish we would have stayed longer! reservations@seadreamsbelize.com Telephone: +501-226-0602 reservations@seadreamsbelize.com www.seadreamsbelize.com
Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, The Tree Tops stirs a tasty mélange of Caribbean, Belizean and Italian design elements to create the perfect spot to unwind. Giambattista & Valentina, your host, arrived in Belize with their catamaran. From the shores of the Mediterranean Sea to the Pacific Ocean, trough Galapagos, Easter Island and Patagonia, they pushed their catamaran Angelique II as south as the 65 degrees of latitude, reaching in February 2016 the Antarctic Polar Circle (the first catamaran in history). After 10 years and more than 80.000 nautical miles they decided to settle down. The time spent sailing Belize allowed them to discover this beautiful Country, rich in history and nature and especially Caye Caulker, a tiny little island with no paved roads and no traffic lights. They felt in love with the Tree Tops, one of the oldest hotel in the Island which they bough and spent one entire year renovating it. Before turning himself in a full-time sailor, Giambattista was executive of several international companies. He has also been a professional racing car driver. Overlooking the Caribbean Sea, The Tree Tops stirs a tasty mélange of Caribbean, Belizean and Italian design elements to create the perfect spot to unwind. The pure, crisp white structure sits within earshot of the Ocean crashing waves. All rooms have a distinctly Caribbean interior style, with breezy burlap linen curtains and nostalgic yet highly functional overhead ceiling fans. The simple lines of the custom-made furniture constructed of local wood, are further evidence of a design in tune with nature. Caye Caulker – Telephone: +501 6003003 www.thetreetopshotel.com
An intimate seaside inn with all five air-conditioned rooms and a Suite opening on to spacious verandas providing a spectacular view of the Gulf of Honduras on the Caribbean Sea. Complimentary amenities include: swimming pool, bicycles, wireless internet and continental breakfast, with full breakfast available upon request.This beautiful 1930’s house is fully remodeled and conveniently located at the quiet end of main Street, in Punta Gorda, Belize. From its superb, intimate location on the ocean to its tasteful ambiance, The Coral House Inn in Punta Gorda, Belize is a consistently remarkable hotel. It is managed to the very highest standards by the cordial staff and attentive innkeeper. It is the perfect base from which to explore the rare wilds of southern Belize. Punta Gorda – Telephone: +501-722-2878
Serenity Sands Bed & Breakfast, a tranquil, eco-friendly Bed & Breakfast in beautiful Northern Belize, where you can enjoy a hotel like atmosphere with personal attention to detail. We are located approximately 3.5 miles from the town of Corozal. We invite you to experience a unique tropical escape with the peace of mind that comes from responsible travel. Let Serenity Sands be your peaceful base as you explore and dive into an adventure in Belize. From snorkeling the second largest barrier reef in the world; climbing the temples of the ancient Maya; to experiencing Belize’s unique cave tubing expedition in the tropical rain forest, there’s never a dull moment! Check out our list activities and adventures. For those looking to relocate to Belize, Serenity Sands is the perfect spot to recharge after a day searching for your own piece of paradise. Stay in one of our well-appointed rooms while you explore Belize. Whatever the purpose of your travel, you’ll be in good company at Serenity Sands. The location is fantastic! Far enough away from town and neighbors that you feel like your in your own little piece of paradise, but not so far that a trip into town is a hassle. Relaxing at the water’s edge with a good book and a beer (or two), listening to the waves and enjoying the cool ocean breeze… I could have stayed right there for months. Serenity Sands Bed & Breakfast, Consejo, near Corozal Town – Telephone: 501 669-2394 www.serenitysands.com
- Hopkins Inn, Hopkins – Telephone: +501-629-1030
- Coconut Row Guesthouse, Hopkins – Telephone: +501-615-3003
- Colinda Cabañas, Caye Caulker – Email: info@colindacabanas.com
- Cerros Beach Resort, near Copper Bank, Corozal District – Telephone: 501-623-9530
- Blue Belize Guest House, Punta Gorda – Telephone: +501 722 2678
Credit Cards
A word about how to pay for your accommodations in Belize. Most hotels, restaurants, and shops accept credit cards, typically MasterCard and Visa. All inclusive resorts and larger hotels additionally accept American Express, JCB, Diners Club, or Discover Card. Surcharges of up to 3% on credit card use are becoming less common but are still applied by a few businesses – ask before using your card. The majority of Belize’s visitors, seventy-six percent to be exact, hail from the United States of America according to Belize Tourism Board figures.
When you make a reservation hotels do a pre-authorization of your credit card. This is technically a “hold” on your credit card credit line from a purchase placed there by a merchant who has initiated a charge but not completely processed it. When the merchant finalizes the transaction process, the pre-authorization amount will be replaced by an actual charge to your card. Hotels will swipe your credit card at check-in to ensure that sufficient funds are available to settle your final bill.
Updated March 2023