Belize, first time
 

My in-laws in there 70s want to go Belize for a week in May. They are pretty active. Any ideas where they should stay. They would like to be close to the beach. Any suggestions will be helpfull.

Here's an old thread with still viable info about Belize's beachy options.
https://www.lonelyplanet.com/thorntr...estions-please

If they want to stay in one location on the beach and also visit the mainland, look at Hopkins and Placencia. Guests on Ambergris can also book day trips to the mainland by boat or plane

We've stayed at Victoria House a couple of times and loved it. Beautiful hotel right on the beach. We took their snorkel trip to Hol Chan, and it was amazing. We did a split between beach and jungle when we went. Chaa Creek is a nice spot if they want an inland option. Have also stayed at Lamanai Lodge - lots of wildlife and right next to some amazing ruins on a river.

Thanks, do you think a rental car is needed?

We've never rented a car when we've gone. On Ambergris, everyone gets around by taxi, walking, golf cart, or biking. Tons of good restaurant choices. The jungle lodges are more isolated, and most people just eat at their lodges. We hired private drivers through the lodges to pick us up at the airport, etc.

Thanks, do you think it would be okay to just land in Belize city and not stay there at all? Just head out to Ambergris?

We did - you can fly out on a quick 15 minute flight. We used Tropic Air. There are also ferries available. We've never stayed in Belize City, and there are parts of it you wouldn't want to stay in - kind of rough.

thank you, that is what I thought.

My in-laws are even thinking of moving there!

Oh, wow, it is an amazing place and pretty easy to get around. Nice that the national language is English, that they accept U.S. currency etc. Regarding Belize City, there were several areas that our driver told us not to go to, especially at night, so I don't think they'll miss much if they skip it. The people have been very friendly in the areas that we've gone to.