Hopkins, Belize
 

There's a pretty amazing Groupon deal going on for 7 nights at Jaguar Reef Resort in Hopkins - $499. I've been wanting to go to Belize but was thinking more along the lines of Ambergris Caye. I've done a little research on TripAdvisor and there's not a lot of Hopkins info there. From what I can tell, it's a fairly small village, not a lot of resorts, but there are a few restaurants and a decent amount of adventure activities available. I'm particularly interested in kayaking, ruins, and scuba diving. Nightlife is not necessary.

Anyone been to Hopkins and can provide an overview of what it was like?

I know nothing about Hopkins, but from your description suggest you look at Belize Lodge and excursions... www.belizelodge.com

I'm specifically interested in Hopkins due to the resort deal via Groupon which is $500 for 7 nights compared to $3150 for 7 nights at Belize Lodge. But thanks for the recommendation.

Anyone with Hopkins experience?

That does sound like a good deal. We've only stayed on Ambergris, but your resort does seem to get good reviews on tripadvisor if you want to check them out. I believe hopefulist has Hopkins experience so hopefully she'll chime in for you. I think it's great that Groupon is offering travel deals now.

Hopkins is a great little village. One dirt road, not nearly as touristy as other areas, which can be a plus or a negative depending on your outlook. I loved it.

We love Hopkins but stayed in beach cottages in town. It's a Garifuna village - google for info on that. Although there's not much to do in town other than enjoy the beaches and water, great hiking is within reach in the Cockscomb Reserve and at the Mayflower site. You could also access adventures like cave tubing and ziplining from there. The reef is quite a ways out from there (unlike from Ambergris and Caye Caulker) - maybe 10-15 miles? So you'd have some time on a boat to access snorkeling and diving.

If you go, don't miss the drumming at the Lebeha Center. You can check out my photos, blog, and travelogue at the bottom link below. Happy trails!
www.lebeha.com
www.hopkinsbelize.com
http://www.flickr.com/photos/staceyholeman/collections

Thanks, everyone!! I did go ahead and buy the deal. It seemed too good to pass up, and it also sounds like there's plenty to keep us busy (or not if we so desire). I appreciate the extra info (especially from hopefulist)!

Hopefulist, I found your pictures yesterday while googling. Small world that you're on Fodors. :)

Hopkins is tiny, but you'll enjoy it. Food isn't anything special at Jaguar Reef but you have a couple of nice choices within walking distance. There's a dive/tour place across the street - nice people and good prices.