We're heading to Ambergris Caye for 6 days and trying to find a place to stay. There are so many hotels, resorts and condos it is impossible to distinquish between them.

We are a family of four with two girls 9 and under. We want to be on a nice beach. We'll mostly snorkle, windsurf and kayak.

We're trying to stay under $250-$300/night for the family, not including food.

Does anyone have any specific experience with families on Ambergris Caye?


CW

My first choice would be Banyan Bay. Nice two bedroom condos, very nice stretch of beach. However, it's about 1 1/2 miles south of town. Unless your kids like to walk, you'd probably want a golf cart or to take cabs, at least part of the time.

A cheaper option would be the Palms. Less of a resort, but very nice condos. Small pool. Next door to Ramon's, which has a really nice beach. On the edge of town, you can walk any where. Also some decent snorkeling from their pier.

There are some nice properties north of town as well. I don't know much about them, hopefully someone else can help you. You would either need a golf cart or to use a water taxi to get to town.

I would agree Banyan Bay is a good choice south of town- the best beach south. Banana Beach next door is also quite good.
I would not recommend in town places- the beaches are terrible (not exceptional anywhere south either).

My own first choice would be north of town- the only downside being evening runs into town are tough in a golfcart. Journeys End is a great choice. If budget is not an issue the Azul resort is excellent-regardless have a meal at Rojo lounge-especially lunch so you can enjoy the beautiful view.

You should understand the beaches on AC are pretty bad in general. There is sea grass and other muck close to shore and swimming is difficult unless you go on a boardwalk that resorts have that goes out some distance. Totally different from the Caribbean islands.

On the other hand the reef is spectacular- its very close but you need to be on a boat. Budget enough for several boat trips and you will have a good time. On the other hand, be prepared for lousy beaches, unless you go North.

Have fun.

we really liked White Sands Cove, north of the cut. www.whitesandscove.com

Owners and workers there are great, very relaxing place with nice condos, pool, etc. They'll arrange everything for you. We were there for 4 nights last year with our two boys (6 & 10). We did our open water dive certification, a private fishing trip, snorkel/sail to caye caulker, etc. I've got photos or White Sands and the rest of our trip on www.worldisround.com

I think our 1 bdr condo was $170/ night. Great room! The only downside of being north of the cut are the limited restaurant options. We took the water taxi into town quite a bit. We also biked it a couple of times.


I agree with AKR on both the beaches and the reef.

You should look on www.vrbo.com they have loads of nice looking oceanfront condos with pool, and they say there's a market/restaurants/beachbar across the street.

Better than a hotel, you can cook your own meals and eat cheaper. I have never gone to Belize, but I am planning my trip as we speak. Haven't decided yet between Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker.