62 Best Hotels in The Cayes and Atolls, Belize

Palm-leaf thatched casitas in shades of mango, banana, and melon, offset by brilliant white sand, give this deluxe resort a Gauguin-like quality. An Ambergris classic since 1996, Matachica deserves its world-class reputation. The resort and its excellent service have a way of making you feel like a honeymooner even when you're not (many guests are). We recommend snagging one of the six beachfront casitas, which command the best views and catch a breeze. Matachica easily has the island's sexiest pier, which features landings with cushy daybeds for two. There's also a stunning swimming pool, kid-free. You'll have access to the pricey but delicious Mambo Restaurant and Bistro. Jade Spa offers treats like papaya facials, coffee scrubs, and chocolate body wraps. The same owners now operate Gaïa Riverlodge in the Cayo District, so jungle-beach packages are offered, among others. Staff members here are famously attentive.

Islanders will tell you that Cayo Espanto, a spectacular private island off Ambergris, is where movie stars stay, and they’re not wrong. Before arrival, you’re asked to detail favorite foods, music tastes, and your daily rhythm, so that staff can craft a highly customized paradise. Then, on arrival, you're met by the uniformed crew, a welcome bottle of champagne, and astonishing vistas of crystalline seas. Architecturally, the turquoise-and-white-tone villas blend in with the sand and sky as much as possible—during the day, the villas aren’t even walled (most have walls folded in at night). Between the architecture and details like alfresco showers and splash pools, you have intimate access to the natural stage around you. Meanwhile, a personal butler, or “houseman,” is on call to take care of every whim. The island chef creates a bespoke menu, while the day's meals are delivered to a waterside table or dock by your villa. A special experience is the private beachside dinner, lit with luminaries and a just-for-you bonfire. For all this intensely personal care, you'll pay a small (or large) fortune. The highly professional service can feel formal, which may discomfort those used to the casual interactions you'll have on Ambergris Caye.

Hibiscus blooms greet you at the archway of this charming terra-cotta-capped inn, which offers affordable suites just a hop-skip from the bustle of town. Named for the brilliant surgeonfish, Blue Tang's rooms are accented with bright fabrics that recall the sea life you'll see while snorkeling. They also celebrate Belize's tropical hardwoods with features such as vaulted ceilings and sweeping arches. Even the most economical suite is equipped with a kitchenette and small living area. The continental breakfast is a nice touch, and the front desk can book all manner of trips and packages. Don't leave without relaxing on the gorgeous rooftop sundeck.

With private terraces and Belizean artworks, CayeReef is an older condotel gone boutique, right down to the handcrafted soaps. The nice two-bed, two-bath apartments are enlivened with colorful tile and on-trend furnishings. Among the more upmarket and spacious digs on the island, they make a good choice for families or two couples on vacation. A cozy swimming pool is hidden behind a tall wall, and the rooftop Jacuzzi is a great sunset venue. (Just be careful going down the rail-less stairs after cocktails.)

Abutting part of the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, this incredible, one-of-a-kind fishing camp, with its wooden cabins that recall an earlier time, makes room for the real star of the show: outstanding flats fishing. \"The Farm\" gives a highly personal experience. Meals, which are brightened by the island's raised-bed crops, are prepared by a wonderful chef of local renown. All three cabanas, including the larger two-room Bote House, have en suite bathrooms (with standard plumbing), fans, and verandas---they're simple, but charming. Power is solar and the eco-footprint is gentle. Cayo Frances will arrange a fishing guide for you, but you might enjoy a DIY experience. Boat transfers are included. All told, it really doesn't get much better than Cayo Frances. 

One of Caye Caulker's most beloved and well-run spots, this nook offers quaint blue-and-yellow cabanas and a sense of semi-seclusion. The crowd-pleasing cabanas and suites, most raised on stilts, suit a range of budgets and make a good place to unwind after a marine adventure. All have amenities like a refrigerator, covered porches, and access to a communal grill. You're never much more than spitting distance from the water, and the hotel’s private pier features a nice palapa with plenty of loungers and hammocks. Town is a 10-minute walk away, or a pleasant ride on your complimentary bicycle. Sand fleas here can be mean—apply baby oil.

El Ben Cabañas offers the far-from-it-all atmosphere that many seek in their Belizean adventure, but that most new resorts fall short of—at this boutique resort, you can wander the verdant grounds, lounge by the mangrove-lined sea, take a kayak out, and spend the night in a thatched cabana filled with local hardwoods. Such features make El Ben feel remote, but Caye Caulker village is a short jaunt away (by free boat ride or, if you’re adventurous, by bike and ferry). Still, staying north of the Split means dining options are less immediately accessible. Fortunately, the fabulous restaurant T&T (named for the co-owner’s home of Trinidad and Tobago) is at your doorstep. It has swiftly earned acclaim for dishes like homemade pasta, T-bone steak, and crème brûlée flambéed at the table. A special feature of El Ben are the beautiful mangroves preserved during construction. 

Grand Caribe's superluxury condos, an unmissable landmark on the North Ambergris shore, are renowned for their seamless glamour: the terra-cotta will put you in mind of a Spanish palace (or of South Florida), and indeed you'll feel like royalty. The suites (one- to five bedrooms) have Brazilian floor tiles, spacious Jacuzzis, and kitchens that will make you want to cook with every appliance. The a/c is famously cold, and sunken ceilings lend every suite a dynamic depth. Six pools and a swim-up bar provide hours of relaxation (though the bunker-like bar is an aesthetic miss). If you can live without views, the studio apartments are by far the best deal. Across the street on the lagoon side, the new Sunset Caribe development offers comfortable but less dynamic condos with sunset views. Two high-profile restaurants, Rain and Aqua, are on-site plus the small grocery Bread Basket and an impeccable spa. 

A collection of sturdy, sand-color buildings fanned by mature palms, Iguana Reef Inn is one of Caye Caulker's most upscale lodgings. Tropical-toned paintings animate the well-appointed rooms, and outside the footbridged pool is a peaceful place to cool off. Across from main buildings is the hotel's lively beach bar, which sits right on the lagoon. Its lounge chairs and small walk-in beach attract scores of tourists all day.  Travelers aren't the only ones drawn here: pelicans frequent the dock; a tiny seahorse \"reserve\" lies below it; and southern stingrays gather in the shallows in late afternoon. Because the inn is on the island's lee (west) side, you'll enjoy sunset views from your veranda, but you won't get the Caribbean Sea vista. But you may find you prefer the lagoon side.

This sandy hidden gem, which is shaded by a century-old breadfruit tree (mazapan in Spanish), is off the water but still an utter oasis---and hands down the island's best value. Butter-yellow wooden cabanas house the three rooms, which feature hardwood furnishings and hammock-slung verandas, as well as microwaves, purified water, and other amenities. The spacious grounds feel like a tropical secret garden. You can picnic outside or mingle with other guests at the raised palapa (bring your own Belikin). The co-owner Louise Aguilar (\"Miss Louise,\" as she is known) is a delight to speak with and offers a trove of knowledge about her native Belize. Reserve early: this inn is almost always fully booked (despite the fact that bookings must be done over email).

Steps from one of the country's best beaches sits this former-convent-turned-serene-island retreat, a pioneer in Belizean ecotourism since 1971. Run by the old-line Bowman family, Pelican Beach's colonial-era main lodge has a dining room serving fresh seafood and Belizean-style dishes on the ground floor. You can stay in the lodge's rooms, or in a no-frills but pleasant cottage, where the trade winds will lull you to sleep (no a/c at Pelican Beach). Here you can swim, snorkel, and fish to your heart's content right off the shore. The transport to the island from Dangriga is extra. No dive shop here, but staff will arrange trips for you. Power here is solar, showers are rainwater, and toilets are the composting kind.

Hard right angles of concrete make this resort a striking study in geometry, but what's truly unique about The Phoenix are above-and-beyond extras like free rum tastings, painting classes, and s'mores nights. Details are The Phoenix’s forte: you can expect chocolate on your pillow, floral arrangements on your bed, and complimentary lint rollers or bath bombs if you've forgotten yours. The rooms aren't too shabby either, with their silky tropical hardwood furniture, Keurig coffeemakers, Bose speakers, and private verandas with views of the reef. For families, daycare is provided by the Kids' Club––a huge hit with kids and parents alike. Another hit is the split-level pool, which is worthy of a Hollywood mansion. The acclaimed restaurant Red Ginger is on-site. Belize-born owner Kelly McDermott Kanabar and her husband are known for doing many community service works.

One of Belize's most well-managed private island resorts, Raye Caye offers an idyllic haven for honeymooners, divers, or anyone who appreciates natural splendor---with a little luxury sprinkled in. The most upscale units are chic, minimalistic villas with windowed walls opening directly onto decks surrounded by mangroves (although the ubermodern gadgets might seem at odds with the natural setting). Dining is limited, but generally well-prepared. The Lionfish Grill uses vegetables from the island's organic garden––and yes, it does specialize in cooking the invasive lionfish, making it wonderfully eco-conscious. The new hang-out spot The Cove is only open to resort guests, and not the mariners and day-trippers who visit the island. Here, you can order some drinks while lounging in the pool. Ray Caye is a more subdued scene than many all-inclusive islands: you won't see drinking contests or karaoke nights here. Entertainment at Ray Caye is best described as lounging, wildlife-spotting, and water sports---a great menu of snorkeling, diving, sea kayaking, and paddleboarding. A highlight is the waterslide that launches you right into the blue Caribbean. The island has great access to the Silk Cayes, Laughing Bird Caye, and its sister island for day trips, Moho Caye. 

Charming rooms surround a venerable banyan tree and courtyard at this Caye Caulker classic, perfect for those seeking a flowered hideaway with access to the lagoon. After a day of exploring, you’ll be happy to return to the beautiful interiors and happier to enjoy the Belizean breakfasts in the morning, served under a roof of shady thatch. Above the dining area, a hammocked rooftop palapa is the place to be at sunup or sundown. All rooms are pleasant, but the Bougainvillea Bungalow is the star. Sea Dreams offers amenities you'd expect from upscale lodgings, like complimentary canoes, paddleboards, and bikes. A portion of profits go to the local high school, Ocean Academy, founded by Sea Dreams co-owner, Heidi Curry. A nice touch: educators receive a discount in summer months. Fishing tour operator Anglers Abroad is also based here, run by co-owner Haywood Curry.

Warm in ambience and in attitude, this orange-zest-colored inn is arranged snugly around a freshwater pool. Seaside’s two-story buildings command a prime location near the main public pier, and thatch accent roofs lend the hotel a distinctly Belizean vibe. It has nice design touches, like soft and indirect lighting, built-in bench seats, and local paintings. Five rooms have private rooftop terraces for sunning, watching the sea, and---a rarity on the island---soaking in the private hot tub. For breakfast you’ll have a nice spread of yogurt, fruit, muesli, and fresh cinnamon buns. The on-site bar serves coffee and tasty cocktails (with an extra long happy hour). 

In colonial days St. George's Caye was a British favorite for its proximity to Belize City; today visitors can enjoy the stunning adult-only resort as a rustic venue for adventure. Most rooms are thatch-roofed and spotlight the beauty of Belize's tropical hardwoods; this makes St. George's an atmospheric old-style lodge rich in Belizean spirit. Guests adore the overwater cabanas, on the island's lee side, but the  beachfront cabanas are also lovely and get cooling breezes. Dining is family style and social, but romantic dinners on the dock can also be arranged. The resort offers spa services in a frill-free room, and a nice pool if you want a break from the sea. Take advantage of the complimentary Hobie cats and instruction, along with paddleboarding, snorkeling, and other activities you can do right off the caye. St. George's draws not only experienced divers, but guests eager to leave their comfort zone---or find a new one.

The uniformed staff lined up to greet you upon arrival, the preserved colonial-era buildings, and the oxidized anchor of an 18th-century British warship---all of it sets the tone at this upscale, legend-filled resort that's only accessible by boat. This was Turneffe Atoll's first dive lodge, and it bagged the best spot a few hundred yards from the legendary Elbow. If you came to Belize for the diving, this is an ideal base, though fishing, snorkeling, beachcombing, and in-room massages are also top-notch. The rooms, in palm-shaded, lemon cottages with sea views, have been refurbished without spoiling the cozy feeling created by the varnished hardwood fittings, which envelop you on all sides. Even buildings that are not colonial carry the aesthetic, giving the island a unified feel. The staff-to-guest ratio is among the most impressive in Belize. For some, it can feel a little hoity-toity. Meals, served group style, are quite delicious.

This premier resort, stately and secluded, wears many laurels for its handsome grounds, seamless service, and Caribbean elegance. Victoria House’s signature white-and-green palette comes from its verdant lawns and white colonial-style buildings. In the main house, with airy verandas and tiled walkways, you'll find the hotel's famous restaurant, Palmilla. Dining is poolside, with gorgeous views of the lawns and the sea, or at the more casual beach bar. A wide choice of units, from standard state rooms to a five-bedroom house, suits many (but not all) travel budgets, especially in offseason. Our favorite is the stunning two-bedroom villa with al fresco showers, but the state rooms are also lovely and far more affordable. Two main swimming pools adorn the grounds, one infinity style with a black marble waterfall and pink towels wrapped neatly around the white lounge chairs. The sparkling spa has treatments ranging from honey masques to reiki. Victoria House has the prim style of a dignitary’s residence, and just as much class—you may feel self-conscious wearing T-shirts here.

Framed by coral hibiscus and royal palms, this tranquil inn has shipshape rooms tucked away from the tourists but in the company of green iguanas. Weezie's rooms, most of which have kitchens, are made pleasant by clean white walls, original Belizean paintings, and deep blue accents. The main hotel is waterfront, while five cottages sit two blocks inland. But no matter where you stay, you'll have no shortage of activities: you can explore the waters with complimentary paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkel gear, or have the staff arrange a guided tour for you. Yoga classes with Miss Liberty are pay-what-you-can, but be sure to reserve your spot as they fill up quickly. Massages can be had in a small spa terrace by the sea. One of the more polished spots on Caye Caulker, Weezie's features a long lap pool and a private pier where you’ll have a VIP seat at sunrise.

A lovely refuge that's eco-minded, relaxed, and just a short walk to town, Xanadu lacks the pageantry of some upscale resorts but draws repeat guests year after year. Upon arriving, you can do a \"nature walk\" through a lush pocket of vegetation. A junglelike patch of palms shade the hot tub and free-form pool. The mix of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units---all capped with thatch roofs---are tastefully furnished in earth tones and have modern amenities. The pier leads to a sparkling spot from which to start your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard outing (all complimentary). No restaurant on-site, but there is a small beach bar. The digs may lack the chicness of some competitors, but are timelessly tropical. The interesting monolithic dome structures means that the buildings can withstand winds up to 300 mph (483 kph).

Six high-rise towers dwarf the island's townscape at this condo complex by Marriott Autograph Collection, which features an exclusive beach club, gorgeous design, and a swanky but closed-off air that might make you forget you're in Belize altogether. There is so much to do at Alaia that, in theory, you don't even need to leave: several restaurants serve food ranging from sushi to pizza, the bars serve mixologist cocktails (at twice the normal price), and the pools are made for all-day lounging and selfie-taking. You can even reserve a poolside pergola for a cool BZ$150–BZ$350 a day. Such costs make Alaia feel a little nickel-and-dimey, but for many guests Marriott Bonvoy points decrease the hotel's sticker price. The huge apartments are all stunningly tiled in limestone travertine, and most have balcony living rooms. A major shortcoming is that the grounds are all but bald of trees or foliage. Just next to the tower development is the more human-scaled Reef House (formerly Banyan Bay), whose grounds have winding paths and mature vegetation. These family-friendly apartments feature interiors, designed by Débora Aguilar, which evoke the sandy environment. Grand Colony Villas has also been acquired by Alaia and is now available for booking. For what it's worth, Alaia has Belize's only suspended rooftop pool, so you can peer a dizzying six stories down through glass in the pool's floor. Note that the party atmosphere here can make Alaia feel like an upscale spring break scene.

The island’s lagoon side is often underrated; while watching the sun dip into the lagoon from this gentle coral-and-white budget inn, you might not miss the beach hubbub at all. Mingle with the inn's mostly European crowd by the oval pool and pleasant deck. Or, bring your own beer to the rooftop sundeck, where you can view the zinc-roof streetscape from a different angle. Opened in 2018 by a couple from San Pedro and Orange Walk, Ambergris Sunset is a great choice for those who want to be close to---but not entrenched in---the thick of things. The rooms, while simple, are a restful place to lay your head. Some have two beds but none have kitchens. 

Reopened in 2023 with a new look and feel, Bananas is often booked as a hotel \"just for sleeping,\" but still boasts two pools, a bar, and a spa. It was acquired by Caribeville (management for Grand Caribe and Sunset Caribe). The hotel positions itself as \"affordable luxury,\" and despite being on the south side of San Pedro, it is still close enough to highly reviewed eateries like La Fonda De Nilo and Robin's Kitchen. One perk is that the hotel offers golf carts for booking starting at BZ$118. It may be pricier than your other rental agencies, but the convenience is worth it. 

If you want to forgo island charm in favor of sleek, modern comfort, this striking hotel right in the heart of town might be for you. The minimalistic rooms are styled with a gray palette, Edison light bulbs, and hardwood headboards. The decor isn't the only thing that feels urban: the property itself is quite compact. But, a lovely pool and breezy rooftop round out the atmosphere, upping its tropical feel. Some rooms have ocean views, some more modest “island views.” Barefoot has an experienced team, a strong point of the hotel. 

A patch of coral the shape of a pancake and not much bigger, Bird Island is a self-catering, real-life private island where the solitude and starry skies are exquisite. This \"Robinson Crusoe Adventure\" island is ideal for those seeking a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Belize's ancient atolls. You'll need to bring your own food and drinks; the colorful cabins are otherwise well stocked. Housing a maximum of eight people, Bird Island won't be visited by anyone else during your visit, so it gets quiet. Take advantage of the complimentary kayaks, paddleboards, and other gear. Boat transfers are included.

The first traditional resort on this low-key island, Blu Zen sits on Caye Caulker's quiet north side and consists of starkly white, modern buildings, each filled with minimalist condos in gray and white tones. Some will love the clean lines and urban design, while others will find the units cold. With their vast square footage and full kitchens, the apartments let families and groups spread out. There's even a five-bedroom (ultra-expensive) penthouse for you and 15 friends! The resort boasts the fantastic global fusion restaurant Lotus, which serves creative dishes all day (at a high price point). There is also the new La Fogata serving wood-fired pizzas. At the high-end convenience store Mercado, you'll find wine, imported cheeses, local meats, and yummy snacks from the smoothie bar (an outpost of Namaste Café). A scheduled boat runs several times daily to shuttle you to and from the village. Though it’s not for every audience, Blu Zen offers a unique, luxury option on casual Caye Caulker. 

It may not be as modern as the island's newer resorts, but Caribbean Villas, with its gardens, pleasant beachfront, and fun two-story waterslide, is an affordable and low-key alternative to the glitzier developments. There's a happening pool and the Amber Beach Bar and Grill, which is great for a rum cocktail; mixed results for calamari. Choose from remodeled suites brightened with Guatemalan fabrics or the cheaper standard rooms. An artificial reef attracts fish to the end of the dock.

Casa Nova is an unexpected pocket of paradise just a stone’s throw from busy Secret Beach, but you'll feel miles away from earthly concerns at the intimate bed-and-breakfast. As a matter of fact, you are miles away from anything in San Pedro—about 3 miles on the bumpy, swamp-lined road, and another 3½ to San Pedro Town. Restaurants in North Ambergris, like Aji and Rain, are somewhat closer. Fortunately, Secret Beach offers plenty in the way of entertainment: karaoke, live music, swimming, paddleboarding, drinking in the water, drinking on the beach---did we mention drinking? Casa Nova's owners are a dynamic duo: architect Kevin Parel designed the beautiful wooden (and hurricane-safe) structure, while wonderful host Nova Parel will help you map out your getaway. Here’s one great way to spend the afternoon: take a kayak out and bar-hop along the shore of Secret Beach until sunset. Casa Nova is adults only, so the clientele is mostly couples. 

A practical, recently updated option with decent rates, this classic hotel hosts mainland businesspeople and foreign embassy workers. Belizean hardwood headboards and uplighting boost the rooms from superbasic to more contemporary. Rare on Caulker, the front desk is staffed 24 hours a day. The rooftop terrace boasts a great panorama of the island and horizon; now morning yoga classes are held there.