When it comes to finding the best luxury resorts in Belize or where to stay in Belize it can be quite challenging if you are not sure which island you want to make your home base while exploring Belize.
If you are seeking adventure, off-the-beaten-path fun, and delicious food then Belize is just the place for you and your next vacation or getaway.
Belize is nestled next to Mexico and Guatemala and is a relatively tiny country but what it lacks in size it is overcompensated in beauty, rainforests, and national parks, and its sparkling clear Caribbean waters lure visitors from all over the world.
There are more than 200 islands off Belize’s Caribbean coastline, ranging from uninhabited mangroves to postcard-perfect beaches that accommodate both families and couples alike.
English is the official language, making it a top destination for tourists to escape to for either a short weekend trip, a couples getaway, or even to celebrate your honeymoon.
With stunning beaches, some of the Caribbean’s best snorkeling (Belize is home to the world’s second-largest reef), and easy direct flights from the U.S., Belize is now a top bucket list destination.
From jungle cottages, romantic beachfront villas, ocean views, and tree houses in the rainforest canopy—there’s no shortage of standout resorts and hotels in Belize.
If you are looking for where to stay in Belize here are my thirteen best Belize resorts.
Best Belize Resorts
1. Ka’ana Belize
Ka’ana Belize offers everything you will be looking for in a luxury resort. Ka’ana is located in Western Belize where intimacy, luxury, and style are intertwined with authentic Belizean culture.
Ka’ana Belize is one of the best hotels in Belize—from the minimalist-modern villas with their private plunge pools to its lush garden walkways and two-acre organic garden, which provides ingredients for the restaurant’s seasonal menu.
In the main hacienda, five sunny suites (some come with hammocks) are perfect for catching some much-needed R&R after a day of exploring the Mayan archeological sites just a short distance away.
The resort is so private we rarely came into contact with other guests during our stay. It was like we had the entire resort to ourselves and the staff made sure our every need was met
Ka’ana Luxury Resort was named one of the Best Belize resorts by Travel and Leisure.
Photo Credit: Ka’ana Belize
2. Cayo Espanto – Ambergris Caye
Cayo Espanto, a private-island resort southwest of Ambergris Cay, the resort can only accommodate 18 guests. Each villa and over-water bungalow has its own private butler and a personal chef.
Snorkel at the nearby Belize Barrier Reef or fly fish directly from the property.
One of the reasons Cayo Espanto is considered one of the Best Belize resorts is that they offer an abundance of activities that include stand-up paddleboards and kayaks that are at guests’ disposal.
Photo Credit: Cayo Espanto
3. Las Terrazas Resort – Ambergris Caye
The 38 townhomes at Las Terrazas Resort and Residences include kitchens and washer and dryer for a home-like vibe. Arrive via a 10-minute boat ride from San Pedro.
At the rooftop O Restaurant, enjoy Belizean fry jacks and coconut water for breakfast and freshly caught fish for dinner.
There are classes that teach Creole language and Belizean woodcarving which makes Las Terrazas one of the Best Belize resorts.
Photo Credit: Las Terrazas
4. Hatchet Caye Resort – Placencia
Hatchet Caye Resort, a private-island resort off the coast of Placencia is one of the most sustainable properties on the island.
Lionfish dishes at Lionfish Grill that fund Belize Lionfish Project (including fish-your-own options) to a request that guests pack school supplies and other items for local kids in need.
Oceanfront cabanas are just a few feet from the beach.
The beautiful 7-acre Hatchet Caye Resort is home to 9 cabanas, a restaurant, and a bar.
Hatchett Caye offers guest a true Belizean experience where guest can snorkel right outside of their rooms and catch dinner all at the same time!
Photo Credit: Hatchet Caye Resort
5. Almond Beach Resort
The Viva Belize family of resorts includes five different Boutique Hotels in Belize to fit your needs: Almond Beach, Jaguar Beach, Sleeping Giant, Villa Margarita, and the Belize Tree Houses.
The Vive Belize personalizes vacation packages depending on if you are looking for adventure, a romantic getaway, or the ultimate girlfriends’ weekend.
The Almond Resort offers The Romantic Getaway, for couples which includes local beers, rum, juice, and soda only at Sleeping Giant.
There are also a ton of activities included along with meals, five adventure tours in one “Multi-Adventure Package” including tubing through a jaguar preserve, scuba diving, hiking to see a waterfall, seeing birds of paradise, kayaking, and cruising a nearby river.
If you and your hubby like a variety of adventure activities options when you travel, The Almond Resort is just for you which also makes this resort one of the Best Belize Luxury Resorts.
Photo Credit: Almond Beach Belize
6. Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort, Southern Coast
Hamanasi Resort is a secluded beachfront resort that spans 30 acres and is ideal for adventure-seekers, thanks to its location near-pristine reefs and Mayan ruins.
The treehouse-style rooms high in the jungle canopy were made for birdwatching, the private beach is never crowded, and frequent performances by a troupe of Garifuna drummers and dancers bring in a high-energy dose of cultural nightlife.
At the center of it all: a plantation-style home that serves as the resort’s social hub thanks to its lively seafood restaurant, convivial bar, and scenic veranda overlooking the surf.
Photo Credit: Hamanasi Resort
7. Itz’ana Belize Resort & Residences, Placencia
The Itz’ana Resort in Placencia offers the best of the Caribbean. Its sea-to-table restaurant features local line-caught fish and organic Belizean cuisine.
The bar is stocked with the region’s best golden rums, all hand-picked by the resident “rum sommelier.” Even the library is inspired by Hemingway, who spent time in the Caribbean in the 30s.
There’s also a full-service marina from which to explore Belize’s turquoise waters and nearby reef system—the second largest in the world.
Photo Credit: Izana Resort Belize
8. Naïa Resort and Spa, Placencia
I suggest this 19-acre hideaway as a base camp for exploring the Placencia Peninsula (known for its art galleries and fish markets) as well as indulging in Belizean wellness.
Framed by palm trees and mangroves, its 35 relaxed beach houses, treetop villas, and residences offer varying perspectives.
Verandas that open directly onto the beach, tropical birds singing from the tree canopies, or soothing interiors with cathedral ceilings and pops of vibrant Caribbean artwork.
There’s a yoga studio and fitness center, but be sure not to miss the spa, whose treatment rooms are scattered across a clutch of tiny islands.
Photo Credit: Naia Resort
9. Hickatee Cottages, Toledo District
Hickatee Cottages are a family-run boutique tucked away down a dirt road at the bottom of Belize’s rural Toledo District.
A cluster of shaded bungalows, bordered on all sides by a lush forest home to howler monkeys and dozens of species of birds, is ideal for nature lovers and those looking to enjoy private, home-cooked meals that spotlight produces from the hotel garden.
Hickatee is remote, but in a good way, and the owners keep the local culture alive with activities like drumming lessons and tours of the nearby butterfly farm.
Photo Credit: Hicatee Cottages
10. Matachica Beach Resort, Ambergris Caye
A short water taxi ride from the coastal village of San Pedro leads you to Ambergris Caye Island and the eye-popping Matachica Beach Resort.
The 31 thatched-roof villas are as brightly colored as tropical fish and done up with traditional Central American accents and modern flourishes, each with a private terrace.
After a day of windsurfing, scuba diving, and sea kayaking, curl up with a good book in a crocheted hammock on the pristine white-sand beach with calming ocean views.
If you’re still feeling adventurous, go snorkeling in the nearby Hol Chan Marine Reserve. JS Tip: We highly recommend a day trip to the tiny, laid-back island of Caye Caulker.
Photo Credit: Matachica Resort
11. El Secreto Hotel
Talk about seclusion: this romantic hotel, in hidden cove miles up the coast from San Pedro, is reachable only by boat.
Here, 13 cozy thatched-roof villas line Belize’s Instagram-perfect Ambergris Caye; all come with marble bathrooms, tandem bathtubs, and Egyptian cotton sheets.
If you’re hoping to up the romance quotient, splurge on the Spa Villa, whose plunge pool overlooks the Caribbean.
When lazing in one of the resort’s hammocks starts to bore you (impossible!), the Barrier Reef is just a five-minute boat ride away.
Photo Credit: El Secreto Hotel
12. Sirenian Bay
Sirenian Bay is an intimate, boutique, luxury resort nestled on the golden sands of the Placencia Peninsula in stunning Belize.
Every element of the resort showcases our commitment to your comfort, adventure, and relaxation.
Enjoy our miniature golf course, relax in the resort pool, have dinner and a tropical drink at Inky’s 19th Hole, unwind in The Siren’s Spa, or head out on an unforgettable adventure.
Sirenian Bay features three villas. Each villa has a full kitchen, spacious living areas, and comfortable bedrooms with oversized bathrooms.
The villas each have a private pool and outdoor living area.
Photo: Sirenian Bay
13. Ray Caye Island Resort
Located on the edge of the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes Marine Reserve in Belize, Ray Caye is literally a stone’s throw away from the Belize Barrier Reef making it an ideal location for world-class fishing and diving trips.
With nearly a mile of private shoreline and a limited number of guests at any time, it is easy to play, explore and relax in the Belize island lifestyle any way you want.
We’re especially suited for a secluded and romantic honeymoon vacation.
Photo: Ray Caye Resort
The Best Beaches In Belize
Belize has golden and white-sand beaches that are a boat or plane ride away from Belize City.
Many of these beaches remain a well-kept secret, discovered only by dive enthusiasts and anglers who venture off the beaten track.
Now that you know where to stay in Belize here are my recommendations for the best beaches to visit in Belize.
1. Hopkins Village Beach
Hopkins Village Beach is located in the eastern Garífuna village of Hopkins, a mere 40-minute drive south of the town of Dangriga.
This uninterrupted, quiet 5-mile beach is lined with coconut trees, locals’ homes, colorful guesthouses, and a few local eateries. The waters aren’t Caribbean turquoise, but clear and refreshing nonetheless.
2. Half Moon Caye
Prepare to gasp at the paradisiacal views of Caribbean waters and a crescent-shaped beach made up of magnificent white sand, dotted with coconut palms.
Half Moon Caye’s no-frills, the untouched beach is also a protected turtle-nesting site. The other half of the caye is made up of a littoral forest, home to a protected red-footed booby sanctuary.
3. Ambergris Caye
4. South Water Caye
5. Laughingbird Caye and Silk Cayes
An easy and popular day hop from Placencia, Laughingbird Caye and Silk Cayes (2 islands) are 11 miles from Placencia and located a stone’s throw from each other.
The beaches on these islands are located in marine reserves and are less than a mile long.
Overnight stays aren’t permitted, but visitors can spend the day sunning by the Caribbean Sea or exploring the water’s rich marine life with no one else in sight.
6. Southwest Caye, Glover’s Reef Atoll
Southwest Caye is a great honeymoon destination, but it is also ideal for solo travelers.
In addition to perfect sands, Glover’s Reef — about an hour’s boat ride away from Dangriga — offers some of the best snorkeling and dive spots in Belize.
Things To Do In Belize
Belize is compact, occupying about 9,000 square miles. But don’t let its size throw you off.
Swimmers, snorkelers, and scuba divers will discover paradisiacal spots along the barrier reef like Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the Great Blue Hole.
Wildlife-seekers will marvel at Belize’s magnificent jaguars, pumas, howler monkeys, parakeets, and keel-billed toucans at the Belize Zoo.
And culture hounds will reach new heights by exploring impressive Mayan archeological sites like Corozal, Altun Ha, and Lamanai.
With so much to do, it can be difficult to decide where to begin in Belize. But the logical first step is to grab your bathing suit and savor a tropical papaya or star fruit along the beach.
I suggest hiring a driver as we did and you will have your own personal driver for the week as your guide for all of our excursions and I will say it was well worth the money.
My husband and I chose to explore the Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich, Cave Tubing, and The Blue Hole National Park and ventured off to Placencia for the annual Placencia Lobster Festival.
Mayan Ruins In Belize
Maya Ruins are one of the main Belize attractions and make the country stand out from other destinations that have overcrowded beaches, franchised hotels, and fast food joints on every corner.
The area was once the very center of the ancient Maya Civilization and they have left their mark in one of the largest concentrations of temples and underground ritual chambers.
The archeological site offers guests a magnificent repository of art in gold, jade, obsidian, pottery, elaborate stone carvings, and paintings.
This vast civilization that reached its apex when Europe was in the Dark Ages virtually disappeared about a thousand years ago.
Their descendants remain in the indigenous Maya consisting of various sub-ethnic groups including the Yucatec, the Mopan, the Ketchi, and the Xol.
Some of the best-known Maya sites include Xunantunich, Caracol, Altun Ha, and Lubaantun.
Hiking In The Belizean Jungle
Taking a hike or mountain bike tour is a great way to have fun, and get a little exercise after eating all of the delicious food while learning more about Belize.
Most Belize resorts have nature trails, guided or self-guided.
On these trails you can hike along well-defined paths that include signs and you will get to see various plants and trees and even some will have medicinal use.
One such area is the Don Elijio National Park named after noted Maya Shaman Elijio Panti.
Other resorts have scientific and nature conservation points of interest such as butterfly or iguana breeding programs and nature trails that outline these programs.
Grab a Map Of Belize and you can plan your own itinerary.
Zip Line in the Belizean Jungle
The longest zip line in Central America is 2,300 feet long and is located at the Mayflower Bocawina National Forest near Silk Grass Village on the Southern Highway in Belize.
Nestled amidst 7,000 acres of pristine lowland broadleaf forest in the saw-toothed Maya Mountains, this adventure center offers day and nighttime zip-lining, waterfall rappelling, and hiking.
The 1.5 miles of zip lines stretch across 12 platforms, starting with short easy zips that get progressively longer, faster and steeper.
The final one is the longest, lasting over 30 seconds. Make sure to keep an eye out for waterfalls along the way.
Belizean Cuisine
Most tourists try typical Belizean fair–stewed chicken, rice and beans, ceviche, and lobster dishes. Why not try something more unusual, like stewed gibnut…a boil up…or hudut, the Garifuna’s traditional coconut fish stew?
Add a splash of Marie Sharp’s, or Hot Mama’s veggie-based hot sauce for an extra kick.
But be sure to indulge in Belize’s artisan chocolates. Kakaw/Chocolate Factory, Moho’s, and Cotton Tree all produce high-quality chocolate, made from Belizean cacao beans.
Look for them in Belizean gift shops or specialty stores.
Caving in Belize
Belize offers exceptional, safe cave adventures for all levels of visitors. A trained tour guide will accompany you. Barton’s Cave, in the Cayo, is a popular canoe cave tour.
You’ll float—in an inner tube—through a cave while passing through the Mayan underworld.
For the truly adventurous, and fit, there’s the unforgettable ATM cave tour. The weather is pleasant, and the food is tasty and delicious.
Belize may not be the cheapest Central American destination, but it’s one of the easiest and more relaxing places to travel in the region.
The Other Blue Hole
Belize has another, lesser-known Blue Hole. This is an inland sinkhole located 12 miles south of the City Of Belmopan in the very center of the country.
Yes, it is locally known simply as the Blue Hole. Its location right on the Hummingbird Highway makes this natural swimming pool an attraction for locals and tourists.
The inland Blue Hole is within the St. Herman’s Cave system and is administered as a national park.
The Blue Hole is accessible by a short flight of stairs that take you down approximately 30 feet into the very cool freshwater pool.
Belize Lobsterfest
Lobster season in Belize opens on June 15 and closes on February 15. There is so much lobster available during the summer that prices are at their lowest which means you can have lobster in every way imaginable.
The various Lobsterfest events are Belize’s way of celebrating the opening of the lobster season which makes this the best time to travel to Belize.
The Lobsterfest is held in four parts of the country, Belize City, Caye Caulker, San Pedro, and Placencia. You can eat as much lobster as your heart desires for three days each weekend.
You can have lobster on the grill, lobster thermidor, lobster ceviche, lobster kebabs, even lobster chowder, and even lobster nachos!
Conclusion Where to Stay in Belize and The Best Belize Resorts & Hotels
I hope you find my list of the most exclusive Belize Luxury Hotels helpful.
My selection of boutique hotels in Belize guarantees you will enjoy every second of your vacation.
Whether you crave an eco-tourism experience in the heart of the jungle or a beach adventure on one of the many islands these resorts have something for everyone.
Ready to plan your trip, grab my FREE Vacation Planner to help you plan your trip in the time it takes to watch your favorite TV show!
If you would like to donate to Passports and Grub click here!
ADDITIONAL ARTICLES FOR TRAVELING
Is It Safe To Travel To Mexico
If Belize is on your bucket list make sure you stay at one of my picks for the best Belize resorts. I would love to hear your thoughts so leave me a comment on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Are you also on Pinterest?
Why not save this post to your Pinterest board for later? I am also on Pinterest so feel free to follow Passports and Grub boards and get the latest pin directly.
