Best Accommodations in Belize: Your Ultimate Guide

Belize, the only country in Central America without a Pacific Ocean coastline (with access solely to the Caribbean Sea), is a unique blend of Central American heritage and Caribbean culture. Noted for its verdant rainforests, breathtaking flora and fauna (both terrestrial and marine), tranquil islands, and archaeological wonders, Belize has become increasingly popular among tourists and cruise travelers year after year.

Renowned for exceptional snorkeling and scuba diving experiences, Belize houses the second-largest barrier reef globally, the Great Blue Hole. Previously known as British Honduras, Belize stands as the sole nation in the region with English as its official language. Once inhabited by over a million Mayans, the country boasts numerous fascinating Mayan ruins and structures.

This article will delve into some of the prominent neighborhoods in Belize, assisting you in determining where to stay during your journey in this captivating nation.

San Ignacio

Located within the Cayo district near the Guatemala border, San Ignacio is a quaint town considered an excellent base for exploring the country’s Mayan ruins and cave systems. Enveloped by jungles rather than coastlines, San Ignacio serves as a hub for outdoor pursuits such as hiking, caving, and horseback riding, making it a cost-effective choice for travelers exploring the Cayo region or visiting the Tikal Mayan ruins. Notable ruins such as Xunantunich, also referred to as “the Maiden of the Rock,” are essential attractions. With a rich history and a diverse cultural tapestry, San Ignacio remains a favored destination for tourists and locals alike.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Cahal Pech Mayan Ruin, Tikal archaeological site, Barton Creek Cave, and canoeing the Macal River.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Villa Cayo – Conveniently located near Cahal Pech, this establishment features well-furnished villas equipped with spacious double beds, barbecue facilities, iPod docking stations, and flat-screen TVs with cable and streaming services. All units provide a fully-equipped kitchen and complimentary Wi-Fi. Car rental services are available at the property, and guests may enjoy cycling or hiking in the vicinity.
• The Lodge at ChaaCreek – This family-run lodging facility, set within a private rainforest reserve, offers eco-friendly amenities such as a swimming pool and health spa. Guests can partake in visits to the on-site butterfly farm or canoe down the nearby Macal River. Walking and horseback riding opportunities abound in the area, making it suitable for couples, families, and small groups.
• Vanilla Hills Lodge – Located within a short walk from the Mopan River, this lodge features spacious bungalows with elegant wood decor, a kitchenette, a seating area, an en-suite bathroom, and a private terrace overlooking the gardens. Nestled within a tropical rainforest, the establishment offers a diverse selection of organic meals, making it ideal for luxury travelers.

Caye Caulker

Situated a mile from Belize’s famous Great Blue Hole barrier reef, Caye Caulker is a small island favored by budget-conscious travelers, backpackers, and those seeking to escape the fast-paced lifestyle. Known for its vibrant turquoise waters and laid-back atmosphere, the neighborhood embraces the motto “Go Slow,” which is cherished by both locals and visitors. This prime location offers an array of authentic Belizean experiences amid a tropical backdrop, ensuring a multitude of activities for guests to enjoy. Popular water sports such as windsurfing, snorkeling, and diving are readily available, while day tours may include activities like cave tubing, zip-lining, or observing local manatees. For couples, watching a movie under the stars at Bondi Bar & Bistro provides a memorable experience.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: The Split, Sunset Tubing, snorkeling at Hol Chan and Shark Ray Alley, and the Caye Caulker Village.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Weezie’s Ocean Front Hotel and Garden Cottages – Situated on the eastern shore of Caye Caulker, this upscale beachfront venue provides magnificent views of the barrier reef. Each suite and cottage is furnished with flat-screen TVs, laptop safes, water dispensers, and fully-equipped kitchens. The property includes two outdoor pools, and guests can rent canoes, kayaks, paddle boards, and snorkel gear at no extra cost.
• Island Magic Beach Resort – Offering a sun terrace with an outdoor pool, a beach bar, and a beautiful patio overlooking the Caribbean Sea, this resort features well-appointed rooms and suites with classic decor and modern amenities, located just a kilometer from Belize’s airport. The staff can assist in arranging fishing, scuba diving, and island tours.
• Caye Caulker Beach Hotel – Conveniently located a short distance from the beach, this hotel boasts well-furnished guestrooms equipped with contemporary amenities. On-site facilities include a barbecue area, a communal lounge, a terrace, and free Wi-Fi, with options for cycling excursions arranged by hotel staff.

Placencia

Gradually gaining popularity as one of Belize’s prime destinations, Placencia – once a small fishing village – is now home to some of the nation’s most luxurious resorts. Fortunately, this development has not diminished the area’s charm and natural beauty. With golf carts serving as the primary mode of transportation, Placencia is a central hub for fishing and diving, particularly during whale shark season. Accessible to both the Southern Cayes and inland adventures, Placencia remains a year-round travel destination. Seafood enthusiasts will appreciate the fresh, affordable offerings here, particularly the lobsters, which are so celebrated that the area hosts an annual festival dedicated to them.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Kayaking at Laughing Bird Caye, Monkey River Village, Maya Temple Sites, lagoon kayaking, and snorkeling at the Silk Cayes.

Hotel Recommendations:

• The Ellysian Boutique Hotel – Featuring water sports facilities, a spa and wellness center, complimentary bicycle rentals, and free parking, this hotel overlooks the Caribbean Sea’s crystal-clear waters. Guestrooms are equipped with flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and private bathrooms.
• Naïa Resort and Spa – An upscale property in the heart of Placencia, this lavish resort presents beautifully decorated beach houses fitted with cable TVs, iPod docks, and sea-view balconies. Guests may relax in the year-round outdoor pool or indulge in various water activities, including diving and snorkeling.
• Laru Beya Resort – Just a short walk from the beach, this enchanting resort offers luxurious guestrooms equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. On-site amenities include an outdoor pool, private beach area, multi-cuisine restaurant, and an extensive bar menu. Staff at the resort can assist in organizing excursions to Mayan ruins and water activities like fishing and diving. Bicycles and sea kayaks can also be rented free of charge.

Ambergris Caye/San Pedro

Spanning 25 miles in length and one mile in width, Ambergris Caye is located offshore from the Belize mainland, surrounded by the Caribbean Sea. This Caye is also in close proximity to the Great Blue Hole Barrier Reef – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest of its kind in the Northern Hemisphere, extending from Mexico in the north to Guatemala in the south, with Belize centrally located. San Pedro, the primary town of Ambergris Caye, is named after Saint Peter, the patron saint of fishing. Despite being one of the most frequented places in Belize, the Caye retains much of its natural beauty and remains largely unspoiled by urban development. The relaxing ambiance attracts many repeat visitors. While ceviche is the signature dish on the Caye, the Mayan buffet and local lobsters are also culinary highlights.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Hol Chan Marine Reserve, Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve, Belizean Arts, paddleboarding, El Diablo Bar & Aqua Park, and Belize Chocolate Company.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Brahma Blue – Within a ten-minute walk from the beach, this property boasts spacious, non-smoking guestrooms equipped with modern facilities along with amenities such as a 24-hour front desk, outdoor pool, hot tub, barbecue facilities, and a private beach area. Canoeing is a popular activity in the vicinity, making it suitable for all types of travelers, including larger groups.
• Mahogany Bay Resort and Beach Club, Curio Collection – A four-star establishment featuring a private beach and an impressive outdoor pool, this resort stands out as one of the most coveted luxury properties in the area. Rooms come with hardwood or parquet flooring, TVs with streaming services, and en-suite bathrooms, while the on-site restaurant accommodates dietary requirements with vegetarian and gluten-free options. Ideal for all types of travelers, including those in larger groups.
• Isla Bonita Yacht Club – Just a short walk from the beach, this venue offers spacious, well-designed guestrooms equipped with modern amenities and services. Guests may enjoy the on-site swimming pool, manicured gardens, and barbecue facilities, with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the property. Suitable for solo travelers, couples, and families.

Hopkins

Predominantly recognized for its Garifuna culture, Hopkins is a traditional village that serves as a home to Belize’s Afro-Caribbean population, representing an ethnically distinct group recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. Coupled with its rich cultural appeal, Hopkins features pristine beaches along with exciting activities, including snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving, and jungle excursions. Gladden Spit, a renowned diving location with remarkable underwater offerings, is a mere 45 minutes away. Visiting between March and June may provide a chance to swim alongside whale sharks at Gladden Spit. Although there is no substantive proof that the indigenous Mayans discovered cocoa around 900 A.D., individuals can still take part in a chocolate-making workshop supervised by indigenous experts.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Learn Garifuna drumming, snorkeling or sailing the Caribbean Sea, Maya Center Village, Mayflower Bocawina National Park, and day trips to Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Bocawina Rainforest Resort – Nestled amid a lush tropical forest, this eco-friendly resort utilizes solar energy and hydropower. The well-appointed guestrooms feature wooden furnishings, vibrant bedding, hardwood floors, and private bathrooms. The on-site restaurant offers international cuisine, along with a full bar. Zip-lining and waterfall rappelling are available for guests.
• Thatch Caye Resort – Located on a stunning private island, this resort offers a multi-cuisine restaurant and private beach. Guests can admire 180-degree views of the surrounding sea, with opportunities for kayaking and diving available on-site. All cottages boast rooftop decks, making it suitable for all travelers.
• Parrot Cove Lodge – Situated between the rainforest and the barrier reef, this lodge offers tastefully furnished rooms with modern amenities such as free Wi-Fi, cable TV, and tea/coffee makers. Additional facilities include an outdoor pool, landscaped gardens, a gourmet café with a daily menu, and a relaxing terrace, with complimentary rentals of bicycles, kayaks, and paddleboards.

Punta Gorda

Located at the southern edge of the Toledo district, Punta Gorda, often abbreviated as PG, provides a serene retreat from the bustle of other coastal towns. However, its tranquility belies the distinctive Belizean experiences that this area offers, which are often hard to find elsewhere in the country. Garbutt’s Marine, located a short boat ride from PG, serves as an exceptional spot for fly fishing, snorkeling, and cave explorations. Unlike the Northern Cayes, visitors are likely to find beaches mostly to themselves, with minimal tourist presence. Unwind with a drink on Garbutt’s patio while friendly iguanas bask in the sun. Big Falls offers exciting zip-lining opportunities over the Rio Grande, where diverse wildlife can often be observed.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: TIDE Tours, Warasa Drum School, PG Town Market, Living Maya Experience, Big Falls Tubing, Rio Blanco National Park, and Blue Creek Cave.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Coral House – Boasting an outdoor pool and lush gardens, Coral House is situated in the center of Punta Gorda, providing well-furnished rooms with modern amenities. Each room features a balcony with pleasant views of the surrounding sea, complemented by a complimentary daily breakfast.
• The Sea Front Inn – Positioned directly across from the Caribbean Sea, this charming property is enveloped by greenery. Comfortable guestrooms feature quality amenities such as cable TV and free Wi-Fi, along with a 24-hour front desk, an on-site restaurant, and rental bikes available for guests.
• B&B SunCreek Lodge – Offering free Wi-Fi, a terrace, free parking, and barbecue facilities, B&B SunCreek Lodge has well-appointed rooms featuring wardrobes, hardwood flooring, refrigerators, and private bathrooms. A communal kitchen is available for guests wishing to prepare their own meals.

Belize City

Given Belize’s stunning landscapes, one might question the appeal of lodging in a city. However, Belize City provides numerous economical accommodation options and offers convenient access to several interesting sites and activities nearby. As the largest metropolitan area in the country and one of its safest, Belize City hosts excellent hotels, vibrant casinos, and notable attractions like the Museum of Belize – situated within the historic Queen Elizabeth’s prison, regarded as one of the top ten sights in the nation. Additionally, the Belize Zoo, which houses only rescued native animals roaming large enclosures, is another significant attraction. Engaging in a scenic tour throughout the city presents an opportunity to appreciate Belize’s architecture, cultural heritage, and economy.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Altun Ha Archaeological Site, Old Belize, Goff’s Caye, Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, cave tubing, and zip-lining.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Villa Boscardi – Located in the heart of Belize City, this elegant hotel features stylish guestrooms, a delightful complimentary breakfast buffet, and a shared kitchen. Numerous dining options are situated nearby, while Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport is within short driving distance.
• Radisson Fort George Hotel & Marina – As one of the most sought-after destinations in the area, this upscale hotel features elegantly designed guestrooms, a swimming pool, a business center, a fitness center, an outdoor seating area, and a fine dining restaurant and bar. An optional breakfast is offered daily, making it well-suited for all types of travelers.
• Best Western Plus Belize Biltmore Plaza – This upscale hotel features a wealth of facilities, including an outdoor swimming pool with lounge chairs, a fully-equipped fitness center, meeting spaces, an on-site shop, and a full-service bar and restaurant, all just a short drive from the Belize City Airport, which appeals to all types of travelers.

Corozal

As the northernmost district in Belize, Corozal has long remained an undiscovered treasure; however, it is gradually coming into the spotlight with an emphasis on eco-tourism and authentic Belizean experiences. Once considered part of the ancient Maya site of Santa Rita, the area encompasses the fishing villages of Sarteneja (the largest in the country) and Consejo, which invite visitors to experience traditional life. Progressively establishing itself as an expat haven, the Maya site of Cerros within Corozal is the only coastal archaeological site of its kind. The Shipstern Nature Reserve, which stretches over 27,000 acres, is a sanctuary for Belize’s five native cat species and the endangered Baird’s Tapir.

Good for: All types of travelers.
Other Highlights: Corozal House of Culture, Four Mile Lagoon, Cerros Mayan Ruins, and Santa Rita Archaeological Site.

Hotel Recommendations:

• Almond Tree Hotel Resort – Located just minutes from the beach, this exquisite resort features elegantly designed guestrooms with top-notch amenities. All units come with a balcony or terrace overlooking landscaped gardens or the swimming pool. Rated highly among the best-located properties in Corozal, Almond Tree Hotel Resort also features a well-stocked bar, making it suitable for all types of travelers, including groups of up to five.
• Las Vegas Hotel & Casino – This lavish establishment redefines luxury with an outdoor pool, sun loungers, and poolside beds (available at an extra cost), a hot tub, beauty salon, live entertainment, and round-the-clock front desk services. Guests can enjoy dining and entertainment on-site and test their luck at the casino. Ideal for luxury travelers.
• Tilt-TA-Dock Resort Belize – This adults-only beach resort is located mere steps from the ocean, featuring stunning sea-facing bungalows equipped with cable TVs, barbecue facilities, tea/coffee makers, and private bathrooms. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, where guests may enjoy fishing or canoeing in the waters and relax on loungers to witness wonderful sunsets. Perfect for couples.