Here’s a list of what I consider the best luxury hotels in Belize at the moment. Each place has something unique to offer, whether they are a hip boutique hotel on the beach with fancy decor and world-class amenities or a luxurious eco resort in the Belizean jungle.
Related: Belize beach resorts and All-inclusive resorts in Belize
If you think that I’m only mentioning the hotels and resorts listed below because they offer upscale services or have an exclusive clientele, you’re mistaken. The places mentioned here have been hand-selected because they offer spectacular views, beautiful furnishings, exquisite food, the best staff, and a magical ambiance rated “5 Star” in my books.
The best luxury hotels by top Belize destinations |
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Ambergris Caye |
San Ignacio and Cayo |
Hopkins |
Placencia |
Toledo |
Orange Walk |
Luxury Hotels in Ambergris Caye
With some of the top luxury resorts in Belize and easy access to the world famous barrier reef, Ambergris Caye has been luring travelers from around the world for quite some time — it is, in fact, the most popular destination in Belize. And it’s nearby “little sister”, Caye Caulker, is also popular, mostly known for its budget options.
1. Ramon’s Village Resort
Ramon’s Village Resort brings some of the unique aesthetics of Bora Bora to the island of Ambergris Caye. The resort is located in downtown San Pedro but it’s beachfront thatched cabanas, which are surrounded by a tropical garden and swimming pools, provide a sanctuary for its guests. Ramon’s Village is one of the oldest and most popular resorts in all of Belize and is named after one of its founders, a local San Pedrano who pioneered beach tourism in Belize.
2. Victoria House Resort & Spa
This beautiful British colonial-style resort is located a short distance South of the downtown core of San Pedro. As one of the oldest hotels in Belize, Victoria House is known for its elegance, it has luxurious accommodations, world-class service and one of the best restaurants in Ambergris Caye. If you are a fan of pop culture, you will know that Gene Simmons and Shannon Tweed (VH1) rekindled their love here.
3. Cayo Espanto
Located only 3 miles away from Ambergris Caye, this private 4-acre island is the ultimate retreat for couples seeking pampered relaxation, privacy, and world-class service. This luxury resort is known as a celebrity hotspot hosting TV celebrities and billionaires such as Bill Gates, Tiger Woods and many others. What couples rave the most about this place is that the seclusion allows for the perfect ambiance to connect with that special someone. For the perfect vacation, stay at one of their overwater bungalows.
4. Pelican Reef Villas
Pelican Reef Villas has several modern and well-equipped beachfront condos right on south Ambergris Caye. It is located 10 to 15 minutes away from the hustle and bustle of downtown San Pedro and offers the perfect setting for couples and families. Guests enjoy having the option of cooking their own meals or eating at the onsite restaurant and bar. A good day can be spent lounging by the private pool or soaking up the sun at the front beach and dock that allows for relaxation, play, snorkel or fishing.
5. Mahogany Bay Resort & Beach Club – Curio by Hilton
Last year, Mahogany Bay Resort and Beach Club became part of Curio – A Collection by Hilton Worldwide. This exclusive resort offers seclusion to guests but is only 10 minutes by golf cart from downtown San Pedro. Guests rave about the chic restaurant, private beach, friendly staff, and gorgeously decorated beach cottages and villas that offer a modern take on Belize’s British colonial past.
6. The Phoenix Resort
The Phoenix Resort is an award-winning beachside resort located in the downtown core of Ambergris Caye. It’s ideal for travellers seeking to spend a lot of time in the vibrant town of San Pedro yet have the satisfaction of being able to easily find refuge within their nearby hotel. Guests feel right at home with the deluxe condo-style accommodations and refreshing set of pools.
Luxury Hotels in San Ignacio & Cayo
Resorts in the Cayo District mostly cater to the eco-conscious traveler that is seeking adventure activities, cultural tours, and relaxation in a serene jungle environment. This means that travelers seeking luxury hotels in Cayo are treated to some of the best jungle resorts and eco lodges in Belize and all of Central America.
7. The Lodge at Chaa Creek
Chaa Creek is the oldest jungle resorts in Belize and has won many international awards for its design and eco-friendly status. They are one of the pioneers of eco-tourism in Belize and were “GREEN” before it was trendy and cool. This resort is perfect for nature lovers seeking adventure or those who just want to relax and enjoy the soothing Belizean rainforest. It is located in a private reserve 1/2 hour away from downtown San Ignacio, Cayo.
8. Blancaneaux Lodge
If you’re a fan of The Godfather movies you’re in luck because Blancaneaux is owned by Francis Ford Coppola. This upscale hotel is located in Mountain Pine Ridge and is surrounded by nature – rivers, waterfalls and wildlife. There aren’t any immediate communities nearby and getting there is a bit rough so I hear many people fly in with helicopters.
9. Ka’ana Resort
Ka’ana is a fairly new resort in Cayo but it’s quickly gaining a reputation for hosting VIP clientele. They market themselves as a boutique hotel and promote adventure travel and healthy living. It is near San Ignacio and has easy access to the highway.
10. San Ignacio Hotel Resort
Founded in 1976, this is one of the oldest hotels in all of Belize. Matter of fact, it was the only “upscale” hotel available in downtown San Ignacio when Queen Elizabeth II visited Belize in 1994. The hotel markets itself as having the only jungle in town since it has a private 17-acre estate filled with birds, Iguanas, and a few other wildlife.
Luxury Hotels in Hopkins
Hopkins is a small seaside village perfect for visitors searching for tranquil beautiful beaches and a chance to learn about the extraordinary Garifuna culture. Along with being a cultural and beach destination, the village is a great base for adventure activities such as diving, snorkeling, and exploring top jungle attractions, including nearby Maya temples and wildlife sanctuaries.
11. Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort
Hamanasi is the perfect base for eco-friendly travelers seeking a beach adventure outpost with rustic-chic elegance. Rated as one of the best hotels in Central America, this award-winning resort specializes in diving but its prime location on the southeastern coast of Belize makes jungle day trips to nature reserves and Mayan sites. However, the main highlight of this region is the unique Garifuna culture of Belize.
12. The Lodge at Jaguar Reef
Set on a beautifully manicured beach, Jaguar Reef offers luxurious accommodations in Hopkins. Guests have the option of staying in bungalows or villas with gorgeous views of the Caribbean Sea. Other amenities include a beachfront pool, a restaurant, and an over-the-water bar.
Luxury Hotels in Placencia
Similar to Hopkins, Placencia is a small seaside village but it has a “busier” downtown with many excellent restaurants and beach bars. Considered a top beach destination in Belize, it is on an 18-mile peninsula with gorgeous beaches, exclusive luxury resorts, and easy access to the Southern Cayes and Barrier Reef.
13. Chabil Mar Villas
If you’re looking for villa style accommodations on the beach, Chabil Mar is your place. Aside from having beautiful views of the Caribbean sea, the resort has many amenities and a gorgeous garden surrounding. Chabil Mar is very private, yet it is the closest resort to downtown Placencia…you’re only a short bike ride away where there’s tons of action happening.
14. Turtle Inn
Another of Francis Ford Coppola’s esteemed resorts, this sister property of Blancanaeux boasts luxury and a beautiful beach setting. Many famous celebrities frequent this resort, as invited guests of the director or regular vacationers. Turtle Inn sits sandwiched between the sea and the Placencia lagoon.
15. Robert’s Grove Beach Resort
As one the oldest beach resorts in Belize, the good people at Robert’s Grove have mastered the art of providing a tranquil and serene environment. They are situated only minutes away from Placencia but it seems as if they are miles away from any town. I love their pool and their gardens are landscaped amazingly. This is a great place to come on a honeymoon or family vacation.
Luxury Hotels in Toledo
Toledo was once the least visited place in Belize and it’s now becoming one of the hottest destinations in Belize. Travelers seeking to travel off-the-beaten path in Belize are able to experience dense jungles, excellent sport fishing, good birding, and meet some of the most friendly people.
16. Copal Tree Lodge
Copal Tree Lodge, formerly Belcampo Lodge, is an agri-tourism lodge deep in the jungle of southern Belize. At their onsite organic farm, you can find everything that sustains their resort – they grow their own fruits and vegetables and raise livestock for consumption. They are located amid a private nature reserve that is ideal for birding and wildlife spotting. They have easy access to the sea and offer excellent fishing expeditions.
16. Cotton Tree Lodge
Cotton Tree is the perfect escape if you’re seeking rustic luxury and seclusion. They focus greatly on sustainable tourism and the lodge primarily runs on solar power. Here you’ll be able to make your own chocolate, eat homegrown fruits and vegetables and get close to nature by doing jungle activities such as river kayaking and horseback riding.
Luxury Hotels in Orange Walk
Orange Walk is yet growing as a tourist destination and aside from the extraordinary Mayan ruins of Lamanai, not much is happening there. But of course, there’s at least one luxury resort worth mentioning.
18. Chan Chich Lodge
Chan Chich Lodge is the best bet for anyone seeking a true jungle experience. This resort is deep in the rainforest of La Selva Maya in Northern Belize and is teeming with wildlife. If you’re a birder…this is the perfect place for you.
Do you know of any other amazing Belizean luxury hotels? If you do, get in touch and if your suggestion is up to par, I’ll consider including it the next time I update this list. Good luck though — I must warn you — I’m picky!
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P.s. If you want to have the best vacation in Belize, I recommend spending a few days on the beach before heading to the mainland jungle. Also, if luxury travel isn’t your thing, here’s a budget guide to exploring Belize and take a look at some of the best cheap hotels in Belize.
Joe Awe says
Great stuff!
Mollie Krengel says
Have you guys (or know anyone) stayed at the Gaia Riverlodge?
different says
@ khinsen It’s not email, it’s a safe web message field.
The doc responds inside 24 hours.
Stephen Loase says
I'm a huge fan of Pelican Inn Reef Resort! We just did a 5 day stay there and the hospitality was endless! Check out the video we made of our Belize trip, including our fun at Pelican: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUYB_ZnEdhc&feature=youtu.be
Stephen says
Huge fan of Belize and Pelican Reef Inn Resort! We took a video of our trip including the Pelican, what warm hospitality for both Belize and the resort! Rice and beans nice!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUYB_ZnEdhc&feature=youtu.be
Stephen says
I’m a huge fan of Pelican Inn Reef Resort! We just did a 5 day stay there and the hospitality was endless! Check out the video we made of our Belize trip, including our fun at Pelican: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUYB_ZnEdhc&feature=youtu.be
Andy Belsky says
Do you know of any all inclusive hotels that have day passes for cruise passengers?
Anitra says
My husband and I are planning a scuba vacation. Which island and/or luxury resort do you recommend?
Lou Laste says
Great site. I am travel to Belize in Jube with my wife and son. We're all divers but need to also do a few adventure type things to keep my 16 year old son from not getting board. Right now I'm thinking of staying at Turtle Inn or Hamanasi. Anyone one of these preferred over the other ?
Jan Vella Gregory says
some great places to stay in Belize
Matteo C says
Lorenzo,
nice article. I see huge difference in prices between booking full packages with hotels (including meals, transport and some activities) and booking the room only (like on Expedia). What do you suggest? Better to book the full thing or just the room and book activities on the spot? Thanks!
Lorenzo Gonzalez says
I’d say in the end it’s cheaper to buy a package. Tours and transportation add up.
tour packages in chennai says
am planning to visit. Thanks for sharing all the hotels are fantastic..
Genesis says
All exquisite places. Planning on visiting both Coppola resorts soon.
Lorenzo Gonzalez says
Cool! Both Blancaneaux and Turtle Inn are amazing!
Rick says
The wife and I stayed at Cayo Espanto a few years ago. It was amazing. I was thinking about venturing inland when we return this summer. Thanks for the suggestions.
Lorenzo Gonzalez says
Whereabouts inland?
Michael says
Wow, these places look nice!
Lorenzo Gonzalez says
Exquisite indeed!
Jose Luis Zapata says
Nice selection. I’ve actually photographed weddings at some of these luxury resorts.
Lorenzo Gonzalez says
I’ve seen some of the wedding pics.. amazing! 🙂
Jose Luis Zapata says
Thanks 😀