Belize has your Caribbean highlights pretty much covered: its vast barrier reef is home to more than 500 species of fish and more than a hundred different types of coral, and it’s a paradise for divers and snorkelers; and then there’s the rainforest, a haven for exotic wildlife: leaf-cutter ants, toucans, monkeys, jaguars and some spectacular Mayan ruins. And that’s before we've even begun on the near perfect, pure white sand beaches! So as you can imagine, the best places to stay in Belize cover a wide variety of styles to fit the varied geography, from gorgeous beach resorts to deep jungle eco-lodges.

Where to Stay? Which part of Belize is for you?

• Belize City is the main port, and the biggest city. It’s got an element of run-down elegance, with graceful colonial houses and seaside parks, but it’s also extremely lively and colourful, reflecting the wonderful multitude of cultures that have come together to build the charm of Belize. This is where most businesses are headquartered, but it’s also where the cruise ships dock, so it’s full of bustle, and a great place for visitors to experience local urban culture and enjoy a wide range of entertainment and cuisine. 
• San Ignacio, in the Cayo District, is the second largest city, but by far the most popular jumping off point for visitors who want to see more of Belize. Here you’re close to several significant Mayan ruins, expansive cave systems and, of course, right in the middle of Belize's spectacular rainforest, home to all sorts of exotic wildlife. It’s also got a bustling market and a colourful, historic centre. 
• Placencia is the first of our beach break destination recommendations in Belize, a gorgeous 16 mile peninsula jutting out into the Caribbean of white, palm fringed sand beaches. It’s got excellent facilities, so it’s an easy choice for families, with a range of restaurants and great diving and snorkelling too.
• If you’re here to dive or spend a lot of time out on the water then San Pedro will be for you, a town on Ambergris Caye where the views and the waters are some of the best in Belize. And if you’ve never been diving or snorkelling this is definitely the place to try it. There are so many great underwater sites here, whether you want to explore coral reefs teeming with fish or deep sea caves and tunnels, including the world famous Blue Hole, one of the wonders of the marine world. Of course life is pretty good topside too, on a boat or in a kayak.
• For a deeper insight into island culture and history you might want to stay in Dangriga in the Stann Creek District. It’s one of the largest towns in the south of Belize, with a similar look and feel to Belize City, but on a smaller scale.
• If you’re looking for the capital Belmopan, it’s almost in the centre of the county, close to the caves, ruins and National Parks of eastern Cayo. Belmopan is a purpose built capital, and has that sort of feel about it, but it’s also got some great restaurants.

Since Belize used to be a British colony, English is the official language, but these days it’s very multicultural. For food, try the maize pancakes, Falmaau, the conch cevice and the shark empanadas! As with many tropical destinations the best places to stay in Belize are busy year round, due to its fabulous climate. So do your homework and book well ahead to avoid disappointment.

The Best Places to Stay in Belize

For a beach resort

• Victoria House is a luxurious, beach-side resort just outside San Pedro, which looks across the water to the white sand of Belize. There are just 42 rooms and suites, with four-poster beds in dark wood, crisp, white linen and terracotta floors. The views are lovely, and you’re just minutes, by boat, from Belize’s barrier reef. As well as the beach there’s a stunning infinity pooll, and plenty of facilities and activities laid on.
• In a class of its own, Turneffe Island Resort is located on a secluded 14-acre private coral island, 35 miles off the coast. With only 20 rooms it's a real desert island experience, with unrivalled diving and fishing. Choose from beachside rooms or villas — or the fabulous honeymoon villa.

For a Rainforest Escape

• The Hidden Valley Inn is really hidden. This 12 room property is set within its own 7000 acre private reserve, so each of the rooms and suites have incredible rainforest views and a real feeling of intimacy. But luxury has certainly found the Hidden Vally Inn, and you can expect excellent food and a luxurious spa as well.
• The Copal Tree Lodge is a luxurious, 16 room resort in Punta Gorda, which is the heart of Belize’s rainforest. The rooms are spacious and bright, with private verandas overlooking the rainforest, a chic pool, a cocktail bar and an elegant restaurant with a view. You’re not far from the ocean either, and very close to the Rio Grande.
• Ka’ana Resort is a collection of 17 small cottages, set in amongst lush tropical gardens, and surrounded by rainforest and National Parks. The rooms are simple  and tasteful, perfect if you just want to escape, but this is also an excellent spot for anyone who wants to explore the jungle on foot, or on horseback, or kayak on the Macal River.
• Pooks Hill Lodge is a collection of rustic lodges set on 300 acres of private reserve set deep in the jungle — think thatched roofs and terraces opening out directly onto the trees. Of an evening the restaurant serves traditional, regional cuisine by lantern light. This is a great base for visiting Tikal, and some of the other local Mayan ruins and doing some bird watching.

Belize’s Best Honeymoon Hotels

• If you’re looking for show-stopping luxury on Belize, the seven exclusive villas of the Cayo Espanto are a good place to start. These seven villas and associated hotel buildings are surrounded by tranquil turquoise waters and an air of privacy. This is the sort of hotel where nothing is too difficult to arrange, from fishing expeditions or diving trips, to the perfect sundowners.
• Like some of our Rainforest Escapes, the Blancaneaux Lodge is a hidden haven, this time in a gorgeous riverside setting. There are 16 rooms and suites with a sort of luxury cabana-hut feel, with roofs made of palm leaves, but decor that includes local art and antiques. The lodge’s restaurant adds to the feeling of luxury and romance, but most importantly this will be an escape just for the two of you.
• If you’re hoping for a beach honeymoon the stunning Matachica Resort and Spa might be more your scene, as this collection of fantastic, palm-roofed huts is actually on a bight, white sandy beach. And each hut has its own patio complete with a hammock. A nice touch is the varied decor of the huts, it makes it even more personal.
• The Chan Chich Jungle Lodge is back in the jungle, deep within its own private 130,000 acre nature reserve, in the Rio Branco Conservation Area. A stunning spot if you’re looking for a jungle hideaway. There are just 12 private cabana-huts, each comfortably, and stylishly, decorated, with local art and fine linens. And outside you’ll find an abundance of birdlife and possibly even a jaguar…

For an eco-lodge

• The Mystic River Resort is an eight cabin eco-lodge surrounded by walking trails. There’s no air conditioning or television, but there is plenty of space, mahogany furnishings and private balconies overlooking the Macal River. Not forgetting the luxurious spa and great food.
• Just outside San Ignacio in the Maya Mountains, Chaa Creek, is a wonderful spot for animal spotters. The 23 palm-thatched cottages are elegantly furnished, and close to the Macal River, so there are birds and animals all around, and you can expect to see hummingbirds and wild parrots by the elegant pool.

For Families

• Turtle Inn is a fantastic collection of 25 elegantly furnished rooms and cottages on the picturesque island of Placencia. The cottages are ideal for families, with plenty of space and traditionally styled interiors, lots of light and big verandas that open out onto lush tropical gardens. Plus there's a pool, a private beach, and a kids club with a wide range of activities on offer.
• Close by is the larger Itz’ana Resort, which is another great choice for families, with its range of 94 rooms, suites and villas, in a configuration to suit every family. You’re right on the beach, and most of the family suites and villas have ocean views, plus impressive luxury features. The Lagoon Villas even have their own waterfront plunge pools. There’s a kids club, and a private 40 foot catamaran.
• If it's Ambergris Caye you are headed for, check out the luxurious family friendly Alaia Resort. Rooms are spacious, modern and bright, and there is a kids club for the little ones and chic dining options — and a spa — for the grown-ups.

For Divers

• The Xanadu Island Resort is just outside San Pedro, only ten minutes by boat from the reef, and enjoys views across to the beautiful beaches of Belize. The resort has the palm trees, palm-roofed buildings, lagoon pool and private beach that spell paradise for many of us, and the fact that there are just eight suites, some with two or three bedrooms, means that each of them feels private so we recommend them for both families and couples.
• Just a short trip from San Pedro and the barrier reef, Las Terrazas Resort and Residences is a plush, 37 villa resort right on its own private, white, sandy beach. The resort also has its own onsite diving centre. And just about everything else you could imagine needing in a tropical island paradise, including a cocktail bar, fine dining restaurant and plenty of watersports facilities.

For great value

• The Gaia River Lodge is a secret retreat on the banks of the Gaia River, with 18 private cabanas, which offer both luxury, but also privacy: expect roofs made from palm leaves, treetop views and a real Robinson Crusoe feel, but with beautiful linens. And at the end of a day exploring or bird watching, you can expect to enjoy an excellent Belizean meal in the restaurant.
• Robert’s Grove would fit well into our recommendations for the best family hotels in Belize too, but it’s such good value that we included it here. It is a fantastically varied collection of suites and self-contained villas, in a beautiful spot right beside a stretch of pristine, white, palm-lined beach. And you’re only about ten minutes from Belize’s incredible barrier reef. There are 72 rooms, and a choice of restaurants too, if you don’t want to self-cater. The decor is charmingly traditional, with whitewashed walls and simple wooden furniture. But the views are incredible.

Prefer an Apartment or Villa?

• If you’d prefer to stay in an apartment or private villa we recommend you visit our online partner, booking.com.

Travel Information

• International visitors usually fly into Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City. If you’re travelling from Europe you might need to go via the US. You can also arrive by boat — you can even come over from Mexico via water taxi.
• If you’re thinking about hiring a car we recommend checking what our online partners, Rentalcars have to offer.
• Belize has a sub-tropical climate, which means you can expect fairly hot and humid weather here all year round. If you prefer dry weather you need to plan your visit for between December and May, but if you don’t mind the rain then the wet season is a bit less popular with visitors. July and August are usually fairly dry if you want something in the middle. As a rule it’s cooler in the mountains. But generally the best time to visit is between February and May.

Still not sure?

• Consider some of our other Caribbean recommendations: what about the best places to stay in the Cayman Islands?
• Or some of our recommendations for the best places to stay in Mexico, like the 30 Top Hotels on the Yucatán Peninsula, or the 25 Best Hotels on the Riviera Maya.
• Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.