With its sand-specked streets, quaint wooden houses, delicious seafood restaurants and buzzing beach bars, San Pedro in northern Belize is a major draw with tourists from across the world. It is also a mecca for watersports lovers thanks to its superb offshore reef featuring dive sites with parrotfish and moray eels, among other exotic sea life. If that’s not enough, there’s also a world class National Park that’s home to wildlife and ancient Mayan ruins.
There’s plenty of accommodation in San Pedro, with numerous affordable options available – though if you want to push the boat out you can certainly do that too. When it comes to expansive resorts with plenty of amenities, you’re not short of choice either. We’ve picked out 5 of the most charming.
Victoria House Resort & Spa
From $210/ night
While many visitors to San Pedro chose to stay on the mainland, others prefer the tranquility of its offshore islands. Ambergris Caye is where you’ll find Victoria House, perched on the breath-taking Belize Barrier Reef and offering an intimate retreat for anyone seeking a truly recuperative experience. For those who want to kick back and relax, there are gorgeous beaches on your doorstep while those with a more adventurous streak can indulge in fun-packed activities such as snorkelling, diving and cycling. As for the resort’s amenities, there’s an on-site restaurant, a spa and fitness centre, a beachfront pool and separate infinity pool. Accommodation is no less impressive, with the resort featuring 42 guest units ranging from individual casitas up to multi bedroom villas with some boasting private pools.
White Sands Cove
From $154/ night
There are few more beautiful settings anywhere in Belize than White Sands Cove Resort, positioned 2.5 miles north of San Pedro on Ambergris Caye. The boutique-style property combines a cosy feel with the very best in Caribbean chic. Guest rooms come with a flat-screen TV, and some also feature a kitchen. Guests can indulge in a range of therapies and treatments – what better way to unwind after a heart-thumping day of activities such as scuba diving, sailing or kite surfing? Other notable services and amenities include a bar and restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a gift shop, complimentary kayak and bicycle use, and a dedicated concierge service..
Royal Caribbean Resort
From $86/ night
Situated on its own private beach, this resort is a great choice for those looking to spend plenty of time on San Pedro’s beautiful sandy shores. Featuring a rage of charming cottages, each with distinctive tropical-style décor, well-equipped kitchenettes and comfy seating areas, the resort combines a homely feel with a vibrant Caribbean buzz. Amenities include an outdoor pool, a large garden where guests can relax in the shade, and an on-site beach bar and restaurant. A dedicated tour desk will give you tips on local attractions and activities. For those with their own transport, free private parking is available. San Marcos Archaeological Site is 2.5 miles away.
Sapphire Beach Resort
From $77/ night
Another resort with its own private beach, the expansive Sapphire Beach Resort offers a desirable setting with some great amenities. Among them are several outdoor pools, a popular restaurant and well-maintained gardens that are ideal for relaxing walks. The resort also has its own private dock and there’s a nearby coral reef where adventurous types can try out snorkelling, diving and kayaking. Accommodation options are all in villa and bungalow style, each with air-conditioning, a kitchen area and a coffee machine. They also offer scenic views across the pool, gardens or ocean. Speak to the front desk to arrange on and off-site activities, as well as airport transfers.
El Secreto Resort
From $429/ night
A quick boat ride from San Pedro, this beachfront resort on Ambergris Caye Island is an ideal choice for those keen to escape the hustle and bustle of the mainland. Close to a beautiful coral reef, the area is hugely popular with snorkelers and scuba divers and you can arrange such activities directly with staff at the resort. All guest rooms are decorated in a modern style and feature a private bathroom, hot tub, air-conditioning, flat-screen TV and pretty patio area. Free transfers to San Pedro Airstrip are included for guests staying at the resort for three nights or longer.