The best places to stay on Ambergris Caye in Belize include beautiful beach hotels, bucket list beach cabanas and luxury resorts. The Caribbean island is one of the most popular destinations in Belize, known for its tropical atmosphere and beautiful luxury resorts. Madonna even sang about the island destination as ‘La Isla Bonita’ in her famous hit song. So can also expect a huge range of hotels and resorts on Ambergris Caye, especially in the luxury segment. In this blog we help you to make a choice. Where to stay on Ambergris? Which luxury resorts and hotels on Ambergris will give you an unforgettable travel experience?
Booking.comHow to get to Ambergris in Belize
Ambergris is a small island off the coast of Belize in the north of the country. Technically, Ambergris is not an island, but a peninsula that runs into the Caribbean Sea from Mexico. But since you can’t get to Ambergris from Belize overland, we get why it is always referred to as an island. San Pedro is the largest (and only) town on Ambergris and it will be the place where you arrive on the island by ferry.
Ambergris’ popular counterpart is Caye Caulker, also located in the north of Belize. The two are close to each other and are two of the most popular destinations in Belize. You visit both islands with the same two ferry options: by ferry from Belize City or by speed ferry from Mexico. From Belize City, a regular ferry runs from the mainland to first Caye Caulker and then to Ambergris (San Pedro). You can also travel to the island by speed ferry from Mexico – or vice versa. It is quite a bit more expensive, but it will save you a lot of time. We regretted afterwards that we had not taken this speed ferry when we traveled to Mexico.
Are you traveling with a big travel budget? Then consider booking a local flight to the island.
Why Ambergris is worth a visit
If you want to experience island life in Belize, you will quickly end up at Caye Caulker or Ambergris. Caye Caulker mainly attracts backpackers looking for its relaxed atmosphere and cocktails during happy hour. Ambergris is the more luxurious counterpart with beautiful hotels and luxury beach houses that would fit a honeymoon destination.
Read more: why you might not want to visit Ambergris Caye
But for both islands the main activity is the same: you are supposed to relax and do absolutely nothing. You travel to the islands to enjoy the tropical island vibe, the magical sunsets and the beautiful sea life. Ambergris is often called the Bali from Belize because of the trendy hotspots, tourist facilities and beautiful accommodations. And even if you want to plan some activities, you’ll have plenty to do as well.
As on Caye Caulker, the main activity here is snorkeling and diving at The Great Belizean Reef. But you can also rent golf carts to cross the island, enjoy the most beautiful sunsets and enjoy delicious (sea) food at the many restaurants. But you mainly come here to laze on the island, drinking cocktails at the beach bar or lounging at your hotel pool. For a Caribbean island, Ambergris actually has surprisingly few beaches (just like Caye Caulker, by the way). Secret Beach is the most beautiful and popular beach on Ambergris, although it is not very secret. It is a bit far from San Pedro and most resorts and hotels, so the best (and cheapest) way to get here is by renting a golf cart.
Tip: if you are looking for beautiful sandy beaches with swaying palm trees, we recommend (also) visiting the coastal town Hopkins.
Where to stay on Ambergris: the best luxury hotels and resorts
A tropical island like Ambergris is the perfect destination for relaxed resorts, idyllic beach houses and luxurious beach hotels. And Ambergris Caye offers exactly that, as it is known for its lovely luxury stays. The island has the most beautiful places to stay in both the main town San Pedro and on other parts of the island. Backpacker favorite and island counterpart Caye Caulker is known for its back-to-basic atmosphere and accommodations, but Ambergris is the right place for a little more luxury and comfort.
#1 Victoria House Resort & Spa for one of the most popular hotels in San Pedro, which is reflected in the high review ratings from hotel guests. There is a large outdoor pool with sunbeds and swaying palm trees, surrounded by a green garden. The white sand beach makes this one of the most idyllic places to stay on Ambergris.
#2 Casa Nova Cabanas for a beautiful and small-scale beach hotel with a private beach. The location outside San Pedro and far from the other resorts makes this a particularly idyllic place to stay. The popular Secret Beach is within walking distance. All rooms have sea views and guests have free use of bicycles, paddle boards and kayaks.
#3 Matachica Beach Resort And Spa for picture-perfect cabanas on the beach. This luxury resort has a beautiful swimming pool, an extensive breakfast, an on-site restaurant and bar, and a private beach. All rooms have a patio, most with sea views.
#4 Pelican Reef Villas Resort for spacious rooms and beautiful apartments with a sea view. The luxury hotel has a beautiful swimming pool and a white sand beach with sunbeds and hammocks. The enthusiastic reviews praise the breakfast, the hospitality, the staff and the beautiful location.
#5 Day Dreaming Boutique Hotel for a romantic hotel with an outdoor pool and cabanas with private patios. The lush gardens and lovely sun terrace make this a wonderful place to relax. Some rooms even have a private pool for optimal luxury.
#6 PUR Boutique Cabanas for an adults-only boutique resort. The small-scale resort has only six bungalows. Each has its own terrace with a hammock. There is an outdoor swimming pool, a terrace and an extensive breakfast.
#7 Ramon’s Village Resort for ultimate luxury in a tropical setting with sandy paths, thatched roofs, sea views, palm trees, a jungle garden, a beautiful pier in the sea and a picture-perfect outdoor pool. The direct location on an idyllic beach with sunbeds makes this a wonderful place to relax.
#8 Las Terrazas Resort for a high-reviewed luxury complex on a private beach. The swimming pool is beautiful and is surrounded by relaxing sunbeds. Each room has a terrace overlooking the exotic gardens, the lagoon or the sea.
#9 Sandbar Beachfront Hostel & Restaurant for the only hostel in San Pedro. Although this place to stay is slightly more affordable than others on Ambergris Caye, don’t expect the prices you’ll pay at other Belize destinations or Caye Caulker. The hostel offers both private and dormitory rooms. The hostel has its own restaurant and bar. It is also wonderful to relax by the pool or on the large terrace with sun loungers over the water. Other facilities include free paddle boards and a courtyard with a communal kitchen.
#10 Cayo Espanto for perhaps the most luxurious hotel in Belize. This special luxury resort is not on Ambergris, but on a private island right next to it. There are a handful of beautiful villas on the island, where guests are immersed in great luxury.
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