Ambergris Caye, Belize’s largest island, is your gateway to turquoise Caribbean waters and the breathtaking Belize Barrier Reef. Whether you’re after a boutique beachfront escape, a family-friendly villa with plenty of space, or a luxury resort offering five-star pampering, you’ll find it here. Most hotels cluster around lively San Pedro for easy access to bars and dive shops, while secluded north and south shores are perfect for romantic hideaways or private-island retreats just steps from the sand.

Ambergris Caye is the kind of place you picture on a postcard—white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a laid-back Caribbean vibe that makes you want to kick off your shoes and stay a while. But it’s not just about the stunning views; this is Belize’s top spot for diving and snorkelling, thanks to the largest living coral reef in the Western Hemisphere. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or just starting out, you can slip beneath the warm waters to find reef sharks gliding past vibrant coral gardens, or take in bucket-list wonders like the Great Blue Hole and Lighthouse Reef.

When you’re not exploring underwater, there’s plenty of adventure above the surface too. Think sailing trips, paddle boarding at sunset, or a lazy day building sandcastles on the beach. Inland, you can wander through Mayan ruins, zip-line over jungle canopies, or stumble upon hidden caves. And when the sun goes down, San Pedro comes alive with colourful galleries, lively eateries, and a welcoming, island-town energy. Whether you’re here for romance, family fun, or pure relaxation, Ambergris Caye is a slice of Belize that feels like it was made just for unforgettable getaways.

The Best Places to Stay in Ambergris Caye

For Families

• Xanadu Island Resort offers stylish beachfront suites near San Pedro, plus snorkelling, sailing, diving, fishing, kayaks, and glass-bottom boats. Family-friendly packages with exciting island excursions make this eco-conscious stay a perfect choice for groups and families alike.
• Alaia Resort- Luxury meets family fun on a dreamy Caribbean beachfront. Kids clubs, pools, activities galore, and spacious sea-view suites make it perfect for sun-soaked family escapes with plenty of options for parents to unwind in style.

For Barefoot Luxury

• Victoria House is a striking beachfront property with 42 elegant rooms, suites and villas hidden under thatched roofs. Think cool, earthy tones in the bedrooms, wide verandahs and gorgeous sea views. Paddle around the pool, unwind at the spa and try everything from scuba diving to exploring Mayan ruins. A luxurious pick with some of the world's best diving!
• Las Terrazzas Resort is a blissful beach escape, perfect for travellers in search of barefoot luxury. Expect handcrafted Belizean mahogany furniture and all the mod-cons in spacious suites and fantastic private villas -- some of which offer space for the whole family. Stay here for a whole range of activities, a 70-metre infinity pool and secluded serenity under the swaying palm trees.

For romance

• Matachica Resort is a quirky adults-only hideaway with brightly-painted thatched casitas overlooking the sparkling sea and a spa specialising in using local ingredients for natural therapies. Take a private snorkelling tour, explore the island by bicycle, sip cocktails with your toes in the sand or savour fantastic fare at the award-winning Mambo Restaurant. Charming, intimate and romantic - a honeymoon dream!
• Cayo Esperanto boasts just seven luxurious villas for travellers eager to forget that the world beyond the hotel's tiny private island exists. Spend your days floating in your private plunge pool, taking custom diving or yacht tours, and feasting in the world-class restaurant. A restful paradise for honeymooners.

For an apartment or villa

If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• There are regular international flights to San Pedro Airport, on Ambergris Caye. You can then hop into a taxi or arrange an airport pick up to get to your hotel. For travellers coming from Belize City, there are affordable water taxis across to Ambergris Caye, which take around 1.5 hours.
• Alternatively, contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car. There's lots to see on the island, and having your own transport makes it much easier to get around!
• Most travellers visit Ambergris Caye between January and May, when the weather is at its best -- humid and around 30°C. Be prepared for showers if you visit during the rainy season (June to November). To beat the crowds and make the most of great deals, time your trip for May or June, before the rains begin to fall in earnest.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Explore our list of all the best places to stay in Placencia.
• Alternatively, expand your search to include all our recommendations for the best places to stay in Belize.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.