Best Hotels in Ambergris Caye & San Pedro, Belize (2026 Guide)
Find the best hotels and resorts in Ambergris Caye, Belize. From luxury beachfront resorts to budget-friendly options in San Pedro, complete guide with prices.
Contents
Ambergris Caye: Belize's Most Popular Island
Ambergris Caye is Belize's largest island and the country's top tourist destination. Just a mile from the magnificent Belize Barrier Reef—the second largest in the world—this 25-mile-long island offers world-class diving, snorkeling, and that laid-back Caribbean vibe that keeps visitors coming back year after year.
San Pedro, the island's only town, serves as the hub for restaurants, nightlife, and tour operators. Whether you want to be in the heart of the action or prefer a secluded beach retreat, Ambergris Caye has the perfect accommodation for you.
Understanding Ambergris Caye's Layout
The island is divided into three main areas:
South of San Pedro: Quieter resorts, easy access to town by golf cart or water taxi. Many luxury properties are here.
San Pedro Town (Downtown): The bustling center with shops, restaurants, bars, and easy access to everything. Great for first-timers and social travelers.
North of the Bridge: Secluded luxury resorts and private villas. More peaceful but requires water taxi or golf cart to reach town.
Luxury Resorts
Matachica Resort & Spa
Adults-Only Tropical Paradise
A beautiful adults-only resort in North Ambergris Caye, Matachica offers seclusion while remaining accessible to San Pedro. Each thatched-roof casita is uniquely decorated with vibrant colors and local art.
Highlights:
- Adults-only (perfect for couples)
- Private beach with overwater deck
- Mambo Restaurant (excellent cuisine)
- Full-service spa with jungle setting
- Complimentary bikes and kayaks
Price: From $400 USD/night
Best for: Couples, honeymooners, romance seekers
Victoria House Resort & Spa
Colonial Elegance on the Beach
One of the most celebrated resorts in Belize, Victoria House combines British colonial architecture with Caribbean charm. Located just south of San Pedro, it offers the perfect balance of accessibility and tranquility.
Highlights:
- Beautiful colonial-style architecture
- Three distinct room categories
- Admiral Nelson's Bar & Restaurant
- Full-service spa and pools
- Private dock for reef trips
Price: From $350 USD/night
Best for: Discerning travelers, special occasions, families
Mahogany Bay Resort (Curio by Hilton)
International Luxury Meets Belize
The first international luxury hotel brand in Belize, Mahogany Bay offers an exclusive village atmosphere just 15 minutes from San Pedro by golf cart. Beach cottages and villas are gorgeously decorated with local touches.
Highlights:
- Hilton brand quality and service
- Private beach club
- Chic restaurant and bars
- Stunning overwater pool
- Excellent for weddings
Price: From $300 USD/night
Best for: Luxury seekers, wedding groups, Hilton loyalists
Las Terrazas Resort
Beachfront Boutique Luxury
A stunning 4.5-star resort with direct beach access and exceptional amenities. Las Terrazas combines spacious suites with outstanding service and activities.
Highlights:
- Beachfront location with pier
- On-site snorkeling and diving
- Spa services available
- Large infinity pool
- Multiple dining options
Price: From $280 USD/night
Best for: Families, active travelers, snorkeling enthusiasts
Mid-Range Hotels
Ramon's Village Resort
Tahitian Charm in Belize
One of the oldest and most beloved resorts on the island, Ramon's brings Bora Bora aesthetics to Ambergris Caye. Beachfront thatched cabanas are surrounded by tropical gardens and swimming pools.
Highlights:
- Iconic thatched-roof cabanas
- Downtown San Pedro location
- Excellent dive shop on-site
- Beautiful pool and beach area
- Great value for beachfront
Price: From $200 USD/night
Best for: Divers, first-time visitors, value seekers
Portofino Beach Resort
North Island Serenity
Located on North Ambergris Caye, Portofino offers luxury suites, unique treehouses, seaview cabanas, and even a beach mansion. A lovely stretch of beach and nice pool complete the package.
Highlights:
- Unique treehouse accommodations
- Quiet north island location
- Beautiful beach and pool
- On-site restaurant
- Kayaks and paddleboards included
Price: From $180 USD/night
Best for: Couples, families, those seeking peace
Blue Tang Inn
Downtown Convenience
An inviting hotel in the heart of San Pedro offering spacious rooms with kitchenettes, amazing ocean views, and exceptionally friendly staff. Perfect for those who want to be in the center of everything.
Highlights:
- Prime downtown location
- Rooms with full kitchens
- Rooftop terrace with views
- Walking distance to everything
- Friendly, helpful staff
Price: From $150 USD/night
Best for: Independent travelers, longer stays, budget-conscious
Pelican Reef Villas
Condo-Style Comfort
Spacious villa accommodations with full kitchens, perfect for families or longer stays. The property features a nice pool and beach area with easy access to town.
Highlights:
- Full kitchen in every unit
- Spacious 1-3 bedroom villas
- Pool and beach access
- BBQ facilities
- Great for families
Price: From $170 USD/night
Best for: Families, groups, extended stays
Budget-Friendly Options
San Pedro Town Hotels
For the most affordable stays, San Pedro town offers guesthouses and small hotels from $50-100 per night. You won't be directly on the beach, but you'll be steps from restaurants, bars, and tour operators.
Budget picks:
- Ruby's Hotel (from $60)
- Hotel San Pedro (from $55)
- Tio Phil's (from $50)
Best Areas to Stay
| Area | Best For | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Downtown San Pedro | First-timers, social travelers | Walking distance to everything | Can be noisy |
| South of Town | Luxury, families | Quiet, easy town access | Need golf cart |
| North of Bridge | Romance, seclusion | Peace and quiet | Water taxi needed |
Getting Around
Golf Carts: The main transportation on the island. Rentals from $60-100/day.
Water Taxis: Essential for north island resorts. Frequent service, about $10-15 per trip.
Bikes: Many resorts offer complimentary bikes. Great for downtown exploration.
Walking: Downtown San Pedro is very walkable.
Diving & Snorkeling
Ambergris Caye is a world-class diving destination. The Belize Barrier Reef is just minutes away by boat.
Top dive sites:
- Hol Chan Marine Reserve
- Shark Ray Alley
- The Blue Hole (day trip)
- Turneffe Atoll
Most resorts offer:
- On-site dive shops or partnerships
- Snorkeling trips to the reef
- PADI certification courses
- Equipment rental
Best Time to Visit
Dry Season (December - May): Best weather, peak prices. Book 3-4 months ahead for holidays.
Wet Season (June - November): Lower prices, occasional rain, hurricane risk Sept-Oct. Still great for diving.
Lobster Season: Opens June 15th—perfect time for seafood lovers!
Conclusion
Ambergris Caye offers something for every traveler, from luxurious adults-only retreats to family-friendly resorts and budget-friendly downtown hotels. The combination of the world's second-largest barrier reef, laid-back Caribbean atmosphere, and excellent dining makes it Belize's most popular destination for good reason.
Book early for peak season (December-May) and consider the shoulder months for better deals without sacrificing good weather.
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