The Best Hotels in and Around Belize City, Belize

Book a stay at the Radisson Fort George, and you’ll have plenty of adventurous trips on your doorstep. Explore the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere; the boat departs from the marina right across the street. Inside, rooms range from simple doubles to king-sized deluxe suites, overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Come nightfall, listen to live music alongside locals in the hotel’s bar, Baymen’s Tavern. This might just hold the mantle of best hotel in Belize City.

River meets sea at the Seaside Chateau, located just a few miles from downtown Belize City. Choose between cabanas with a view of the Belize River or the Caribbean to the east, each with its own perks. Hidden among the 40ft (12m) mangrove trees, you might spot parrots, fish and even the occasional manatee or two. On the beach, however, you’ll find white sand, seagulls and a volleyball court ready to see some action.

You’ll feel right at home in one of the Grand Colony’s 12 villas on Ambergris Caye, just 90 minutes by boat from Belize City. Choose between a two-bedroom suite, close to the pool, or a three-bedroom villa with beachfront access. With an on-site dive center, you’ll have your pick of underwater spots along the Belize Barrier Reef, like the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley.

Just in front of the San Pedro Airport and a short walk from downtown, the Palms Oceanfront Suites is a convenient place to stay on Ambergris Caye. The 12 suites, ranging from one- to three-beds, offer beachfront access, full kitchens and private balconies. There’s also a snug poolside casita, perfect for couples. From the hotel dock, you can catch a boat to snorkel in Coral Gardens, or scuba dive in the Great Blue Hole.

With a movie theater, Olympic-size pool and Vegas-style casino all under its roof, you may never want to leave the Ramada Belize City Princess Hotel. Spacious rooms offer large comfortable beds with Caribbean views. Families can enjoy the on-site children’s activities, plus rollaway beds can be added onto any room. Make the most of the complimentary breakfast buffet (which includes good vegan options).

The rooms at Golden Bay Belize Hotel are fit for a king, filled with ornate, baroque-style furniture, crown molding and teardrop chandeliers. Luxury is on the menu, too, at the hotel’s rooftop restaurant Vino Tinto. Take your pick from a number of local catches like grilled green mussels, Belizean shrimp ceviche or seafood soup. When you’re ready to explore, drivers are on standby 24/7 to whisk you downtown.

Beachside bliss awaits you at the Costa Blue Beach Resort, an adults-only getaway on Ambergris Caye that is miles away from town. Check out a free kayak or paddleboard for a lazy float or try one of Costa Blu’s other outdoor activities like fishing, bike rides and volleyball. When you’re ready to retire, head back to your king-size suite – the largest ones feature a pretty porch with sea views.