Belize Is Red Hot

What if I told you there’s a tourist and retirement destination you should put on your radar with lush beaches, pristine blue water, lush rainforests, vibrant culture, and diverse, friendly locals? 

What’s the first place that comes to mind? Hawaii? What if I told you you could experience all of these things at a fraction of the cost? And what if I told you that you can get to this destination in as quick as 2–3 hours from some major U.S. airports? 

Well, this place exists. It’s Belize, and it’s red hot and appearing on everyone’s radars.

Once flying under the radar of many tourists, Belize is now a must-see. In fact, the first international hotel chain didn’t open a resort in Belize until recently, in 2017, but since then, other chains and developers have been rushing to Belize like gangbusters. 

Located in South Ambergris Caye, Mahogany Bay Resort and Beach Club (part of the Curio Collection by Hilton Hotels) was the first resort by an international chain to open doors in Belize with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on December 6, 2017.

Since 2017, hotels, all-inclusive resorts, and other vacation destinations have been opening like crazy in Belize and also collecting awards. Local operators are also garnering recognition. 

Coco Plum Island Resort, Belizean Dreams Resort, Laru Beya Resort, and Manta Island Resort in Belize have all been nominated for the prestigious 2024 Condé Nast Travelers’ Readers’ Choice Awards for the second consecutive year. The four resorts are owned and managed by a local Belizean family who are committed to giving back to the community through various community sponsorships and programs, as well as being one of the largest employers in the area.

And here are the 13 best all-inclusive resorts in Belize, as ranked by Travel + Leisure Magazine:.

Turneffe Island Resort, Turneffe Atoll. 

Offering a luxurious escape for fishing, diving, and snorkeling enthusiasts, Turneffe Island Resort is nestled on a private island southeast of Belize City. Guests enjoy all-inclusive amenities, including meals and access to water sports equipment, ensuring a seamless and adventurous getaway.

Belizean Dreams Resort, Hopkins. 

Situated in the vibrant fishing village of Hopkins, Belizean Dreams Resort provides intimate beachfront accommodations with various all-inclusive packages covering dining, transportation, and recreational activities like kayaking and snorkeling.

Manta Island Resort, Glover’s Atoll. 

Set on Glover’s Atoll, Manta Island Resort boasts oceanfront cabanas and villas, offering all-inclusive experiences featuring meals, transfers, and guided snorkeling tours amidst the stunning coral reefs.

Matachica Resort & Spa, Ambergris Caye.

Located north of San Pedro Town, Matachica Resort & Spa offers a range of casitas and villas with sea views. All-inclusive packages include domestic transportation and complimentary activities like spa treatments and snorkeling, ensuring a relaxing and indulgent stay.

Shaka Caye, Little Frenchman Caye. 

Accessible by boat from Belize City, Shaka Caye provides luxurious cottages with inclusive amenities such as meals and water sports equipment. Optional spa treatments and guided tours offer guests a bespoke experience on this private island.

Dream Valley Belize, Belmopan.

Nestled along the Belize River, Dream Valley Belize offers a rainforest retreat with all-inclusive rates covering meals and activities like jungle hikes and cave excursions, promising an immersive adventure in Belize’s natural wonders.

Alaia Belize, Ambergris Caye. 

Part of Marriott Bonvoy’s Autograph Collection, Alaia Belize boasts luxurious accommodations and all-inclusive packages featuring private helicopter transfers, meals, and access to water sports equipment, catering to couples seeking a romantic getaway.

Chabil Mar Villas, Placencia.

Offering customizable all-inclusive packages, Chabil Mar Villas provide guests with transportation and themed activities, ensuring a memorable experience amidst the natural beauty of Placencia.

Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort, Stann Creek.

Set on waterfront property between the Caribbean Sea and the Maya Mountains, Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort offers secluded accommodations and inclusive packages covering meals, transfers, and guided tours for a personalized escape.

Chaa Creek, San Ignacio.

Positioned along the Macal River, Chaa Creek is an eco-lodge offering villas and treetop suites with inclusive packages tailored to families, honeymooners, and adventure seekers, providing a sustainable and immersive experience in Belize’s wilderness.

Cayo Espanto, Belize.

Located on a private island off Ambergris Caye, Cayo Espanto features luxurious villas with inclusive amenities like meals, private butler service, and access to water sports equipment, ensuring an exclusive and indulgent retreat.

Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas, Placencia.

Ideal for active couples, Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas offers all-inclusive packages with unlimited dining and access to recreational facilities like tennis courts and kayaks, promising a fun-filled escape along the southeastern coast of Belize.

Coco Plum Island Resort, Coco Plum Cay.

Booking an all-inclusive package at Coco Plum Island Resort guarantees a cozy oceanfront stay with complimentary water sports activities and meals, providing guests with a hassle-free and enjoyable experience amidst the Southern Barrier Reef.

Here are some more reasons to visit Belize:

Natural Wonders. 

Belize boasts an abundance of natural wonders that will leave visitors awe-struck. The jewel in Belize’s crown is undoubtedly the Belize Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. Snorkeling and diving enthusiasts will be treated to a kaleidoscope of marine life, including colorful corals, exotic fish, and even the chance to swim with gentle giants like whale sharks.

Inland, the lush rainforests of Belize are home to an incredible diversity of flora and fauna. Explore ancient Mayan ruins hidden amidst the jungle, trek through verdant nature reserves teeming with wildlife, or embark on adrenaline-pumping adventures like zip-lining and cave tubing.

Cultural Richness. 

Belize’s rich cultural heritage is a testament to its diverse history and melting pot of influences. From the vibrant Garifuna communities along the coast to the ancient Maya descendants in the interior, Belize is a melting pot of cultures waiting to be explored.

Immerse yourself in the rhythms of Garifuna drumming, savor the flavors of traditional Belizean cuisine, or learn about the ancient rituals and customs of the Maya civilization. With a calendar full of festivals and events celebrating Belize’s cultural diversity, there’s never a dull moment in this vibrant country.

Eco-Tourism Paradise.

As the world becomes increasingly conscious of the importance of sustainable travel, Belize stands out as a shining example of eco-tourism done right. With over 40% of its land under protected status, Belize is committed to preserving its natural beauty for future generations to enjoy.

From eco-lodges nestled deep in the rainforest to community-led conservation projects, Belize offers a plethora of eco-friendly accommodations and activities for environmentally conscious travelers. Whether you’re bird-watching in the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary or embarking on a guided tour of the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, you can explore Belize’s natural wonders with a clear conscience.

Accessibility. 

For American travelers, Belize is just a stone’s throw away, making it an accessible and convenient destination for a tropical getaway. With direct flights from major cities like Miami, Houston, and Atlanta, getting to Belize has never been easier.

Once you arrive, English is widely spoken throughout the country, eliminating any language barriers and making it easy to communicate with locals and navigate your way around. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo adventure, Belize welcomes visitors with open arms and promises an unforgettable experience.

Value for Money. 

Compared to other Caribbean destinations, Belize offers excellent value for money, allowing travelers to stretch their vacation budget without compromising on quality. From budget-friendly accommodations to affordable dining options, Belize caters to travelers of all budgets, making it an attractive choice for those seeking an affordable yet unforgettable vacation experience.

Whether you’re lounging on the beach, exploring ancient ruins, or diving into the vibrant culture of Belize, every moment spent in this tropical paradise is sure to be filled with adventure, discovery, and unforgettable memories. 

So why wait? Start planning your Belizean adventure today and discover why this hidden gem is quickly becoming the crown jewel of Caribbean tourism.

What if I told you that you could enjoy Belize for a fraction of the cost of visiting Hawaii?

With Hawaii’s cost of living being 121% more expensive than Belize’s, why not save your money for souvenirs? And there are things you can experience and find in Belize that you will not find anywhere else in the world. 

Come find out why Belize is so hot and what all the hype is about.

Compare listings

Compare