Belize's Family-Friendly Vacation Spots

Belize is a small Central American country, bordered by Mexico, Guatemala, and the Caribbean Sea. With English as its official language, it's a great destination for families looking for a convenient, exotic getaway. The country offers a unique blend of Caribbean and Central American cultures, with a range of locales, from remote islands to rainforest refuges.

- San Ignacio: Perfect for nature-loving families, San Ignacio offers kid-friendly jungle resorts and a variety of activities such as horseback riding and exploring Mayan archaeological sites.

- Hopkins: Hopkins is home to world-class diving resorts, such as Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort, and is ideal for families interested in experiencing the Garifuna culture of Belize.

- Ambergris Caye and San Pedro: Popular among American families, these destinations offer luxurious beach resorts with kids' clubs and excellent snorkelling opportunities at the Belize Barrier Reef.

- Placencia: Known for its beautiful beaches, Placencia is perfect for families seeking a simple and relaxed vacation.

- Caye Caulker: This laid-back, car-free island is ideal for older kids interested in snorkelling or diving, and its proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef makes it perfect for quality family bonding.

Some specific family-friendly resorts and hotels in Belize include:

- Mystic River Resort: Located outside of San Ignacio, this resort offers a range of activities for families, including trips to ruins and certified guides.

- The Lodge at Chaa Creek: This luxury jungle lodge has won international awards for its sustainable tourism efforts and offers a range of amenities for families, including a natural history museum, a Maya medicinal plant trail, and a butterfly farm.

- Ramon's Village Resort: Inspired by Tahitian cottages, this beachfront resort in San Pedro offers a tropical sanctuary with thatch beach cabanas surrounded by gardens and swimming pools.

- Pelican Reef Villas Resort: This award-winning resort in Ambergris Caye features modern, well-equipped beachfront condos, a private beach, and a pool, providing a quiet and relaxed setting for families.

San Ignacio: A nature-lover's paradise with kid-friendly jungle resorts, Mayan ruins and horseback riding

If you're looking for a nature-filled family vacation in Belize, San Ignacio is the perfect destination. Located in the Cayo District, San Ignacio offers a unique blend of rainforest exploration, Mayan history, and outdoor adventures that will delight both parents and children alike.

For accommodation, San Ignacio boasts several kid-friendly jungle resorts. The Lodge at Chaa Creek, a luxury jungle lodge situated within a 400-acre private nature reserve just minutes away from the town, is an excellent choice for families. It offers all-inclusive amenities such as a natural history museum, a Maya medicinal plant trail, and a butterfly farm. The on-site sister property, Belize Rainforest Retreat, provides a more rustic camping experience for those seeking an immersive nature getaway. Another great option is the San Ignacio Resort Hotel, a family-owned boutique hotel set on a 17-acre private estate. It offers easy access to local attractions, including the Green Iguana Conservation Project, an interactive and educational experience for children.

When it comes to activities, San Ignacio delivers an array of exciting options. The entire family can explore the surrounding rainforests, discovering the rich biodiversity of Belize. A visit to the Mayan archaeological sites, such as Xunantunich and Cahal Pech, offers a glimpse into the ancient Mayan civilization. Horseback riding is also a popular activity in the area, allowing families to enjoy the stunning natural scenery at a leisurely pace. The town of San Ignacio itself has a vibrant market, perfect for supporting local artisans and enjoying delicious local cuisine.

In addition to its natural and cultural attractions, San Ignacio also provides opportunities for adventure. Cave tubing, zip-lining, and river tours are just a few of the thrilling activities on offer. For a truly unique experience, you can even arrange horseback riding tours or explore the many waterfalls in the area.

San Ignacio is an excellent choice for families seeking an immersive nature experience, cultural exploration, and outdoor fun. With its mix of kid-friendly resorts, ancient ruins, and diverse activities, it promises an unforgettable family vacation in the heart of Belize's lush rainforest.

Hopkins: Garifuna culture, world-class diving, and marine reserves

Hopkins, a small seaside village in Southern Belize, is ideal for families interested in experiencing the local Garifuna culture. Along with exploring nearby marine reserves and cayes, or taking jungle day trips to nature parks and Mayan sites, families can learn about the Garifuna people through dance, drumming, and cooking lessons.

Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort

Hamanasi Resort in Hopkins Village is known for its world-class diving adventures. The resort's expansive grounds are a perfect blend of natural habitat and pristine landscaping, offering an awesome deep-in-the-jungle vibe while being beachside.

Almond Beach Resort at Jaguar Reef

Located in Hopkins, Almond Beach Resort is part of The Belize Collection, which offers two adjacent resorts that share the same scenic beach. Families will find private casitas and family suites equipped with amenities that cater to all ages. The Lodge at Jaguar Reef next door offers modern luxury accommodations, including family suites with private plunge pools that are ideal for family-friendly fun in a secluded setting.

Hopkins Bay, a Muy'Ono Resort

Hopkins Bay is a great place to visit with family and friends, offering villa-style rooms that include a full kitchen and living space. It is family-friendly and an amazing vacation spot.

Ambergris Caye: Snorkelling, sailing, manatee spotting and beachside cabanas

Ambergris Caye is a tropical paradise nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, boasting turquoise waters and lush landscapes. With its pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, it's a destination that will leave you in awe. Here's a guide to help you make the most of your family vacation to Ambergris Caye, Belize:

Snorkelling

Ambergris Caye is a snorkelling paradise, offering a kaleidoscope of marine life to explore. The Belize Barrier Reef, just off the coast, is the second-largest reef system in the world and is teeming with vibrant fish, sea turtles, manta rays, parrotfish, and more. Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley are two of the most popular snorkelling sites, where you can swim alongside nurse sharks and stingrays. Mexico Rocks, a newer snorkelling destination, is also a must-see, with its shallow patch reef system and diverse marine life.

Sailing

Sailing is a fantastic way to explore the coastline and cayes of Ambergris Caye. You can charter a yacht or join a sailing tour, which often includes snorkelling stops. The Placencia Peninsula, known for its calm waters and family-friendly activities, is a great place to start your sailing journey. From there, you can visit idyllic islands like South Water Caye and Lagoon Caye. For a romantic sunset cruise, charter a sailboat from San Pedro to Caye Caulker.

Manatee Spotting

Manatees can be spotted in the wild in Ambergris Caye, particularly in the Bacalar Chico National Park and Marine Reserve, located at the northern tip of the island. This protected area is only accessible by boat, and it's also home to ancient Mayan ruins. You can also spot manatees in the channel between Ambergris Caye and Mexico, and occasionally near Tranquility Bay Resort.

Beachside Cabanas

When it comes to accommodation, beachside cabanas offer the perfect blend of relaxation and natural beauty. Tranquility Bay Resort, located inside the Bacalar Chico Marine Reserve, is an excellent choice for families seeking seclusion and spectacular snorkelling. Las Amapolas, tucked among coconut palm trees and a secluded beach, is another hidden gem. For a vibrant atmosphere, Matachica Resort and Spa, located north of San Pedro, offers colourful casitas, a pool, and a spa.

Placencia: Serene setting with fun amenities for kids, including pools, sailing boats and kayaks

Placencia is a great choice for a serene family vacation setting in Belize. Located in the beachside village of Placencia, Robert's Grove Beach Resort is one of the country's oldest resorts. The village is on an 18-mile peninsula in Southern Belize, known for its beautiful beaches. The resort is only a 15-minute drive from Placencia's downtown core, but its tranquil setting makes it feel miles away from any town.

Families love the resort's peaceful and calm atmosphere, as well as the fun amenities for kids, including pools, sailing boats, and kayaks. The immaculate landscaping and manicured gardens add to the beauty of the resort.

Placencia itself offers a slow-paced life, perfect for quality family time. Kids will also enjoy riding around in golf carts, which are a common mode of transportation in the area.

In addition to Robert's Grove Beach Resort, there are other family-friendly accommodation options in Placencia, such as Hopkins Bay, a Muy'Ono Resort, which offers villa-style rooms with full kitchens and living spaces, ideal for families seeking a home-away-from-home experience.

San Pedro: Snorkelling, paragliding, golf cart tours and the Butterfly Jungle

San Pedro is a great location in Belize for families seeking a mix of beach and jungle experiences. Located in Ambergris Caye, it offers some of the best snorkelling opportunities at the Belize Barrier Reef, which is the second largest barrier reef in the world. The Hol Chan Marine Reserve is a popular spot for snorkelling and sailing tours, where you can explore vibrant coral reefs and see a variety of marine life, including stingrays and nurse sharks.

For those seeking more adventure, there are also scuba diving options available, with professional staff and good rental equipment. If you want to stay dry, you can opt for a jet ski tour or parasailing above the Caribbean Sea. Golf cart tours are also a popular way to get around and explore the area.

Butterfly enthusiasts will enjoy the Butterfly Jungle, which is part of the Chocolate, Butterfly, Waterfall Combo Tour offered by some resorts. This tour provides an immersive environmental experience, educating young visitors about the importance of environmental care.

For accommodation, Ramon's Village Resort in San Pedro offers beachfront rooms and jungle cabanas, as well as suites with kitchenettes, which can be convenient for families with young children. Grand Caribe is another option, offering large family suites and a five-bedroom villa, along with a kids' club, game room, and a pool for younger family members.

Frequently asked questions