Belize is well known as a diverse vacation destination in Central America. With a variety of amazing adventures combined with exceptional accommodations in stunning settings, Belize promises an awe-inspiring experience. Recently recognized by TIME magazine as one of the World’s Greatest Places in 2021, Belize is a relaxed, culturally-diverse, must-see destination.

The Belize Collection, a luxury hotel collection featuring accommodations in a rainforest nature reserve spanning more than 80 thousand acres, offers a wide-variety of luxurious vacation options and is a perfect place to experience Belize.

“At the Belize Collection, we’ve devoted ourselves to not only the building of our resorts, restaurants and residences but also to creativity and innovation,” says Ian Lizarraga, managing partner at The Belize Collection. “We want to present our properties as an expansive eternal playground and the harbor of culture and adventure.”

From beachfront villas and jungle resorts to snorkeling and cultural tours, here is a look at where to stay in Belize and how to spend your time while in paradise.

Villas, Lodges, and Resorts

The Lodge at Jaguar Reef in Belize, photo courtesy of The Belize Collection.

The Lodge at Jaguar Reef: Escape to a tropical paradise and discover a quaint, tranquil and laid-back beachfront retreat with sunny skies and panoramic views of the ocean, just minutes away from the Garifuna Fishing Village of Hopkins. This Belize beachfront resort is a haven of relaxation, with an onsite full-service spa, beachfront dining, lounge bar, kids’ pool, infinity pool with swim-up pool bar, beachfront accommodations, kayaks, bicycles, Hobie cat, paddleboards, land and water sports adventures. 

Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge: This award-winning Belize Jungle Resort features 31 exceptional rooms, designed for your comfort and relaxation. The organic design of the air-conditioned rooms mixes the vibrant, earthy colors and textures of the jungle with contemporary sophistication. Hike to the gazebo, kayak, bird watch, mountain bike or pamper yourselves with a couple’s massage in the late afternoon.

Almond Beach Resort at Jaguar Reef: This intimate 12-room beachfront resort offers outstanding accommodations, lavish amenities, and exciting adventures. on a thrilling underwater journey and explore vibrant marine ecosystems. From exploring different Maya Ruins to repelling to beachfront yoga, here you’ll find ample opportunities to explore or simply relax. The property includes an onsite spa that is the ultimate spot for relaxation and rejuvenation, infinity pool with a swim-up bar, hot tub, and a restaurant and lounge bar. 

The Villa Collection: A tranquil Beach Hideaway, located on the longest and finest stretch of beach in Belize, enjoy luxurious beachfront villas with immaculate rooms ideal for a family, friends or romantic getaway. 

Tours and Activities in Belize

Island Hopping and Snorkeling: Visit the second-longest living barrier reef system in the world. With two stops: South Water and Tobacco Caye, where you can set foot on each island and explore. 

Mayan Ceremonial Cave at Sleeping Giant: Enjoy a horse and buggy ride through open citrus orchards. The cave, located behind the Sleeping Giant Lodge, is reserved for the exclusive use of The Belize Collection guests. Very few people ever enter the cave, making it an intimate tour experience. The cave features spectacular geological formations, rimstone dams, stalactites, stalagmites, crystal curtains, and columns.  

Mayan Cooking Experience: Taught by the resort’s chef along with a traditional Maya chef, this class is a foodie experience to amplify the cultural experience at Sleeping Giant Rainforest Lodge. With their expert guidance, discover the deeply flavored and traditional ingredients that have sustained the Maya culture for thousands of years.

When to Visit

No matter what season you visit, there’s plenty to do and see in Belize. But, let’s face it, sometimes weather can make or break a trip. With an average yearly temperature of 84°, Belize tends to be warm, yet comfortable. In winter (November-March) the temperature in Belize rarely falls below 60°, while the summer (May-September) is around 86°.

Belize’s dry season is between February and May and has significantly lower rainfall than the rest of the year. When it does rain, it is usually in mild, short bursts.

June through December is the wet season, with the most frequent rainfall usually in June or early July and is punctuated by a break in late July or August known as the “little dry.”

Fall in Love, Call it “Home

To find out more about The Belize Collection visit thebelizecollection.com. If Belize is on your list of potential oceanfront destinations for retirement or a vacation home, learn about the collection’s select ownership opportunities.