Belizean Dreams Resort

In a low-key tourist destination replete with rustic guesthouses, Belizean Dreams stands out with its refined atmosphere and polished beachy style. The tasteful design -- which is homey and breezy throughout -- embraces the surrounding area with thatched-roof buildings, well-manicured landscaping, and an understated tropical charm. Guests are an even blend of adult couples and families with children -- all looking for a beachfront getaway that includes resort-style amenities without the frenetic, overcrowded experience typical of many Caribbean resorts. The result is a relaxed atmosphere where guests seem content to read a book by the pool or quietly enjoy an afternoon cocktail on the beach.

Situated near the southern tip of Hopkins, the area around the resort is dotted with a handful of hotels, small resorts, and restaurants. However, the Garifuna restaurants, local shops, and markets of downtown Hopkins are a bit far for a comfortable walk -- it's 20 minutes on foot -- though only a five-minute car ride. The entire area serves as an ideal jumping-off point to explore the rainforest (30 minutes west by car) and massive barrier reef off the coast of Belize (35 minutes east by boat).At nearly three hours away, Belize City’s Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE) is the closest major international airport. The small airstrip in Dangriga is reachable via a 45-minute drive but offers far fewer flights. The hotel can arrange (pricey) airport shuttle transportation. Taxi service is another option, however, rides are often unmetered and expensive over long distances. Guests would do well to rent a car to explore the island’s coastline and beautiful rainforest. Rental car counters are available at BZE airport with affordable rates on par with most other Caribbean destinations.

Decor in every room is consistent with the overall homey, tropical vibe of the hotel. Solid wicker seating, Spanish style flooring, granite countertops, and polished wood furniture all create pleasant spaces that are some of the most put-together in the area. While most rooms have a bright and beachy style that feels timeless and modern, some details are less fresh, like palm-tree print upholstered couches in one of the villas that we visited.Each of the freestanding two-story buildings spread throughout the property is an identical Three-Bedroom Villa. The hotel’s three room categories are reconfigurations of each of these buildings. Entry-level One-Bedroom units occupy the second floor of each villa while Executive Suites occupy the large first floor. One-Bedrooms feature spacious sleeping, dining, and living areas -- all with more square footage than a typical upmarket chain hotel. A wide, private, second-story balcony affords excellent views of the Caribbean Sea. The Executive Suites sleep up to five guests between two bedrooms, along with a full kitchen and a wide sea-view veranda. Guests reserving the Villas are given the entire two-story building, essentially combining a One-Bedroom unit with an Executive Suite. Regardless of room type, every bedroom includes a private bathroom with a tiled stand-up shower stall and generic bath products. Painted, tiled sinks add a particularly lovely local touch. Additional amenities are typical of a higher end property, including air-conditioning, free Wi-Fi (though some guests report that it’s slow), and large, flat-screen TVs with satellite service.

There are a number of features to like here, especially when compared to the many budget and mid-range properties nearby. The lovely outdoor pool terrace is clean, well-maintained, and right near the sea. A dozen teak lounge chairs ring the space, though don't expect much in the way of shade. The nearby Palapa Bar between the pool and beach provides a menu of beer, wine, and cocktails.The adjacent Woven Palm Restaurant offers casual indoor and outdoor seating. However, the decor -- including generic outdoor patio sets -- is bland given the property's upscale ambitions. A la carte breakfast, lunch, and dinner are available daily with a mix of Caribbean and Mesoamerican fare. The food -- particularly the traditional Belizean breakfast and locally sourced seafood -- is well-reviewed. All-inclusive deals with varying focuses are available and popular with most guests.Given the size and category of the hotel, the beach is on the small side. However, it’s clean and the location near the far end of Hopkins gives it a semi-private vibe. Coupled with the handful of palapas, several hammocks and a long row of lounge chairs provide ample shaded seating. The dramatic Caribbean weather can strongly affect the condition of the sea, though it’s typically calm and swimmable. Sea kayaks and paddleboards are also available for free to all guests. The hotel has bike rentals as well.The hotel can arrange a number of local activities, including reef snorkeling, zip-line excursions, and diving certification. Spa services can also be arranged, but check ahead with the hotel as to what's on offer. Parking is free and available in a large, off-street lot. Wi-Fi is also free, though it can be spotty.