Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in Belize

Grand Caribe is one of the larger properties on Ambergris Caye, with 72 one- to five-bedroom condos. Decor is high-end, and includes Brazilian tile floors, mahogany wood, and granite countertops; all units have private terraces with pool or ocean views, fully equipped stainless steel kitchens, and separate dining and living areas perfect for families. Kids will probably enjoy the three swimming pools, loaner kayaks and bikes, and the pretty beach. Family-friendly snorkeling tours and day trips can be arranged through the concierge. It only beats the Blancaneaux for kid-friendliness because of its beachfront location.

Blancaneaux Lodge can feel more geared towards couples than families, but it is actually a great pick for those traveling with kids. The Family Cabana has one or two twin beds as well as a queen bed all in the same space, but for those who want a little more privacy, there are also two-bedroom villas that offer 1,600 square feet of space, an open-air living room, and a kitchen. There are also great activities and amenities for families, such as horse stables, an organic garden where kids can learn about the local flora and fauna, two pools -- one of which is a heated lazy river-style pool -- and tons of day excursions for all ages.

Chabil Mar on Placencia Peninsula has 22 spacious villas equipped with family-friendly amenities: fully equipped open kitchens, washers/dryers, closet space, and one to two bedrooms. Each villa is individually owned -- so decor varies between units -- but they are well-maintained through repairs and annual upgrades. The property has many of the amenities of a larger resort, including two outdoor pools, a picnic area, a pier for swimming, and free use of the kayaks and bikes.

This laid-back, 52-room property offers one-to three-bedroom units, many equipped with full kitchens. The range of family-friendly amenities is extensive and includes three outdoor ocean view pools, fun tours, and three restaurants with a wide variety of food types and kids' menus. For parents, the beach, the palapa bar, the spa, and the babysitting services are upsides. Kids under 12 stay free when sharing a room with their parents.

Xanadu Island Resort is a simple, relaxed property with 18 spacious units resting on a pretty stretch of beach along Ambergris Caye, minutes from central San Pedro. There is no restaurant or bar on-site, but the condo-style rooms come with full kitchens, and there are a few solid amenities for families, such as a small freshwater pool surrounded by lush tropical landscaping, free kayak and bike rentals, and a number of excursions that can be arranged through the on-site tour desk.