Best Kid-Friendly Hotels in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye

Xanadu Island Resort is a simple, relaxed property with 20 spacious units resting on a pretty stretch of beach along Ambergris Caye, minutes from central San Pedro. There is no restaurant on-site, but there is a six-stool outdoor bar, the condo-style rooms feature full kitchens with stainless-steel refrigerators and stoves, and a number of shops are a short walk away. The small freshwater pool is surrounded by lush tropical landscaping and has ocean views. The hotel also offers free kayak and bike rentals, and excursions can be arranged through the on-site tour desk. Golf cart rentals are available and there is free and reliable Wi-Fi throughout.

Coco Beach Resort is a sprawling three-and-a-half-pearl resort north of Amgerbris Caye’s San Pedro Town. Its 58 rooms and suites -- many featuring ocean views -- have bright, beachy interiors with wicker furniture, plush sleeper sofas, and flat-screen TVs with premium channels, though noise can be an issue. The resort’s sandy beach -- like most in the area -- is prone to sea grass and the two huge saltwater pools with sandy, zero-entries are an attractive aquatic alternative. One has a swim-up bar while the other includes a waterslide. The resort’s three restaurants are decent, but close too early for late diners. Those looking for a resort that feels more South Beach than San Pedro should consider Las Terrazas Resort instead, though it will be more expensive.

The upper-middle-range Ramon’s Village Resort is the only resort-style property in the town of San Pedro, offering both resort amenities and easy access to local venues. Its jungle-meets-Polynesian-island theme can feel cute or cheesy, depending on perspective. The 71 rooms are decorated with dark woods and tropical prints, while thatched roofs and tiki heads dot the property. Acting as the hotel’s central hub, the pool draws guest throughout the day. On-site dining options include Pineapples, an all-day sit-down restaurant, and Tropic Al’s a coffee shop and bar. Travelers should note that the hotel’s most budget-friendly rooms are actually located across the street at the Belizean Princess, a separate, different-looking property that’s managed by Ramon’s Village. Travelers in search of a more intimate property may prefer Caye Casa, a boutique hotel with nicer rooms but fewer amenities.  

Grand Colony Island Villas is a three-pearl resort conveniently located just south of San Pedro. Its 14 oceanfront villas with ocean or pool views are outfitted with mahogany furniture, granite-countered kitchens, and furnished private balconies. The sandy beach is one of the island’s best -- it's mostly sea-grass free, and lined with coconut palms and wooden loungers. The tiered freshwater pool has built-in benches and a shallow area perfect for kids. On-site freebies include kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, and bicycles, but most of the resort’s amenities are located at its sister property next door (including the free continental breakfast). For something with more modern style and on-site amenities like a restaurant and bar, travelers should consider the condos at Captain Morgan’s Retreat. 

For sporty travelers looking for an Ambergris Caye getaway, the two-and-a-half-pearl Belizean Shores Resort is an unpretentious spot with plenty to do on-site. The 45-room oceanfront resort has free tennis and basketball courts, ping-pong tables, beach volleyball, and water sports. Lounge chairs dot its palm-lined beach, but there's frequently sea grass, so swimming can be a bit unpleasant. There’s a great saltwater pool and hot tub with a walk-up bar plus lots of loungers -- the area is rarely crowded. Rustic suites are clean but dated and sport kitchens, tropical paintings, and bamboo furniture. Room service is available but the restaurant is expensive and gets mixed reviews. For a more intimate option, the nearby White Sands Cove Resort has more modern room plus a great restaurant and pool.