The Lodge at Jaguar Reef

We stayed at Jaguar Reef for our first time vacationing in Belize. I can easily say it was the most relaxing vacation we've ever had. Everything about this boutique Resort complex seems to be geared towards relaxing the Island way but there were plenty of options for adventures through the onsite Agent. The complex consists of three sister resorts under the mother company, The Belize Collection. Reservations to one the resorts give full access to the entire complex. The Jaguar Reef, The Colonial Inn and the Almond Beach Resort are situated in a way that would be difficult to tell where one resort starts and the other ends. Beautifully landscaped cement paths weave throughout the well groomed grounds of the complex. There are two pools. The complex is about 1.2 miles/2 kilometers from the small town of Hopkins. Making it an easy walk, bike (free to use) or golf cart (rentable) ride. There you will find gift shops, groceries, and fun restaurants (suggest Ella's). My husband (not quite as comfortable with international travel) expressed how safe he felt in and around Hopkins. We were warned that Sargassum (a seaweed) and sand fleas can be issues in this area of Belize. The Belize Collection resorts keep the beaches groomed and clear of the Sargassum. As far as the sand fleas, we brought insect spray specifically for the sand fleas of this area but never had to use it. There was a bit of a cool front during the beginning of our stay but even when it heated back up we didn't experience any issues. Maybe the meticulous grooming of the sand and Sargassum keeps fleas down? Either way, I would bring some insect spray incase. Dining. There are three restaurants available throughout the complex (The Paddle House, Don Tonito's Pizzeria, The Big dock Cevicheria) and three bars ( The Paddle House Bar, The Big Dock Bar and Charlie's (swim-up) Pool Bar). Edgar, Victor and Jerry will spoil you rotten with laughs and drinks that are works of art and made with fresh local ingredients! Thanks you guys! The Paddle House is the main dining area with the most seating. We are gluten free /Celiac and were able to eat at all the restaurants! (Note - The pizza required a 24 hr notice so they could make the gluten free dough. Thank you Brendon and Julian! What an unexpected treat!) The food throughout the complex was outstanding as where our servers! Nincy and Queyli were truly amazing! They could have a full restaurant and still treat each table as if they were the only people there, with warm smiles, laughter and individualize service! Kayla was one of the Hosts at the Paddle House and could arrange anything to make your stay wonderful, from housekeeping to reservations. Then there was Captain Larry! I wish I had just an ounce of his energy. He was everywhere on the grounds and could tell you just about anything you needed to know about the whole complex. These amazing people added so much to our stay and I want to thank them for working so hard to make our vacation wonderful! We had an amazing stay and are looking forward to returning soon!

This resort is as close to perfection as a resort can get. It is quiet and peaceful, understated luxury. The villas are immaculate and spacious—they come with private “plunge pools” (hot tubs). The penthouse level affords gorgeous views of the ocean and sunrise! The Paddle House restaurant serves tasty and healthful dishes (many vegan options). All staff were very welcoming and helpful. Happy hour at Big Dock Bar with a freshly made ceviche and cocktail was an added bonus for a true Caribbean atmosphere. We will be back!

Captain Larry is an absolute gem at this property. He was kind enough to help our kids and make local recommendations. Priscilla in the front desk stayed late to check us in and made sure our room was well taken care of. The room itself was superb. The beach was ok. Restaurants were good especially for breakfast.

This is our second time at Jaguar Reef and again it did not disappoint. We had a 2 bedroom penthouse over looking the Caribbean Sea. The unit was clean, spacious and comfortable. The private balcony with a plunge pool was an extra bonus to the living space. Our mornings were filled with mimosas and coffee while we relaxed in chairs on the beach. The food ( and the service provided by Leo and Andy) was great. We tried the special each day and loved being able to try local dishes. The grounds are immaculate with staff working hard each day to keep things looking pristine. Jason, Lucas and Joseph were additional staff who stood out to make our trip memorable. We will be back! We also used the transport service to/from the airport that was easy and stress free.

Last week we had another wonderful time at Jaguar reef. Would like to say every one from the reception desk to the bartender at the Big Dock treated us like family. And a special shout out to Lucas, our favorite bartender, who made fantastic dinner arrangements for us. Absolutely unforgettable! Also, many thanks to Deon of the Grounds Crew for the beautiful bouquet in our room!