The Lodge at Jaguar Reef

If you are considering a stay at The Lodge at Jaguar Reef, this review may help you decide. If you have travel insurance, I strongly recommend using it to cancel your reservation and directing your funds elsewhere. We arrived on July 19th to find a significant amount of sargassum along the beach. Having previously visited Riviera Maya nine years ago, I avoided returning for this very reason. As of July 23rd, the seaweed is starting to emit a strong and unpleasant odor. According to local residents and excursion drivers, the accumulation has persisted for two weeks. To minimize time spent at the resort, we have booked daily excursions since Monday. We depart on Saturday, July 26th. Concerns Regarding Cleanliness: Although our room was spacious and comfortable, we experienced ongoing concerns about the cleanliness of the resort’s facilities. Since our arrival, the spa/jacuzzi at the swim-up bar has changed colors multiple times—none appearing sanitary or safe—prompting us to avoid using it altogether. The pool water was consistently murky. On July 22nd, our 11-year-old daughter observed that she could not see the bottom and witnessed an older gentleman urinating in the pool. Understandably, she exited the pool immediately and declined to re-enter. Dining Experience: The on-site dining options were underwhelming. The Paddle House holds a 3.7-star rating on Google and 4.2 on TripAdvisor—ratings that suggest an average experience rather than the exceptional quality implied by the resort’s marketing. The only other waterfront venue, Big Dock Ceviche Bar, closes at 6 PM. Due to concerns about cleanliness, we did not feel comfortable consuming cured seafood on the property.. There is, however, a third on-site option: Don Tonito’s Wood Fired Pizza. We dined there on the evening of our arrival (July 19th) and have not returned since. The pizza was not bad—just average. It was a decent meal, but certainly nothing remarkable or memorable. If cancellation is not possible, I recommend dining off-site at establishments such as Chef Rob’s, Roast Coffeehouse, and La Trattoria, which offer more reliable and enjoyable culinary experiences. Service and Staffing: The sole staff member who consistently demonstrated professionalism and attentiveness was Lucas from Honduras, the bartender at the swim-up bar (whom we met on July 23rd). Unlike previous bartenders, who repeatedly directed us to towels “at the pool vicinity”—where none were available…Lucas reliably provided towels, promptly served beverages, and maintained order by attending to intoxicated guests. His dedication and competence were commendable and suggest he would be an excellent candidate for a managerial role. As this period coincides with the resort’s low season, staffing levels appear inadequate. Essential amenities common to four-star resorts—such as readily accessible trash bins, pool and beach towels, and attentive service—were noticeably lacking. Transportation: We advise against renting golf carts through Jaguar Reef. Instead, consider “Get to Know Belize” for more dependable and cost-effective transportation options. Conclusion: While the town of Hopkins is a destination worth revisiting, we would not choose to stay at Jaguar Reef again. The total cost of our stay including accommodations, resort fees, taxes, and private transfers—was $4,773.78, an amount we believe was not justified by the quality and condition of the resort. P.S. The Lodge at Jaguar Reef, Almond Beach Resort, and The Colonial Inn are all located on the same property. All three share the same amenities, and all are affected by the sargassum.

Jerry and Tahida was amazing! They provided excellent service! The service provided was literally a 10/10. I highly recommend going to Jaguar Reef.

The grounds were beautifully kept, the pools were inviting, the bars were well-stocked, the beach was clean, and the food was delicious, but the real gem of the resort was the staff. Larry, Marvin, Edgar, and Julio were all fantastic. Julio made us feel welcome from the moment we walked in and Marvin and Edgar took great care of my daughters at the bars. Everything at Jaguar Reef was exceptional, but talking to Larry everyday is the thing I'll miss the most.

Some of the best people I've ever met! Larry was amazing. On check out day he had flowers for my two girls, and myself. Edgar was the best bartender, and funny. I absolutely adore these people, and that place.

I Just left the villa and wow what a lovely experience. The nicest and most helpful people!! Larry is just an absolute angel. Julio, Marvin, and Edgar were also very lovely people. 10/10, would absolutely recommend!