From rustic 2-acre day tripper’s utopia to overwater bungalows in the south, Muy’Ono Resorts has the largest collection of island bliss for whatever you’re craving under its nine-resort-strong umbrella in Belize. In this guide to Muyono’s islands, we’ve zeroed in on five “cayes” (pronounced keys) which are low-elevation islets of mostly sand and coral that’s built up, over time, atop the reef. And for a destination that’s hugged between Central America’s corner in the Western Caribbean, visitors are spoiled with a choice of nearly 400 cayes to discover in Belize. Although if you’re looking to experience both reef and rainforest, Muyono’s got options for that too.
The Newest Addition: Turtle Island Resort near Ambergris Caye
Lucy’s Lagoon allows guests to meet rescued and rehabilitated marine life up close, like the beloved resident turtle Lucy.
This all-inclusive private island is Muy’Ono’s latest addition to their collection of resorts, and the first property in (well, technically next to) Ambergris Caye. With a max occupancy of only 42 guests at any given time, Turtle Island is a mere 5-minute private boat ride off of Ambergris Caye, whose seclusion offers eight beach houses and five pet-friendly villas. Besides an infinity pool, spa, fitness center, beach bar, and restaurant, beach houses include one bedroom, a full kitchen, and a terrace. Meanwhile, each villa accommodation comprises two bedrooms, a full kitchen, and a private pool. As for its name, the island is also home to a turtle sanctuary lagoon — so as private as it is, you’re most likely to run into these friendly locals.
For The Saltwater Anglers: Blue Horizon Lodge
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- Blue Horizon Lodge
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- Blue Horizon Fly Fishing Lodge
Orvis-endorsed and smack in the middle of Southern Belize’s Permit Alley, Blue Horizon Lodge is 7 acres of saltwater fishing heaven. Lodgings stand effortless in comfort, which is exactly what you need after a day on the flats chasing permit, tarpon, and bonefish tail for grand slam fame. Maximum occupancy of 10 guests means they’re a boutique fishing lodge with 5 rooms total, while all meals are served homestyle alongside your private guide. Regardless if you’re a first-time angler or not, Blue Horizon Lodge is the perfect home base to not only enjoy a 30-mile playground of saltwater fishing flats nearby, but sharpen your fishing skills.
Weekend Warrior Paradise: Ranguana Caye
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- Shotski anyone? Photo by Ranguana Caye
Although there are dwellings for a max of 9 overnight guests, Ranguana Caye off the coast of Placencia is the ultimate daytripper’s destination, between Bully’s Beach Bar, snorkeling off the island, or a friendly game of beach volleyball. Experience-based, this is also Muy’ono Resort’s most affordable option with a special enchantment: staying on the island from August through October may even get a chance to see Belize’s endangered sea turtles hatch.
Private and Plush: Royal Belize
Image via Royal Belize, a Muy'Ono Resorts.
Royal Belize, A Muy'Ono Resort
Catering to just one party at a time, this is Muy’Ono Resort’s most exclusive stay available: a 7.5-acre private island complete with five luxury suites split across three villas, an island manager, a private chef, housekeeping, a concierge, and a private boat captain. Fully customizable for up to a max of 16 guests, barefoot casual takes on a life of its own with an island all to yourself.
The Bali Dupe: Thatch Caye
Just nine miles from Dangriga at Thatch Caye, this is one of the few locales in all of Belize that delivers overwater bungalows for a Maldives or Bali vibe — sans a 10-hour flight. Housing only 30 guests with only 15 rooms, the thatched cabanas and villa is your direct link to unplugging (thanks to no in-room wifi) and reconnecting to the shore breaking beneath you. Although the best way to take advantage of being on the doorstep of Glover’s Reef Atoll? It’s onsite Five Star PADI Dive Shop for snorkeling or diving escapades to the world’s second-largest barrier reef.
All images via Muy’Ono Resorts.
