Hopkins has already become a rival to sunny Placencia that can hold its own against a heavy hitter as such, whose beaches are a lure for residents, ex-pats, and travelers alike. The small fishing village is often used as a central hub in the Stann Creek district, a midway point to Belize’s jungles and the paradisiacal cayes. When planning your summer stay at the culturally rich Hopkins, there’s one resort that will ensure you’re able to enjoy the best of both worlds: The Lodge at Jaguar Reef.
Luxury at its finest
When guests first gush about their stay at Jaguar Reef, the first thing they mention are the rooms. Cloud-soft bedding and wooden touches adorn the spacious lodgings. No matter which room you choose, you will feel as though you’ve entered an entirely new realm fit only for royalty. Rattan furnishings elevate the already modern space, made better by either a private plunge pool or your own hammock swinging in your porch. Four-poster canopy beds make it hard to leave, which you don’t have to since the room is designed as a wellness sanctuary.
Jaguar Reef’s luxury goes beyond the four walls in your lodging, however. Venture to the on-site restaurant The Paddle House and admire the architecture while indulging in an array of locally-inspired dishes. The beachfront restaurant is best enjoyed at nighttime when the glow of the globe lights above cast a serene and tranquil atmosphere.
Views worth waking up to
Speaking of glow, staying at Jaguar Reef can easily convert you into a morning person once you witness the beachfront sunrise. Speckles of pink and orange hues paint the horizon, a magnificent backdrop against the resort’s over-the-water bar. Stroll alongside the white-sand beach, coffee in hand, while you greet the day. During this time of day, the water is an unimaginable calm, a glass mirror reflecting the breaking of dawn. For a truly breathtaking shot, set up your camera just as you see the first rays of sun peek through the horizon.
Epitome of summer
Moho Caye aerial in its entirety. Photo by Duarte Dellarole
With Belize situated in the tropics, we can argue it feels like summer all year round. This means you don’t have to wait until June or July to enjoy the sun-soaking activities you crave during a summer getaway. Just a short boat ride away from Jaguar Reef lies postcard-worthy islands ideal for snorkeling and diving. You can spend one day exploring the tiny islets of Silk Cayes Marine Reserve and the next lounging at South Water Caye. For something a little more adventurous without sacrificing the water element, head to nearby Mayan King Waterfalls. The site is a mere half-hour drive away from the lodge and functions as a welcomed respite from the tropical heat in Belize.
Of course, you can opt to simply relax and lounge all summer long at this Hopkins resort. With an immaculate stretch of beach, on-site spa services, world-class cuisine, and plenty of unwinding spots at the Big Dock Bar, you’ll want for nothing else but Jaguar Reef.
All images courtesy The Lodge at Jaguar Reef.
