While we generally focus on US and North American indie and boutique properties here at Kanda Collective, we truly appreciate ALL independent brands. Recently we had the pleasure of spending 8 wonderful days exploring Hopkins, Belize through a stay at The Almond Beach Resort, which shares grounds and amenities with The Jaguar Reef Lodge and The Colonial Inn; all 3 are sister properties belonging to The Belize Collection. This independent collection includes 7 small, experience forward properties throughout Belize, with both beach front and hidden-jungle sites that speak to any Belize bound traveler.
The 3 resorts are seamlessly connected via their property, ocean front at that, about a 10 minute drive outside of the quaint village of Hopkins. Upon arrival, you enter through the main building at Jaguar Reef Lodge which houses reception and concierge as well as the primary restaurant, The Paddle House, and lobby bar. The Paddle House offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily with delicious, fresh creations by Chef Rahim and his team and includes a variety of dietary options (even vegan and gluten free) and specials featuring local fish and produce. The property offers 2 more dining options, a brick oven pizza restaurant by the pool (be sure to say Hi to the pool bartender, Bruno, he makes a mean daiquiri) as well as a fresh, made to order Ceviche bar at the only over the water bungalow bar in Belize, The Big Dock! And, if your lucky while enjoying fresh conch ceviche and a mojito, you'll spot some wild manatees swimming below the hammock beds of the bar. If, all of these tasty options don't speak to you daily a quick walk along the beach or golf cart ride (or bicycle ride) into town provides you with a abundance of delicious options.
When it comes to how to spend your days, while not busy enjoying the delicious treats, the hotel can provide you with an impressive collection of included and for charge activities and excursions. Included with your stay, is access to complimentary bikes, kayaks, SUPs and beach games like volleyball. If you are looking for more of an excursion style, just speak with Will and the Concierge team for the daily schedule of confirmed excursions or book your own private one. Options include snorkeling and/or scuba diving (an absolute must when in Belize, as it is the current healthiest barrier reef system in the world), fishing, jungle tours and river cruises, Mayan Ruins (like Xunantunich and Actun Tunichil Muknal). Personally, the Mayan ruins are not to be missed—the vast amount if history that is available in Belize is incredible and very much worth a a day of your trip. And, when it comes to snorkeling or boating, is there truly any better way to explore a Caribbean destination than by spending the day on (or in) the ocean? The best thing about all of these incredible activities—the wonderful concierge team will handle the entire process for you; from booking to transport to the guide and all meals and snacks (even a fun little cocktail treat if you wish).
To close it out, after spending your day exploring the Belizean jungles or Mayan history, or just lounging on the beach (we don't judge), you will get the best night's rest at one of the several type of luxurious room options. Personally, the Deluxe Suite with Private Plunge Pool is this traveler's favorite, but there are several options from multi-room villas, to beach front suites. Something for everyone!
Collection and Property Specs
The Collection includes 4 boutique resorts, 2 villas, and private residences.
3 resorts share the beach front property outside of Hopkins and the 4th is located in the jungle.
1.5 hour drive from Belize International Airport (BZE), private transfers and group shuttle services available through hotel concierge.
10 minute drive (or bike ride) to the local village of Hopkins.
Room options include deluxe suites with private plunge pools, ocean front suites, and villas.
Amenities available include free bike rentals, golf cart rentals, and full service spa.
Activities include free of charge beach activities (Kayaks, SUPs, Hobie Cat) and for purchase excursions (Snorkeling, Fishing, Scuba, Mayan Ruins). All excursions can be arranged in advance or on site with the hotel concierge directly.
3 Restaurants and bars offered on site for all guests. Additional (delicious!) dining options can be found off resort along the beach or in town.
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