21 Best Hotels in Caye Caulker: Where to Stay

Where to stay in Caye Caulker: best accommodation on the island, from colourful cabins and budget hostels to boutique hotels and boujee resorts.

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Accommodation in Caye Caulker reflects the island’s ‘Go Slow’ motto, with colourful clapboard houses, rustic beachfront cabanas, and breezy wooden cottages shaded by palm trees. You won’t find chain hotels or all-inclusive resorts here, just laidback buildings that blend into the island’s tropical landscape. Many of the hotels on Caye Caulker are independent and locally-owned, dotted around a network of sandy streets. Traditional homes, often referred to as Creole Colonial or Creole style, are characterised by their off-the-ground placement on stilts.

We struggled to choose where to stay in Caye Caulker, umm-ing and ahh-ing between secluded spots on the northern island and the many options spread across the southern (main) island. You want to be close to the Split without noise keeping you up at night, but far enough away from people that you can enjoy the island vibes, without having to walk 30 minutes in the blazing sun. But don’t worry, we found some great options, from budget hostels to boujee boutique hotels. Whether you’re seeking a vibrant guesthouse painted in Caribbean pastels or a chic oceanfront suite with a hammock on the porch, we’ve listed the best places to stay in Caye Caulker in this accommodation guide.

Where to stay in Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is a small, car-free island off the coast of Belize known for its relaxed vibe, crystal-clear waters, and friendly locals. It’s one of the best places to stay in Belize and is a great base for quintessential Belizean activities like snorkelling in Hol Chan Marine Reserve, diving on the Belize Barrier Reef, and visiting the Great Blue Hole.

The island is often thought of as one island, but it’s actually split into two parts by a narrow channel called the Split, dividing it into a north side and south side. South Caye Caulker is the main island, where many accommodations, restaurants, and shops are located. North Caye Caulker is quieter and home to a few secluded resorts and villas.

What is the best area to stay in Caye Caulker?

Generally, the best area to stay in Caye Caulker is the south side near the Split. For travellers seeking peace and quiet, the nearby north side is a great option, but for most, staying on the south island provides the best overall experience.

Many travellers choose to stay close to the Split, for easy access to the swimming area, tours, and dining. Here you’ll find everything from hostels and guesthouses to boutique hotels and beachfront resorts.

If you stay further out of the village, to the south, there are more accommodation options, but you may have a slightly longer walk or want to get around by bike. No matter where you stay, you won’t be too far from the action, as there are plenty of fun things to do in Caye Caulker.

North vs South Islands

Most visitors stay on the south island, which is Caye Caulker’s main island. It’s home to the largest variety of accommodation options, as well as more facilities like tour operators, bars, shops, and Caye Caulker’s best restaurants.

North Caye Caulker is ideal for travellers seeking more privacy and nature. With fewer options, it’s mainly home to upscale resorts, where you’re tied into a meal package, but the nicest beaches are located on this island. Just be aware you’ll need a bike or golf cart to reach town via the Split to Split Ferry, unless your hotel runs a shuttle schedule.

East vs West Sides

The east and west sides of Caye Caulker offer different vibes influenced by their location and exposure, but there’s honestly not a lot in it.

The east side faces the open Caribbean Sea but is largely protected by the Belize Barrier Reef, so the waters are generally calm, though it can be a bit breezier. If seaweed comes in, it’s typically on this side, although most hotels and resorts meticulously clean their beach areas.

The west side faces the lagoon and tends to be quieter and more sheltered, with many accommodations and beach bars lining the shoreline. The water is slightly calmer but less vibrantly blue.

Caye Caulker Hotels Map

Use the filters on the menu on the left-hand side to see the best places to stay in Caye Caulker, marked with dark red pins.

Caye Caulker Hotel Prices

Hotel prices in Caye Caulker vary throughout the year, generally reflecting the island’s seasonal demand.

Overall, Caye Caulker offers accommodations to fit a wide range of budgets, from affordable hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and upscale resorts. While not always cheap, Caye Caulker’s hotels are a lot more affordable than the hotels on Ambergris Caye.

The best hotels in Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker offers accommodations to fit a wide range of budgets, from affordable hostels and guesthouses to mid-range hotels and upscale resorts. Whether you’re looking for a cosy beachfront cabana, a social hostel, or a boutique hotel, the island has something to suit every traveller. We’ve compiled this guide to the best hotels in Caye Caulker, highlighting options from budget-friendly to luxurious and everything in between.

Hostels in Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker’s hostels are ideal for backpackers and budget travellers looking for social and laidback vibes. These properties often offer dorm-style rooms, shared kitchens, and communal spaces that save you money and encourage mingling, all within walking distance of the island’s main attractions.

1. Go Slow Hostel

A hostel located just a short walk from the Split, Go Slow Hostel offers a range of shared and private rooms, some with balconies, all equipped with air conditioning, fridges, and seating areas. The property features a garden, terrace, barbecue facilities, a shared kitchen, and free Wi-Fi. The location is ideal for exploring the island, with easy access to local restaurants and water activities. It doesn’t have the best reviews, but it’s the cheapest bed you’ll find on the island.

Average price per night: $20-40 for a bed in a 4-bed mixed dorm.

2. Bella’s Backpackers Hostel

Bella’s Backpackers Hostel is a rustic, sociable hostel located on Crocodile Street, close to both the lagoon and the Caribbean Sea. It offers mixed dormitories and private rooms, options for air conditioning, and includes access to a small private beach. Guests can enjoy free canoe use, a fitness area, a bar with evening entertainment, and a shared kitchen. The hostel also features a garden and sun terrace, with a lively atmosphere and friendly staff, making it popular among backpackers.

Average price per night: $20-30 for a bed in an 8-bed shared dorm, $70-100 for a private double room.

3. Traveller’s Palm Backpacker Hostel

A colourful hostel in the heart of Caye Caulker, Traveller’s Palm Backpacker Hostel offers dorm rooms and private rooms, some with air conditioning, all featuring tiled floors, bathrooms, fridges, and desks in the private options. Amenities include a spacious rooftop terrace, a fully equipped shared kitchen, and complimentary use of kayaks, purified water, and tea and coffee. The hostel is known for its cleanliness, peaceful environment, and helpful staff. It is conveniently located near the airport, ferry terminal, and beach.

Average price per night: $30-35 for a bed in an 8-bed room in a shared dorm.

4. Sophie’s Guest Rooms

Sophie’s Guest Rooms is a small, family-run guesthouse located just steps from the beach and close to the popular Split area. It has five simple rooms, each with a double and single bed, mini-fridge, fan, seating area, and access to shared bathrooms, with one deluxe air-conditioned room available. The guesthouse offers free Wi-Fi, morning coffee, beach deck chairs, and hammocks for guests. Its peaceful setting and beachfront location make it a great choice for watching the sunset.

Average price per night: $30-60 for a private double room.

Budget hotels in Caye Caulker

Budget hotels on Caye Caulker often offer private rooms with essential comforts at wallet-friendly rates. They’re perfect for travellers who prioritise affordability without sacrificing cleanliness or location, or for those who’d rather spend their money on activities. These stays often include fans or optional A/C, small fridges, and relaxed service. Many are family-run and provide a more local, homey feel.

5. Blue Wave Guest House

Blue Wave Guesthouse is a centrally located budget hotel in Caye Caulker, just a short walk from the beach and ferry dock. It offers simple, clean rooms ranging from fan-only to air-conditioned options, with private or shared bathrooms. Guests have access to a rooftop terrace with sea views, communal seating areas, and free Wi-Fi. The guest house is known for its friendly staff and excellent location near shops and restaurants. It’s a great value stay for travellers seeking convenience and comfort, and its dive shop is a great feature for ocean lovers.

Average price per night: $40-140 for a private double room.

6. Sea N Sun Guesthouse

Sea N Sun Guesthouse is a quiet, family-run property located close to the airstrip and just a few minutes from the beach. Rooms are basic yet comfortable, with fans or air conditioning, private bathrooms, fridges, and verandas. The guesthouse offers a shared kitchen, complimentary coffee, and outdoor seating areas surrounded by a well-kept garden. It is ideal for travellers looking for a cosy and relaxed stay at an affordable price.

Average price per night: $40-100 for a private double room.

7. Pancho’s Villas

Pancho’s Villas is a low-key, budget-friendly guesthouse near the centre of the island, close to restaurants and shops. Accommodations include private rooms with air conditioning or fans, cable TV, mini-fridges, and private bathrooms. There is a shared kitchen for guest use and a covered outdoor area for lounging. Known for its quiet atmosphere, Pancho’s is a solid choice for budget-conscious travellers.

Average price per night: $60-100 for a suite.

8. Tropical Paradise

Tropical Paradise is a well-known budget hotel in Caye Caulker, located right on the beachfront, a short walk from the island’s main attractions. It offers a variety of room types, from basic cabanas with fans to upgraded air-conditioned rooms with hot showers and cable TV. Facilities include a waterfront restaurant and bar, a dive shop, hammocks, and beach loungers. The property has a tropical garden setting and is ideal for travellers who want to stay by the sea without a high price tag.

Average price per night: $60-100 for a private double room.

9. Sky Inn

Sky Inn is a small, affordable hotel located above a local convenience store near the airstrip and main road. Rooms are air-conditioned, with private bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges. The hotel offers Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, and easy access to nearby shops and eateries. Though simple, it is clean, spacious, and great value. We were allowed to store our bags in the downstairs convenience store before check-in, and they were perfectly safe.

Average price per night: $65-100 for a double room.

Mid-range hotels in Caye Caulker

Mid-range hotels in Caye Caulker strike a balance between comfort and cost, offering upgraded amenities like air conditioning, pools, kitchenettes, and beachfront access. These properties are often boutique-style and ideal for couples or families seeking a quiet retreat without the luxury price tag.

10. Dream Cabanas

Dream Cabanas is an adults-only retreat set in a lush garden on a quiet street just five minutes from the beach. The property features charming wooden cabanas with queen beds, private bathrooms, ceiling fans, mini-fridges, and private porches with hammocks. Amenities include complimentary coffee, purified water, bicycles, and free Wi-Fi. Known for its clean, cosy rooms and attentive hosts, the hotel offers a tranquil, boutique feel. It’s perfect for couples or solo travellers seeking serenity with easy access to the island’s highlights.

Average price per night: $70-100 for a private double room.

11. Barefoot Beach Belize

Barefoot Beach Belize is a beachfront property located at the quieter end of the island, offering cabanas, suites, and apartments with tropical décor and sea or garden views. Rooms are air-conditioned and include kitchenettes (we love saving a little money by self-catering), private bathrooms, and private decks or balconies. The hotel features a private beach, hammocks, a sun deck, and a communal lounge area. It’s a great option for travellers wanting mid-range comfort with oceanfront access, and it has some of the best views we saw on the island.

Average price per night: $80-150 for a double room or cabana.

12. Costa Nube

Costa Nube is a stylish, modern hotel set just off the beach on the northern end of Caye Caulker. It offers spacious rooms with contemporary furnishings, air conditioning, private balconies, and fully equipped kitchens or kitchenettes. The hotel includes a rooftop terrace with panoramic views, a plunge pool, and lounge seating. With its upscale touches and quiet location, Costa Nube is the perfect blend of privacy and convenience, ideal for guests looking for a more refined stay at a moderate price point.

Average price per night: $100-150 for a studio.

13. La Isla Resort

La Isla Resort is located near the centre of Caye Caulker, just a short walk from the ferry dock and beachfront. Accommodations include bright, air-conditioned rooms and suites with private bathrooms, fridges, and some with kitchenettes or ocean views. The property features a small outdoor pool, sun loungers, a garden, and a bar. It is well-regarded for its clean, modern facilities and is a great option for those seeking a mid-range hotel in Caye Caulker.

Average price per night: $120-200 for a private double room.

14. Colinda Cabanas

Colinda Cabanas is a beachfront property offering bright, airy cabanas and studios with kitchenettes, private bathrooms, hammocks, and ocean or garden views. Rooms include fans and optional air conditioning, and the hotel provides complimentary bikes, kayaks, purified water, and Wi-Fi. We love how colourful the buildings are and the peaceful setting, which is located just south of the main village for a quieter experience. Colinda Cabanas is also committed to sustainability, using solar panels and eco-conscious practices like slow-flow showerheads and faucets, recycling and composting programs, and minimal use of single-use plastics.

Average price per night: $130-200 (last-minute as low as $75-120).

15. Sea Dreams Hotel

Sea Dreams Hotel is a boutique-style property located right next to the Split, offering individually decorated rooms, suites, and cabanas with air conditioning, fridges, and decorated with local art. Guests can enjoy a complimentary breakfast and use of bicycles, kayaks, and paddleboards, as well as a rooftop bar, sundeck, and garden. The hotel has a welcoming, family-run feel and is a great choice for travellers who want to be near the centre yet enjoy boutique touches.

Average price per night: $140-200 for a private double room, $250-300 for a cabana, $660 for a house.

Boujee hotels in Caye Caulker

For travellers seeking elevated comfort, Caye Caulker’s hotels at a slightly higher price point offer a more boujee and upmarket experience. From spacious suites, stylish interiors, and premium amenities like infinity pools, private docks, and ocean views, these properties cater to guests who want the best the island has to offer in terms of service and design. They’re perfect for honeymoons, special occasions, and travellers who enjoy a bit of luxury on vacation.

16. Island Magic Resort

Island Magic Resort is an upscale beachfront property located just south of the town centre, offering 20 well-appointed rooms and suites with air conditioning, cable TV, private bathrooms, and some with kitchenettes. The resort features a swimming pool, sun terrace, beach bar, and a restaurant serving snacks and meals. It provides water sports booking services and arranges snorkelling and diving excursions right from the beach. Owned by a local Belizean couple, it has a boutique charm with modern amenities in a relaxing seaside setting.

Average price per night: $150-250 for a private double or quad room.

17. Weezie’s Ocean Front Hotel and Garden Cottages

A boutique beachfront collection featuring oceanfront suites, a penthouse, lofts, studios, and five tranquil garden cottages set two blocks inland, Weezie’s Ocean Front Hotel is one of the best places to stay in Caye Caulker. All accommodations are air-conditioned and include flat-screen TVs, kitchenettes or full kitchens, and access to two pools, complimentary paddleboards, kayaks, canoes, snorkel gear, bikes, and purified water. The property includes a courtyard with picnic and grilling areas, a beach bar, and a 250-foot dock with lounge pods offering stunning reef views.

Average price per night: $150-200 for a suite.

18. Bay Towers

Bay Towers is a luxury aparthotel situated on North Caye Caulker’s west beach, offering air-conditioned suites and family rooms with full kitchens, private bathrooms, terraces or balconies, and access to washing machines and dryers. Guests can relax in a beachfront pool or on the private beach and enjoy kayaks, paddleboards, bicycles, and free Wi-Fi. With stunning sunset and reef views, the property also offers free parking and a shuttle service. It delivers a perfect blend of peace and convenience for an upscale island experience.

Average price per night: $150-250 for a private double room.

19. El Ben Cabañas

Located on the quieter north island, El Ben Cabañas features 26 spacious, palm-thatched cabanas with private verandas, air conditioning, ensuite bathrooms, and modern amenities. The resort includes a freshwater pool with bar, bicycles for exploring, canoeing and sailing opportunities, tour desk services, and free onsite parking. Its scheduled shuttle to the main village is super convenient, while its surrounding littoral forest and easy reef access make it perfect for nature lovers.

Average price per night: $250-300 for a private double room.

20. Blu Zen

Blu Zen is a modern boutique resort boasting 25 spacious beachfront villas and penthouses with two bedrooms, kitchens, living-dining areas, air conditioning, and private balconies offering panoramic ocean views. Facilities include an infinity-style pool, fitness centre, sun terrace, on-site restaurant and bar, massage services, free bikes, scheduled shuttle service, and high-speed Wi-Fi. Rated among the top hotels on Caye Caulker’s north island, it delivers a mix of luxury, wellness, and family-friendly comfort just steps from the reef.

Average price per night: $300-400 for a suite.

21. Island Magic Villas

This luxury collection comprises seven two-bedroom villas and one four-bedroom master villa, from the same team behind Island Magic Resort. Located on North Caye Caulker, just a 10-minute walk from the Split, Island Magic Villas offer fully equipped kitchens, air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, private terraces, and an outdoor pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea. The property includes an on-site restaurant and bar, free parking, Wi-Fi, and room service. With elegant design, spacious layouts, and seclusion, it’s ideal for families or groups seeking a premium island retreat.

Average price per night: $300-$400 for a villa.

Where not to stay in Caye Caulker

When planning a trip to Belize and choosing where to stay in Caye Caulker, it’s wise to avoid a few types of accommodations.

While Iguana Reef Inn enjoys a prime sunset-facing location and boasts a private beach with stingrays and seahorses, it has drawn criticism for its practice of feeding marine life to attract guests to Stingray Beach. This practice raises ethical and environmental concerns, as it disrupts natural behaviours and can harm local ecosystems. At over $200 USD per night, many travellers expect stronger conservation efforts, fewer crowds on the beach, and more attentive service.

Caye Caulker’s dry season is hot and humid, with daytime highs often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Staying in a room without air-conditioning during this period can be uncomfortable, particularly in hostels or budget stays with poor ventilation. Look for listings that specify A/C or at least strong ceiling fans if you’re travelling during these months.

Some of the lowest-budget hostels and guesthouses suffer from ongoing cleanliness, maintenance, or pest issues, and may lack proper ventilation or working facilities. Always read the reviews before booking.

Additionally, properties located far from the village centre, especially on North Caye Caulker or inland near the airport, can be inconvenient without reliable transport. You might need to rent a golf cart to get around. If you’re booking a resort on the North Island, it’s best to check whether they offer a shuttle to the main island.

Lastly, we’d recommend steering clear of any place that promotes captive animals or unregulated wildlife interactions (like feeding and touching), as these experiences often conflict with responsible ecotourism practices.

Airbnb in Caye Caulker

We’ve included a little bonus category, as Airbnb often offers an experience to rival hotels. Airbnb on Caye Caulker offers a wide range of accommodations, from cosy cabanas to waterfront villas, often including amenities like pools, air conditioning, kitchens, and private docks. Most rentals are centrally located within walking distance of the Split, restaurants, and water taxi services. Airbnb is well-regarded on the island and considered safe, though it’s wise to follow standard travel precautions and always check the reviews before booking.

Lorraine’s Guesthouse

Lorraine’s Guesthouse is possibly the cheapest option for a private room on Caye Caulker, making it a go-to for ultra-budget travellers. The rooms are extremely basic and do not have air conditioning, which we found pretty difficult in the dry season (December to April). However, mesh-covered windows and a small balcony allow for a through-breeze when doors are left open, offering some natural ventilation. It’s best suited for short stays or those prioritising price over comfort.

Picololo Holiday Rentals

Picololo Holiday Rentals is a family-run set of clean and well-equipped studio apartments and cabins tucked in a peaceful, gardened area just south of Caye Caulker’s main village. Each unit features air conditioning, ceiling and floor fans, a private bathroom with hot water, a hammock-equipped porch, a smart TV, high-speed Wi-Fi, unlimited drinking water, and complimentary use of bicycles for exploring the island, all within a shaded residential block about a 10-minute bike ride from the Split. Most studios boast full kitchens with basic cooking equipment and fresh linens, and the property offers personal touches like BBQ grills in the shared yard and hosts who live onsite to help with local tips and transport logistics.

Where to stay in Caye Caulker for couples

Caye Caulker offers a wide variety of accommodations for couples, whether you’re travelling on a tight budget or looking to splurge on a romantic getaway.

Couples on a budget can opt for private rooms in hostels and guesthouses, which offer affordable stays with basic amenities and a local feel. Airbnbs are also a great option, as couples can split the cost of a private cabana or studio, often with access to a kitchen, bikes, and even a pool.

For those seeking a more romantic or upscale experience, there is a selection of boutique and beachfront hotels in Caye Caulker that offer dreamy views, privacy, and special touches like hammocks, plunge pools, and garden courtyards.

Here are the best hotels in Caye Caulker for couples:

Where to stay in Caye Caulker for families

Caye Caulker is a relaxed, walkable island that works well for families looking to unwind, explore nature, and enjoy quality time together. Families will appreciate accommodations that offer space, privacy, and homey conveniences like kitchens and outdoor areas for kids to play.

Villas, cottages, and vacation homes are especially appealing for families, as they provide multiple bedrooms, living areas, and often extras like bikes, kayaks, or BBQs. Suites with a kitchen are another smart option, giving families the flexibility to cook meals and settle in more comfortably than at a standard hotel.

Here are the best places in Caye Caulker for families:

Can you stay in Caye Caulker?

Caye Caulker has a wide range of places to stay, from budget-friendly hostels and guesthouses to boutique hotels, beachfront resorts, and private Airbnbs. Whether you’re a backpacker, couple, family, or luxury traveller, you’ll find accommodation to match your needs and preferences.

Which side of Caye Caulker is best?

Most people stay on the southern island of Caye Caulker, but those seeking a quieter and more luxurious stay could choose the north island. Most travellers prefer the west side of the island, as it has calm waters, beach bars, and stunning sunset views. The east side is breezier and quieter, but still close to everything.

What is the best area to stay in Caye Caulker?

The best area to stay is the south side near the Split, where you’ll find the majority of restaurants, shops, tour operators, and swimming spots. It’s lively but still laidback, and convenient for first-time visitors.

Which side of Caye Caulker can you swim in the ocean?

Swimming is best at the Split and along the west side, where the water is calm and clear. There aren’t many true beaches besides a couple on the north island, but there are docks and platforms where you can jump in for a swim or sunbathe all around the islands.

Is it better to stay in Caye Caulker or San Pedro?

Caye Caulker is smaller, quieter, and more relaxed, perfect for travellers looking to unwind. San Pedro (on Ambergris Caye) is busier, with more nightlife, upscale resorts, and a greater variety of restaurants. Choose Caye Caulker for a laidback island vibe, or San Pedro for more amenities and action.