Ramon’s Village Resort

Ramon's Village is one of the longest-established resorts on Ambergris Caye, and it keeps a relaxed, tropical-garden character. The property is styled like Tahitian cottages, with palm-thatched cabanas set among Royal Palms and Mayan sculptures. It stands on Coconut Drive in San Pedro, and a guest review describes it as about a five-minute walk from most of the town. Accommodation is in cabanas: Beachfront cabanas sit right on the sand with views of the Caribbean and the barrier reef, Seaside cabanas are a few steps from the beach among the gardens, and Jungle cabanas, including family cabanas, line sandy paths. Across the street, the sister property Steve and Becky's adds further options. A lagoon-style pool, a poolside smoothie and coffee bar and the beachside restaurant Pineapples On The Beach complete the grounds.

Location and getting around: Ramon's sits close enough to the centre of San Pedro that you can walk to dinner, bars and the main dock in a few minutes, yet far enough along Coconut Drive to feel like a beach resort rather than a town hotel. For longer distances, golf carts are the island norm, and the resort can help you arrange one. Most guests arrive by a short flight from Belize City or by water taxi, and transfers can be arranged.

The rooms: choose between Beachfront, Seaside and Jungle cabanas depending on your priorities. Beachfront cabanas have the views and the sea breeze, Seaside cabanas are a better value and still close to the sand, and Jungle cabanas, including family-sized ones, are the quieter, shadier option. The thatched-roof style is charming but means you are living in a resort of cabanas rather than a conventional hotel block, so expect garden paths, tropical insects and a more traditional island atmosphere. If you want the nicest view, request beachfront; if you travel with children, ask about the family cabanas.

Who it suits: divers and snorkellers above all, since Ramon's Village Divers runs from its own dock and offers courses, trips and even a recompression chamber. It also suits couples and families who want a beach, a pool, an on-site restaurant and a walkable base in town. Good to know: the cabanas are individual units, so noise carries differently from a hotel, and rates vary by season, with the dry months from roughly February to May the busiest. Book Hol Chan, Shark Ray Alley and Great Blue Hole excursions early, since the dive shop and local operators fill up in high season.