Pronounced “ish-tan ha” in the Q'eqchi' Maya language, this full-service resort lives up to its name’s meaning: “the waterfront.” A classic beach respite, X’tan Ha offers exactly the kind of luxurious and relaxing tropical experience that guests expect from Ambergris Caye.

The largest and most popular island off the coast of Belize, Ambergris Caye is reached via boat from the mainland. X’tan Ha is located in San Pedro Town – the Caye’s only true town – on the east side of the island, facing the open Caribbean Sea. The main modes of transportation on this laid-back island are golf carts and water taxis. It is a world-class destination for divers, fishermen, and honeymooners alike. Snorkel in the warm, crystalline water to see the Great Barrier Reef swarm with colorful creatures; visit local wildlife refuges to see over 500 species of animals, or a literal “butterfly jungle”; or just sip fresh fruit elixirs on the beach. There is no shortage of nightlife in San Pedro, so visitors can spend the day marveling at the Barrier Reef and the evening dancing to live music and eating fresh seafood.

X’tan Ha exemplifies what Ambergris Caye is all about. The property includes one of the most pristine beaches on the island, and enhances the experience of the turquoise waters and swaying coconut trees with a huge over-water trampoline and in-water volleyball court. The bar is on the beach too, so guests can grab a tropical libation and head right to their hammock or lounge chair. Though there is a luxurious, large pool in the center of the hotel, the Caribbean is an even better pool: the shallow beach here is perfect for swimming, and many guests take complimentary paddleboats, paddleboards, or kayaks right from the dock to snorkel just a bit further out.

All the guest rooms at X’tan Ha are one-bedroom villa suites, including kitchenettes, dining areas with four chairs, private verandas, sitting parlors, private bathrooms, and TVs with DVD players. The kitchenette comes equipped with paper towels, tea, sugar, cream, salt and pepper, and the island’s own Caye Coffee Roaster’s coffee.

Rooms feature double and queen-sized beds, and the couches in the sitting areas are futons that can be used as extra beds. For groups of 4 or more, suites can be adjoined upon request. Each room looks out onto the Caribbean or the pool and gardens, and some are just three patio steps from the sand.

The resort’s restaurant, Temple Run Tavern, is decorated with mural paintings of famous Mayan sites, and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The atmosphere is casual, and the cuisine combines traditional Central American fare with favorites such as omelets, burgers, and salads. The chefs whip up a dinner and drink specials daily. To get a true island experience, don’t miss the Thursday night “Ceviche class,” where guests learn to make a Belizean specialty.