Hopkins Bay, a Muy’Ono Resort

While small, no-frills guesthouses typify much of the Hopkins area, Hopkins Bay Resort stands out as a distinctly upper-middle-range beachfront resort. Nineteen beautiful, free-standing villas dot the landscape amid a well-maintained network of foot paths, small gardens, and fountains. The design and grounds feel sophisticated and understated, with a slightly more personalized vibe than most typical Caribbean resorts. Most rooms offer multiple bedroom configurations, making this a property well-suited for both families and couples. Even with a handful of kid-centric activities, the atmosphere feels quiet, reserved, and relaxed. There are numerous rustic guesthouses near the center of town where the atmosphere is lively -- even raucous -- during peak season; but Hopkins Bay Resort feels like the antidote to those.

The hotel is located at the end of a dead-end road on the northern edge of Hopkins. The tiny village’s restaurants, shops, and markets are at least 15 to 20 minutes away on foot, though it's only a five-minute drive. Guests looking to explore beyond the area’s beautiful beaches can reach Mayflower Bocawina National Park, a 30-minute drive inland. The preserve’s on-site adventure center provides myriad outdoor opportunities, including hiking, kayaking, and guided tours of Belize’s famous Mayan ruins. The city of Dangriga is just 45 minutes away by car, though the tiny airport there offers limited flight options. Consequently, most guests arrive three hours north via Belize City’s Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE). The hotel can arrange for (pricey) airport shuttle services, though car rentals are available at the airport for those wanting a more economical way to explore.

Each of the 38 rooms features understated decor that makes them feel pleasantly homey. Mid-tone wood furniture, four-poster king-size beds, and marble flooring all create a tastefully unpretentious ambience. Pops of bright color help lend a Caribbean vibe to the aesthetic without ever seeming kitschy or dated, though we did spot a bit of minor wear on some of the furniture. Upmarket materials -- like granite countertops in units with kitchens -- help complete the handsome look.

The property consists of 19 stand-alone villas. The three room categories are created from various configurations of each of these buildings. Entry-level One-Bedroom Beach Houses occupy the large, upper floor of each villa. The open floor plans have separate sleeping, dining, and living areas, plus two balconies, including a wide, furnished sea-view balcony. Alternatively, Two-Bedroom Beach Houses occupy the lower floor of each villa. The large units can accommodate up to five guests and feature full kitchens, plus spacious living and dining rooms. An expansive veranda offers additional living space with views to the Caribbean Sea. Guests opting for Three-Bedroom Beach Houses are actually renting the entire stand-alone villa, with full kitchens and living rooms. All rooms offer modern amenities typical of a hotel of this class, including air-conditioning, minibars, flat-screen TVs with satellite service, and fast, free Wi-Fi.

Bathrooms are adorned with bright, ornate tiling that feels distinctly Belizean and includes hand-painted ceramic sinks. All feature walk-in showers, pump-style bath amenities, and (optional) dual vanities.

The expansive property offers one of the largest hotel beaches in the area. Dozens of lounge chairs and palapas are spread across a strip of sand that feels two times bigger than it needs to be to accommodate the hotel’s guests. Although all Belizean beaches are technically open to the public, the resort’s location at the extreme end of Hopkins provides guests with the illusion of having the beach all to themselves. While there is no beachside drink service, there are free kayaks to use in the sea.

Like the beach, the main pool is spacious given the resort's size. The surrounding terrace features an open-concept design that creates a seamless space between the pool, beach, and Caribbean Sea. Drum Bar -- next to the pool -- is situated in a quirky, ramshackle building that's outfitted with boat-shaped banquettes and nautical knick-knacks. The bar serves wine, beer, and tropical cocktails. A second, smaller pool is located on the opposite side of the property.

The sole restaurant, Rhum Shack, is situated in an open-air building with a tall thatched roof and lovely sea views. The atmosphere is casual with a hint of sophistication. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are all served a la carte with menus that equally blend Western with traditional Belizean dishes like fry jacks for breakfast or jerk chicken for dinner. Prices are high relative to Hopkins, but quality gets consistently solid marks from previous guests.

There's no spa here, though the hotel arranges all manner of tours and excursions. Bikes are also free to use, and the hotel will arrange games and activities for kids on request. Cultural events take place on-site or can be arranged on request, and include drum classes and Garifuna dance lessons. Parking is free at the resort, as is Wi-Fi.