Along the tranquil northern shores of Ambergris Caye, Portofino Beach Resort beckons with its boutique charm and serene ambiance.
Location
Set on a quiet stretch of Ambergris Caye, around six miles north of San Pedro, Portofino Beach Resort feels deliberately removed from the island’s busier southern hub. Reached by boat or a scenic golf cart transfer, the setting is peaceful and intimate, with white sand, swaying palms and direct access to the Belize Barrier Reef just offshore. It is a place to properly switch off, with little around you beyond sea, sky and the gentle rhythm of island life.
Rooms
The resort offers just 17 rooms, giving it a genuinely boutique, low-key feel. Accommodation ranges from beach cabanas set directly in the sand to larger suites tucked slightly back among the palms, all just a few steps from the shoreline. Design is relaxed and coastal, with hardwood floors, thatched roofs and soft blue tones reflecting the surrounding sea. Beach Cabanas are arranged as duplex-style units with shared verandas, hammocks and open-air showers, creating a simple but characterful island feel.
For something more spacious, suites such as the Honeymoon Suite offer elevated views across the Caribbean, floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies designed to make the most of the light and sea breeze.
Facilities
Facilities are centred around relaxed, barefoot living rather than high-energy resort life. At the heart of the property is a freshwater swimming pool with loungers and shaded cabanas, complemented by a quiet beachfront lined with hammocks and sun chairs. Dining is a highlight, with the open-air restaurant and bar set right on the water, offering all-day meals and the option of private or romantic dining experiences on the dock.
There is also a small spa offering massage treatments, ideal after a day in the sun or on the water, and an on-site dive shop operated by a specialist marine company, providing easy access to some of Belize’s best underwater experiences.
Activities
From the resort, you can snorkel, kayak or head out on guided diving trips directly to the Belize Barrier Reef, one of the most impressive in the world. Fishing trips, boat excursions and marine tours are easily arranged through the on-site dive operator, while more relaxed days can be spent paddling along the shoreline or simply enjoying the calm, clear water.
Beyond the coast, the resort can organise inland excursions including visits to Mayan ruins, cave systems, river kayaking, zip-lining and waterfall hikes, offering a strong contrast to the laid-back island setting.
Sustainability
As a small, low-density property with just 17 rooms, its footprint is inherently limited, with buildings spread lightly across the beachfront rather than concentrated into large structures. A key focus is its connection to the surrounding marine environment. Through its partnership with an on-site, specialist dive operator, the resort actively promotes responsible snorkelling and diving practices, ensuring guests explore the Belize Barrier Reef with trained guides who understand reef protection and marine conservation.
Operationally, the resort maintains a low-impact, nature-led design, using traditional materials such as wood and thatch that blend into the landscape and reduce visual and environmental impact. The remote location also encourages a slower, less resource-intensive style of travel, with many activities centred around non-motorised or low-impact experiences such as kayaking and snorkelling.
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When to go to Belize
A month-by-month guide of when to go to Belize
- Best
- Good
- Mixed
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
January
January is dry season with prolonged periods of sunshine, particularly in the north and central regions. A great time to travel which means the country will be busy, so we recommend planning in advance.
February
Similar to January with great weather and very little rain its one of the best months to travel throughout the region.
March
The dry season continues, with low humidity so another great month to explore all regions of Belize and relax on beautiful Caribbean beaches.
April
In April the weather in the Cayo District and on the Cayes remains predominantly dry, although the heat and humidity gradually increases. Easter is a busy time, so booking in advance is essential.
May
Very similar to April, although there are less visitors and there may be the occasional shower with the start of the wet season approaching.
June
The rains start however most days are usually short sharp showers in the afternoon and early evening. Perrsistent rainfall is rare. Mid-June is the start of lobster season and a great time to sample the dish along the country's coast in destinations like Ambergris Caye and Placencia.
July
Very similar to July, with a similar amount of rain combined with sunshine. Most destinations will be warm with a high level of humidity.
August
The height of the rainy season with high humidity, heavy rain and the risk of tropical storms and even hurricanes. These are particularly prevalent in the coastal regions.
September
Another wet month and not very enjoyable for travel with some remote roads flooded. Due to a low number of visitors at this time, some lodges and hotels will close for annual maintenance.
October
Rainy conditions continue with wet days, high humidity and generally not the ideal time to visit and enjoy Belize.
November
The wet season and humidity are easing off with drier days on the horizon. This is a good time to visit the interior and coast before tourist numbers increase in December.
December
A great time to travel to Belize with sunny, dry days although hotels over the Christmas & New Year break will often be booked for months in advance.
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and start planning your tailor-made holiday
Amanda
Belize Expert