Cayo Espanto: Luxury Family Travel in Belize

If you’ve ever dreamed of escaping to your own private island—where someone remembers your favorite drink, sets up paddleboards before you even ask, and serves every meal in the privacy of your oceanfront villa—then allow me to introduce you to Cayo Espanto in Belize. It’s a private island resort just off the coast of Ambergris Caye, and yes, it’s every bit as jaw-droppingly perfect as it sounds.

I recently spent three nights there in Villa Aurora, one of the island’s stunning two-bedroom villas, and I can confidently say it’s the kind of place that spoils you for life. You’ll never look at a “beachfront suite” the same way again.

Welcome to Island Perfection

Cayo Espanto is the definition of “barefoot luxury.” The island is tiny—only seven villas—but every single one is right on the water with its own private plunge pool, personal dock, and houseman who seems to have Jedi-level intuition.

Our houseman greeted us the moment we arrived by boat, welcoming us with chilled towels, Aperol spritzes, and a mountain of chips, salsa, and guacamole (which just so happens to be my love language).

Before you even set foot on the island, the team at Cayo Espanto sends an intake form that covers everything from dietary preferences to favorite snacks and drinks. And they take it seriously. Like, “your-gua­camole-is-already-being-smashed-as-you-dock” seriously.

Every detail is tailored to you, which is why this place is so incredible for families with teenagers—everyone gets exactly what they love, no negotiations required.

Our Villa: Aurora in Every Sense

We stayed in Villa Aurora, a spacious two-bedroom retreat that sits right next to the Caribbean Sea. Each bedroom opens directly onto the deck, where the turquoise water practically begs you to dive in. There’s a private pool, plenty of outdoor seating, and a hammock perfectly positioned for afternoon naps or pretending you’re answering emails.

Inside, the villa is airy and elegant, with Belizean wood details, crisp white linens, and a bathroom big enough to make you consider living there permanently. The open design lets in the ocean breeze and the sound of waves lapping below.

If you’re traveling with teens, the two-bedroom layout is ideal—everyone has their own space (and their own bathroom, which is basically the definition of peace on earth).

Dining: Personalized Perfection

Here’s the thing about dining at Cayo Espanto: you’ll never see a buffet line or hear the words “limited menu.” Every single meal is customized just for you.

Before each meal, our chef would present a menu featuring multiple entrée choices. Everything was beautifully plated and absurdly fresh—especially the seafood, which tasted like it had been caught just hours before.

Because of the November weather, we dined exclusively on our villa’s patio, but under normal conditions, they’ll happily set up your meal on the dock, beach, or even under the stars on the beach. We did see a beach set up one night for someone’s 40th anniversary. We never really saw any of the other people on the island, but I think there were 3 or 4 others there.

My favorite breakfast was the traditional Belizean breakfast—eggs, refried beans, fry jacks (glorious fried dough), and fresh tropical fruit. Lunches often included ceviche, grilled fish, or salads bursting with local ingredients. And dinners? Think lobster tail, coconut shrimp, and melt-in-your-mouth desserts.

Oh, and don’t skip afternoon tea—a daily ritual that feels wonderfully civilized, even if you’re still in your swimsuit. Tea is typically an assortment of teas, finger sandwiches, and cookies. All of that was great but the next day I opted for my tea to be an Aperol Spritz and chips and salsa.

Adventure Awaits: Paddleboarding, Snorkeling, and More

Yes, Cayo Espanto is luxurious, but it’s also full of opportunities for adventure—making it an ideal balance for families who like a little activity with their pampering.

I spent my mornings paddleboarding around the island, watching stingrays glide beneath the surface and pelicans dive for their breakfast. There’s also a water trampoline, which is way more fun than it sounds (and doubles as a surprisingly good workout).

One of the highlights of the trip was a snorkeling excursion to Hol Chan Marine Park, just a short boat ride away. It’s one of Belize’s most famous snorkeling spots, and for good reason—crystal-clear water, colorful coral reefs, and more marine life than you can imagine. We swam alongside sea turtles, nurse sharks, and schools of shimmering fish. Teens will absolutely love it. (This is an additional cost.)

Back on the island, you can enjoy non-motorized water sports like sailing, kayaking, and more paddleboarding—all included in your stay.

Spa Bliss on Island Time

After all that adventure (or, you know, lounging), we indulged in a massage right at our villa. The sound of gentle waves mixed with the soft ocean breeze made it one of the most relaxing treatments I’ve ever had.

For families, Cayo Espanto’s spa offerings can be adapted for all ages. Teens can enjoy lighter treatments like facials or foot massages, while parents go for deep-tissue bliss. It’s the perfect way to wind down after a day of sun and saltwater.

A Private Island That Welcomes Families

While Cayo Espanto is often marketed as a couples’ escape (and it’s definitely romantic), it’s also surprisingly well-equipped for families. When kids stay, the staff goes out of their way to make it magical.

Our houseman explained that for younger guests, they provide sand toys, organize movie nights on a huge inflatable screen, and even teach kids how to sail. That’s right—your child can learn to navigate a boat while you sip wine on the deck. Parenting win.

Teens, meanwhile, will love the freedom and adventure that comes with island life—snorkeling, exploring by kayak, and maybe even unplugging for a few hours (miracles do happen). The wifi on the island was great so if they don’t want to unplug that’s not an issue.

Sustainability and Comfort in the Tropics

Cayo Espanto operates with sustainability in mind. All freshwater on the island comes from an on-site Reverse Osmosis Treatment system, providing safe drinking water without wasteful imports.

And while you’re in the tropics (read: mosquitoes happen), the resort has a mosquito misting system that keeps pesky bugs at bay using an extract from chrysanthemums. It’s completely safe for humans, effective for insects, and basically lets you enjoy sunset without becoming a snack. However, it’s not 100% so pack a lot of bug spray.

They also have nets for the bed at night so you don’t get mosquito bites while you sleep.

The Service: Beyond Exceptional

If luxury is defined by attention to detail, then Cayo Espanto has mastered it. Every staff member—from the boat captain to the chefs to our incredible houseman—seemed genuinely invested in making our stay unforgettable.

Need more ice? It appears. Want breakfast 30 minutes later so you can sleep in? Done. Mention that you love Aperol spritzes once? They’re waiting for you at sunset.

This level of service makes it perfect for multi-generational family trips too. Grandparents, teens, and parents alike will feel cared for without having to coordinate a thing.

Rates and Realities

Luxury like this comes at a price, but for what’s included, it’s surprisingly all-encompassing. Rates cover your private villa, three gourmet meals daily, snacks, drinks (except wine, Champagne, and cordials), and non-motorized water sports.

The resort typically requires a four-night minimum stay, though exceptions can sometimes be made. Over the holidays, a seven-night minimum applies (and if you’re planning to stay through Christmas and New Year’s, make it 14).

With only a handful of villas and a maximum of 18 guests on the entire island, privacy and exclusivity are guaranteed.

Final Thoughts: Belize, but Make It Private

Cayo Espanto is one of those rare destinations that manages to be both luxurious and deeply personal. It’s the kind of place where you can completely disconnect—no crowded beaches, no noisy neighbors, just the sea, the sky, and impeccable service.

Whether you’re planning a family trip with teenagers, a romantic getaway, or even a multi-generational celebration, this island checks every box. It’s adventure and relaxation wrapped in one stunning Caribbean package.

As for me, I’m still dreaming about paddleboarding at sunrise, eating fry jacks on the patio, and pretending Villa Aurora was my permanent address. Because once you’ve had a taste of Cayo Espanto, there’s no going back to ordinary vacations.