Belizean Bliss: Relax at Manta Island Resort

Located off the coast of Belize, on the Glover’s Reef Atoll, lies the tiny slice of paradise known as Manta Island Resort. There are only 11 private cabanas and three private villas, making your trip feel exclusive, private, and accommodating. This resort stands out compared to the many other all-inclusive resorts and islands around Belize because it prides itself on offering “barefoot family luxury” and being inclusive of all ages. This is perfect for family trips and celebrating special occasions, such as anniversaries or birthdays; for couples on their honeymoon; for those wanting to escape to paradise; or for those who love to go diving or fishing. And yes, there is an option to reserve the entire island for those incredibly special events. The cabanas all include AC, a kitchenette (where beer and soda can be stocked daily in the refrigerator), a dining area, a comfortable king-size bed (you can add a crib for a toddler or infant), a walk-in closet with safe, and a double-sink bathroom with a large stone shower and separate toilet area. The villas are all designed a little differently—the largest have private plunge pools overlooking the reef. They are all two bedrooms with different bed arrangements, a full-size living room with a television, a kitchen, a dining area, two separate full-size bathrooms, and storage space.

The simplest package is the all-inclusive option, where all meals, snacks, drinks (exported alcohol is extra, but they offer happy hour every day), accommodation, non-motorized water sports, snorkeling equipment, and a few excursions (snorkeling tours and island-hopping tours) are included. They also offer an à la carte menu with various options, in addition to the all-inclusive option, making your trip as personalized as you would like. Some of the things you can add on include scuba diving at the Blue Hole, deep-sea fishing, snorkeling adventures other than what’s already included in your stay, different spa treatments and massages, romantic dinners, and so much more.

Some choose to stay for a week, while others stay for just a few days, as they package their stay with one of Manta’s sister resorts. The family that owns this island also owns the adults-only all-inclusive island of Coco Plum Resort, the jungle resort of Belizean Dreams. The other guests I have met who stayed for a shorter time at Manta spend the rest of their time at this resort—getting the best of everything Belize has to offer—and Laru Beya, a boutique beachfront resort located on the Placencia peninsula.

I have been here twice now and stayed for a week during both visits. Each time, I was blown away by the beauty, peacefulness, and hospitality this place has to offer. From the moment you step off the boat, you are handed a cool towel to refresh, as well as their famous Manta Sting cocktail before being taken on a tour of the island. The food is fresh and there are always multiple options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Snacks are served twice a day and made fresh to order, such as the conch fritters, chicken nachos, and fresh ceviche made with your choice of conch or shrimp. The restaurant upstairs offers both indoor or outdoor options depending on the weather, and the bar downstairs has long wraparound counters where one can enjoy a drink, munch on snacks, and hang out with some of the staff and other guests staying on the island.

Manta Bar and Restaurant

The freshwater pool is located right next to the bar, perfectly placed for grabbing a cocktail and getting right back to dipping your toes in the water or relaxing on one of the daybeds or lounge chairs. There is an extensive cocktail (and mocktail!) menu, but if something is not to your liking, ask the bartender to whip up a creative concoction and try something new. They have so many delicious options to choose from—yyou’ll have a hard time finding your favorite. There are various daybeds, lounge chairs, and hammocks scattered around the island, perfect for finding a peaceful spot with not another soul around. Whether it’s catching up on a book, taking a nap, or just enjoying the peaceful ocean sounds, you’ll be sure to find it here.

Relaxing around the gentle waves, looking out at the various shades of blue and turquoise, how can you not help but jump in the crystal-clear waters? Manta offers snorkeling equipment, paddleboards, kayaks, and even a Hobie Cat catamaran sailboat for use—and it’s all included in your stay. Their staff will give you helpful information on where to snorkel and see the most fish, where to avoid swimming, and where to go see the nurse sharks lazily swimming around where the fishermen clean their catch. You may even catch a glimpse of an eagle ray gliding by you! When it’s time to go on an island-hopping tour or a snorkeling adventure, you’ll be fitted with your snorkeling gear before venturing off with the boat captain and deckhand/guides. They have years of experience around these waters and are passionate about what they do. They can tell you the names of every fish you will see, the different types of coral, and what to do once you’re in the water to be safe and enjoy the experience. The water is so clear, you’ll feel like you’re in an aquarium. Glover’s Reef is a protected atoll, with strict licensing and fishing permits required, and respect for the environment and sustainability is enforced to protect this fragile ecosystem.

Still craving relaxation amenities? Fear not! Manta Island offers a spa with various scrubs, facials, and massages—perfect for couples or those wanting an individualized experience. The spa is located on the edge of the island and surrounded by trees. The treatment rooms overlook the reef, letting in the ocean breeze and sounds of the waves. One of the highlights for me was getting a Swedish massage in this tranquil oasis—so much so that I fell asleep at one point. There are robes in your villa or cabana for you to wear to your appointment. Your skilled massage therapist or esthetician will go over any concerns or areas of focus you want worked on, and then it’s off to blissful tranquility. Any of these treatments can be booked prior to your arrival or once you are on the island. The manager or front desk staff will be more than happy to assist you in making a selection and working it around the times of the other activities you’ll be doing.

Some people choose to not go on any of the snorkeling or island-hopping excursions, choosing instead to stay and relax on the island, while others choose to go on the boat and not go in the water. Manta Island is here for your vacation—how you want it to be and how you want to enjoy yourself while in paradise. Some of the best times I had were spent at the bar and pool deck area during happy hour, chatting with the staff and fellow guests, sipping a cocktail, and watching the most gorgeous sunsets over the pool area and the ocean every evening. It was a golden hour each night, and it felt as if magic were being cast over the island. It was a slice of heaven and is one of the most gorgeous places I’ve ever been to. The atmosphere and the peacefulness one finds there is soul-stirring, and I cannot wait to go back again.

• This island is off the coast of Belize, which means a short plane ride from Belize International Airport to the Dangriga peninsula, where you will be met with a staff member and shuttle waiting to take you to continue your journey. From there, you may have to wait at a resort where you can relax and buy food or drinks while waiting for any other fellow guests who may be flying to the peninsula. Once everyone has arrived, the shuttle will take you to the dock, where you will board a boat and take a 70-minute ride to the island. Be prepared for a long travel day!

• Tips can be included when you close out your bill at the end of your stay. Don’t feel like you need to bring cash unless you want to give tips to the bartenders or staff throughout your stay—but that’s entirely up to you.

• There are safes in each cabana and villa for storing your valuables.

• Make sure to bring insect repellent and sunscreen! You’ll be in the tropics, and while they maintain and spray the island to keep insects at a minimum, bring some repellent with you just in case.

• The staff (behind-the-scenes and face-to-face with you) work so hard to make your vacation special, fun, and full of core memories. Respect goes a long way.

• Last but not least, don’t forget to bring a water bottle. There are five-gallon fresh water bottles with spigots in every room—perfect for staying hydrated throughout your stay.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Belize page.