Beachfront. Close to Secret Beach. Kayaks. Bikes. Pool. Paddleboards. 5BDR
El Gran Castillo de Arena, the "Great Sandcastle", with its thoughtful design, beautiful décor, location, and overall commitment to excellence, is regarded as one of Belize's finest beachfront villas.
This private home is located just 4.5 miles north of San Pedro Town in the sought-after Mata Grande area, the closest location on Ambergris Caye to the fun and famous Secret Beach. With its 3 separate living areas within the home, it is perfect for your multi-family vacation with large areas to gather and private spaces to unwind and relax as well. We know these days you may have to work as well so we have 60Mb Fiber.
It has been said by past guests that our best feature, hands down, is our caretaker, William. He and his loyal and friendly dogs, Tonester and Lady, live behind the house on the property. He is here to assist you with anything you need. Marvin is William's assistant; he takes great pride in keeping the grounds and beach looking immaculate!
The 'Sunset Tower' is the third-floor patio with a 360-degree view of paradise. Rejuvenate your body after soaking up the Caribbean sun with a refreshing plunge in the 4' deep dip pool. The patio furniture and tables, along with the shaded pergola, offer a fantastic spot for dining while viewing the beautiful turquoise Caribbean waters or breathtaking sunsets.
The upstairs master suite features a spacious air-conditioned great room with soaring ceilings. It is tastefully decorated with an earthy Mayan theme in rich jewel tones with comfortable rattan furniture and locally carved mahogany tables. The beautifully designed, fully-equipped kitchen has a dining and breakfast bar area that seats up to 10. There is plenty of room for the whole gang to gather. The master bedroom with a king bed has an en-suite bathroom. The second bedroom has a king bed that can be converted into two twins for versatility. There is also a second full bathroom in the upstairs unit.
The downstairs suite features a fully equipped kitchen, a living area, two bedrooms featuring split kings for vesatiloity and a bathroom. The dining table, along with the breakfast bar, provides seating for seven.
The hideaway suite connected to the south side of the house features lofty ceilings, a living/dining area, kitchenette, a large bedroom with a queen bed, and a full bath.
As soon as you book, we will provide you with our constantly updated Mobile Guest Guide. Our Mobile Guest Guide is loaded with information, including listings for numerous restaurants, bars, and activities. Our Mobile Guest Guide is integrated with GMaps making it easy to find your way around town. Each listing is linked to TripAdvisor; we’ve even linked the menus to many of the restaurants. The Guide is also searchable, so you can easily find the nearest Seafood or even Vegetarian options. We offer full concierge services and can arrange everything for you so that all you need to think about is having fun. So, just let us know, and we’ll book all your tours, in-country flights, and arrange golf cart rentals with no add on booking fees.
All towels, linens, iron/ironing board, and a hairdryer are provided for your convenience. A washer/dryer is also available for use with a 7-night stay or longer.
Enjoy direct access to the beach right out the door. Across the white sandy beach lies your private pier with a thatched palapa and swim deck. The dock is perfect for snorkeling, sunbathing, or trying your luck at reeling in your fish dinner.
On the beach is your own private thatch-roof palapa to keep you cool and shaded while sipping your favorite libation at the "Carpe Diem" bar. A warm-water shower to rinse off after your day's excursions is conveniently located right outside your front door. Situated in the tropically landscaped backyard is a BBQ grill to cook that fresh catch of the day.
Included are bicycles, kayaks, snorkel gear, beach games, beach toys, baby needs and much more. CAS5
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Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
Parties and events are allowed on site
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a first aid kit
About the area
San Pedro
Located in San Pedro, this holiday home is on the beach. The area's natural beauty can be seen at Belize Barrier Reef and Secret Beach. Travelling with kids? Consider Mexico Rocks and GoFish Belize. Discover the area's water adventures with scuba diving, snorkelling and water tubing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with ecotours.
San Pedro Belize Express Water Taxi - 34 min drive - 12.0 km
Getting around
San Pedro (SPR-John Greif II) - 26 min drive
Restaurants
Blue Bayou - 13 min drive
Rain Restaurant & Rooftop Lounge - 8 min drive
RASA Southeast Asian Kitchen - 16 min drive
Aji Tapa Lounge - 7 min drive
Crocs Sunset Sports Bar - 9 min drive
Frequently asked questions
Does Beachfront. Close to Secret Beach. Kayaks. Bikes. Pool. Paddleboards. 5BDR have a pool?
Yes, this property has a pool.
How much does it cost to stay at Beachfront. Close to Secret Beach. Kayaks. Bikes. Pool. Paddleboards. 5BDR?
As of 18 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Beachfront. Close to Secret Beach. Kayaks. Bikes. Pool. Paddleboards. 5BDR on 18 July 2026 start from NZ$1,273, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
Is Beachfront. Close to Secret Beach. Kayaks. Bikes. Pool. Paddleboards. 5BDR pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much is parking at Beachfront. Close to Secret Beach. Kayaks. Bikes. Pool. Paddleboards. 5BDR?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Beachfront. Close to Secret Beach. Kayaks. Bikes. Pool. Paddleboards. 5BDR?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Beachfront. Close to Secret Beach. Kayaks. Bikes. Pool. Paddleboards. 5BDR?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Beachfront. Close to Secret Beach. Kayaks. Bikes. Pool. Paddleboards. 5BDR located?
Nestled on the beach, this San Pedro holiday home is just steps away from Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Belize Barrier Reef. Mexico Rocks is 1.4 mi (2.2 km) away.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
This was a unique property as it was 3 homes in 1 and everyone could have some privacy! We all enjoyed and William was the best he helped with reservations cab ride getting us fresh caught fish! Marcus took great care of the property very enjoyable.
Karla S.
Stayed 16 nights in Apr 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 6 May 2025
Thank you for your wonderful review! We're so glad our staff helped make your vacation a great one and that you enjoyed the fresh caught fish. We'd be happy to welcome you back anytime!
Amazing property right in the beach. Everything about the place was amazing.
Jason J.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 25 June 2024
Thank you for your glowing review of El Gran Castillo de Arena, Jason! We're thrilled to hear that you found the property amazing and enjoyed its beachfront location. We strive to ensure every aspect of your stay is exceptional and are delighted that everything met your expectations. We look forward to welcoming you back for another fantastic experience!
The house was amazing. Gorgeous views! Terry Lee and the property managers - William and Marvin were so accommodating and assisted us with travel and everything around the house. Definitely recommend!
DORIS S.
Stayed 5 nights in Mar 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 25 March 2025
Hi Doris,
It was a pleasure hosting you and your family. Thank you for your kind review, and we would be happy to welcome you back anytime!
Location and amenities were awesome! William is amazing and was always super helpful and friendly. Can’t wait to go back
Austin D.
Stayed 5 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 4 September 2023
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience at El Gran Castillo de Arena! We are thrilled to hear that the location and amenities met your expectations. It's especially heartwarming to know that William made such a positive impression on your stay. We truly value our team members and the effort they put into making our guests feel welcomed. We can't wait to welcome you back on your next visit! Safe travels until then.
5/5 stars – Fantastic Beachfront Stay for Couples Getaway!My wife and I recently stayed here with a few other couples, and we couldn’t have asked for a better spot on Ambergris Caye. The views from the house are stunning, with direct beach access and that gorgeous Caribbean water right outside. The private dock was a huge highlight: Wild Adventures picked us up straight from the property for snorkeling and excursions, which saved so much time and hassle. The pool didn’t get much use as it was Feb and rather cold unfortunately. Special shoutout to William, the property manager—he was super friendly, responsive, and went out of his way to make sure everything was perfect. The only minor downsides were the construction next door, which started early (before 8 am most days) with music and went late (past 8 pm) except on Sundays. We were in the mother-in-law suite on the side, so the noise came right through the windows and was noticeable. Also, while the listing mentions bikes and kayaks, we didn’t find any bikes available during our stay, which was a small disappointment.That said, these issues didn’t ruin our trip—the location, amenities, cleanliness, and overall vibe were outstanding, and we’d happily return (maybe check on nearby construction next time and confirm bike availability).Highly recommend this place for groups or couples wanting a true Belize beach experience. Thank you for an amazing stay!
Great time stellar views! William & Marvin we’re awesome!
Kimberly P.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 11 April 2023
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback about your recent stay at El Gran Castillo de Arena Kimberly. We're thrilled to hear that you enjoyed your stay and the stunning views our property has to offer.
We're also pleased to learn that our staff, William and Marvin, were able to contribute to making your stay a memorable one. We will certainly pass along your kind words to them.
Thank you for choosing El Gran Castillo de Arena and we look forward to welcoming you back in the future.
We just got home from our stay at El Gran Castille de Arena and we already want to be back there. Everything about this place was incredible- the location, the amenities, the caretaker William (and his dogs)- everything! We're already talking about our return trip and I really can't imagine staying anyplace else.
Michelle B.
Stayed 7 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 May 2022
Thank you so much for the wonderful review Michelle, we can't wait to see you back again.
Property is amazing. William and Marvin took great care of us and we did not see another property on the island that compared for location and amenities. Perfect for our family with separated spaces all in one home! Spectacular beach area with equipment to make the most of the water. Would definitely stay here again!
Gegetta B.
Stayed 8 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 24 October 2024
Thank you, Gegetta! We're so happy to hear that you had an amazing stay at El Gran Castillo de Arena and that William and Marvin took great care of you. It’s wonderful that the location and amenities exceeded your expectations, and we're thrilled that the setup worked perfectly for your family. The beach area and water equipment really are special highlights! We would love to welcome you back again in the future.
We and our family (total of 10) were able to vacation in a beautiful, very well-attended and cared for property. It was paradise. The property allows for privacy when wanted and for togetherness when wanted.
Robert W.
Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 2 March 2023
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience at El Gran Castillo de Arena. We're thrilled to hear that you and your family had a wonderful time during your vacation and found the property met your expectations.
We take pride in providing our guests with the utmost care and attention, and we're delighted to hear that you were able to find both privacy and togetherness when desired. It's our goal to make sure that everyone who stays with us has a memorable and enjoyable experience.
Thank you again for choosing El Gran Castillo de Arena for your vacation, and we hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back in the future!
El Gran Castillo de Arena is amazing! The home is beautiful, well equipped for all of your needs, and extremely clean. The reservation staff and caretakers, William and Marvin, are awesome! They made our trip so special, were always there to assist us, and made sure we had the best time possible on our trip. I can't wait to return!
beth m.
Stayed 7 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 30 November 2021
We can't wait to see you back Beth. We'll be sure to pass on your compliments to William and Marvin!
Archival
10/10 Excellent
Karen L.
12 March 2017
Another wonderful stay at Castilla De Arena!
This is the second family trip to Ambergris Caye, and both times we stayed at Castilla De Arena.
The house is perfect for large families looking for a relaxing beach vacation with convenient access to restaurants and water sports in a beautiful setting. The caretaker, William is always available to assist with any needs, and Carolyn, the owner, is super responsive and great to work with. We can't wait to book another family trip to this beautiful island and stay here again!
Karen L.
Stayed 7 nights in Mar 2017
Response from VrboOwner on 29 March 2020
Hi Karen!
Thank you for taking the time to leave such a great review of your stay at El Castillo de Arena! It was so nice to meet you this time around. We are so pleased that you and your family had a fantastic time and it was a pleasure to help out with anything you needed during your stay. You were a total joy to have as guests!! Can't wait to see you again.
Thanks!
Carolyn
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Laurel L.
23 February 2026
Amazing family stay
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We were a family of 10 (6 adults, 2 seniors and 2 kids). Each couple and kids had their own room. The family and all couples had their own bathroom. The house had everything we needed. Terrylee helped us set up our flights and taxis to and from the airport. Had our golf carts waiting for us at the property. AND helped set up amazing snorkelling and reef fishing excursions. We were picked up right at the dock on the property. It was so convenient and easy. The guidebook they sent provided us with a provisioning service so we had groceries and delicious meals waiting for us when we arrived. William and Marvin are the caretakers on site and helped us with anything we needed on property and for around the island. They even set up hermit crab races for us. They were so kind and generous. Anything we asked or needed, they were able to assist. The dock was wonderful to watch the sunrise on. The rooftop pool was amazing to cool off in. You could watch the sunset on the rooftop patio as well. We had 3 separate kitchens to cook in. The sand and property as beautifully maintained. We enjoyed hanging out under the gazebo, on the loungers and in the hammocks, and playing corn hole. The restaurant next door was also a bonus and tasty.Would highly recommend
Laurel L.
Response from VrboOwner on 25 February 2026
Hi Laurel,
Thank you for choosing to stay with us! It was a pleasure hosting you and we are glad to hear you enjoyed everything, we hope to welcome you back again soon.
The boys had an absolutely amazing time! The house and caretakers were wonderful. The guide provided helped answer all our questions. The excursion we booked through the house was perfect. My husband fell in love with the area and accommodations. Thank you for a great Trip!
Alicia M.
Stayed 8 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 2 August 2023
We are thrilled to hear that you and your family had such a fantastic time at El Gran Castillo de Arena! It's wonderful to hear that you found our house and caretakers to be exceptional. They truly take pride in contributing to our guests' amazing experiences.
We're glad that the guide we provided was helpful, and that you thoroughly enjoyed your excursion. It's our goal to make sure that every aspect of your stay is enjoyable and memorable.
It's heartwarming to know that your husband fell in love with the area and accommodations. Belize is indeed a charming place, and we strive to provide accommodations that match its beauty.
Thank you for choosing to stay with us, and for your kind words. We look forward to hosting you again for another great trip!
The entire experience from reserving the house, having all my questions answered quickly by Simon and his staff to staying in a beautiful clean home with spectacular views! The beach was cleaned daily by William and Marvin and a great restaurant next door! We had all our tours pick us up at our dock! Truly and amazing experience!
Joanne R.
Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 18 March 2024
Thank you for sharing your experience, Joanne. We're delighted to hear that your entire experience with El Gran Castillo de Arena, from the reservation process to your stay, was amazing. It's wonderful to know that I, along with my staff, were able to promptly answer all your questions, contributing to a smooth and enjoyable visit.
We take great pride in maintaining the beauty and cleanliness of the home, ensuring it offers spectacular views for our guests. It's fantastic to hear that William and Marvin kept the beach in pristine condition daily, and that the convenience of the restaurant next door and the ability to have tours pick you up directly from the dock added to the enjoyment of your stay.
We're thrilled that you had a truly amazing experience and look forward to welcoming you back to El Gran Castillo de Arena in the future for another memorable visit.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
16 June 2024
Beautiful and relaxing
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We had the best time couldn't have asked for anything better. The house was perfect for our group. William was a great host and went above and beyond for us.we will definitely book this place again.
Stayed 5 nights in May 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 18 June 2024
We're delighted to hear that your stay at El Gran Castillo de Arena was perfect for your group, Ashelle! It's wonderful to know that William went above and beyond to make your experience exceptional. Thank you for your kind words, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another fantastic stay in the future.
Eight of us stayed at the property and we will be back for sure. The location was what you would think of a tropical paradise with the sun rising off the dock every morning! The island is nice, the reefs are full of life, not like some of other tourist places. Everyone is friendly and being right next to Johns Escape, we felt like we had a hotel bar. The staff on site was beyond accommodating, William was great, and for anyone visiting, ask William to give his coconut presentation! It was a great trip!
William D.
Stayed 8 nights in Jan 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 2 February 2023
Thank you for your wonderful review Bill! I'm glad to hear that you had a fantastic time during your stay at the property. It's great to know that the location lived up to your expectations and we feel the same way about it being a tropical paradise. I'm also thrilled to hear that you were able to explore the reefs and visit our marine reserves. William is a rockstar for his exceptional hospitality and coconut presentation! I'm so glad that you had a great trip and I hope to have the pleasure of welcoming you back soon.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
John P.
28 December 2022
Awesome getaway !!
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Everything was great. William was on top of everything. The man can cook too !!!
John P.
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 28 December 2022
Thanks so much for staying with us John, we're thrilled to hear that you had such a good time. We hope to see you back again in the future!
William and Marvin (caretakers) were amazing. They both made sure we were entertained with hermit crab races, water toys and volleyball. Their coconut presentation was so cool!!! William is an amazing chef!!!!
Stephanie B.
Stayed 5 nights in Dec 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 27 December 2022
Thank you for choosing to stay with us Stephanie, it's great to hear that William and Marvin were able to take care of you so well. We hope to see you back again soon!
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Deric K.
17 December 2023
Absolutely perfect!
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
Pulling up the house and property are better than advertised. William and Marvin were always available for anything we needed. We are huge dog lovers so having them on the property was the icing on the cake.
Deric K.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 December 2023
We're thrilled to hear that your stay at El Gran Castillo de Arena exceeded your expectations, Deric. It's wonderful that William and Marvin were readily available to assist with your needs, contributing to a memorable experience. We're also delighted to know that the presence of our lovable pups on the property added an extra layer of joy to your visit. Thank you for choosing El Gran Castillo de Arena, and we hope to welcome you back again soon for another fantastic stay.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Dawn R.
22 July 2024
Amazing property!
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was more than happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We had a great experience all around! The house and property were beautiful. The on-site staff went above and beyond and the surrounding waters are gorgeous. Great spot for snorkeling just off the dock. The national bird of San Pedro is the mosquitoe, but you survive with lots of bug spray and itch cream. The dogs are a hoot too.
Dawn R.
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 August 2024
Thank you for sharing your wonderful experience at El Gran Castillo de Arena, Dawn! We're thrilled that you enjoyed the beauty of the house, property, and the surrounding waters—snorkeling off the dock is indeed a special treat. The on-site staff truly appreciates your kind words about their dedication. As for the "little buggers," those mosquitoes certainly did make a strong appearance after the rains from Beryl, but we're glad to hear you managed with bug spray and itch cream. And yes, the dogs are always a delightful part of the experience! We look forward to welcoming you back for more adventures and memories.
Our group of six had a wonderful stay and very much enjoyed the property and amenities. We were extremely comfortable and able to make great meals, enjoy the awesome rooftop pool area, corn hole, kayaks, and lounge on the pier. William and Marvin were very attentive to our needs and helpful with information. They made our stay very enjoyable and loved the hermit crab ninja warrior race on our last day! The only issue we had with the property was the single-bedroom unit had a very funky smell so none of us were able to stay in the unit.
Renee C.
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 27 December 2022
Thanks for choosing to stay with us Renee, it sounds like you had a great time. We've given the one bedroom a very good airing out and all is good now. We hope to see you again in the future!
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Gina H.
12 February 2024
Fabulous Place
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
We were a group of five couples. This home fit us perfectly. It has the most beautiful view. Sunrise was magical. Simon the main contact, is fantastic in getting all your needs set up before you get there. The two caretakers are amazing and will help with all your needs during your stay. Loved it and will book again. The only downside to this place is the beds are super hard.
Gina H.
Response from VrboOwner on 19 February 2024
We're delighted to hear that El Gran Castillo de Arena was the perfect fit for your group, Gina, and that you were able to enjoy the beautiful views and magical sunrises. It's great to know that I was able to assist with your needs prior to arrival and that our caretakers were helpful throughout your stay. Your satisfaction and plans to book again are the best compliments we could receive.
Regarding the beds, we appreciate your feedback and understand the importance of a good night's sleep. We want to inform you that we will be replacing the mattresses shortly to ensure a more comfortable rest for all our future guests. We're committed to improving based on our guests' experiences and thank you for bringing this to our attention.
Thank you for choosing El Gran Castillo de Arena, and we look forward to welcoming you back for another memorable stay.
From a partner site
10/10 Excellent
Amy N.
1 January 2024
Wonderful house on the beach
Rating Details:
The property manager was very helpful.
The vacation rental was spotless.
I was very happy with the location.
I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental.
Overall, I recommend this vacation rental.
Reviewer Comments:
The house was clean, convenient and was great for our family of 6 with plenty of personal space. William and Marvin were incredibly helpful and we LOVED the dogs. The rooftop pool was great for a dip. We used the paddle boards and kayaks too. I would recommend renting a golf cart to get around and flying in on the small plane. The Tropical Escape nextdoor was a pleasant surprise with good food and yummy cocktails. Don’t forget to pack the bug spray and suntan lotion!
Amy N.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 6 January 2024
Amy, we're thrilled to hear that your stay at El Gran Castillo de Arena was a hit with your family. It's wonderful that the house met your cleanliness and convenience needs and provided enough space for everyone. We're delighted that William and Marvin were helpful and that the pups added to your enjoyment.
It sounds like you made great use of the rooftop pool, paddleboards, and kayaks, which is fantastic. Your tips about renting a golf cart and flying in on the small plane are much appreciated by future guests. We're also glad to know that Tropical Escape next door enhanced your experience with their food and cocktails.
Thank you for the reminder about bug spray and suntan lotion – essential items for any tropical vacation! We appreciate your recommendation and look forward to welcoming you back to El Gran Castillo de Arena in the future.
The property was just as described, has all the extras an active group would like. The weather during our stay (rain & wind) was not ideal for most of the water activities. We enjoyed the pool and spent a lot of time at the tropical escape bar and grill just next door. On site property manager and his assistant were very helpful and attentive.
Probably the biggest drawback is the location, while close to the Secret Beach, it is a four plus mile drive from town. Roads are poor and there is a big opportunity in transportation alternatives. Best way to describe it is as a high adventure vacation…this property is best served by an active group of vacationers!
elizabeth s.
Stayed 7 nights in Jan 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 29 January 2024
Elizabeth, I'm glad to hear that El Gran Castillo de Arena met your expectations and provided all the extras needed for an active group like yours. It's unfortunate that the weather was not ideal for water activities during your stay, but I'm pleased to know that you were able to enjoy the pool and the nearby Tropical Escape bar and grill.
The road is typically in better shape, but the unusually high amount of rainfall in the past few months has presented challenges for the town in terms of proper maintenance. We understand that this can impact the ease of transportation to and from town, and the town is continually looking for ways to improve this aspect of guest’s experience.
We value your input and are grateful for your understanding regarding the aspects beyond our control. We look forward to the opportunity of welcoming you back to El Gran Castillo de Arena, hopefully under sunnier skies and with better road conditions.
About the host
Hosted by Sunrise Property Management
My husband and I live along the Kenai River in Alaska, surrounded by beautiful mountains, soaring eagles, splashing salmon and of course the occasional wandering moose and bear. We travel with our loving companions, Kenai and Willie, our two dogs. Kenai is our black labrador/coonhound mix and Willie is our lovable Tijuana 'potlicker' that we rescued in Alaska. We live in a backyard apartment at El Gran Castillo de Arena during the winter months and look forward to meeting many of you during your stay.
Why they chose this property
We took our honeymoon to Ambergris Caye, Belize in March 2001 to get away from the cold arctic winter. Once there we instantly fell in love with Belize...the weather, the people, the beauty of the rainforest, the spectacular reef, and so much more. We instantly bought property and started building our retirement vacation home that year. We decided to share our wonderful home to fellow nature lovers who appreciate adventure and fun.
What makes this property unique
The property is perfectly located on the north end of Ambergris Caye. Town is only a short drive away but you won't need to go there unless you want to as there is plenty to keep you busy on the north end of the island. We're also located just north of the turn off to Secret Beach and within walking distance of some highly rated restaurants.
Languages:
English, Spanish
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests