Matachica Resort & Spa, An SLH hotel
www.matachica.com
San Pedro, Belize
Belize, land of stunning natural beauty from tropical mountain forests to a coastline of pristine beaches is graced by a scattering of islands along a Caribbean coral reef renowned for remarkable snorkeling and diving, the second longest Barrier Reef in the world.
Seeking a tranquil adults only Caribbean island getaway, Matachica Resort and Spa stands out as a haven of indulgent relaxed luxury poised with the wonders of the sea just beyond your doorstep, where romance, adventure, natural wonders, blended cultures and histories weave a magical holiday. Discover a welcoming private peaceful tropical oasis located on the beautiful island of Ambergris Caye where warm Caribbean waters caress the white sand beach, regal palms capture gentle breezes, and a boutique collection of colorful thatched roof casitas welcome guests with alluring modern luxury and comforts in a tropical garden beachfront setting. 
The resort boasts award winning dining presented at the casual Mambo Bistro and gourmet Mambo Restaurant, a blissfully inviting designer pool and hot tub with sun loungers and cooling shade for optimal relaxation, plus the tropical charm of Danny’s Tree Bar with refreshing cocktails and appetizers served poolside. The resort pier is dotted with cozy loungers where Matachica’s fleet of boats awaits, ready to set out on daily snorkel, dive, and fishing trips, or possibly a detour to Bliss Island or Secret Beach for sun, swims, and snacks. Sea kayaks and paddle boards are always available for adventures on the clear, calm waters, and bikes for island explorations. The soothing treatments at the secluded Jade Spa instill a calming release of traveler kinks and tensions with signature massage techniques using healing native ingredients and aromatic therapies to restore energy and wellness of mind, body, and spirit.
The Matachica staff welcomes guests as family, conveying a genuine warm, friendly ambience that extends throughout your stay. Guests may choose their pleasure from the 32 individually decorated casitas and next level private villas to suit their needs and desires. Delightfully vibrant tropical murals by famed artist/illustrator Cécile Gariépy add an inspired touch to the beautifully renovated casitas. The King bed boasts crisp white designer linens and netting descending from the vaulted ceiling, the sleeping area raised slightly above the entry level seating area giving a dramatic pop to the irresistible living space. 
The spacious ensuite offers first class Haeckel's bath amenities with walk-in shower, handheld and rainshower features, luxe double vanity and generous closet area. Every detail enhances comfort and relaxation, creating an enticing modern island retreat. Excellent wifi, tropical fan and AC are provided along with a daily pitcher of refreshing ice cold water and a morning coffee wake-up delivery timed to start your day. Each casita has an open patio with a hammock, egg chair swing, or cozy chairs for relaxing, enjoying sea, pool, or garden views with your morning coffee or late night cocktails.
Arriving at Matachica Resort’s welcoming shores, cruising in the speedboat across the waters from San Pedro to the resort pier, the crystal clear waters of the Barrier Reef wonderland beckon just beyond with the promise of Matachica’s guided snorkel trips in the days ahead an exciting prospect. Impeccably blue skies and calm waters framed the first day’s amazing adventure at the reef area, Hol Chan, alive with an underwater spectacle of colorful tropical fish and beautiful specimens of coral. Guides, Victor and Amar, led our underwater discoveries, revealing camouflaged hideaways, even catching a peek at an elusive eel. The second day we experienced an exhilarating reef encounter at Mexican Rocks guided by Henry and Amar, and an epic adventure swimming with friendly nurse sharks and a group of stingrays along with schools of brave tropical fish joining in the fun at Shark Ray Alley. Unforgettable.
Extraordinary dining at Matachica. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are served beachside in the casual Bistro, Restaurant, and Bar hosted by Julio with his constant smile and friendly team. Uniquely stocked with the freshest produce and eggs from the organic farm on Matachica sister property, GAÏA Riverlodge, the quality and flavors of each dish are a delight. Two legendary chefs have brought their professional talents to Matachica from the famed The French Laundry in the Napa Valley. Chef Léon Cerredo, former Head Chef de Partie, and pastry Chef Stephen Lighter have curated the menus of both restaurants to reflect Belize local flavors while incorporating their French and international training. The highlight of their vision is the presentation of a unique multi course Chef’s Table cultural culinary experience, a range of innovative and traditional tastes designed to tantalize the taste buds of foodies invited on this guided dining journey.
Fine dining nightly at Mambo Restaurant offers excellence in cuisine topped by the exceptional Deep Blue seafood medley that is truly a memorable delight, fresh, flavorful, and picture perfect, though the snapper and Rib and Reef were competitive favorites at our table.
Casual dining at Mambo Bistro offers an enticing menu each meal. Juices and organic smoothies, egg dishes, seasonal fruits and fresh baked pastries make breakfasts a treat. Lunches feature tempting appetizers, crisp, colorful salads, and traditional favorites. More specialties and seafood delights to try at dinner with amazing sweets and handmade sorbet and ice cream on the dessert menu.
Taco Tuesdays at Danny’s Tree Bar poolside are another foodie highlight with fantastic Belize style tacos made to order, and creative cocktails shaken to the beat of Caribbean rhythms performed live.
Matachica casts a spell of Belize bliss, its friendly familiarity cocooned in a tranquil ambience, natural beauty, memorable Caribbean undersea adventures, delicious food, ultimate peace and relaxation.
The final night shared at Matachica will be a lasting memory. The majesty of the full moon ascending into the inky black sky was mesmerizing, its spectacle dimming the constellations of stars and casting a sparkling path across the waters reaching to the Matachica shore. The silvery light illuminated the golden beach sands where soft terrace lights shadowed diners at the Bar and Bistro and towering palms gently waved a hushed farewell. Sweet dreams.
