Fodor's Expert Review Mata Rocks Resort

A bright white building, giving the impression of a ship at sea, houses stylish rooms at this friendly boutique hotel south of San Pedro. The fresh, squeaky-clean rooms have beautiful locally carved bed frames and white walls accented with handmade decorations. Outside, a small swimming pool is ringed by pleasant deck chairs, and the sea (with a sea wall) is steps away. With new owners in 2021, Mata Rocks now has the beach bar On the Rocks and the restaurant Sorella Ristorante, which channels the owners' Italian heritage and serves classic home-style dishes. Several good restaurants are a stroll away. Although not a large resort, Mata Rocks has personal service and amenities like complimentary paddleboards, bikes, and kayaks. An added bonus: Mata Rocks has Belize's second pickleball court, which guests are invited to use.