Title: Beachfront. Close to Secret Beach. Kayaks. Bikes. Pool. Paddleboards. 5BDR Reviews, Deals & Photos 2025 - Expedia.co.uk [See all properties](http://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?regionId=&adults=2&children=&sort=RECOMMENDED&useRewards=false&semdtl=&userIntent=&vip=false) Entire home # Beachfront. Close to Secret Beach. Kayaks. Bikes. Pool. Paddleboards. 5BDR ![Property grounds](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/65000000/64570000/64565900/64565836/1a6f8f7b.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=598&ra=fit) ![Fridge, microwave, oven, stovetop](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/65000000/64570000/64565900/64565836/efcbfe6a.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Pool](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/65000000/64570000/64565900/64565836/ab286e0b.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Interior](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/65000000/64570000/64565900/64565836/5212bc73.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) ![Property grounds](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/65000000/64570000/64565900/64565836/5540f536.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=297&ra=fit) - Overview - Amenities - Policies - Location Escape to El Gran Castillo de Arena, a private beachfront villa in the Mata Grande area of Ambergris Caye. Unwind in one of three separate living areas or relax on the 'Sunset Tower' patio with 360-degree views. With a refreshing dip pool, shaded pergola, and beautifully landscaped grounds maintained by caretaker William and his assistant Marvin, you'll feel right at home. 10 Exceptional ### Entire home 5 bedrooms4 bathroomsSleeps 103200 sq ft ## Popular amenities - Parking available - Dryer - Pool - Washer - Kitchen - Barbecue grill ## Add dates for prices Check-in Check-out Travellers ## About this property ### Entire place You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party. ### 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 ## Property amenities ### Beach - On the beach ### Pool/Spa - Communal pool - Private pool ### Internet - Available in the house: Free WiFi ### Parking and transport - Parking on site ### Kitchen - Coffee/tea maker - Cookware, dishware, and utensils - Dishwasher - Hob - Kitchenette - Microwave - Oven - Refrigerator - Spices - Toaster ### Dining - Dining table ### Bedrooms - 5 bedrooms - Bedsheets provided ### Bathroom - 4 private bathrooms - Hair dryer - Shower - Towels provided ### Living spaces - Dining table - Living room ### Entertainment - Books - DVD player - Games - Smart TV with cable/satellite channels - Stereo - Video library ### Outdoor areas - Barbecue grill - Dock - Fenced yard - Furnished balcony/patio - Garden ### Laundry - Laundry facilities - Washer/dryer ### Comfort - Air conditioning ### Pets - No pets allowed ### Suitability/Accessibility - Smoke-free property ### Services and conveniences - Concierge services - Housekeeping (on request) - Iron/ironing board - Phone ### Location highlights - Near a hospital - Near a zoo - Near the ocean - On the waterfront ### Things to do - Bicycles - Kayak - Water sports equipment - Birdwatching nearby - Casino nearby - Ecotours nearby - Fishing nearby - Sailing nearby - Scuba diving nearby - Snorkelling nearby - Swimming nearby - Water tubing nearby ### Safety features - Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property) - Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property) - First aid kit - Fire extinguisher ### General - Bicycles - Garden - Housekeeping (on request) - Unit size: 3,200 square feet ## Similar properties ![Outdoor pool](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/23000000/22400000/22395100/22395047/f94b4590.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Caribbean Seafront, 2-Level Island Home, Pool, Kayak, Paddle boards and Privacy san Pedro - Pool - Kitchen - Washer - Dryer 9.8 Exceptional 57 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12&selected=22395047&PinnedHotelID=22395047&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Pool](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/35000000/34120000/34111800/34111766/56ed0be8.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Island style, laid-back living, waterfront, pool, pier and outdoor shower Boca Ciega - Sea view - Pool - Kitchen - Washer 9.8 Exceptional 89 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12&selected=34111766&PinnedHotelID=34111766&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![Pool](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/22000000/21670000/21660300/21660282/41842a1f.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Stunning Oceanfront Villa w/ Private Pool, Dock, Ocean View, Partial AC & WiFi Boca Ciega - Sea view - Pool - Kitchen - Washer 9.2 Wonderful 26 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12&selected=21660282&PinnedHotelID=21660282&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ![On the beach, sun-loungers, beach towels](https://images.trvl-media.com/lodging/89000000/88480000/88474500/88474444/81dac62c.jpg?impolicy=fcrop&w=469&h=201&p=1&q=medium) ### Ocean Front Home with pier. 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Boca Ciega - Sea view - Pool - Kitchen - Washer 9.8 Exceptional 78 reviews [](https://www.expedia.co.uk/Hotel-Search?startDate=2025-10-11&endDate=2025-10-12&selected=90720030&PinnedHotelID=90720030&HadPinnedHotel=true®ionId=-1&adults=2) ## Policies ### Check-in Check-in time starts at 3:00 PM Contactless check-in and check-out are available Minimum check-in age - 25 ### Check-out Check-out before 11:00 AM ### Special check-in instructions You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions ### Pets Pets not allowed ### Children and extra beds Children are welcome ### Events Events allowed ### Smoking Smoking is not permitted ## Important information ### You need to know This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. 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 This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation If you cancel your booking, you'll be subject to the host's cancellation policy. In accordance with UK consumer law, property booking services are not subject to the right of withdrawal. ### Property is also known as 2166-208771 ## About the area 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. [Visit our San Pedro travel guide](https://www.expedia.co.uk/San-Pedro.dx3253) [View more Holiday homes in San Pedro](https://www.expedia.co.uk/San-Pedro-Private-Holiday-Homes.d3253-aaPrivateHolidayHomes.Travel-Guide-Accommodation) ![Map](https://maps.googleapis.com/maps/api/staticmap?&size=660x330&map_id=3b266eb50d2997c6&zoom=13&markers=icon:https%3A%2F%2Fa.travel-assets.com%2Ftravel-assets-manager%2Feg-maps%2Fproperty.png%7C17.98034%2C-87.92313&channel=expedia-HotelInformation&maptype=roadmap&scale=1&key=AIzaSyCYjQus5kCufOpSj932jFoR_AJiL9yiwOw&signature=XDZKHGeJzY7xEbF1wmEir9I8kaw=) San Pedro - North, Belize District ### What's nearby - Secret Beach - 16 min drive - 4.6 miles - San Pedro Beach - 24 min drive - 5.1 miles - San Pedro Belize Express Dock - 30 min drive - 6.4 miles - San Pedro Town Hall - 30 min drive - 6.4 miles - Belize Chocolate Company - 31 min drive - 6.6 miles ### Getting around - San Pedro (SPR-John Greif II) - 26 min drive ### Restaurants - ‪Blue Bayou - ‬13 min drive - ‪RASA Southeast Asian Kitchen - ‬16 min drive - ‪Rain Restaurant & Rooftop Lounge - ‬8 min drive - ‪Secret Paradise Beach Bar & Grill - ‬14 min drive - ‪Moon Bar - ‬8 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. ### Is Beachfront. Close to Secret Beach. Kayaks. Bikes. Pool. Paddleboards. 5BDR pet-friendly? > No, pets are not allowed at this 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 Belize Barrier Reef and Hol Chan Marine Reserve. Mexico Rocks is 1.4 mi (2.2 km) away. ## Have a question? Beta Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews. Ask a question ## Beachfront. Close to Secret Beach. Kayaks. Bikes. Pool. Paddleboards. 5BDR Reviews 10 ### Exceptional All reviews shown are from real guest experiences. Only travellers who have booked a stay with us can submit a review. We verify reviews according to our guidelines and publish all reviews, positive or negative.[More information](https://www.expedia.co.uk/lp/b/content-guidelines) 10 - Excellent 89 8 - Good 2 6 - Okay 0 4 - Poor 0 2 - Terrible 0 ### 10/10 Cleanliness ### 10/10 Excellent #### Karla S. 28 Apr 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Tropical Getaway 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 ### 10/10 Excellent #### DORIS S. 22 Mar 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Fabulous! 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 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jason J. 24 Jun 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Paradise Amazing property right in the beach. Everything about the place was amazing. ##### Jason J. Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Gegetta B. 24 Oct 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Fabulous!! 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 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Austin D. 1 Sept 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Gran Castillo 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 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Kimberly P. 29 Mar 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Girls Trip 2023! Great time stellar views! William & Marvin we’re awesome! ##### Kimberly P. Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2023 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Robert W. 2 Mar 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### A Terrific House 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 This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent 16 Jun 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 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Joanne R., Media, Pennsylvania, USA 17 Mar 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Birthday celebration -The best! 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 This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Tania M. 11 Jun 2025 #### Wonderful vacation home!! 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 time at El Gran Castillo celebrating a 50th birthday. The home had 3 living quarters, each with their own kitchen, and it worked out perfect for our group of 7. The view was amazing, the staff were always friendly and helpful with whatever we needed. At one point we had a issues with a couple AC and property management had it addressed immediately. It felt like home to us. No one left this vacation unhappy with the house, beds were comfortable and showers had good pressure. I would absolutely recommend this place.One thing to keep in mind is the house is located north of town. It took use about 40 minutes to get to the center of San Pedro and it wasn't high tourist season at the time. I think water taxi is the way to go if you want to go somewhere or get into town. Secret Beach was about 20 minutes away by golf cart. Honestly cannot say enough good about our visit, the house just made it feel like we were home. ##### Tania M. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Alicia M. 6 Jul 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Boys Trip 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 This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Deric K. 17 Dec 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 This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Dawn R. 22 Jul 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 ### 10/10 Excellent #### William D. 2 Feb 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Great Location, Amazing Hospitality!! 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 This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent #### John P. 28 Dec 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 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Renee C., Jackson 21 Nov 2022 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Quiet and Roomy 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 This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Gina H. 12 Feb 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. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jayson P. 6 Jan 2025 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### 50th Birthday Our first trip to Belize was amazing, mostly due to the accommodations and hospitality of the property management. The house was awesome, with plenty of room for our party of 8. We had 4 couples and each had their own space. William and Marvin were especially helpful and attentive. William even made us a couple souvenirs to take home and helped commemorate my 50th birthday with a piece of engraved mahogany. Restaurant and bar next door are a nice bonus as the road getting into town is rough. Food and drinks were great. We were content to just stay at the house and kayak to the reef ourselves. Another nice bonus was the fireworks show the hotel next door put on to celebrate the new year. Fishing excursions picked us up at our dock and made it very easy. Sunrise Property Management was extremely responsive and helpful in booking our excursions as well as coordinating our arrival and departure transportation as we had several adjustments to our flights. Their quick response made us feel at ease with our first trip to the island. We will definitely be back. ##### Jayson P. Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2024 ### 8/10 Good #### elizabeth s. 28 Jan 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy #### Unbelizable adventure 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 This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Amy N. 1 Jan 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 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Ward B. 21 Feb 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Palapa Heaven We could not have been more pleased with El Gran Castillo de Arena! The location was fantastic (peaceful, yet convenient). The set up was ideal (we had three couples and each had private spaces plus a great common area to gather). The house was immaculate, well equipped and well maintained. The setting and the grounds were amazing (beautiful sand and water, with multiple palapas, each with their own feel and ambiance, plus the roof top pool for a quick dip). William (on-property manager) and Marvin made sure that we had everything that we needed (from kayaks to hammocks) and anticipated things before we knew we needed them! Simon (property management company) patiently answered all of our pre-visit questions and helped us schedule all of our local transportation and Elena helped us with booking excursions. We could not have asked for anything more! ##### Ward B. Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2024 This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jan P. 4 Mar 2023 #### Ambergris Caye gem 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: El Gran Castillo was a fantastic home for our group of 9. The layout was perfect for all of us to meet together but also gave us plenty of privacy for each of our families when desired. Can't begin to say enough wonderful things about William and Marvin, the caretakers - both were so nice and helpful. Simon, at Sunrise Management was awesome as well. He really helped us negotiate our comings and goings and quickly responded to all my questions. Loved being right there on the water where we could paddle out to the reef and snorkel on our own. Our group of both kids and adults had a fabulous time there. ##### Jan P. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Gwen H. 28 Jun 2023 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Much Love for the Grand Sand Castle Seven of us had a very comfortable week-long stay at this idyllic, spacious and modern beachfront villa. There were more than enough beds to accommodate everyone, on multiple floors each with their own kitchens and bathrooms. Oh, and the best feature is the rooftop pool!!! We pre-ordered some food to have on hand for our arrival, arranged golf carts and even scheduled some tours all through the Sunrise Vacations management team. Talk about convenient! Not to mention there is a lovely bar & restaurant just next door, if you don't feel like cooking. Secret beach is just on the other side of the island, and it's a quick ride into town for shopping, dining or whatever excursions you'd like to take. The property comes with an on-site caretaker and a groundskeeper, and their concierge-like service cannot be matched. They were so helpful and kind, that it felt like we'd made new friends by the time we departed. Can't wait to visit again! ##### Gwen H. Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023 This review comes from a trusted partner site and has not been verified. ### 10/10 Excellent #### Robert L. 10 Mar 2024 #### Beautiful Home & Location 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 recently spent a week with 3 other couples at El Gran Castillo de Arena. This home and the staff was wonderful and the location is beautiful!The home was clean,quiet, and comfortable. We enjoyed gathering at the rooftop deck/pool for the views, at the dining room table for card games, the palapa for Williams demonstrations, and the hammocks for rest! The convenience of Tropical Escape restaurant/bar next door was an added bonus.We all enjoyed William's crab races, his coconut demonstration and will treasure his "appreciation" gifts forever. William and Marvin were very accommodating and helpful when we had needs/questions.Also, the property managers were very helpful with assisting us with our Tropic Air flights to and from the island, transportation to and from the airport and golf cart rental. The property guidebook they provided was very helpful in planning for our stay! We hope to come back and would highly recommend this property!! Thank you so much for your hospitality and contributing to our awesome Belize vacation! ##### Robert L. Stayed 7 nights in Feb 2024 ### 10/10 Excellent #### Jeanne B. 12 Jun 2024 Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy #### Private and Safe for Island Getaway El Gran Castillo was a great choice for our family vacation. It felt very private and had 3 separate living areas, just right for our three families. Located right on the water, the view was outstanding. We especially liked the sandy front yard for the kids to play, the sand toys provided, the hammocks, and the use of kayaks. My favorite part about this trip was the communication we had with the management company, Sunrise Properties. They went above and beyond to answer every question, provide pack n play cribs, highchairs, taxi service, airport reservations, and golf cart drop off. That made our trip so easy. With international travel, this helped alleviate so much pre-travel stress. Additionally, we were treated so well by the caretaker, William, and the personal chef we hired, Sarita. Things to be aware of include poor infrastructure on the island, (super bumpy roads), music played all day at restaurant next door (I personally enjoyed it tho) very dangerous slippery tiled steps, wide open spaces on the railing (hazard for kids falling through), occasional power outages, and a 20-minute ride to Secret Beach. Groceries are expensive! The grocery store is a 15 minute ride. We found some fun spots: Marbucks (breakfast spot) Food Truck Stop, and Rum Dog for yummy margaritas. Although the rooftop pool is very small, it was super clean and was ideal for our young children who spent most of their time there. Get ready for island life. This house will be a great place to relax. ##### Jeanne B. 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