Top 10 Airbnb Vacation Rentals In Santa Elena, Belize - Updated 2024

airbnb Santa Elena Belize
Alyssandra Raiza
Alyssandra Raiza 
Updated
| 5 min read

Santa Elena, along with its sister city, San Ignacio, is one of the largest urban areas in Belize. In spite of this, the village has preserved its natural beauty - with its abundant rainforests and the winding Macal River. Santa Elena is also a popular destination for many exciting outdoor activities, including horseback riding, swimming, bird watching, and camping. The Xunantunich Ruins, Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins, and the marketplace are some of the sights in Santa Elena that are not to be missed, as well! Going to Santa Elena soon? Find your ideal accommodation by checking out our selection of the best Airbnb vacation rentals in the area!

We handpicked these listings carefully, considering (wherever possible) Superhost status, recent guest reviews, location, accommodation type, prices, availability of dates, decor, and amenities. The image galleries get refreshed with the latest updates regularly. They were last updated on April 06, 2024.

1. Spacious private room in a family home (from USD 38)

You’re sure to feel right at home in this private room! Spacious and cosy, the room features a king-size bed, which can comfortably sleep up to 3 guests. If you are travelling as a group of 4, you have the option to rent the adjacent room, as well. There is also an en-suite bathroom, complete with towels and other bath essentials, to help everyone keep feeling fresh. In addition to its many amenities, you will also enjoy the view from the large terrace. If you wish to explore the area, the bus lines also run right across the street, making it incredibly easy to get around.

Stayed at this property?
Santa Elena, Cayo, Belize
201 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
PRIVATE ROOM IN HOME 3 Beds 3 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 3

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the bed is only a few months old and was very comfortable
it can get a little warm but the provided fan helps tremendously
the room is huge with private bath two fans a hammock and a couple nice chairs
i also enjoyed the veranda and the private bathroom
we had amazing breakfast every morning during our stay there which exceeded all our expectations
Cleanliness:
the room was clean and comfy
everything was clean and the bed and the room were massive
very safe clean and welcoming
the room was clean and very big as well
came back from a long day to fresh clean clothes
Host:
the hosts are sincerely nice people
maria and artuso were great hosts
they were excellent hosts and went out of their way to make us feel comfortable and accommodate us
arturo and maria are wonderful hosts
very nice and thoughtful hosts
Location:
the house is centrally located and everything is easy walking distance
the location was great and quite central to all the things to see in the area
and benefits from the perfect location
great central location to tikal in guatemala and the atm cave
easy walk to restaurants and shops and market
Read more reviews

2. Family-friendly colonial flat (from USD 69)

This charming colonial-style flat is another great option for small families or groups travelling to Santa Elena. With 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, and a well-equipped kitchen, the flat has all the comforts of a family home, accommodating up to 4 guests at a time. It also comes equipped with a good number of amenities, including air-conditioning, a washer, dryer, cable TV, and Wi-Fi. Located within a commercial and residential area, the home is mere minutes away from plenty of family-friendly attractions - downtown is a 5-minute walk away, while the River Park is just 3 minutes away.

Stayed at this property?
San Ignacio, Cayo District, Belize
283 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
ENTIRE RENTAL UNIT 2 Beds 4 Guests 2 Bedrooms 2 Bathrooms

Accommodates: 4

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
the ac worked perfectly and the kitchen was fully functional
comfortable beds with ac and even a washer
the beds were comfortable and the ac was a life saver
the beds are super comfortable and the ac is really cooling
ac works great plus there are fans
Cleanliness:
the apartment was very clean and spacious
the airbnb was very clean and comfortable to stay in
very spacious place and very clean
great space as advertised clean comfy convenient spot to enjoy all san ignacio has to offer
in general the flat was clean and had the essentials
Host:
but the host is great
wendy is an excellent host
from the moment we met windy she was pleasent helpful cheerful and we felt at home immediately
wendi was super friendly and easily contacted if anything was needed
kind and courteous people all over
Location:
easy walking distance
the location was great and about a five minute walk from downtown san ignacio
the location is great walking distance from the market
very good location in san ignacio
good location next to great restaurant
Read more reviews

3. Private, riverfront cabana (from USD 90)

If you’re planning a romantic getaway to Santa Elena, or if you simply love being around nature, then you’re sure to love a stay at this riverfront cabana! Up to guests can sleep comfortably in this cosy cabana, which features a single bedroom and a private bath. There is also a spacious kitchen and dining area, where you can prepare and enjoy your own meals. During your stay, you will be provided with a number of amenities, including bath essentials, central heating, Wi-Fi access, and a free parking space within the premises. If you wish to explore the area, the cabana is not only close to the Macal River, but is also just minutes away from the downtown area and the local market.

Stayed at this property?
San Ignacio, Cayo District, Belize
54 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire guesthouse 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
full kitchen air conditioner if you need it great shower
in the morning we enjoyed breakfast on the back patio overlooking the river
very nice kitchen bedroom (bed was very comfortable) and bathroom
felt safe and comfortable and would book again
the cabana is very spacious well setup for cooking and the bed is comfortable
Cleanliness:
spotlessly clean lovely space
the place was very clean and super comfortable
their place was very clean safe and spacious
the space was awesome: exactly as pictured and totally clean and spacious
our bathroom was super clean as well and lots of storage space for our luggage
Host:
julie was the most gracious host
julie and gary are fantastic hosts
julie and gary are accommodating and helpful hosts
she and gary are delightful hosts
julie and gary were great hosts and greeted us with a beer and a smile
Location:
excellent location within walking distance to town
it’s just a short walk into san ignacio— location is perfect
it is a walk to town but a pretty easy one
loved the location lots of local trips and experiences available in this area
absolutely love how close they were to downtown
Read more reviews

4. Stylish villa complete with amenities (from USD 145)

With its very modern interiors and a wide range of amenities, a stay at this stylish villa is a real treat! The villa features a single bedroom with a king-sized bed, making it perfect for couples or those on a solo vacation. The private bath is kept immaculately clean and is complete with bath essentials and extra towels. There is also a well-equipped kitchen, which has everything one might need to prepare simple meals. For entertainment, guests can surf the net, watch their favourite movies on TV, or even enjoy a barbecue on the terrace. The villa is also located just 1.5 mi (2.41 km) from San Ignacio, which is easily accessible by bus or taxi.

Stayed at this property?
San Ignacio , Belize
67 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cabin 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
everything was clean and small touches like flowers air conditioning yummy coffee and a hair dryer were wonderful
also there was a tv with free movies ac was great and the bed was super comfortable
plenty of room comfortable bed all the cups / bowls / cooking stuff / coffee etc
amazing bed full kitchen nice spa shower
the bed was fluffy and cozy perfect for watching one of the hundreds of movies provided on tv
Cleanliness:
everything was clean and the atmosphere was peaceful
pictures do not do this place justice everything was clean and updated inside
the bathroom was clean new and had plenty of storage fluffy towels and ultra soft rugs
very clean comfortable bed and lovely decorations
the place is bright spacious comfortable and impeccably clean
Host:
host was very friendly and helpful with any questions we had
virginia & ken were super nice & helpful
virginia was responsive and helpful throughout
extremely helpful and friendly hosts
it was much better than expected virginia and ken are great hosts and amazing people
Location:
the location is amazing
the location was ideal peaceful and quiet but close to the action of san ignacio
great great location it is super close to town without being in it if you know what i mean
fun to walk around and middle of town has activities and vendors etc
excellent restaurants and cool little shops are just 8-10min drive away and maybe 20-30min walk
Read more reviews

5. Simple and clean cabana (from USD 70)

If you’re travelling solo or as a couple, and looking for a quiet and hassle-free stay in Santa Elena, this cabana should be a great place for you! The cabana can comfortably accommodate up to 2 guests at a time and features a single bedroom and a private bath. The cabana is also located within walking distance of the local market and downtown area - perfect for those who are eager to explore the area. It should be noted, however, that this accommodation is not ideal for those travelling with young children, as the steps leading down to the river from the cabana have no protective rails.

Stayed at this property?
San Ignacio, Cayo District, Belize
43 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire guesthouse 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
a/c worked really well
we appreciated having free drinking water and the opportunity to do laundry (with dryer too)
Cleanliness:
it was very clean and had everything we would expect in the kitchenette
the room was beautiful clean and comfortable but it did not compare to the awesomeness of my hosts
the cabanas are safe clean and well-stocked with amenities
Host:
gary and julie are awesome hosts
julie and gary are amazing hosts
julie and gary were wonderful hosts and showed us around town the night we arrived
they were both extremely friendly and accommodating
julie and gary are great hosts
Location:
everything was within walking distance and the value of the space was great
i really enjoyed my stay with a great location
this place was perfect for a three night getaway in the san ignacio area
julie & gary's place was perfect exactly as described and in a great location
Read more reviews

6. Cabin for 3 at Pilgrim's Paradise (from USD 49)

This lovely wooden cabin is also located at Pilgrim’s Paradise - this time, with 2 bedrooms that can accommodate 3 guests. The cabin is just as relaxing, and comes with a good number of amenities to keep guests completely comfortable during their stay, including bath essentials, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi access. There is also a kitchen, for those who wish to prepare their own meals, as well as a free parking space, for those travelling by car. There are plenty of activities that guests can enjoy within Pilgrim’s Paradise, as well - from canoeing to hiking along the trails!

Stayed at this property?
Santa Elena, Cayo District, Belize
70 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cabin 1 Bed 2 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
we did not need the a/c did use the fan one night
Cleanliness:
very clean friendly
communication was prompt the cabin clean and the hosts were kind and accommodating
it was very clean and smelt like a log cabin
nice hosts clean cabin
richard's cabin was fantastic clean lovely and everything we could have asked for
Host:
the host family was super kind and accommodating
the host rich is incredibly responsive and attentive
the hosts were very helpful and we would return in the future
incredible stay great host i would highly recommend to anyone coming to belize
pete and estelita are super friendly hosts and we loved spending time with them
Location:
beautiful location on the farm
gorgeous and private location close to san ignacio rustic but cute & functional with everything you need
we loved the quiet cabin so close to san ignacio
pilgrim’s paradise is a beautiful inside and out cabin set in a quiet and lovely location
it had everything we needed and the location was fantastic
Read more reviews

7. Cosy cabin at the Pilgrim's Paradise (from USD 49)

Pilgrim’s Paradise is one of the most tranquil locations in Santa Elena. Located just far enough from the populous parts of town to maintain a peaceful ambience, while still being close enough to get to San Ignacio with ease. This cosy wooden cabin is perfect for couples or solo adventurers looking for a quiet getaway. The cabin features a spacious double bed that can sleep 2 at a time, as well as a private bathroom, complete with bath essentials, to help keep guests feeling fresh. There is also a modest kitchenette, where guests can prepare their own meals. Guests will also enjoy air-conditioning and Wi-Fi during their stay.

Stayed at this property?
Santa Elena, Cayo District, Belize
133 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Entire cabin 1 Bed 2 Guests 0 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
excellent wifi electric and water
the wifi worked great and richard was great about communicating with us
air conditioning and hot shower were a nice addition
the bed was comfortable and the wifi worked great
richard has provided many amenities (like a full kitchen) that made the stay even better
Cleanliness:
the bathroom was very clean with soap soft towels and hot water
it is adorable and spotlessly clean
the cabin was very clean and quiet
the cabin is clean and the bed is comfortable
what stood out when we arrived was how clean the place was
Host:
host’s responses were immediate & helpful
the hosts were wonderful and responded quickly to questions
the hosts family were very kind accommodating and hospitable
great place and great host
richard is a great host quick to respond to any questions
Location:
cute cozy cabin close to town
great location that is secluded but close enough to town
the cabin was cute and in a beautiful location
great location just off the highway
loved this quite place and close to town
Read more reviews

8. Tree house room

This is perhaps one of the most charming accommodation in Santa Elena! With 3 beds and even a hammock, this tree house-style room is perfect for a fun vacation with family or friends. The room comes with Wi-Fi access as well as an electric fan. However, the room can also get cool enough for guests to keep the fan turned off at night. There are 2 baths and a kitchen, which are both communal, but kept immaculately clean and are free for guests to use. To top off the experience, guests will enjoy a complimentary breakfast every morning and can go on a walking tour of the area, for free!

Stayed at this property?
15 reviews  
Private room 3 Beds 3 Guests

9. Spacious two-bedroom apartment in downtown San Ignacio

This two-bedroom apartment is great for small families on vacation. Each bedroom features a spacious bed for two, which can accommodate up to 4 guests at a time. There is a private bath to keep guests feeling fresh and clean, and a spacious, well-equipped kitchen to prepare simple meals. To keep guests completely comfortable during their stay, the apartment comes with plenty of amenities, including central heating, air conditioning, cable TV, and Wi-Fi. Those travelling by car can also use the free parking space available on the premises.

Stayed at this property?
San Ignacio, Cayo District, Belize
104 reviews  
Entire apartment 2 Beds 2 Bedrooms 1 Bathroom
Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
wifi worked very well
the wifi was super fast and the air conditioning was a life saver
wifi was appreciated by everyone especially my kids
clean apartment a/c was cold and had some fans too microwave fridge good wifi cable tv and etc
plenty of space for the three of us and nice bathroom
Cleanliness:
very clean and spacious apartment
clean comfortable apartment
very clean and well presented
the space was very clean
a clean safe comfortable place to stay
Host:
the staff was very helpful
staff was really welcoming and helpful
the host & husband were gracious hosts helping us out
host was very friendly and helpful with recommendations
the hosts were also extremely helpful and kind
Location:
location was great; easy walk to town center and nearby restaurants
great location only a couple blocks from downtown san ignacio
nice location within easy walking distance of the center of town
great stay and location
walking distance to pretty much everything
Read more reviews

10. Private room in a Belizean home

This bright private room provides a stay in Santa Elena. With a spacious queen-size bed, the room can comfortably sleep 2 guests at a time, making it ideal for couples and solo travelers. The en-suite bathroom is kept immaculately clean and is equipped with bath essentials and extra towels. The room also comes with plenty of comforts, including air conditioning, a television, and Wi-Fi access. This accommodation is also perfect for those who wish to explore the area - in addition to being located within walking distance of downtown San Ignacio, the generous hosts also offer exciting tours, including cave tubing and canoeing.

Stayed at this property?
Santa Elena, Cayo, Belize
62 reviews   Superhost Wifi Available
Private room in residential home 1 Bed 2 Guests 1 Bedroom 1 Bathroom

Accommodates: 2

Top guest reviews
Amenities & Room:
this was a lovely spacious room with a couch table and chairs and excellent air-conditioning
the wifi works amazing
the room we stayed in had its own a/c unit so we were totally comfortable
the room was large and easily allowed me and my son to inhabitit it during our stay
the room was clean and comfortable has ac as well as a large floor standing fan
Cleanliness:
our room was spacious super clean and we felt very safe
the room was very spacious airconditioned ( ) and clean
the home is clean and comfortable
the room is big really clean with a comfortable bed tv fridge and nice private bathroom
Host:
he was the kindest funniest and most gracious host
the hosts were very knowledgeable helpful hospitable and kind
hector was a great host and made our stay run smoothly
hector and his son were excellent hosts who went above and beyond
hector and his son were very kind hosts
Location:
the location is perfect
a pleasant 10 minute walk to the center of san ignacio
its only a short walk to san ignacio and i found the neighbourhood very safe with helpful people
we were grateful to be picked up by hector`s son on arrival by bus in santa elena
the room was great the location was great and they were very hospitable
Read more reviews

Nature is calming and exciting in Santa Elena

Santa Elena is, without a doubt, abundant in natural beauty. It is the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors! Whether you prefer to feel the thrill of horseback riding, camping, and other exciting outdoor activities, or would rather just take in the sights and feel rejuvenated by being in nature, Santa Elena has something to offer you.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Aly is an ever-curious wanderer who enjoys constantly learning and exploring the world. With more than five years of experience as a travel writer based in Manila, she enjoys writing about her...Read more

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