The Belize resort welcomed Their Royal Highnesses with open arms as they stopped in Belize during their Caribbean tour in March 2022. It was the first leg of their journey in honor of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. Prince William and Princess Kate had the privilege of staying in the Seafront Suite at The Lodge at Jaguar Reef. Draped in thoughtful decor and ultimate comfort, the suite offered unobstructed views of the stunning Caribbean Sea. With a private plunge pool, vaulted ceilings, and a mere step away from the beach, it’s hard to imagine royalty wanting for more.

The happy couple spent every waking chance they could strolling along Jaguar Reef’s silk-sand beach – and how couldn’t they? Jaguar Reef’s ideal location makes it impossible not to admire purple-hued sunrises breaking over the dreamy horizon – a horizon you can admire from the lodge’s very own over-the-water bar. Big Dock Bar is the perfect hanging-out spot for those wanting to relax and sip a cocktail while admiring the sea views. Which is exactly what the Prince and Princess did during their stay at Jaguar Reef. The Belize resort’s very own mixologist served them rum punch while the duo lounged at Big Dock Bar.

The Lodge at Jaguar Reef made sure their royal guests had not only the best-mixed cocktails but the best cuisine, too. Decadent meals were served straight from the resort’s onsite restaurant, the Paddle House. However, instead of sitting within the boho-chic restaurant, Prince William and Princess Kate opted for enjoying their meals under the stars instead. The local chefs were ecstatic to share authentic Belizean dishes with such esteemed guests. After all, Hopkins is a cultural Mecca teeming with people (and food) from all walks of life. It’s only natural to show a little slice of Belizean paradise through tasty cuisine!

Speaking of culture, Their Royal Highnesses had the opportunity to see Hopkins’ very own Garifuna culture up close and personal. During their stay, the royal couple immersed themselves in a lively dance set to Garifuna drumming. They shimmied and swayed their hips alongside the local schoolchildren who were more than happy to dance with a prince and princess! To see royals come from across the world to admire the beauty of Hopkins and its people with their own eyes is nothing short of extraordinary – and we’re sure the feeling was mutual.

While the Prince and Princess were quite busy during their short Hopkins stay, they knew they would come back to a room where they wind down with sweeping views of the ocean. The Lodge at Jaguar Reef may be used to treating guests like royalty, but this time the phrase took on a whole new meaning. We hope the Prince and Princess of Wales enjoyed their time in Belize as much as we enjoyed having them.

If you’d like to experience the royal treatment yourself at Jaguar Reef, check out our exclusive vacation packages here.