The Colonial at Jaguar Reef

This place is beautiful and the every staff member we met was so kind and helpful. Captain Larry out on the beach helped us with all sorts of water toys, he made sure we were safe and checked in all the time. Greg the at the concierge’s desk was helpful whenever we needed taxis, boat excursions and information. Greg set up an island hopping and snorkeling trip with Guide Chris. Chris was great, he shared so much information and made us feel very safe in the water with young children. It rained SO hard and could have been a miserable day but Chris had a good attitude and we came home smiling. The Colonial was beautifully landscaped and clean. We did not have hot water the entire time we stayed which was the worst part even though we told them many, many times. Check in was 2 hours late and very inconvenient. Minus those two things you can’t beat the location and the views. The kids could not get enough swimming and jumping off of the dock.

The location is outstanding! The cove is so calm and perfect for swimming. The water is warm and very clear, and the sand is soft with no rocks or coral to hurt your feet. A lot of beach resorts look great in pictures, but aren't actually nice to swim in. This one is one of the best we have visited. Being centrally located, you have access to many different excursions. You can take snorkel trips right from the hotel's dock, and the reef is exceptional. There are also a variety of trips you can take to see nature, zipline, etc. The concierge Greg was extremely helpful in setting everything up for our family. This was a great option for an extended family trip. Our family enjoyed kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming in the pools, and hanging out at the bars, especially the one on the pier. It was easy to meet up for different activities or meals. The facilities are very nice, with spacious, comfortable, and clean rooms, good food and drinks, and a friendly staff. There are also a few restaurants within walking distance from the hotel if you decide you want a change from the resort's dining options. Our trip did hit a few snags. One room didn't have hot water for a couple of days, but then a maintenance worker showed us that the shower handle needed to point in a different direction for the hot water. We still weren't able to get hot water in the sink though. I recommend being persistent in having this issue addressed if this happens to you. It rained heavily one day and so we had to cancel an excursion. We went the week after Christmas, and there were a couple of very large family groups that monopolized some of the facilities, and then complained loudly when they felt they weren't getting everything exactly as they had planned. Just a heads up, the tourism season starts in December, so many of the workers at that time were brand new. They were still very friendly and tried their best. Have patience with everyone, and understand that travel always brings unexpected surprises. Overall we had a great trip to Jaguar Reef and would recommend!

Stayed at the Colonial. Was a huge villa with a beautiful view. Emery the security guard was so very helpful my first few nights. Captain Larry has all the answers and is very personable. You cannot miss him . Gilberto is a kind spirit who is also very helpful. I am sure many are, just the few great staff I experienced. The water (at least in November) is not picturesque. But the sound of the sea is heavenly. The town is small and accessible. Mostly I loved the Maya Centre village close by and the burrito stand going into town. The grounds at Jaguar Reef are impeccable - everyone does a fine job at making sure it’s always beautiful.