Reef House

The quiet was exactly what we were after, and it was lovely that the place wasn't busy during our stay. The hotel sits on a tiny island near the coast, reached only by water taxi, which is part of its appeal. Getting to the ports or airport by bus or taxi was easy. There’s a calm-water sea pool, a pontoon for snorkeling trips, loaner snorkeling gear, tiki umbrellas with loungers, and a restaurant area with games and other things to do. The bar is really the hub of the hotel. Our room was cosy and tidy, with a little outdoor sitting area facing the ocean and washing lines. The bed and shower were decent, there was air conditioning and a water cooler, and a note asking guests to save water because the dry season can bring serious shortages. I did wish there were more hooks for hanging things, though there was open shelving and a hanging space in the bathroom. Since this is the only food and drink place on the cayo, the menu situation mattered. During our visit, the bar's blackboard showed only a couple of dishes and no prices for the whole stay. We were told to ask for whatever we wanted, which felt awkward because guests can't know what's in the fridges or freezers. Hopefully it's more organized in peak season. Still, we had no problems and the meals were okay. If you catch fish, the kitchen can cook it or prepare it for you to barbecue, and I understand guests can use the barbecue. The friendly staff can also arrange excursions and help with transfers.

After a beautiful snorkeling trip, we stopped at the Reef house restaurant on our way back. The folks at the bar were really friendly, and it made for a great place to pause after the adventure.

We picked Reef House for the uncrowded diving, and the dive was spectacular. We walked to the boat with all our gear already set up, then it was about a 10-minute ride across turquoise water. We went over the edge of a wall full of colorful sea life, surrounded by blue in every direction, then did it again. Reef House Resort on tiny Oak Ridge Cay was peaceful and lovely. Our room looked out at the ocean, and we spent time on the porch swing, often with a friendly white cat nearby. The shallow pool lined with rocks in front of the bar was fun for snorkeling and floating. On our last night, the bartender said we already knew the menu and could just stay seated, then asked what we'd like for dinner.

The service was incredible, and the location was too. I'm so glad I found this place. I'll keep coming back.