Cayes and Atolls Hotels

Guidebooks

Turneffe Flats

At a Glance

    Pros

  • Focus here is on fishing

    Cons

  • Focus here is on fishing

Fodorite Reviews

Average Rating:  

Turneffe Flats Review

The sound of the surf is the only thing you'll hear at these smart blue-and-white, red-roofed beachfront air-conditioned cabins. The rooms, fitted with elegant hardwoods, are a far cry from the bare-bones fishing camp that occupied this site in the early '80s. You can dive here—a Pro 48 dive boat is on standby and the reef is only 200 yards from shore—but the ubiquitous fishing-pole racks suggest that snook, bonefish, and permit are still the dominant lure. You pay a pretty penny to indulge your passion, however—a weekly fishing package for two in-season is near BZ$16,000 including meals, taxes, and guided fishing, but not your bar tab or tips.

    Contact Information

  • Address: Turneffe Atoll, Turneffe Atoll
  • Phone: 232-9022; 888/512-8812
  • Website: www.tflats.com
  • Location: Turneffe Atoll

    Hotel Details

  • 8 cottages.
  • Rate includes all-inclusive.
  • Credit cards accepted.

Fodorite Reviews

Average Rating:  
  • Room  
    Décor  
    Service  
    Value  

    Turneffe Flats Review

    Wow! Turneffe Flats offers something for everyone. My husband loves to fish, I love to dive, and many of our friends love to explore, snorkle, etc. The fishing is amazing. My husband is still working toward the coveted grand slam. I, however, have achieved a grand slam each trip I have made. In October, 2010, I was fortunate to see many sleeping sharks. In May, 2010, I was able to observe a chocolate sea horse, as well as an amazing yellow sea horse. Diving is very important to Turneffe Flats. Not only is there a brand new dive boat, Miss K for smaller dive groups, but Miss Ellie is an amazing 48 foot dive limo! Alex, the dive manager is not only an amazing dive master, I have been able to observe him teaching new divers. How I wish he had been one of my dive instuctors in the seventies. The Turneffe Atoll is an amazing treasure. Not only is it home to the white bearded toad fish, but it is the home of an amazing variety of sea life. I am blessed to have enjoyed diving through out the world. Although I have experienced some amazing dives, I never tire of diving on the Turneffe Atoll. The location of Turneffe Flats is perfect for timely access to the best diving spots. If you are a serious diver, or if you think you aspire to be a serious diver, do not fail to check out Turneffe Flats. You can definitely find a less expensive destination, but I challenge you to find a higher quality dive experience. Karen and Craig Hayes have a fantastic resort and achieve amazing balance between fishing, diving and exploring. Come and enjoy!

    by tndiver, 12/8/10
  • Room  
    Décor  
    Service  
    Value  

    Turneffe Flats Review

    If all you’re looking to do is dive or fish, this is not a bad choice. The dive master and captain are excellent. The fisherman, though they didn’t catch a lot that week, enjoyed the fishing and the locations they were taken. But the property is a bit basic for the cost of the package. Plus, I was a bit surprised about the recommend $720 in tips for the three of us. We found that the air conditioning in the rooms did not turn back on until after 4:30 PM. The thermostat changes after you fall asleep, so don’t be surprised if you wake up to find out you need to lower the AC, again. One of the two ceiling fans was too noisy to use at night. The bathroom was basic with a rather small, weak shower, not to mention the multitude of little crawling insects that showed up each morning.

    The meals were small and limited. I was expecting family style, which is fine, but you’ll find they have a set menu. Seconds were never offered. Each guest was given a plate with an entrée and vegetable. My son and I are not picky eaters, so it work or at least it wasn’t worth complaining. My wife on the other hand is a better cook and didn’t rave about the food. A small desert and coffee are served at the end. No need to worry about gaining weight on this trip.

    We flew in and were out of customs by 11:00 AM. However, we didn’t leave the airport until after noon. We needed to wait for another couple. Not a problem though, the boat to the property didn’t leave until after 4:30 PM. If you can choose your flights find one in the afternoon. The 4 hour wait at the dock was not an enjoyable start to our vacation.

    The location was remote. Next time, I’ll stay at one of the larger islands. At each site, we saw dive boats from all the surrounding islands.

    The staff was nice. Had I been with my fishing buddies, the property would work. But I would not recommend this for couples. And though the diving was great, I didn’t get what I paid for. Research your other options, thoroughly.

    by akrohnat, 10/6/09

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