An Island Sanctuary on the North End of Caye Caulker, Belize
El Ben Cabañas is located on the sparsely populated north side of Caye Caulker Island, where serenity and luxury await you. Relax and re-energize in one of the most stunning beach settings imaginable. With twenty-six cabaña-style rooms to offer, each of our cabañas features feathery palm-thatched roofs, charming private verandas, and modern amenities, all nestled amidst lush foliage and sandy beaches.
Dine al fresco at the T&T Bar and Grill where our chefs prepare every meal with fresh, organic ingredients. Enjoy an authentic Belizean breakfast, fresh seafood ceviche, then end the day with a sumptuous tomahawk steak dinner. After a wonderful meal, indulge yourself in an expertly mixed cocktail at our bar and experience the warm and friendly atmosphere of our restaurant.
Make a splash at one of our two swimming pools, or sit back in a lounge chair near our pool bar with lots of space for sunbathing or having a bite.
We invite you to the home of the world’s second largest Barrier Reef! This natural aquatic haven is home to impressive aqua life from sharks, coral, sting rays, sea turtles, and more!
Explore the unique opportunity of a life changing trip where you can soar the skies through island planes or parasailing, scuba dive and snorkel beneath the turquoise sea, and rehabilitate yourself surrounded by nature.
Our Story
When Zaira and Brian McWhirter first visited Belize on vacation 12 years ago, they had no intentions of ever opening a resort. During their visit, they not only fell in love with Belize’s breathtaking islands, but the hospitality and friendly disposition of the Belizean people.
Belize reminded Zaira so much of her childhood home, Trinidad & Tobago. The couple eventually bought a vacation home on Caye Caulker island where they’d later begin developing El Ben Cabañas.
When they purchased the property, they were inspired by their trip to the Maldives, where they had stayed in cabanas on the water. The island cabana concept fit perfectly with Belize’s tropical climate.
They affectionately named the resort after their two grandchildren Eleanor McWhirter Kjelstadii and Benjamin Zane McWhirter.
The North Side of Caye Caulker has not seen many property developments- El Ben is one of just a handful. The opening of El Ben marks the start of the expansion of Caye Caulker’s North Side.
On February 26, 2022, after four years of construction, preparation, and perfecting, the McWhirters finally saw their dream come true when they held El Ben’s Grand Opening.