The north end of Barrier Reef Drive, what we all know as Front Street, once marked the very edge of San Pedro village. Back then, Milo Paz’s property was where town life ended. For years, that was our northernmost limit… until Paradise Hotel appeared just beyond Milo’s and suddenly the “end of town” wasn’t the end anymore. From there, the village began stretching and blossoming further north.
That quiet neighborhood soon transformed. Paradise Hotel became a lively hub, hosting beach parties, social gatherings, and offering what many called the best swimming spot at the end of its pier. The hotel’s dive shop added to the energy, drawing tourists ready to explore the reef, making that corner of San Pedro one of the busiest spots around.
In this flashback photo, you can see the sandy street leading toward Paradise Hotel’s property, no cars, no crowds, just the peaceful charm of old San Pedro. At the street’s end sat the original Salty Dog Gift Shop, which today you’ll find next to Manelly’s Ice Cream Shop.
From Paradise Hotel to The Phoenix Resort
Fast forward to now: the humble thatch bungalows and garden walkways of Paradise Hotel are long gone. In their place stands The Phoenix Resort, one of the island’s premier luxury destinations. It’s a striking reminder of just how far we’ve come, from sleepy fishing village to bustling tourism town.
Do you remember when the north end of Barrier Reef Drive looked like this?
2 Responses
Back in the 70’s I used to stay at Milo’s place on the weekends when I wasn’t working. Times were far more simple back then.
The first time I went to San Pedro stayed at hotel it was on the beach wooden house and the most beautiful sunrise I’ve seen. I’ll never forget it but the time has surely changed.