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Top 18 things to do in Placencia, Belize – Your complete travel guide

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In this article, we’ll cover all the best things to do in Placencia, Belize. We’ll cover the best activities to do, where to stay, where to eat and everything you need to know to have a great time in this coastal town.

If you’re thinking of adding Placencia to your Belize itinerary , you’re in for a treat. Placencia may be a small town, but it packs a big punch. Much like Belize does.

In fact, if you’re looking to cross some bucket list items off your checklist , there are plenty of amazing things to do in Placencia. From beautiful beaches, scuba diving, remote islands and more, there’s something for everyone here! From families to couples to solo travelers, you’ll find some really fun things to do in Placencia.

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Table of Contents

About Placencia, Belize

Placencia is a small coastal town, home to less than 2,000 people, in the Stann Creek district of Belize. It’s located on a narrow and sandy peninsula that stretches for about 25 km along the Caribbean coast. This ensures that it has some of the nicest, sandiest beaches we’ve seen in Belize. It’s no surprise it made it on our list of the most beautiful places to visit in Belize .

Placencia is broken down into different towns: the main town, Maya Beach, and Seines Bight. The town is also home to many indigenous communities like the Garifuna, Creole, and Mayan. It’s truly a melting pot of cultures in Belize. It’s also home to many American retirees who have immigrated here.

Placencia is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, its regenerated coral reef. It’s a popular spot for beachgoers, scuba divers and fisherman because of all the amazing waters that surround it. Here’s you’ll find tons of shops, restaurants and bars.

It’s also a great place to set up camp if you’re looking to go around and explore more of the lush rainforest in Belize.

Top 10 things to do in Placencia + 8 different day trips

Placencia is an amazing place to spend a few days. It has so many fun things to do. From adventure to chilling, things to do in the nearby cayes or the lush rainforest that is close to it. There is so much to discover and do in this small town.

If you can spend a few days here during your vacation, we highly recommend adding Placencia to your Belize itinerary.

Here are all the best things you can do here.

1. Visit the beautiful beaches of Placencia

Located on a sandy peninsula, Placencia is home to some of the best beaches we’ve seen in Belize. When you think of soft sand beaches, palm trees and tropical waters, Placencia is where you’ll find them. In fact, we were quite disappointed with the beaches in Caye Caulker and even San Pedro, so Placencia was a welcome beachy surprise!

Since you’re on a peninsula, the beach stretches out all the way down to its tip. Although most resorts have set up shop on the east side of the peninsula, we found the best beach was on the tip, near the pier. If you’re looking for calm waters, this is where to hang out. Plus, you’ll be next to some of the best restaurants in Placencia.

The east side beach of Placencia is also beautiful, but it gets really windy. That’s the main reason we recommend going to the tip. With crazy winds come big waves, and if you have small children or inexperienced swimmers, we recommend avoiding this spot.

2. Scuba dive the coral reef, an amazing activity in Placencia

As avid scuba diver’s, we were really excited to check out the waters around Placencia. We had heard such great things about it, especially since Fragments of Hope, a local NGO, had started regenerating the nearby coral reefs on Silk Caye and Laughing Bird Caye.

Luckily, we came upon Splash Dive Center , one of the best scuba dive shops in Belize . We took a day trip with them and headed out to Laughing Bird Caye. It’s one of the premier spots to go scuba diving and snorkeling.

We didn’t get very lucky with the weather while we were in Placencia. We were plagued with strong winds and heavy storms. In fact, our dive trip was postponed 3 times because of it. When we dove at Laughing bird Caye, the visibility was not great either, due to the weather. But we still managed to see quite a few fun fish!

If you want to scuba dive while in Placencia, we recommend heading to Silk Caye instead of Laughing Bird. We found out later that Silk Caye has much better scuba diving. Regardless, we recommend going with Splash – their staff was friendly and professional. And even if the visibility wasn’t great, they still ensured we had a great time and saw the best of what was available.

If you’re looking to scuba dive with whale sharks in Placencia, the best time to go is during full moons in April, May and June. Splash Dive Center organizes these tours as well. Make sure you check with them for dates and best times to go.

3. Walk on the World’s narrowest main street, a quirky thing to do in Placencia

We learned about this quirky fact days after walking on this strip! Who would have thought that Placcencia would be a Guinness World Record holder for the narrowest main street in the world!?

Also known as the Placencia Sidewalk, this main street is located right next to the beach. It measures 4,071 feet long and it’s 4 feet wide. It’s one of the busiest streets in Placencia as pedestrians walk up and down it.

It’s also home to many shops, galleries, restaurants and more. Artists and craftsmen will often line the street and sell their goods there.

Instead of walking on the road, this is a great way to get from one end of the town to the next. And if you’re looking to be a part of history, and also just do a quirky thing in Placencia, don’t miss this!

4. Snorkel on Laughing Bird Caye, an amazing day trip from Placencia

As we mentioned, Placencia is home to some amazing nearby cayes. They are fairly quick and easy to access and they are perfect if you’re looking to do a short day trip.

Silk Caye is great for scuba diving, but Laughing Bird Caye is where you want to go if you want to snorkel. it’s calm clear waters, shallow reefs and plenty of marine life.

Once again, Splash Dive Center is who we recommend you go with if you want to take this snorkel trip, Their trips include transport, a guide and a delicious lunch on Laughing Bird Caye. Plus, if you love beaches, the one on Laughing Bird Caye is one of the nicest beaches in Central America .

Laughing Bird Caye is a 45-minute boat ride from Placencia. You’ll leave around 9 am and return around 3 pm. It’s a great place to snorkel.

5. Swing on the beach of Placencia

Have we mentioned how chill the vibes in Placencia are? It’s no surprise then that you’ll find a cool little resto-bar where you can enjoy your drinks while hanging on a swing with your feet dangling in the sand.

The Shak is one of our favorite restaurants in Placencia. Is it because of the amazing food or the chill swings?! Maybe a bit of both actually!

The staff here is super sweet, and the food is some of the best we’ve had in Belize – as Carine is vegan, finding delicious and varied plant-based food in Belize was not easy. Luckily, we came upon The Shak and fell in love.

You can eat your meal on the swings or on the picnic tables they have in the sand. They also have proper restaurant seating, but we enjoyed the ‘feet-in-the-sand’ options more!

6. Kayak or paddleboard on the waters, a fun thing to do in Placencia

The waters around Placencia are some of the most beautiful in Belize. If you have a chance, we highly recommend you rent a paddleboard or a kayak and explore the reefs.

There are many accommodations that will offer kayaks and paddleboards for rent. You can also go on a tour to explore the reef. Luckily, we were staying with Naia Resort and Spa , and the rental of these was included in our stay.

As we mentioned, the east reef of Placencia does tend to get quite windy, If you’re not experienced, this can pose quite a challenge. We recommend going when the wind is calmer, early in the morning or around sunset.

7. Shop the different art galleries and craft stores around Placencia

Placencia is home to so many art galleries, craft stores and other little boutiques. If you’re looking for something handmade, a beautiful piece of art or a unique souvenir you want to bring home to loved ones (or for yourself), you’re in luck!

Placencia has such a great offering in terms of arts and crafts. It’s a great way to encourage local artists and take a piece of this beautiful town (and country) home with you.

As always, you can try to negotiate prices a little, but be fair. A lot of work goes into these pieces. And remember that saving a few dollars on a piece might be fun for you, but it makes a huge difference in the local artist’s life.

8. Explore the towns close to Placencia

While you’re in Placencia town, we encourage you to visit some of the nearby towns. There are a few that are great to immerse yourself more in local life.

The east side of the Placencia peninsula is home to the beach, but on the north side, you have the lagoon. At the Placencia Lagoon, you can find a great variety of wildlife like manatees, dolphins, and exotic birds. If you don’t want to take a kayak or canoe on the beach the lagoon’s calm waters will be a great place to explore the waters.

Maya Beach is another laid-back community to explore. It’s located about 5 miles north of Placencia Village. It has some great restaurants and beachfront accommodations. And as you can guess by its name, it’s all about beach vibes here!

Finally, there’s Seine Bight village. This is a traditional Garifuna village. You can see the colorful homes, try delicious Garifuna food and listen to live music pouring out from different homes and businesses.

9. Test out the best vegan ice creams in Placencia

Ok, we don’t usually put food as a top thing to do, but since ice cream in Placencia became our daily tradition, we had to include this. Every day, we would go and try a new flavor of nice cream or gelato in our 2 favorite places in Placencia.

The first is an authentic Italian gelateria located on the main road. It’s called Tutti Frutti. They have different flavors almost every day, but they also always carry the classics. We were lucky that they had 3 different vegan options each time and we had a blast trying them all.

The second place is located on the narrowest street in the world. It’s called Bomboyaz. All their ice creams are vegan and they’re also quite good. Their most famous one is the Bailey’s ice cream.

We had a clear favorite, but we won’t influence you. Try them both out and see which one you prefer!

10. Take in the local festivities, an amazing local thing to do in Placencia

Although Placencia is a small town, it does get quite festive a few days out of the year. We were lucky enough to experience this while we stayed in Placencia.

Here are some of the best festivals you can experience in Placencia:

• Placencia Sidewalk Art Festival – Every year in Mid-Februrary, the Placencia Sidewalk Art Festival takes place. The main part of town turns into a big concert and art festival. Artists, artisans and craftsmen from all over take over the streets. Walking around, you can look at beautiful pieces of art, crafts, jewelry, handmade goods and even food. For 3 days (Friday to Sunday), the whole town can be seen here. There are also many concerts taking place. It’s really a fun event to experience in Placencia.
• Lobsterfest in Placencia – In mid-July, at the opening of lobster season, Placencia (as well as Caye Caulker and San Pedro ) hosts its lobster fest . Chefs from all over the city make their versions of the best lobster. You can walk around and try all the lobster your stomach can handle! In 2023, Lobsterfest will take place on July 14-15-16.
• Garifuna Settlement Day – On November 19, cities with large Garifuna communities, like Placencia, celebrate Garifuna Settlement Day. This is an occasion to commemorate the arrival of the Garifuna people to the Stann Creek district. All over town, you’ll see events and reenactments taking place. They also hold religious events, parades and more.

Other holidays & events in Placencia and all over Belize

Of course, other national holidays are also celebrated in Placencia. These same festivals and events are also celebrated all over Belize, in other bigger cities. If you are traveling during these days, you may want to make sure your travel plans can still take place.

• New Year’s Day – January 1
• Easter – In March or April. Although this holiday is not as big as in Mexico or Guatemala, it’s still celebrated in Belize.
• St. George’s Caye Day – September 10. This holiday celebrates the historic 1798 triumph of British settlers over the Spanish Armada. You can expect parades, celebrations and local festivities. This day is a national and bank holiday.
• Independence Day – September 21. This day is meant to celebrate Belize gaining its independence in 1981. Most workers have this day off, so celebrations can last for a few days. Make sure you plan accordingly.
• Thanksgiving – Celebrated in late November. Expect to see turkey and gravy dishes served in restaurants around town.
• Christmas – December 25. Expect big celebrations all over the country. Christmas is one of the big holidays in Belize and they take their festivities very seriously!

8 amazing day trips from Placencia

If you have a few more days in town, you can also choose to take some day trips from Placencia. This will depend on your Belize itinerary – whether you’re going to San Ignacio , or if you’re joining another tour like with Island Expeditions .

Here are some of the best day trips you can take from Placencia, depending on what you’re looking to do.

1. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

This is a protected area in the Maya Mountains, close to the Bocawina Rainforest Lodge . What sets this sanctuary apart is that it’s home to jaguars, pumas, and other wildlife. Chances are you’ll only see birds while you’re there, as the other animals are nocturnal.

By visiting the site, you’ll be promoting sustainable eco-tourism and providing much-needed funding to protect this area and the animals that live here. The entrance fees are of $5 USD for non-residents, and the sanctuary is open from 8 am-4:30 pm. The Sanctuary is about 1 hour and 15 minutes away from Placencia.

There are plenty of tours and day trip available from Placencia to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary . These tours often will take you river tubing there are well, which is a great way to spend a relaxing day after hiking the trails there.

2. Glover’s Reef, a remote atoll to visit on a day trip from Placencia

For avid scuba divers, Glover’s Reef is the perfect scuba day trip from Placencia. It’s about a 1.5 to 2-hour boat ride from Placencia. If you’re looking for deeper dives and more marine life variety, Glover’s Reef is the place to go! Again, we recommend going with Splash Dive Center – You’ll need to book ahead of time as they don’t offer daily trips here.

3. Visit the Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich

If you’re going to San Ignacio , you can skip this day trip, as the ruins of Xunantunich are much closer to there than Placencia. In fact, you’ll need a good 3.5 hours to get to these ruins from Placencia.

Xunantunich are the most famous ruins in Belize which are easily accessible. This Mayan archeological site is located on a natural limestone ridge, giving you a pretty epic look at the surrounding area, all the way to Guatemala.

If you want to visit these ruins independently, you’ll need a rental car to get there. And while you’re there, you can also visit the next ruins on the list.

There are also day trips and tours available from Placencia. The good news is that they make the best of it, by combining the ruins with other activities like river tubing.

4. Check out the Cahal Pech ruins

Again, these are much easier and closer to visit when in San Ignacio. But if you don’t have a stop planned there, you can go on a day trip from Placencia to visit Cahal Pech.

This archeological site is one of the oldest in Belize as well as being one of the longest continuously inhabited, from approximately 250-900 AD. Since it’s 3 hours away from Placencia, it will also require a full-day trip. There are no tours that go here, so you’ll need to rent a car and get there on your own.

5. Adventures at Bocawina Rainforest Lodge

If you’re looking for somewhere much closer to go, we recommend the Bocawina Rainforest Lodge . Not for staying overnight, but instead, to go do all the fun activities there.

If you want an adrenaline rush and knock some things off your Belize bucket list , you can rappel down a waterfall. Or, you can glide on the country’s longest zipline. Or you can do both!

Bocawina is also home to many hiking trails, other waterfalls you can visit without rappelling down them, a restaurant and more. It’s a little over 1 hour and 15 minutes away, so it’s the perfect day trip from Placencia.

6. Go on a Monkey River tour, a must in Placencia

We didn’t have a chance to do this tour, but it came highly recommended. This tour is for animal and nature lovers. During the day, you’ll cruise around on Monkey River and spot plenty of unique animals.

On the watchlist for this tour, you have the very loud howler monkeys, toucans, crocodiles, manatees, giant iguanas and plenty more. If you haven’t already spotted these animals in the wild, this is your chance to do it all!

Tours will include transportation, a guide (to help you spot all the animals), and a hearty lunch. You’ll also have a chance to swim in the river (not where the crocs are!) and see the locals fishing.

7. Explore these hidden gems on these 2 day trips from Placencia

If you’re looking to do less touristy things while in Placencia, there are 2 different day trips you can do while you’re here. we didn’t have a chance to do these, but have heard many great things about them!

The first is to visit the Nim Li Punit ruins. These ancient Mayan Ruins are about 25 miles from Placencia, much closer than the ruins that are located near San Ignacio. There, you can see many well-preserved pyramids, plazas and more. You’ll get a deeper look into the Mayan civilization that lived there. You can take a full-day tour there that will take care of everything for you.

You can also take a day trip to the private island of Ranguana Caye. This 2-acre island is located about 20 miles from Placencia. A day trip here can be done with a tour provider . While on the island, you can paddleboard, kayak, hammock surf, chill in the sun, drink, eat and play beach games. Tours include round-trip transport, BBQ lunch, and use of the facilities and things on the island. All you need to pack is your bathing suit, towel, sunscreen and cash for the beach bar. Obviously, bring a camera to capture this pristine tropical paradise!

Best places to stay in Placencia

Placencia has everything you’re looking for in terms of accommodations. From budget-friendly options to mid-range and even all-inclusive resorts. However, if you’re looking for one of the best places to stay, not only in Placencia but all of Belize, we recommend Naia Resort & Spa . This place is absolutely beautiful, but what sets it apart from all the other accommodations is the quality of the service here.

On our way to Naia , while taking their shuttle, we picked up this American couple coming to the resort. They seemed so excited to get there and told us that this was their third time coming to Naia in the last 2 years. Every vacation, they come back to Naia. They loved it so much that they even bought a property there. Once we got there, they were greeted by name, and they knew the names of all the staff around as well. They all spoke like they were long-lost friends. This was a small hint of what we were to expect!

Over the next few days, we got to know the staff. Each person was sweet, kind and helpful – one of the waitresses at the restaurant even offered to go get Carine some peanut butter because not all their breakfast options were vegan. This is the level of professionalism and service you can expect from Naia.

As for the accommodations here, they are beyond expectations. We stayed in a beachfront cabana. This came with a king-sized bed, a little kitchenette, a complete bathroom and an outdoor shower. We didn’t know how much we would actually love this shower, but it’s now a must in our future home (in a tropical destination, of course)!

The best thing about this beachfront cabana was the fact that we could wake up and enjoy our coffee on the front porch, hearing the waves crashing. We also had access to hammocks and lounge chairs right in front of the cabana. If ever we got tired of being at the cabana, there was also a pool where we loved to hang out. And a fully equipped gym. And a yoga lounge. Everything was a short walk away.

The property is also home to two amazing restaurants. They both serve the same food for breakfast, lunch and dinner, but one is upstairs in an air-conditioned area, and the other is an open-concept beach restaurant. On some nights, they have entertainment, and on other nights, the bartenders play DJ!

Naia Resort and Spa is located outside of Placencia town, about a 20-minute drive away. They do however offer complimentary shuttle service to and from town, as well as airport pick-ups. The shuttles run 3 times a day, and it leaves the resort at 10 am, 2 pm and 6 pm. They do pick-ups in town 30 minutes later, at 10:30 am, 2:30 pm and 6:30 pm. You can also ask to have a shuttle take you to town on your own schedule, at a small cost of $10-15 USD per household.

Overall, we adored our time at Naia! We had such a great experience here. From the staff to the amenities to the services they offered. Everything was on point.

If you’re looking to stay in Placencia town, here are some other options that seem popular: – Budget : Anda Di House Hostal . Alan’s Paradise hotel . (Truth is, there are very limited options when it comes to budget accommodations in Belize.) – Mid-Range : Placencia Villas . Dolce Cabana Waterfront Suites . – Luxury : Belizean Nirvana . Ellysian Boutique Hotel .

Best vegan-friendly restaurants in Placencia

As always, when we travel, we love to find amazing vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants. Luckily, there were quite a few great vegan-friendly restaurants in Placencia, so we had fun trying them all! They aren’t in any specific order, because as we all know, not everyone’s taste is the same, so it’s all very subjective!

The Shak, a great beachfront vegan-friendly restaurant in Placencia

Located at the tip of the peninsula, The Shak quickly became one of our favorite lunchtime spots. With swings at the bar and picnic tables on the beach, we loved enjoying a delicious meal with our toes in the sand! Plus, all of their options were delicious.

Carine highly enjoyed the samosa wrap, the classic veggie burger and the Indian curry. Derek was a big fan of the Jamaican patty and fry jacks. And since he’s a creature of habit, that’s all he got!

They are open for breakfast and lunch only, so plan accordingly!

Cha Chi’s, one of the best pizzas in Belize

It’s rare to find good wood oven pizza in Central America. Luckily, we found Cha Chi’s pizzeria . They offer a variety of delicious pizzas that are made to order. They also have live music on weekends. The place does get quite lively!

Carine loved their vegan pizza topped with all sorts of veggies and plantains, and Derek enjoyed the mushroom and caramelized onion pizza, as well as the meat lovers.

Naia Resort & Spa, an amazing restaurant in paradise

We mentioned how much we enjoyed the hotel and amenities at Naia. Well, we also loved their restaurants . We had breakfast, lunch and dinner there, and the great news is that they have plenty of vegan options to choose from. They, of course, also have a great range of non-vegan meals – there’s something for everyone.

For breakfast, Carine would often have the continental breakfast, while Derek had the Johnny Cake Breakfast Sandwich and the Belizean Breakfast. Derek’s meals were big and hearty, perfect for starting the day off right!

For lunch and dinner, the menu is the same. Some of the great meals we had were:

• the Naïa Veggie Burger – it was tasty and vegan!
• Lobster Creole – we were lucky to catch the end of lobster season in Belize
• Belizean Quesadilla – You can’t go wrong with a cheesy quesadilla
• Peninsula Wrap – It was big, hearty and delicious
• Tacos De Cosina – super tasty and refreshing to eat
• Curry de Coco – we both loved this dish. It comes with rice and it’s quite tasty!
• Pasta de Hojas Verdes – The vegetarian version was much better than the vegan version, but they were both tasty

Dawn’s Grill

Dawn’s Grill is a bit of an unassuming place. It’s small but it packs a punch! They have a varied menu that consists mainly of fish and seafood, but they are also very accommodating to vegans.

We both had the curry while we were there. They were full of hearty veggies and the sauce was super tasty and flavorful. We got them hot and they were a great amount of spicy. If you like spice, you’re in luck because Dawn’s Grill also makes their own hot sauce. It’s really a delicious choice and different than what you usually find in Belize – Marie Sharp sauce!

Rick’s Cafe

We discovered Rick’s Cafe on our last night in Placencia. Located on top of Tutti Frutti, this place is often very busy, and with good reason. The food here is quite tasty.

Carine enjoyed the falafel sandwich – it was quite large and delicious. Derek had the hamburger and he really enjoyed it as well.

The best vegan ice creams and gelatos

If you have very hot and humid nights like we did in February in Placencia, you’re going to make ice cream a nightly routine. After supper, we would always stop for a cone of vegan ice cream. Luckily, in Placencia, you have 2 different options: Tutti Frutti & Bomboyaz nice cream.

Tutti Frutti is an authentic gelateria run by an Italian couple. All their options are delicious. Derek always stuck to the lemon flavor – he is a true creature of habit. While Carine tried whatever new vegan flavors they had. Our favorites were the exotic fruit cocktail, mango, strawberry and watermelon.

We also tried Bomboyaz and loved their soy-based nice cream. We loved the Snickers option and the Baileys flavored one.

We’ll let you decide which place has the best ice cream… but we had a clear favorite!

What you need to know about Placencia

If you’re planning on going to Placencia, here are some of the most important and popular questions answered.

When is the best time to visit Placencia?

In Belize, there are 2 distinct seasons, the wet and the dry. The best time to visit Placencia is during its dry season, which runs from December to May. However, in recent years, because of climate change, the lines between those seasons have become blurred. We were in Placencia in early February and had quite a few days of heavy rain. Luckily, the rain would only last about an hour or two, and then we were blessed with sun and heat.

The dry season is also at the peak of the tourist season. You can expect higher occupancy levels in hotels, more crowds and higher prices. Your best bet is to book early.

For scuba divers, the dry season is also the best time to go diving. That’s when visibility is clearer and you have a chance to see some incredible marine life, like whale sharks. For all the details about scuba diving in Belize, make sure you check out our article about the best dive resorts .

What is the weather like in Placencia?

Placencia is known to have a tropical climate and warm weather all year round. Temperatures can range between 24-29C (or 75-85F) and it does tend to get quite humid and sticky. The rainy season runs from June to November, and the dry season is from December to May.

During the rainy season, you can expect heavy rainfall for a few hours a day, and then it clears up pretty quickly. It shouldn’t impact your travel plans too much. However, it may have a negative impact on your scuba diving plans, especially if the winds pick up.

What is the best way to get to Placencia?

There are different ways to get to Placencia. If you’re already in the country, the best way to get to Placencia (and the most eco-friendly way) is to take a chicken bus from Belize City to Dangriga and then another from Dangriga to Placencia. This will take about 3-4 hours and cost $5 USD.

There are also buses running from San Ignacio to Dangriga, in case you’re coming from deeper in the mainland. Plus, you’ll get to experience the Hummingbird highway, a must in Belize. Cost and timing should be similar.

You can also choose to take a private shuttle from Belize City or anywhere, really to get to Placencia. The cost will be higher depending on where you’re coming from, but you’ll get there much quicker. From Belize City, you’re looking at around $300 USD for up to 3 people. The rising price of gas is constantly driving the cost of transport up in Belize.

Finally, you can choose to fly from Belize City to Placencia. You’ll need to fly to the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City and then take a domestic flight to Placencia. Your flight providers are Maya Air or Tropic Air . Although this is your fastest option, it’s also the most taxing on the environment. If you can, we recommend you offset your carbon footprint for taking this flight.

Is Placencia expensive to visit?

Traveling to Belize is not cheap. In fact, it’s one of the most expensive countries to visit in Central America, especially if you want to experience all the bucketlist things to do . But you can find ways to travel for cheap.

Placencia is one of the more expensive cities to visit in Belize. The large American immigrant population has driven up prices for accommodations and food.

If you’re looking to save costs while you’re in Placencia, you can choose accommodations with a kitchen and cook your own meals there. You can also stick to free or cheap activities. There are also quite a few good eateries that have great meal options at decent prices.

Are there all-inclusive resorts in Placencia?

Yes, there are plenty of all-inclusive options in Placencia. Naia Resort and Spa is a great option for an all-inclusive. They have so much to do there with food and activities, that you never have to leave the property.

Other options for all-inclusive in Placencia are Chabil Mar Villas and Belize Ocean Club.

Is Placencia safe for tourists?

Yes. Placencia was one of the safest places we visited. Actually, all of Belize was really safe. Of course, like anywhere you visit, you need to be conscious of your surroundings and be mindful of your things. Don’t go flashing expensive things around and be more vigilant when you go out at night. But overall, Belize and Placencia are very safe places to visit.

What is the nightlife like in Placencia?

On certain nights, the nightlife in Placencia is quite lively. You can find live music bands, karaoke and more all over town. When we got into town, they were hosting a pub crawl that started in the afternoon and went til late at night.

Some of the most popular bars in town are Barefoot Bar, Tipsy Tuna and the Cozy Corner Bar. We found the crowd in Placencia was a bit more mature, so keep that in mind when visiting.

What currency is used in Placencia?

The currency in Belize is the Belizean Dollar (BZD) but the US dollar is widely used as well. You can even pay using a mix of the two currencies.

The BZD worth half of the USD, so if something cost $10 BZD, it’s the equivalent of $5 USD. And if you go to a restaurant that offers their prices in USD, we recommend leaving. They probably hiked their prices for tourists and you can find better pricing elsewhere.

The 12 best things to do in Placencia, Belize

There you have it! Everything you need to know about having a great trip to Placencia. It’s such a great town to explore and discover. Just don’t go too crazy trying to cram in all the activities on this list (or any other). Truth is, one of the best things to do in Placencia is to chill out.

As a recap, here are the best things to do in Placencia.

• Visit the beautiful beaches
• Scuba dive at Silk Caye
• Walk the world’s narrowest sidewalk
• Snorkel on Laughing Bird Caye
• Swing on the beach
• Kayak or paddle board on the beach
• Shop the different art galleries
• Explore the different towns nearby
• Test out the different gelatos & nice creams
• Take in the local festivities
• Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
• Glover’s Reef for scuba diving
• Visit the Mayan Ruins of Xunantunich
• Check out the Cahal Pech ruins
• Have an adventure at the Bocawina Rainforest Lodge
• Go on the Monkey River tour
• Tour the hidden gems of Placencia

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15 best places to visit in Belize – Top destinations, towns and islands

26 amazing beaches in Central America you have to discover

4 different 2-week Belize itineraries – with 3-week options too

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The Official Placencia Belize Travel Guide: What to Expect

About Placencia Belize

How to Get to Placencia Belize

Top Things to See and Do in Placencia Belize

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Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

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Belize Adventure

Easy-to-use travel guide for Belize

Guide to Placencia

Placencia is one of the most popular beach destinations on Belize’s Southern Coast. The picturesque peninsula is known for beautiful beaches, exclusive luxury resorts, and easy access to the southern barrier reef , cayes, and mainland jungles.

About Placencia

Located in Southern Belize, Placencia is a seaside village on the tip of Stann Creek’s 16-mile-long Placencia Peninsula. From simple beginnings as a quiet Creole fishing village, it is now known for luxury beach resorts , world-class restaurants, and lively beach bars. However, Placencia’s growth spurt has not affected its charm and it remains a quiet getaway spot where golf carts are still a popular mode of transportation.

Related: Top 10 Placencia Attractions & The Best Placencia Hotels

Placencia’s expansive stretch of beaches, luxury hotels, and quality food and drink establishments are not the only things that entice travelers to visit. It is near many top jungle attractions and it sits only 20 miles (32 km) west of the southern part of the Belize Barrier Reef. This, of course, makes it a great spot for tourists interested in a beach and jungle vacation.

Things to Do in Placencia

Exploring the entire Placencia Peninsula is a must. North to south, villages on the peninsula include Riversdale, Maya Beach, Seine Bight, and Placencia. I recommend that you go bar hopping, eat at top restaurants, or just explore the various beaches along the coast.

With the southern reef nearby, diving and snorkeling are very popular. For example, the waters off Placencia are famous for drawing Whale Sharks every year. Placencia also acts as a home base for fly fishing , with the nearby reefs and offshore cayes offering fishermen the opportunity to catch Permit, Tarpon, and Bonefish.

A major draw to Placencia is that it offers easy access to mainland tours and attractions. For example, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Bocawina National Park offer incredible hiking opportunities just an hour away by car. Red Bank Village has magnificent scarlet macaws from December to March, and Monkey River offers a wonderful boat tour followed by a jungle hike in search of howler monkeys.

Top Things to Do in Placencia

• Relax at some of the best beaches in Belize
• Explore the Placencia Peninsula and eat/ drink at some of the best restaurants in Belize
• Explore the Southern Cayes and Reefs ! Go kayaking, fishing , snorkeling or scuba dive with Whale Sharks
• Visit either Hopkins , Monkey River or Red Bank for the day
• Hike the Cockscomb Jaguar Preserve or Bocawina National Park

Where to Eat in Placencia

Seafood is abundant, fresh, and oftentimes very inexpensive in Placencia. Lobster is a prime staple in the region, with the area holding an annual celebration, much like the Lobsterfest celebrations in Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker .

One “must try” in Placencia may surprise you – authentic Italian gelato. Tutti-Fruitti is one of the most visited spots in town and for good reason. It features quality Italian gelato with traditional flavors such as Stracciatella (chocolate chip) and local influences such as soursop.

For a night out on the town, one of the highlights in Placencia is a visit to the Turtle Inn, owned by Francis Ford Coppola. Here you can dine in a romantic setting while enjoying an extensive selection of Coppola’s own California wines. I also recommend you try Rumfish y Vino for a superb dining experience!

Top Food Spots in Placencia

• Rumfish y Vino
• Rick’s Cafe
• Secret Garden
• Above Grounds Coffee House

Where to Stay in Placencia

Similar to Hopkins Village , Placencia is a great place to stay in Belize for beach and jungle vacations. Here travelers have the option of staying in town at one of the luxury resorts, several with their own dive centers onsite , or venturing to remote private islands such as Coral Caye, which is owned and operated by Francis Ford Coppola’s Turtle Inn.

Despite the trend of more luxury accommodations, Placencia is still home to a number of budget-friendly spots such as Miramar Apartments or Harry’s Cozy Cabanas . However, to save money on food, families often prefer renting one of the many upscale vacation villas with kitchens or all-inclusive packages .

Top Hotels in Placencia

• Chabil Mar Villas
• Roberts Grove Beach Resort
• Belizean Nirvana
• Naia Resort and Spa

Best Time to Visit Placencia

The best time to visit Placencia is from December to April. During this time it’s Belize’s dry season and you can expect beautiful days with clear blue skies. However, since this time period coincides with Belize’s high tourism season , the downside is that hotels and tours are more expensive.

But in all honesty, things in Belize are relatively not too different during the tourism offseason and in addition, many discounts are offered. Belize’s offseason is during Central America’s wet season , but unless you’re visiting during a tropical storm, often the rain happens overnight or for brief periods during the day.

As for a specific time that is most optimal to be in Placencia, this is perhaps during Belize’s Whale Shark season. Every year, from March to June, for a couple of days before the full moon and up to 10 days after, Whale Sharks visit the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes . Typically, April and May are the best months to see them.

Safety and Security Risks in Placencia

Popular  tourist areas in Belize , such as Placencia, are typically just as safe as where you live.

The most common crime is petty theft so normal safety precautions apply. Do not flash large sums of money, do not leave personal belongings unattended, refrain from walking alone late at night (especially if drunk), and lock your doors when you leave your room. Resorts typically provide in-room safes for valuables and have security guards at night.

Most food and beverages are safe to consume in Placencia. But don’t drink the tap water. If drinking water isn’t included in your stay, which may happen at vacation rentals, bottled water can be bought at supermarkets. Resorts and hotels provide “purified” water for guests so  pack a reusable water bottle .

Lastly, young women that are traveling alone/ are single may receive unwanted attention from Belizean men. Unfortunately, there is no “right way” to deal with catcalling but often the best response is to ignore it. Sorry.

Getting Here & Around

Placencia doesn’t have an international airport, so you’ll have to fly into the  Phillip Goldson International Airport  (BZE) near Belize City. From there you’ll need to either take a domestic flight, taxi/ shuttle or rent a car to get to Placencia. You can also take the local bus from Belize City.

Taking a domestic flight to the Placencia Airport is the most direct option. The flight to Placencia from BZE costs about US$120 and it takes about 25-30 minutes. Getting to Placencia by vehicle involves an approx. 3-hour trip if it’s a taxi/ shuttle (US$150-$300) or car rental (US$125/day). Buses from Belize City to Placencia take about 6 hours and the trip costs about US$15. A cab from the international airport to the Belize City bus terminal costs US$25.

Once in Placencia, transportation options to get around include bikes, taxis, and car or golf car rentals.

Placencia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out top blogs that I’ve written on Placencia travel that may help make your trip better:

10 things YOU MUST do in Placencia

Placencia’s Best Food Spots

Top Hotels and Resorts in Placencia

Placencia pictures.

Here are a few photos that highlight what you may experience during a Placencia vacation:

Travelers who visit Placencia also visit

• Ambergris Caye
• Caye Caulker
• Glovers Reef
• Tobacco Caye

If you like my Placencia travel guide, please consider sharing it. This helps other people find my useful destination guides.

Related posts:

19 Amazing Things to Do in Placencia, Belize – Complete Travel Guide

Posted on April 14, 2023 | Julie J. |

Last Updated on December 11, 2023

Placencia is a small village located on the Caribbean coast of Belize, in Central America. It is situated on the southern tip of the Placencia Peninsula, which is about 16 miles long and is known for its beautiful white sand beaches and crystal clear waters.

Placencia is a popular destination for tourists and expats looking for a laid-back, beachfront lifestyle .

The village has a population of around 3,000 people, and there are plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to keep visitors entertained.

The nearby Belize Barrier Reef is a major attraction for scuba diving and snorkeling, and there are also opportunities for sailing, and other water sports, as well as plenty of day trips to take to explore the country further.

Placencia is the perfect beach destination in Belize without being over-touristy . On most days I was there, there were only a few other people on the beach, which makes it an ideal vacation spot if you like tropical Caribbean beaches but hate crowded destinations.

Keep on reading to discover the top activities, places to visit, and best things to do in Placencia, Belize!

Travel tips: I recommend renting a car in Belize City before heading to Placencia so you don’t have to book a tour every time you want to visit something . The main roads are great, but note that most places you’ll want to visit will require a 4W to get there . This is the website I use to find the best car rental deals.

If there are 3 things you need to pack for Belize , it would be water shoes , reef-safe sunscreen , and mosquito repellent.

HELPFUL WEBSITES TO HELP YOU PLAN YOUR TRIP

FLIGHT DEALS

HOTEL DEALS

TRAVEL INSURANCE

VACATION RENTALS

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, which means that if you click on any links and make a purchase, we’ll get a small commission, at no cost to you.

Best Things to Do in Placencia, Belize

Spend some time at the beach.

Placencia is the type of destination where you can lounge on the beach all day. With white sand, clear waters, and lined with palm trees, the beach there is a typical dreamy Caribbean beach.

Most hotels provide beach chairs and umbrellas and there are several bars and restaurants right on the beach. Spend a couple of hours relaxing, grab a book, get a fresh coconut, and just enjoy the perfect beach vibes.

The water there is calm and crystal clear, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Book a Cottage on the Beach

Belize is relatively inexpensive when you compare it with US prices, so a vacation to Belize is the perfect opportunity to indulge and treat yourself to a luxurious stay. Even if you don’t have a high budget, you’ll find budget-friendly beach bungalows and affordable vacation rentals on the beach.

The Turtle Inn ($$$) offers 2-bedroom villas and cottages on the beach as well as 2 swimming pools, a spa, a tour desk, and a restaurant. Breakfast and free parking are included.

For something more budget-friendly, check out this Beach Front Cottage in the heart of Placencia Village for under 150 USD a night.

See below for more places to stay for all budgets.

Look for Howler Monkeys at the Monkey River

Half an hour away from Placencia by boat, the Monkey River Tour makes for a perfect half-day trip and is one of the best things to do in Placencia. Riding along the river, surrounded by jungle and lush mangroves, you’ll get the chance to see monkeys, birds, iguanas, and crocodiles.

The tours also include a short hike in the jungle , looking for howler monkeys. Famous for the way they scream to protect their territory, howler monkeys can be hard to spot, but you’ll certainly hear their scream from afar.

Walking through the jungle, guided by their loud screams, I felt like being in a Jurassic Park movie. It was truly amazing, a unique experience.

On the way back, the boat driver will try to spot manatees. The chances of seeing them are pretty high.

Make sure to avoid wearing black clothing and bring mosquito repellent.

Click here to book a Monkey River & Manatee Watch Tour from Placencia!

Take Chocolate Making Class

Many tour companies in Placencia offer cultural activities such as cooking classes, Garifuna culture immersion, and cacao farm visits. It’s a good opportunity to learn more about Belize’s diverse culture and its people.

Take a half-day trip to visit a cacao farm, learn how cacao is made, and have a go making your own chocolate the traditional way, with grinding stones.

This activity also includes a stop at a beautiful waterfall where you can swim and enjoy the views.

Click here to book a Mayan Chocolate Making & Waterfall Swimming Tour From Placencia!

Look for jaguars at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature reserve that covers an area of over 150 square miles and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including jaguars, pumas, ocelots, monkeys, and hundreds of species of birds and butterflies.

Created in the 80s to protect the jaguar population in Belize, Cockscomb is the first jaguar preserve in the world . It’s a fantastic place to hike, watch wildlife, and go river tubing . There are several trails, from easy strolls to more advanced ones, most of which require a guide.

The trails are well maintained, and the park offers a campground and some accommodations.

Chances of seeing jaguars are slight, but spottings happen from time to time. You might see ocelots, pumas, tapirs, birds, and reptiles . The reserve is also home to hundreds of different plant species.

The sanctuary also has a visitor center where tourists can learn about the local ecosystems and the efforts being made to conserve them.

The sanctuary is located about 20 miles inland from Placencia and is accessible by road . It is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts and is considered to be one of the most important natural areas in Belize.

If you don’t have a car, you’ll need to go on a tour . You can try your luck hitchhiking, but there are not that many cars passing by. Bring enough food and water with you as there’s no shop there.

Click here to book your Cockscomb Wildlife Sanctuary Tour!

Sample the Local Food

Belizean food is a delicious and diverse blend of Caribbean, African, and Latin American flavors . Some of the most popular dishes you can try in Placencia include:

• Rice and Beans: This is a staple dish in Belize, made with red beans cooked with rice, coconut milk, and spices. It is often served with stewed chicken or beef.
• Fry jacks : A popular breakfast dish in Belize made from deep-fried dough that is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. It is often served with honey, jam, or refried beans. One of my favorite places for breakfast was  Wendy’s Creole Restaurant and Bar.
• Stewed Chicken: A flavorful dish of chicken cooked in a savory sauce of tomatoes, onions, and spices, often served with rice and beans.
• Conch Fritters: These are crispy fritters made with chopped conch, a type of sea snail, mixed with spices and deep-fried. They are often served as an appetizer.
• Garnaches: Small, thick corn tortillas topped with refried beans, shredded cheese, and pickled onions. They are often served as a snack or appetizer.
• Hudut: A creamy soup made with fish, coconut milk, plantains, and spices. It is a traditional Garifuna dish.
• Tamales: A popular snack in Belize made from masa dough, filled with chicken or pork, and steamed in banana leaves.
• Belizean Rum Cake: A delicious dessert made with rum-soaked cake, often served during holidays and special occasions. The most popular bakery in Placencia is John the Bakerman offering tasty bread and pastries.

Belizean cuisine also features a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and seafood, including lobster, shrimp, and fish such as snapper and grouper. The country’s tropical climate also provides a variety of exotic fruits such as mangoes, papayas, and guavas, which are often used in desserts and drinks.

Stop by a local produce shop to try out some local fruits and vegetables (you can ask how to eat/cook them if you’re not sure).

Take a Cooking Class

Spend a day with a local Maya family discovering their traditions, food, and way of life. Learn about herbal medicine and how to prepare tortillas and tamales on a traditional hearth. Next, visit a cacao farm and discover the ancestral way of making chocolate, getting a chance to make your own.

Click here to book this experience – Learn to Cook Mayan Style & Make Your Own Chocolate Bar

Snorkel with Turtles, Rays, and Sharks at the Isle Silk Caye

A visit to Placencia wouldn’t be complete without a day out at sea. There are tons of opportunities for snorkeling and visiting paradise-like islands . Among the most famous spots are Silk Caye Marine Reserve and Laughing Bird Caye (see below).

Silk Caye, also known as Silk Cayes, is a small group of three coral islands located in the waters of the Belize Barrier Reef Reserve System , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The islands are situated about 20 miles east of Placencia and are a popular destination for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.

Silk Caye is known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine coral reefs , which are home to a variety of marine life, including colorful tropical fish, sea turtles, and rays. The islands are surrounded by shallow, sandy bottoms, making them ideal for snorkeling and swimming.

Book a tour from Placencia and spend the day exploring Belize’s stunning underwater world.

Kayak or Paddle Board

Rent a kayak or paddle board at Placencia Awesome Water Sports on the Tipsy Strip and spend an hour or two exploring the sea and/or the lagoon. You might spot dolphins, manatees, and plenty of colorful fish.

Take a Day Trip to Laughing Bird Caye National Park

Laughing Bird Caye National Park is a protected marine reserve located off the coast of Placencia. The park covers an area of about 1.8 square miles and is home to a variety of marine life, including colorful coral reefs, tropical fish, and sea turtles.

The national park is named after the Laughing Gull, a seabird that is commonly found in the area. It was established in 1981 to protect the fragile ecosystem of the coral reef and the surrounding seagrass beds. The park is an important breeding ground for many marine species, including the endangered Hawksbill turtle.

There you can enjoy a variety of activities, including snorkeling and scuba diving , as well as enjoy the pristine beach. The park’s clear waters and diverse marine life make it a popular destination for underwater photography and eco-tourism .

Taking a tour to the park is a must when in Placencia, it’s one of the most beautiful Cayes in the country, and snorkeling is incredible.

Recommended Experience – Snorkel and Island Experience at Laughing Bird Caye National Park

Spend a Day on Ranguana Caye

A third option when it comes to snorkeling and paradise-like tropical beaches, Ranguana Caye is an idyllic destination for anyone looking to escape to a peaceful and secluded island paradise . Its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life make it a must-visit destination for snorkelers, divers, and beach lovers.

There you can enjoy relaxing on the private island’s white sand beaches, swim in the warm Caribbean Sea, and enjoy a variety of water sports and activities , including snorkeling, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

The tour includes the boat ride to the island, all equipment for snorkeling and other water activities, and lunch. There’s a bar there where you can get drinks if you want.

Click here to book your Tropical Island Getaway to Ranguana Caye from Placencia.

Have a Drink (or Two) at Barefoot

Barefoot is the busiest bar in Placencia. They have promotions and themed nights going on all the time. They often have live music and also serve food. It’s probably the best place to chill in the village.

Stroll Along the World’s Narrowest Street

Placencia has basically two streets, the concreted one, and the sidewalk, on the beachside. This street is on the Guinness Book of Records for being the world’s narrowest street. You’ll find several craft shops and small cafes and restaurants along the way.

Visit the Art’n’Soul Gallery

This small art gallery features various paintings and artwork from local artists that you can buy.

For more authentic Belizean art and crafts, don’t miss the artisan market near the Tipsy Strip.

Have a Fun-Filled Day at Mayan King

Located just an hour’s drive from Placencia Village, Mayan King offers a zipline course, river tubing, and a beautiful waterfall.

If you have a car, you can visit the waterfall on your own, just a short walk away from where you park, and book activities directly with them. Otherwise, you can book a tour in Placencia.

The tour typically starts with ziplining, then you tube down the river and finally drive to the waterfall. From there you can hike to the top of the waterfall, to reach a second waterfall, or just enjoy swimming at the bottom of the first one.

June to December, the rainy season, is the best time to see Mayan King Waterfall.

Click here to book this Zip Lining + River Tubing + Waterfall Combo Tour from Placencia!

Take a Day Trip to Xunantunich

If you’re not planning on heading to San Ignacio, then you should definitely take a day trip to visit Xunantunich , one of the best Mayan ruins in Belize !

Xunantunich is easily accessible by road if you have a rental, or there are several tour operators in Placencia that offer guided trips to the site.

Xunantunich is an ancient Maya archaeological site located in the Cayo District, near the border with Guatemala. The name Xunantunich means “stone woman” in the Mayan language, and it refers to a local legend about a ghostly apparition of a woman that has been seen in the area.

The site dates back to the Classic Maya period and was inhabited from the 7th to the 10th century AD. It consists of several plazas, temples, and other structures, including the impressive El Castillo, which is the second tallest structure in Belize and offers stunning views of the surrounding jungle.

You can explore the site on foot, following a series of well-marked trails that lead through the different areas of the ruins. The site is known for its intricate stonework and elaborate carvings, which depict scenes from Maya mythology and everyday life.

The area is also popular with birdwatchers and nature lovers, as the surrounding jungle is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys and birds.

Most tours from Placencia will include another activity, here are some options:

• Xunantunich and Inland Blue Hole Tour – Discover Xunantunich and swim in an open-air cenote at St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park.
• Cave Tubing & Xunantunich (Mayan Ruins) From Placencia – Cave tubing is a popular activity in Belize and is a must-do! Float along the river inside a stunning cave, gazing at rock formations, and learning about Mayan rituals.

Explore the Mysterious ATM Cave

Another great place to visit from Placencia if you’re not going to go to San Ignacio , the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave is an ancient Maya archaeological site located in the Cayo District. The cave system is one of the most popular and unique attractions in Belize , as it contains a wealth of artifacts and human remains that offer a fascinating glimpse into the Maya civilization.

The cave was used by the Maya for religious ceremonies and sacrifices, and it was only discovered by modern-day explorers in the 1980s. There you can explore the underground chambers and passages of the cave system, which is filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and other geological formations.

The highlight of a visit to ATM Cave is the opportunity to see the skeletal remains of ancient Maya sacrificial victims , which are scattered throughout the cave’s chambers. The most famous of these is the “Crystal Maiden,” a fully intact skeleton that has been calcified by the minerals in the cave over centuries.

Due to the delicate nature of the cave and its artifacts, visitors are not allowed to take photographs inside the cave system. Additionally, access to the cave is limited, and visitors must be accompanied by a licensed guide at all times. So make sure to book a tour as soon as you can, especially during the high season.

It is important to note that the cave system is not suitable for everyone, as it requires physical fitness and agility to navigate the steep and narrow passages.

Explore the Nim li Punit Mayan Ruin

Nim Li Punit is an ancient Maya archaeological site located in the Toledo District. The site is easily accessible by car from Placencia, count around 2 hours, and you can hire a guide there or just visit on your own. It’s a smaller site, but definitely worth a visit.

The name Nim Li Punit means “Big Hat” in the Maya language, and it refers to a large stone structure found at the site that is shaped like a hat.

The site dates back to the Late Classic period of the Maya civilization, from the 5th to the 9th century AD. It consists of several plazas, pyramids, and other structures, including the impressive 26-foot-tall Structure A-6, which is the tallest structure at Nim Li Punit and features intricate stonework and carvings.

If you don’t have a car, you can book this Nim li Punit Mayan Ruin and The Living Maya Experience from Placencia Tour where you’ll also get to spend some time at a Mayan village and learn more about their traditions.

Get an Adrenaline Rush at Mayflower Bocawina National Park

Mayflower Bocawina National Park is a protected area located in the Stann Creek District, about a 1.5-hour drive from Placencia. The park covers an area of about 11 square miles and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna, including several species of big cats, monkeys, and exotic birds.

The park is named after the Mayflower, a British ship that crashed on the nearby reef in 1620. It was established in 2001 to protect the area’s natural beauty and biodiversity, and it is one of the newest national parks in Belize.

There you can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, birdwatching, waterfall rappelling, and ziplining . The park’s lush rainforest and waterfalls provide a stunning backdrop for hiking and nature walks, and the zipline course offers an exhilarating way to experience the park from above.

Mayflower Bocawina National Park is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in eco-tourism and outdoor adventure . The park’s pristine forests, waterfalls, and wildlife make it one of the most beautiful and biodiverse areas in Belize.

Click here to book a Zipline and Water Rappelling Combo from Placencia and here for just the ziplining.

How to Get to Placencia, Belize

From Dangriga and Hopkins, there are direct buses several times a day, check out the schedule here (even if it says the buses run on Sundays, they don’t, there’s only one around 6 pm).

From Punta Gorda, take any bus heading north, get out at Independence and take a cab to the pier ($5 BZ max), and then the boat to Placencia. Check out the schedule here .

From Belize City, it’s about a 3-hour drive, you can rent a car (4W recommended), book a private transfer, or take the bus.

Where to stay in Placencia

Anda Di Hows Hostel (backpacker): the only dorm in Placencia, each bed has a fan and a power outlet, shared kitchen, right on the beach, beach chairs, snorkeling equipment, and kayaks available for free.

Alan’s Paradise Hotel (budget): Clean and well-rated hotel offering basic rooms and small apartments, each with a private bathroom, aircon, and mini fridge (full kitchen for the apartments), located on the harbor side of Placencia Village.

Placencia Villas (mid-range): Great hotel right next to the beach, they offer studio and 2-bedroom apartments. Each unit is spacious with an outdoor space, air-con, a small kitchen, a flat-screen TV, and a private bathroom.

Caribbean Beach Cabanas (high-end): a stunning and luxurious resort featuring fully-equipped villas right on the beach – perfect for couples (adults-only property). Features a pool, private beach, restaurant, and complimentary kayaks, paddleboards, and bikes.

Like it? Save it for later – Best things to do in Placencia, Belize:

Placencia FAQ

Is Placencia Belize worth visiting?

Yes, Placencia is definitely worth visiting! It is a charming and laid-back coastal village located in southern Belize, known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and friendly locals, with plenty of day trips you can take to explore the area.

It’s a perfect destination if you like tropical beaches without hordes of tourists.

Is Placencia Belize expensive?

No, Placencia is not expensive, you can easily find nice accommodations near the beach for under 50 USD and if you rent a car you can explore the area without having to buy expensive tours. Book a place with a kitchen to save on food and enjoy nearby free activities like snorkeling from the beach.

Is Placencia walkable?

Yes, Placencia is probably the most walkable town in Belize. One of the 2 main streets is pedestrian-only and you can get to many places walking on the beach. You can also rent a bike to get around.

What is the best time of year to visit Placencia Belize?

The best time to visit Placencia, Belize is during the dry season, which typically runs from late November to mid-April. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with lower humidity and cooler temperatures, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and hiking.

The peak tourist season in Placencia is from mid-December to mid-January, and during this time, the beaches and accommodations can be crowded and more expensive. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and save money, you may want to consider traveling in the shoulder seasons of late November to early December or mid-April to early May.

The rainy season in Placencia runs from May to November, with the most rain falling in the months of September and October. While the rain can be heavy at times, it typically comes in short bursts, and there can still be plenty of sunny days during this time. Additionally, the rainy season can be a great time to take advantage of lower prices and smaller crowds.

It’s important to note that the Caribbean is also susceptible to hurricanes from June to November, so it’s important to monitor weather reports and consider travel insurance during this time.

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Placencia Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 9, 2023

Placencia lies at the southern end of Belize and is a thin 16-mile (26-kilometer) long stretch of land with the best beaches in the entire country.

If you’re backpacking Belize, you’re likely to visit here as it’s a major stop in the country. It is the perfect location for divers, snorkelers, and those who wish to explore the Mayan ruins in the south of the country.

The town still has a laid-back Caribbean feel and life here centers around the main street where you will find most bars and restaurants.

I loved my visit to Placencia so much that I ended up staying an extra week. (In Placencia, you’ll find a lot of travelers who end up doing the same.)

There isn’t much to “do” here aside from eating seafood, relaxing on the beach, and drinking beer as the sun sets.

This Placencia travel guide will give you all the practical information you need to help you plan your visit!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Placencia

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Placencia

1. Visit Lubaantun

Lubaantun is the largest Mayan site in Southern Belize. Located outside the village of San Pedro Columbia, it dates back to 700-900 CE. The area comprises 11 large structures, including 5 plazas, 3 ball courts, temples, pyramids, and tombs that archeologists believe were used for religious ceremonies, trade, and sports gatherings. One interesting aspect that differentiates these structures from other Mayan structures across the region is that the stones are stacked and fitted together tightly without the use of mortar. Lubaantun was famed for its ceramic artifacts, many of which are displayed in the small onsite museum. Admission is 10 BZD.

2. Go Sailing

Hire a boat or catamaran for a day trip to the islands on the reef or those further afield (such as the Honduran and Guatemalan Bay Islands). Laughing Bird Caye National Park is one of the top destinations as it’s located on a breathtaking island in the southernmost part of the Belize Great Reef. It’s the perfect tropical paradise to explore crystal blue waters that are home to an abundance of marine life as well as brown pelicans, green herons, turtles, and of course nearly vacant, beautiful beaches. A one-day trip is around 250 BZD while a 3-day/2-night tour is 900 BZD. If you’re on a budget but still want to enjoy a boat tour, a 3-hour sunset sail with drinks and delicious eats like ceviche and shrimp costs around 160 BZD. Bring plenty of sunscreen for these trips!

3. Visit Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

This is the largest protected area in the world for jaguars (though it’s unfortunately quite rare that you’ll spot one). Nonetheless, this beautiful sanctuary is home to roughly 200 jaguars and covers 150 square miles (388 square kilometers) of tropical forest with dozens of lush jungle trails where you can take a dip in one of the waterfalls and hopefully catch a glimpse of the howler monkeys, pumas and ocelots, tapirs, and other wild animals that call the jungle home. Cockscomb is renowned for its bird watching as there are over 330 species here including the Keel-billed Toucan, Macaw, and Great Curassow. Some hikes are best done at night with a headlamp as you have more chances to see wild cats, owls, snakes, toads, and wild pigs. The River Overlook and Warrie Trails are said to be best for seeing wildlife, especially during the rainy season in June and July when the animals are most active. Spend a night at one of the many guesthouses or family cabins that line the entrance to get the most out of your hiking. The entrance fee to the park is 10 BZD.

4. Visit Nim Li Punit

Nim Li Punit is one of the smaller Mayan sites located near Indian Creek village in the Toledo District at the foot of the Maya Mountain. The site is famous for the carvings on 25 “stelae” discovered there, which are a kind of stone slab or columns. At one time, up to 7,000 inhabitants may have lived here. Today, you can wander around without a tour exploring the pyramids, tombs, and plazas, but the intricate carvings on the longest stelae steal the show. They are the longest in Belize at 55 feet (17 meters) long with intricate carvings of a figure with a headdress. The “South Group” is where you can visit the Plaza of the Stelae, which historians believe allowed the Mayans to keep track of time by observing the sunrise and sunsets, equinox, and solstices, and create their well-known calendars. Trips here are usually combined with a visit to Lubaantun. Admission is 10 BZD.

5. Go diving

The Belizean Barrier Reef is just 45 minutes from shore and is the largest reef in the Northern Hemisphere. If you’re new to diving, consider a trip to Laughing Bird Caye, a stunning, unpopulated island with a myriad of plant and marine life species, from colorful fish, sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, sharks, and manta rays. This area has drop-offs that are perfect for diving with high visibility if you’re a bit more experienced. For something more adventurous, head to The Elbow at Gladden Spit, a steep drop-off and an incredible place for underwater photography as there are schools of fish of every kind, sponges, gorgonians, and perhaps even dolphins. Barrier Reef 6-hour tours with two dives start at 300 BZD with lunch and equipment included. You can also dive with whale sharks here, with dives costing around 300 BZD.

Other Things to See and Do in Placencia

1. go sea kayaking.

You can rent a sea kayak for around 70 BZD per day to explore secluded beaches and caves. Bring your snorkel gear to take advantage of the amazing snorkeling too. There are also guided kayaking tours if you don’t want to go alone. Guides cost around 130-200 BZD per day.

2. Go snorkeling

Many of the diving sites are also great for snorkelers too. Snorkeling day trips often include a beach barbecue and cost around 175 BZD with trips to Laughing Bird Caye being the most inexpensive. Silk Caye Marine Reserve is located just 22 miles (36 kilometers) east of Placencia Village. Stop by this island to snorkel among some of the most colorful fish you’ll ever see. Snorkeling trips start at 175 BZD, lunch included.

3. Explore Placencia Lagoon

This is the perfect place to catch a glimpse of manatees (which are endangered), rays, saltwater crocodiles, and numerous species of birds. The mangrove forests are ideal for exploring via canoe or kayak rental.

4. Meet the whale sharks

The months of May and June are prime times for spotting the gentle whale sharks that swim down here. It’s one of the most amazing experiences ever. If you want to snorkel or dive with them, tours start from around 530-545 BZD. Just make sure you keep your distance; wild animals shouldn’t be touched or interfered with.

5. Tour a spice farm near Nim Li Punit

This spice farm and botanical garden was created in 1990. Now, the farm is one of the largest black pepper and vanilla farms in the country and is also covered with beautiful teak, mahogany, and rosewood trees. You can come here to wander the grounds or learn about how pepper is made. Open daily from 7am-4pm and tours with tastings cost 50 BZD.

If you’re heading to other parts of Belize, check out some of our other city guides:

• Caye Caulker Travel Guide
• Orange Walk Travel Guide
• San Ignacio Travel Guide

Placencia Travel Costs

Hostel prices – There are a couple of hostels in the town with dorms (10-16 beds) that run about 45-50 BZD a night. Smaller dorms, however, cost 60 BZD. A private room that sleeps two with a shared bathroom runs about 115 BZD. Free Wi-Fi is standard.

Budget hotel prices – There aren’t any low-cost hotels in Placencia. A three-star hotel room starts from 175-220 BZD per night on the lower end but the average is around 200-250 BZD. You can also find accommodations just by showing up and asking around. You don’t need to really pre-book here.

On Airbnb, private rooms average around 180 BZD per night, though you can find them for around 80-100 BZD if you book early. Entire homes start at 150-300 BZD per night. Book early to find the best deals.

Food – Belizean cuisine leans heavily on beans, rice, cheese, and tortillas (much like neighboring countries). Rice and beans is a common lunch choice, and you can always find tamales, panades (fried meat pies), onion soup, chicken stew, and garnaches (beans, cheese, and onion in a fried tortilla) pretty much everywhere you go. Other popular dishes include ceviche, fry jack (deep-fried dough pieces), conch fritters, and johnny cakes.

A basic meal of rice, beans, and chicken costs around 15 BZD, while dinner in a sit-down restaurant with table service costs around 50 BZD. A fast-food meal of tacos or fried chicken costs at least 15 BZD.

Restaurants along the beach cost more as they are touristy and often serve western food. You can expect to pay 70 BZD for a meal with drinks at these places.

Groceries are pricier here than elsewhere in Belize, and prices can vary depending on what you buy. A week’s worth of food is about 75-90 BZD for basic groceries like rice, vegetables, beans, and some meat or fish.

Backpacking Placencia Suggested Budgets

If you’re backpacking Placencia, my suggested budget is around 100 BZD per day. This budget covers a hostel dorm, getting around everywhere on foot, cooking all of your meals, and sticking to mostly free and cheap activities like enjoying the beach.

A mid-range budget of about 240 BZD covers staying in a private Airbnb, cooking most meals but eating out a bit, renting a bicycle, taking the odd taxi, and doing more tours and activities. If you want to snorkel or dive add on another 175-200 BZD per activity.

On a “luxury” budget of about 425 BZD per day, you can stay in a nice resort, eat out for all your meals, take taxis to get around, do private guided tours, and enjoy plenty of drinks. This is just the ground floor for luxury though — the sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in BZD.

Placencia Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

There aren’t many ways to save money in Placencia as it’s already quite affordable. But, if you’re looking to stretch your dollars as far as possible, here are some ways to save when you visit:

• Shop around – There are many activity and tour providers so be sure to shop around for the best price.
• Bike around – Placencia itself is small enough to explore on foot, but many hotels offer guests free bike rentals.
• Travel off-peak – The most expensive time to visit is between October and April. By traveling in the off-season, you can significantly reduce prices for accommodation and flights.
• Combine trips – Many tour operators offer trips that combine popular excursions. These are a good way to save on transfers to each tourist destination as well as possibly get dropped off in your next destination.
• Happy hour – Most bars have a happy hour in the late afternoon and offer cheap drinks. Ask your hotel/hostel staff for suggestions.
• Stay with a local – If you plan ahead, you might be able to a find a Couchsurfing host in the area. This way, you not only have a place to stay, but you’ll have a local host that can tell you the best places to go and things to see. There aren’t a ton of hosts, however, so be sure to start your search early.
• Pack a water bottle – A reusable water bottle with a filter will come particularly in handy here. Not only will you save money but you’ll reduce your single-use plastic usage as well. My preferred bottle is LifeStraw since it has a built-in filter to ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Placencia

Budget accommodation is limited in Placencia. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• The Royal Rat
• Alan’s Paradise Hotel
• Nautical Inn

How to Get Around Placencia

On foot – You can walk everywhere since Placencia is pretty small. This is the best way to explore if you’re on a budget.

Bicycle – Your best option for getting around Placencia (other than walking) is to rent a bike for about 15 BZD for 4 hours or 25 BZD per day. Many hotels even offer them to guests for free. Otherwise, Captain Jak’s has the best rates.

Golf Cart – You can also rent golf carts from Captain Jak’s. Rates for a four-seater start from 70 BZD per four hours. An eight-hour rental is 100 BZD, and a 24-hour rental is 130 BZD.

Taxi – A taxi around town shouldn’t cost more than 6 BZD per person. A taxi from the town to Seine Bight is around 25 BZD, and from town to Maya Beach it’s about 40 BZD. Recent fuel prices have been volatile so these prices can change.

Car rental – As the area is so small here, a car rental really isn’t necessary. If you do want a car, rentals start at around 70 BZD per day for a multi-day rental. Drivers usually need to be at least 25 and have an IDP (International Driving Permit), though drivers 21 and up might be able to rent a car for an extra fee.

For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Placencia

November to July is the dry season, and this is definitely the best time to visit Placencia. It’s hot, the skies are constantly blue, and it’s the prime season for diving, snorkeling, and enjoying other watersports. This is also peak season, so prices are inflated and you’ll find more crowds everywhere. The average daily temperature is usually around 80°F (26°C).

If you want to see whale sharks, come between March and June. For fun-filled festivals celebrating the lobster season, come in July for Lobster Fest.

Placencia’s wet season is from August to October and this is when the weather is warmest with temperatures between 82-84°F (28 or 29°C). It’s very humid, and although it rains almost daily, it usually only lasts for a few hours. Prices for activities and accommodations are much lower.

How to Stay Safe in Placencia

Placencia is a safe place to backpack and travel. It’s a small town with a low crime rate. Petty theft is your only real concern and even that is really rare. As a general rule, don’t flash around your expensive belongings and don’t bring anything valuable to the beach just to be safe.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here, however, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.).

Scams here are rare, but if you’re worried about getting ripped off you can read about the common travel scams to avoid here.

If you experience an emergency, dial 911 for assistance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past.

Placencia Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Placencia Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Belize and continue planning your trip:

Is Belize Safe to Visit?

Is Central America Safe to Visit?

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Placencia Belize

Quick overview of placencia belize.

Described by locals are “barefoot perfect”, Placencia is a small 16-mile long narrow peninsula in southeastern Belize with gorgeous beaches on the Caribbean side and a lovely mangrove-lined lagoons on the western side. Located just a few miles from the Belize Barrier Reef, Placencia is one of the country’s premiere spots for diving, fishing, cruising, and snorkeling vacations. Nearby on the mainland are several Garifuna villages, Maya ruins, and one of the country’s largest nature preserves complete with indigenous jaguars.

Why You Have to Visit Placencia Belize on Your Vacation

Belize is a beautiful country of sea and sand but the lovely peninsula of Placencia is truly something special. The perfect place to relax on the beach or head out for deeper waters for diving, kayaking, snorkeling, fishing and sailing, the peninsula seems designed by nature for the ideal tropical vacation. At the southern tip of the peninsula is the village of Placencia, a small town without a main street (a long narrow sidewalk recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records for the smallest main street in the world) but plenty of idyllic bars, cafes and restaurants. The town also has several dive center outfits and charters for activities on the Belize Barrier Reef.

Where in Belize Is it Located?

Placencia is located on the Caribbean coast in southeastern Belize in Stann Creek District. Placencia is approximately a 30-minute drive south of the city of Dangriga.

When Is the Best Time to visit Placencia Belize

With fantastic weather all-year round and gorgeous sunrises and sunsets, just about any time is a good time to visit Placencia, keeping in mind that the rainy season runs from approximately May to November. Every year in February, the village hosts a Sidewalk Arts and Music Festival with plenty of entertainment options for the whole family. Every year in June, Placencia holds a Lobsterfest to celebrate the opening of lobster season.

Best way to Get to Placencia Belize

From Belize City, Placencia is about a 3 and a half hour drive south with well-marked signs along the Southern Highway.

Domestic air carriers Maya Island Air and Tropic Air have flights connecting Placencia Village and Belize City.

Best way to Experience Placencia Belize

Locals and frequent visitors alike will tell you to strip off your shoes, leave your phone behind, and enjoy Placencia the way locals do, relaxing along the golden sands, sipping on a fresh tropical cocktail or heading out to sea for some of the best diving and snorkeling anywhere in the country.

A Short History of Placencia, Belize

Social scientists seeking examples of cultural diversity could find no better example than the history surrounding Belize’s Placencia peninsula.

Placencia’s Maya civilization was a thriving cultural mecca around 2000 BC. Rather than roaming like nomads these brilliant people built magnificent cities, practiced advanced mathematics and astronomy and adhered to fascinating religious practices.

Reasons behind their mysterious disappearance continue to be debated, but 14 ruins located on the Placencia peninsula are reminders of their rich, cultural legacy.

Over time, waves of migrants landed along the Placencia coastline. Some were the result of foreign invasions while others resulted from synchronistic circumstances that included shipwrecks and wars triggering mass migrations.

Even English Puritans managed to find their way to this area of Belize from their Nova Scotia, Canada settlements during the 17th Century. What did all of these people have in common? The biological need to be safe and put down roots.

It’s easy to see why this small finger of land, named Pleasant Point by Spaniards, was found to be desirable to people who came to the Caribbean rim from around the world. The weather was ideal. Resources were plentiful. Placencia offered prime real estate to Scottish migrants who found it an idyllic place to settle and raise families.

Among those helping to shape Placencia’s destiny early in the 19th century were Scottish settlers like the Garbutts, Abner Westby and John Eiley. Portugal’s Cabral family and Leslie family members also settled the area, establishing the region’s earliest examples of diversity.

Intermarriage and absorption continued to play a role in the peninsula’s history. Europeans were joined by Mestizo (Spanish/Maya), Creole and Garifuna cultures, each society lending its unique heritage to the area as the melting pot grew larger.

Placencia’s coastline proved a formidable influence on all of these settlers. Fisherman thrived by mining both the lagoon and the Caribbean for all manner of seafood. The formation of a produce cooperative not only helped solidify the bond these fisherman shared, but the co-op was instrumental in bringing electricity to the peninsula.

Given its unique location between the lagoon and ocean, was Placencia destined to become a tourism hub? In all likelihood, the answer is yes. Today, Placencia is described as a classic example of the way development, economics and environmental concern are helping to shape this finger of land–and the future looks even brighter thanks to a growth in tourism and the increase in ex-pats who are finding in Placencia the perfect retirement lifestyle. Veteran travelers have been known to joke about vacations they’ve taken that sent them to a different area of one or more countries daily. “If it’s Tuesday, it must be Orange Walk !” we overheard a woman say as she tried to match the day with her itinerary. Of course, seeing lots of places when going abroad is fun, but nothing surpasses an immersion, which is why we recommend targeting one area of Belize: Placencia.

Arrange to spend your holiday on the Placencia peninsula and you won’t regret your decision. The sheer number of things to do and see in this destination are diverse enough to suit even fussy travelers. Besides, Placencia has a sampling of everything there is to see and do in Belize, minus the stress that comes from having to pick up and move every few days!

Placencia by the sea

Chances are, you chose Belize because you can’t get enough ocean time and by selecting Placencia as your hub, you’ll literally be surrounded by water thanks to the district’s finger-shaped landmass. There are 16 miles of what travel writers call the best beaches in the country, so you can arrange with your lodgings host to sail catamarans, boats and kayaks among the string of islands that runs the length of Belize’s shoreline.

Need a fishing fix? What’s your preference? Go deep water fishing and land a specimen that puts Hemingway’s nautical conquests to shame or opt for little wildlife atoll havens set into the ocean like jewels. Head for a remote destination like Laughing Bird Caye to see marine wildlife, birds and marine mammals. If you can arrange to visit in May and June, the whale watching is spectacular!

Placencia by land

You already know that the Caribbean provides the ideal backdrop for sunny days and enchanting nights, but if your tour excursion preferences tend to revolve around land-based sites, you’re in luck. Placencia is home to fascinating Mayan ruins. Book a trip to Nim Li Punit, a small historic site filled with ancient structures. Known internationally for its huge numbers of stelae—Belize’s answer to Stonehenge!—you’ll see pyramids, tombs and plazas, but the tallest stelae in Belize at Nim Li Punit is bound to impress both you and your camera most.

Visit a larger Mayan settlement near Placencia by touring Lubaantun , the Place of Fallen Rocks. Architecturally distinct from other Maya compounds because the buildings here have rounded silhouettes, Lubaantun is the perfect complement to Nim Li Punit because they’re a study in contrast. There’s not a single stelae at this site, despite the fact that the area happens to be southern Belize’s largest Mayan compound. You won’t be disappointed despite a lack of staele because the temples, pyramids, tombs, ball courts and a museum full of ceramic vessels and artifacts are fascinating in their own right.

Placencia’s wild side!

Frequent visitors know that they don’t have to leave “town” to have a super time of it. The center of Placencia is a little bit yesterday and a dash of today, so the Caribbean vibe pervades shops, restaurants and bars. If you’re the sort who is content doing nothing more than hanging out, spend your time sampling delicious seafood dishes and exotic cookery reflecting Belize’s cultural diversity or make lots of friends on a pub crawl that introduces you to more friendly faces than you’ve encountered anywhere else on earth. Drinking beers as the sun sets—or just lounging on the beach with a cocktail in hand—has been known to relax even the most frazzled tourist.

Of course, if you must get out and about, follow the lead of vacationers who wouldn’t think of headquartering anywhere but Placencia because the water sports are plentiful in this area. Dive the Belize Barrier Reef , snorkel offshore or combine the two by booking a fun excursion that pairs a beach barbecue with water time that won’t cost a fortune.

When you’ve had your fill of wet suits and waves, visit the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary , 150 miles of tropical forest that serves as a refuge for Belize’s endangered jaguar population. Hike around and see how many of the 200+ species of birds you spot flying overhead or perched in trees. For the ultimate pleasure, book a guesthouse here so you have 24/7 access to this wonderland–and don’t leave without seeing the Placencia Lagoon where manatees, crocodiles and exotic birds coexist nicely amid mangrove forests.

Who says a traveler can’t find everything they desire in just one place? Not us. And not the tourists who visit so frequently, they know the names of staff members at their favorite resorts! Treat yourself to the best Belize has to offer in just one idyllic place: Placencia.

Ten Things to do in Placencia Belize:

Kayak the caribbean sea in placencia.

The clear Caribbean waters that front the Placencia Peninsula are perfect for a kayaking adventure. Because there is not too much tide action and the waters are not confined, it is easy to kayak through them. If you are a kayaking enthusiast, make sure to check out Laughing Bird Caye , a beautiful island that is not far away from Placencia Village and is considered an amazing kayaking destination.

Kayak the Lagoon in Placencia

You will encounter an abundant of wildlife like manatees, dolphins, rays, birds and fish when you kayak the Placencia lagoon. Because the water in the lagoon is passive, you can go at your leisure and enjoy the pristine natural surroundings at your own pace.

Go snorkeling  in Placencia

Just 20 miles away from Placencia Village, Silk Cayes is perhaps one of the most beautiful islands in southern Belize. The vividly clear turquoise waters that surround the cayes make it one of the most popular snorkeling destinations in Belize. Enjoy spotting trumpet fish, barracuda, angelfish, damselfish, rays, nurse sharks, and sea turtles on your snorkeling adventure.

Go Scuba Diving in Placencia

If you love scuba diving, you will love Placencia thanks to the miles of underwater canyons and topographic formations that have created an extensive range of cayes that are perfect for diving.

If you visit Placencia during the months of March, April, May and June, you can’t afford to miss scuba diving with whale sharks at the Gladden Spit Marine Reserve .

Located 30 miles east of Placencia, Gladden Spit Marine Reserve is used by over 20 species of Caribbean fish to release their eggs during the months of March, April, May and June and it is the eggs of the Black and Cubera snappers that the whale sharks show up on cue to feed on.

Go Sailing in Placencia

You can explore the majestic Belize Barrier Reef in southern Belize by going on a sailing adventure. Check out Laughing Bird Cayes, Silk Cayes, and Long Coco Cayes, three amazing destinations that can be explored on a day trip by boat. If you are interested in staying overnight at any of these cayes, make sure to check with your hotel concierge.

Go Fishing in Placencia

Once a fishing village, Placencia has become a booming fishing destination in Belize. Tourists come for the thrill of hooking the elusive permit, tarpon, snook and bonefish. Fly-fishing, drop fishing, and trolling can all be done in Placencia. You also have the option of either fishing in the Placencia lagoons or in the open Caribbean Sea.

Go Bird Watching and Animal Spotting near Placencia

Monkey River Village is not far away from Placencia Village and is a destination where you can gain access to the many sites and wonders found in southern Belize. Nature Trails, Manatee watching, Bird watching are just a few of the tours available to do in the area. However, the major attraction is the Howler Monkey and the River, hence the name Monkey River.

Go River Tubing near Placencia

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is not far away from Placencia Village and is a great destination to experience Belize’s exotic flora and fauna, track down the elusive jaguar and go inner tubing in the meandering river. Sit on your inner tube and drink in the spectacular beauty of the area while you lazily float downstream.

Go Hiking in Placencia

Some of the best jungle trails in Belize can be found at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Snactuary . Spot iguanas, lizards, exotic birds, wild deers and even footprints of the elusive jaguar on your hiking expedition. Make sure to ask your hotel concierge for information on the best hiking trails at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary.

Enjoy Garifuna Culture in Placencia

Make sure that you allocate some time to experience the Garifuna culture in Placencia. Whether it is through food, music, and art the Garifuna culture is prevalent in the Placencia Peninsula and you can’t afford to experience it. Check with your hotel concierge for more information on how you can experience Garifuna culture.

Best Restaurants in Placencia Belize

Placencia isn’t known just for its gorgeous beaches, but it has some of the best restaurants in Belize. Placencia Village is a small village on Placencia peninsula and has become a popular vacation spot, not only because of its 12 miles of golden beaches but its exciting festivals and nightlife.

Tourists flock to Placencia because of spectacular snorkeling, diving opportunities, and touring the Maya ruins , caves , and rainforests.

You’ll find a wide variety of excellent restaurants from upscale eateries to shacks right on the beach.

The Quarter Deck Restaurant

Located at Laru Beya Resort , this open-air restaurant and bar serves delicious food right on the beach. It’s the perfect spot for family gatherings or a romantic evening.

Rum Fish Y Vino

It’s one of Placencia’s most popular restaurants for locals and tourists because of its inventive international cuisine with a twist of local Belizean dishes. It’s also known for having the best wine list as all their wine is imported.

Yoli’s Bar and Grill

It’s located off the beaten path and is an open walled bar and grill. It’s a well-liked spot for locals who come for the friendly service and Belikin, a local beer. There’s also live music for entertainment and tourists appreciate the scenic view with its large deck.

Maya Beach Hotel Bistro

This award-winning restaurant is located in a beachfront inn. Recognized for their superb service and authentic dishes, you’ll be coming back again and again for the ambience and quality cuisine.

Tutti Fruti

The Secret Garden Restaurant

Located in the village in a shaded oasis, this restaurant offers freshly grown menu items from their own garden. Their fresh pesto served with sandwiches makes a perfect stop for lunch. It’s also open for dinner and has a wonderful atmosphere.

Above Grounds Coffee

Barefoot Bar

The Placencia Peninsula Communities

Placencia village, get to know placencia village like a local.

If you’re looking for a fun place to go, this is it . Not only do they offer live music, trendy drinks, and a friendly staff, you can enjoy horse shoe tournaments on the beach.

Who would have thought this rather small area of Placencia could offer such a wide variety of restaurants? Come on down and experience some of the best cuisine you’ll find in all of Belize.

The Placencia Peninsula in southeastern Belize is a popular visitor destination thanks to its gorgeous beaches and close proximity to some of the best snorkeling and diving sites on the Belize Barrier Reef . Placencia Village is the unofficial capital of the peninsula and is located at its southernmost tip.

Depending on who is counting, there are only about 2,000 full-time inhabitants of Placencia Village, many of which are engaged in traditional occupations like fishing . Increasingly, however, Placencia Village is becoming the shopping center of the peninsula, home to lovely boutique cafes, bars, restaurants, banks, and nightlife establishments.

Placencia Village is less than half a mile wide, but it is the proud holder of an entry in the Guinness Book of World Records for having the smallest “main street” of any city on the planet. The main thoroughfare in Placencia Village is actually a pedestrian-only sidewalk that measures just four feet (120 cm) wide. This “main street” is where most of the shops, restaurants, and bars are, and it is lined with colorful murals drawn by local artists.

Placencia Village is also the home of an annual two-day cultural fair known as the Sidewalk Arts Festival . Every winter, Placencia Village converts its “main street” into a lively arts and crafts gallery with booths and stands selling art, handicrafts, homemade furniture, handmade clothing, games, food, and drinks. The Sidewalk Arts Festival also features live music concerts performed by some of the top musicians in Placencia and across the country. The Sidewalk Arts Festival is usually held in February, but the exact date varies. Proceeds from the Sidewalk Arts Festival go towards improving the local community.

In June, Placencia Village is home to a raucous, three-day celebration to herald the opening of the lobster fishing season. Originally mostly a local affair, today, Lobsterfest (as the celebration is known) attracts visitors from all across Belize and around the world. Chefs compete to produce tasty and innovative dishes made from lobster, and there are games and other events for the whole family to enjoy. Lobsterfest also includes live music and a very popular beach party that can go on all night until dawn.

Seine Bight in Placencia

Seine Bight is a small village located about halfway up the Placencia Peninsula in southeastern Belize. Seine Bight is home to approximately 1,000 people, primarily belonging to the Garifuna culture, who principally subsist on fishing, hunting, and small-scale farming, predominantly mangoes, coconuts, breadfruit, and bananas.

The name of the village comes from a combination of two terms – a “bight” or a curve in the coastline and “seine fishing,” a traditional way to catch fish with a large net. With fishing being so important to the local economy and seine nets so frequently used, the nickname for the area “The bight where people use seine nets to fish” was shortened to Seine Bight, now its official name.

The area where the village is located is extremely narrow, just a quarter mile wide with a lagoon on the inland side and a beach on the Caribbean side. Thousands of years ago, the ancient Maya used the lagoon to produce vast quantities of salt which were then packed onto canoes and traded further inland. It is believed that English pirates briefly used the area as a base of operations to prey on Spanish shipping during the early part of the 17th century. During the 19th century, a few English Protestants settled in the area, but the village only came into its modern form when the Garifuna people arrived in Belize.

Seine Bight is located 3 miles south of Maya Beach, 45 miles south of Dangriga , 109 miles south of Belize City, and 5 miles north of Placencia Village. Seine Bight is quite narrow from east to west but stretches four miles along the Placencia Peninsula. The village has one Catholic church and two Dugu temples, the ancestral religion of the Garifuna people.

Despite its relatively small size and population, Seine Bight is increasingly becoming a popular tourist attraction, and several hotels and restaurants have been built in this area. Some tourists partake in fishing in the rich waters near Seine Bight, but the biggest draw is the Garifuna culture . Many visitors visit the village to attend exhibitions of traditional Garifuna music, partake in workshops that teach Garifuna drumming and dancing, or to learn how to make traditional Garifuna foods.

Other popular visitor activities in Seine Bight include buying handicrafts and woven goods such as straw hats, baskets, and dolls dressed in traditional Garifuna clothing. Garifuna artisans are also renowned for their intricate carvings of indigenous animals and painted seashells and coconuts.

Maya Beach in Placencia

If you want to get away from it all, there’s no better place to find yourself than Maya Beach in Southern Belize. This quaint, quiet destination is located on the Placencia Peninsula in the Stann Creek District . The Placencia Peninsula is a lovely stretch of land that includes Maya Beach, Placencia Village, and Seine Bight.

Maya Beach draws beachgoers who aren’t looking for a party scene and prefer a more secluded getaway. It is a great place to sit in the sunshine, kick your shoes off, and swing the day away in a beachfront hammock while you admire the view of the nearby Maya Mountains.

Although this community is small, you will still find great places to eat and drink. You can stay at one of the beachfront hotels and get a true feel for Belizean life in one of the authentic beach cabanas overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Many people who come to Maya Beach enjoy taking a canoe or kayak trip around the peninsula. The water is quite calm here, and it’s perfect for taking a dip. The nearby cayes are also great for snorkeling, scuba diving, and fishing.

Maya Beach has stores where you can stock up on supplies. It also has excellent beach bars where you can cool off with a rum-based tropical cocktail or a cold Belikin beer. If you get hungry, Maya Beach specializes in outstanding seafood. Make sure to check out Mangos, an amazing beach bar that’s a favorite hangout of locals, expats, and tourists. Visit Maya Beach Hotel Bistro, which was voted the top restaurant in the area by the Belize Tourism Board.

If you’re in the mood for outdoor adventure, Maya Beach is close to  Laughing Bird Caye National Park . This gorgeous habitat is named for the laughing gull, one of the many species that have found a safe haven here. Spend the day diving the waters and viewing birds and other species of all kinds. You’re also not far from the  Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary , an impressive sanctuary operated by the Belize Audubon Society.

Maya Beach is a warm, welcoming spot where you can slow down and enjoy life. If you’re coming to Belize, make sure you put this charming seaside spot on your itinerary.

When to Visit Placencia Belize

Top belize resorts & hotels in placencia belize.

From pirate’s hideaway to a sleepy fishing village, this contemporary, laid-back beach community on the western side of the 20-mile-long Placencia Peninsula is home to a bevy of luxe resorts, each of which can make your vacation the one you’ve dreamed about.

Chabil Mar ( http://chabilmarvillas.com/ ). This luxe resort name translates as Beautiful Sea and you’ll learn why when you spot 400-feet of beachfront, 19 uniquely designed villas with private verandas and award-winning onsite dining.

Casa Sunsandsea

Casa Sunsandsea (www.casasunsandsea.com) – At Casa Sunsandsea, our motto is “relax, enjoy, restore” but we often like to throw some adventure in the mix too!  Opened in 2016, this luxurious vacation rental home is equipped with everything you need for an unforgettable Belizean vacation.  Let us customize your stay with local tours, help you celebrate a special occasion under the palapa, or set out everything you’ll need for a day of fun in the pool and on the beach.  And don’t forget to snap a picture with Hugh – our life-sized, hand-carved manatee – out on our beautiful 180 feet of gorgeous sandy beach!

Laru Beya ( www.larubeya.com ). If the urge to see everything or do nothing while on your exotic getaway is your style of vacationing, create your own itinerary at this award-winning, all-inclusive hideaway.

Turtle Inn ( http://www.coppolaresorts.com/turtleinn ). When Francis Ford Coppola acquired this gorgeous enclave of 25 thatched cottages, he elevated interiors to such a level, they can only be described as breathtaking.

Roberts Grove

Roberts Grove ( http://www.robertsgrove.com/ ). This secluded, Hacienda-style resort is situated on 22-acres of beach front. The concierge will book tours, but superior amenities may be all you need to achieve total bliss.

Belize Ocean Club

Belizean Ocean Club ( http://www.belizeoceanclub.com/ ). No membership dues required at this elegant resort, where spacious two-bedroom suites with ocean or sunset views and romantic balconies will win your heart.

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Placencia Belize: Your Travel Guide To The Peninsula (2023 Update)

Table of Contents

The placencia belize peninsula travel guide (2023 update), the placencia beach, barefoot beach bar, tipsy tuna bar & restaurant, brewed awakenings, tutti frutti gelateria (a must), mojo lounge and bartique, rumfish y vino restaurant, fusion beach, maya beach bistro.

• Omar's Creole Grub

Above Grounds

La dolce vita, whaleshark diving, placencia lobster-fest, placencia sidewalk art and music festival, get a massage, yacht sailing.

Placencia Belize is one of the most relaxing and ambient villages in southern Belize. Quaint is hardly the word we’d like to use to describe it, however. it must suffice for now. As with almost every other community in Belize, Placencia is ripe with culture and personality. There are so many activities that a simple google search will overwhelm you with options and you may shy away for the promise of an easier task.

To make things easier for you, we’ve rounded up the best and most interesting things to do, see, eat, and experience while in Placencia Belize .

Where to go in Placencia Belize:

Seems like a no brainer right? We’re going to a sea-side community, but we aren’t going to the beach – words said by absolutely no one; ever. However, being nominated for the World Travel Awards in the “Best beaches destination” category, we really want to reinforce: Where to go in Placencia? The Beach.

Miles of tranquil, reef-protected white sand beaches crown the perimeter of the village and much of the eastern side of the peninsula. Admire sunrise and sets from here.

While “No shoes, no problem” is generally an accepted practice in Belize, Barefoot beach bar takes it up a notch. Situated right on the beach (Perhaps this order was deliberate) Barefoot is perfect to grab a refreshing drink after a stroll on the beach. Being barefoot is not a rule, and it’s unclear whether it really speeds up how quick you’re served or not but we certainly like to think it does! Barefoot bar is the first stop watering hole for both locals and travelers and is a must stop if you’re already relaxing by the beach in town.

Tipsy tuna is your logical next step after barefoot bar, the veritable “start” to the nightlife in Placencia and also the perfect place to catch the game, or well, whatever you enjoy watching! Tipsy Tuna Sports bar is everything it proclaims itself to be; the colorful lounge chairs, Big plasma TVs, pool tables, rooftop lounge and two-hour happy hour will liven up any day no matter how dull it has been for you.

The food is standard bar fare, tacos, burgers, wings, etc. which is enough to curb any tipsy munchies you might develop in your escapades.

Quite the opposite for ma rude awakening, this wonderful little cafe roasts their coffee beans fresh and makes a variety of coffee-themed drinks to satisfy every caffeine fix need. For an added kick, many of the offerings at Brewed awakeninigs in Placencia include the addition of local seaweed, yes, the grass that grows in the sea, as a base or to add substance. Seaweed is locally believed to possess a variety of healthy properties including minerals and rare vitamins. It’s unclear whether the health benefits are well founded or not, but it sure does taste good in a smoothie!

This dockside bar in Placencia is as lively as one would expect of a bar by the sea. They host recurring Wednesday karaoke for those who’ve had an especially terrible hump day and need a bit of entertainment via bar-goers comically strained attempts at singing. If on Thursdays you’re not as thirsty as much as you’re eager to get your sports on, the owners at J-Byrds host frequent dart competitions for you to show your skills off and possibly win cool prizes! J-Byrds is definitely one of the watering holes of choice in Placencia and worth a stop if you’re spending the night in town.

Tutti Frutti is a local favorite, Belizeans sometimes literally travel to Placencia for the day simply to experience the unique authentic gelato available only here. They have a wide assortment of ever changing flavors ensuring that if you’re a first-time visitor you’ll want to try them all and if you’re a 100th-time visitor there’s always something new for you. Put simply; if you don’t like the ice cream served here then chances are you don’t like ice cream at all!

Where to eat in Placencia Belize:

Mojo lounge and Bartique on the peninsula is a trendy, upscale experience in an otherwise unassuming seaside village. Situated on the second level of a building in the heart of what could be considered “downtown” makes this place easy to find and an absolute dining delight. Their happy hour specials are definitely something to look out for and if you’re an avid social media user check out their page for their frequent “code words” for even more specials (but don’t say we told you about it).

This quaint establishment is one of the first, if not the only “gastro-bar” to be found in Mother Natures best-kept secret, and on that merit, we cannot allow Rumfish to stay a secret. They specialize in small-plate dining  and are experts in all things pertinent to wine. Look out for the colonial style building with the Rumfish sign hanging above, it’s guaranteed to be one of your favorite places thereafter.

Fusion Beach is a hotel restaurant, that is situated in front of, you guessed it: the beach! The restaurant has a seafront deck which makes dining an exceptionally relaxing experience, they’re also equipped with an infinity pool in view from the restaurant for those of you looking to date a dip before/after/while you eat. Fusion Beach, as the name suggests, are experts in exquisite combinations of flavors and foods in unique ways, they’ll take your taste buds on a ride they’ll undoubtedly enjoy. An added bonus to their creative concoctions is their Sushi, while not exactly traditional Japanese styled their offerings are beautiful and delicious earning Fusion beach a definite spot on this guide!

If Placencia itself isn’t “island” enough for you then Tranquilo has exactly what you need. Situated a short boat ride away on Placencia Island, Tranquilo is a wonderfully situated, secluded romantic restaurant that offers up the very best in Belizean and Caribbean food. In addition to the secluded location, call ahead and receive a free boat transfer to the restaurant!

The Maya Beach Bistro, the restaurant at the Maya Beach Hotel is a real treat! Their offerings of international cuisine with a local twist have earned them restaurant awards in the past and numerous nominations too!

Omar’s Creole Grub

Omar’s is as Belizean as it gets. Far from the new kid on the block Omar’s has been serving the same style of fresh caught Creole style Belizean goodness for decades in Placencia and time has not dulled their edge! Comfort food is the name of the game here where you can get fresh catch of the day fish, crab, lobster, and shrimp any way you like but we really recommend the traditional Creole sauce!

De-Thatch at the Seaspray hotel is another “no shoes, no tie, no problem” establishment in Placencia. In their description, go ahead and DETACH yourself from your worries at their seaside restaurant with their calm ambiance and great food. They seem to really like puns, we don’t blame them; puns are pretty clever.

The puns keep coming with Above Grounds, situated on the second level of a building just off the main driving road in the village they specialize in; you guessed it – Coffee! Above ground work directly with small organic coffee producers from Antigua in Guatemala and their artisan-style coffee is superb! The accompany your coffee you may indulge in their sweet baked treats like cookies and brownies. If you’re looking for a rich drink that isn’t coffee they also offer cold and hot organic chocolate drinks as well!

Life is sweet at this little peninsular Italian restaurant. La Dolce Vita is owned and operated by Chef Simone de Angelis, an Italian chef who imports his own ingredients direct from the source to ensure the highest quality and the most authentic culinary experience. Every dish here is thoughtfully, artfully and traditionally prepared the Italian way with subtly complimentary flavors and an intense love for food. If you love Italian food and want an authentic hit of it in the Caribbean; La Dolce Vita is exactly where you should be.

What to Do in Placencia Belize:

There’s a small army of hotels and dive shops that will gladly take you snorkeling in Placencia . Being on the southern coast provides easy access to some of Belize’s most beautiful atolls and reefs, with some of the most undisturbed marine habitats. Snorkeling is a must do!

Summer, Spring, Winter, Autumn, it all boils down to one thing here, perpetual summer! Belize’s warm Caribbean waters are perfect for scuba diving year-round, the average temperature here removes the need for full or even partial wetsuits, you can scuba in your swimming trunks or bikini. If you don’t yet know how to dive, many dive shops are equipped to make you a certified PADI underwater diver. Our favorite dive shop and tour operator in Placencia is SPLASH Dive Center & Tours, ms Patricia and her team are a delight to be around and very professional.

Whalesharks? You’re thinking we must be kidding… Nope. In May and June Whale sharks make their way to our warm seas to spawn, usually deep sea fish, they come close to the surface near the Gladden Split off the southern coast. These gentle giants swim along allowing you to scuba or snorkel beside them. Daunting as it may be, there haven’t been reports of whale shark attacks as they eat small fish, definitely nothing human sized.

Looking for a Whale Shark diving experience? Check out this recommended Whale Shark Diving Package

If you read our blog telling you about our favorite Belizean Festivals then this name will ring a bell. Lobster fest weekend in June on the peninsula is one of the must do’s, the locals fish, cook and serve the freshest lobster in the most authentic ways for days on end. Tell me… what could be better than that?

The Placencia Sidewalk art festival is held annually in the beginning of February. The art festival is held on the 4000-foot long sidewalk that is the villages “main street”. Along your walk, you’ll be witness to beautiful paintings, creative crafts, music, poetry readings, and art of every kind, if you’re looking for a creatively romantic thing to do this might be exactly what you want.

Bowling is generally not a thing in Belize… You’ll be surprised at how much of a thing it isn’t, no one bowls here, or watches bowling on the television. That might change soon with Jaguar Lanes, however, one of the first, probably literally the second bowling alley in Belize situated on the peninsula gives you the opportunity to bowl a few strikes, or not, depending on your luck or skill while enjoying cold Belizean beers and excellent finger food.

Who doesn’t want a massage on a vacation away from home? fatigued and cramped muscles from stress and work back home literally melt away with beach-side massages in Placencia, Most of the resorts offer massages and if the one you’re at doesn’t then feel free to venture into town to one of the massage parlours to kick your relaxation into high gear, if that paradox is even possible.

This activity you can do right at the beach (away from swimmers of course) or off a dock. The real fun, however, is going out to sea for fish. Your choices are many with this activity, deep sea, shallow, sport, or for food. Whatever your aim for fishing is in Placencia the local boat captains can take you to the best spots, sometimes their own secret spots for awesome fishing opportunities in clear Caribbean waters.

You too can live a slice of the rich and famous life from Placencia. Companies offer yacht and catamaran charters from the Placencia peninsula for up to 9 nights stay out at sea sailing Belize’s many coastal destinations. Crewed charters are available with experienced Belizean captains to take you to the best spots for sightseeing and swimming. For the experienced captains, uncrewed expeditions are available to make you the captain of your very own Caribbean sailing expedition!

Is there anything else you would like to see included in this guide to Placencia Belize? Let us know by commenting below! 🙂

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2 thoughts on “Placencia Belize: Your Travel Guide To The Peninsula (2023 Update)”

Great article except you have used my image (gelato) without my permission or photo credit.

Hey Hannah! thank you for bringing this to our attention. We did not source this directly from your website, it was actually found on flickr.com – we have added photo credit to the image, thanks! 🙂

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WELCOME TO PLACENCIA

Whether looking for adventure or relaxation, the Stann Creek district is the place to be. Within an hour you can be hiking through rain forests, climbing a Mayan ruin, swimming in waterfalls, or fishing, snorkeling, and diving the Belize Barrier Reef.

The peninsula also boasts 16 miles of tranquil beaches along with dozens of cayes of which you may be the only visitor. And after a day of relaxation, indulge in our world-class restaurants highlighting the unique ingredients of the region

The fringe of the peninsula is covered in mangroves which are a superior habitat for birds and marine life. Many birds, fish, shellfish, and marine organisms begin their lives within the protection of these special areas.

Nearby, the Belize Barrier Reef is a superb coastal reef system with dozens of dive sites and even more snorkel spots and island beaches. These sites have been left in a more pristine state because they have felt less impact from boats and divers.

The three distinct villages of the peninsula all offer a chance to have an authentic Belize experience. Because of the small population, interaction with the community is assured.

There are a variety of community events throughout the year that attract locals and visitors alike. Belizeans are very proud of their country and love to share and celebrate life in many different ways. If you are looking for food, culture, adventure, and making new friends, Placencia is the place for you!

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Snorkeling and Diving

The Belize Barrier Reef is a superb coastal reef system with dozens of dive sites offering excellent diving. Visitors experience an underwater world populated by a rich diversity of species including

Island and Cayes

The Cayes, the offshore atolls and the barrier reef are some of the main attractions of Belize. The barrier reef, which is 185 miles long, is the longest in the Western

Jungle and Ruins

The tropical forests of Belize provide habitats for a wide range of animals including jaguar, puma, ocelot, armadillo, tapir and crocodile. The country is also home to 4,000 species

Spend the day fishing for Snapper, Kingfish and Wahoo in some of the best fishing grounds in Belize. As an added treat, beach barbecues are included in most tours.

Discover why many have an Awesome Experience in Placencia !

The Placencia Peninsula is located in the Stann Creek District in southern Belize and is accessible by land from the Southern Highway near the village of Santa Rosa. The 18-mile long narrow stretch of land begins in the community of Riversdale, continuing to Maya Beach, Seine Bight Village and ending at Placencia Village located at its southern most tip. The Peninsula is only a mile at its widest and is positioned between the Placencia Lagoon on the west, and the Caribbean Sea on the east.

Based on the most recent national census conducted in 2010, the entire Placencia Peninsula is home to 3,458 people.

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Ultimate List of Things to Do in Placencia, Belize + Essential Travel Tips

By: Author Aly Smalls

Posted on Published: May 5, 2020  - Last updated: August 31, 2022

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What was once a small fishing village is now a low-key and laid back quiet resort area. Placencia’s unique geography makes it a beautifully unique destination.

It’s a long and narrow peninsula, surrounded by mangroves-lined lagoons on one side and beachfront Caribbean sea on the other.

I recently interviewed my friend who returned from visiting Placencia, Belize.

I haven’t had the chance to visit myself, but Kerri and her friend Marie spent more than 2 weeks exploring this lesser-known laid back paradise.

And with Marie being a 4-time visitor, I asked them everything you need to know about visiting Placencia, starting with the best things to do, where to stay, what to eat and some important things to know about the culture, weather and safety. 

This posts contains some affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them I may make a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only share information about products and places I use, love and trust.

Ready for an interesting fun fact about Placencia Village? It’s known for the narrowest main street in the world. It’s technically a sidewalk only open to foot and bike traffic, but it’s the main street through town.

In this charming village, you’ll find that golf carts and walking barefoot are the most popular ways to get around. If that doesn’t scream laid back beach town, I don’t know what does! 

Flights to Belize City from the US are actually pretty cheap, and there are several direct flights from a few major Canadian cities through the winter months.

A dorable, brightly colored cabanas line the beach everywhere making it a perfect winter getaway destination. 

To wet your appetite about visiting this tropical paradise, we’ll start with all the amazing things you can do here. 

Top Things to Do in Placencia, Belize

Day trips and excursions.

From beaches, to hiking, wildlife viewing and beyond, Placencia is the perfect hub for anyone wanting a mix of relaxation and outdoor adventure.

One of the top tour companies that Marie and Kerri recommends and have taken multiple trips with is DTourz .

The ATM caves are one of Belize’s most celebrated natural attractions. Officially called Actun Tunichil Muknal, these caves were used by the Mayan people to perform religious ceremonies, rituals and were even burial sites.

Inside the caves there are still many remnants of these ceremonies, still perfectly preserved. Channel you inner Indiana Jones with this one!

Visit Champagne Island , an ecological treasure and Belize’s best kept secret. You can get there via a short boat ride across the lagoon from Placencia.

You’ll see birds, manatees, and once you’re on the island, there’s an incredible array of orchids and medicinal plants.

Try to stay for  most of a full day, where you can learn all about the Garifuna Culture, including their drumming performance and learn how to cook in the traditional Maya way.

For more day trips from Placencia, Marie and Kerri recommend tours with Taste of Belize.

They’ve seen a lot of Belize countryside and had grassroot local experiences like Mayan Village fire hearth cooking, a spice farm visit, a Chocolate farm tour at Ixcacao complete with chocolate making.

Wildlife Viewing 

For wildlife viewing in Belize, check out the Monkey River Jungle tour to see (and hear) howler monkeys, manatees, crocodiles and tarantulas (from a safe distance of course)! There’s also a large bamboo forest here, too. 

Visit the Red Bank Village which is the best place in Belize to see Scarlet Macaws, which is directly on their migration path. December to March is the best time to see them.

You will also see wild parrots, hummingbirds and many other local birds. Plus, the nearby Swasey River is the perfect place for beautiful, fresh water swimming. 

Laughing Bird Caye National Park

11 miles off the coast of Placencia is a long, narrow island that is home to an abundance of bird life and coral life. Visiting this perfect tropical paradise is one of the most popular day trips from Placencia Village.

For crystal clear water that showcases the most colorful coral, grab a boat and tour guide to take you snorkeling at Laughing Bird Caye .  

Mayan Ruins

While the beaches in Placencia are some of the best in the world, you shouldn’t miss some historic Mayan ruins and caves nearby.

On this full-day tour you will visit the once thriving city of Xunantunich and then go cave tubing in a network of mysterious caves and caverns. 

To get there, you’ll have to cross the Mopan River on a hand-cranked river ferry!

Visit Lubaantun (2 hours away) to check out what was once an entire city, now all Mayan Ruins. It’s the largest Maya site in southern Belize.

The incredible display is the limestone structures that are built out of perfectly carved limestone, requiring no mortar to hold it together. Even thousands of years later. 

Travel Tip: Book your tours with Viator (owned by Tripadvisor) and you can reserve your spot now and pay (or cancel) up to 2 days before your tour. 

Diving and Snorkeling

Diving and snorkeling conditions in Belize are some of the best in the world. Marie recommends checking out the Reef Adventures expeditions with Island Expeditions to kayak, snorkel, and even stay at a base camp for a few nights and to learn about marine/reef life and experience the Garifuna culture.  

Here you will also find the Great Blue Hole , a massive ocean sinkhole. It’s world famous for diving, but the view from the air is the real jaw-dropper.

Beautiful Beaches and Ocean Swimming

One of the main draws to Placencia are the beautiful beaches! Placencia has the best beaches and you absolutely can swim in the ocean.

Many of the beachfront properties clean the beaches daily, in other areas you might find some debris but it’s quite minimal. The whole area is instituting plastic bins to keep plastic out of the ocean. 

You Might Also Like: The Slow Travel Trend and Why You Should Embrace It

Visit the Mayan King Waterfalls, about a 40 minute drive to the falls and an overall beautiful jungle area. There is a charge to enter the private property but well worth it.

Be sure to get a natural foot pedicure in the freshwater from all the little fish who nibble. Doesn’t hurt, just tickles!

For active travelers, the jungle hiking in Belize is incredible. Head to the Cockscomb Mountains for many hiking trails and more waterfalls.

This is also part of the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, home to a jaguar reserve, and many other animals like howler monkeys and the adorable peccary. 

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary has the world’s highest concentration of big cats in the world.

The easiest way to get the most out of your visit is to grab a tour , where they’ll point out animals, hiking trails and waterfalls and will help you find Ben’s Bluff, a popular swimming hole at the Tiger Fern Waterfall. 

Related Reading : 20 Epic Swimming Holes in North America to Add to Your Summer Bucket List

Local Markets and Artisan Shopping

Must buy souvenirs in Belize are the hand-made weaved baskets called Jippi Jappa. These baskets are the main traditional craft made by the Mayan people of southern Belize.

As you can guess, they’re made from the Jippi Jappa palm tree that grows in abundance in the area. But you can also find other hand made goods, like jewelry and hot pads for pots.  

At the local markets in and around Placencia, you will also find many hand-made products made from wood. Mahogany, rosewood and zygote are all native to Belize. 

You can also find fresh spices like turmeric and chili. Chocolate lovers will love shopping at markets in Belize – there is tons of it here because of the cacao farms. And of course fresh seafood!

Definitely look for Marie Sharpe’s Hot sauce, it’s locally made and you will find it served at every restaurant in Placencia. 

Now that you’ve got an idea about what you can do in Placencia, Belize, you might be curious about visiting the area.

Here are some additional questions I asked Kerri and Marie to paint a better picture of this beautiful beach side village and important things to know when traveling to Belize. 

Placencia, Belize Hotels and Accommodations

In Placencia, you will find mostly villas, condos and small boutique hotels. Most of which will have 5-15 rooms. 

There are no all-inclusive resorts in Placencia but there are now some newer condo villas and hotel rooms on the beach and boutique hotels. Airbnb and VRBO villas and apartments are widely available.

Helpful Reading: 12 Tips for Booking a Vacation Rental on Airbnb or VRBO

Here are the recommended hotels in Placencia Village:

Guests here can enjoy a private beach, rustic romance under the thatched-roof villas and beach bar that serves great cocktails, especially at sunset happy hour.

In one of the best locations for swimming in the ocean, here you’ll spend your time between private hammocks, pools and a pier!

King Lewey’s Island Resort

This is your own private island getaway! Stay in your own, brightly colored bungalow with 360 degree views of the turquoise ocean around you. 

Naia Resort and Spa

This is the Belize hotel you want for pure relaxation. It’s a quiet property with a pool, gym and spa onsite. Each suite is a private bungalow, making this property perfect for couples on a romantic getaway or honeymoon.

You Might Also Like to Read About: Staying at the Coziest Eco Resort in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula

Restaurants in Placencia, Belize

DeTatch Restaurant has an amazingly fresh breakfast burrito that fills the plate and has eggs, beans, cheese, salsa and bacon inside.  

Be sure to try the conch fritters served with a tartar sauce dip and hot sauce. 

Mariposa Restaurant and Beach Resort has a really nice menu too and good drinks.  Fish tacos and beer!  You can also use the pool with a minimum food purchase.

It’s especially relaxing poolside as you look out at the ocean.

Favorite beach bars in Placencia are the Barefoot Bar and Tipsy Tuna.  They are side by side and each are a lot of fun! 

Different themes every night and specials on drinks and happy hour menus. Music and dancing and Garifuna performances. Very colorful! Always something going on.

Maya Beach Bistro . ‘ Swill and Fill ‘ is their happy hour menu favorites are the plantain chips with salsa, the curried pumpkin soup and fish cakes. Drinks are a good price too!

Weather in Placencia and What are the Best Months to Visit? 

December to April is the dry season in Belize. Visit in April, May and June to swim with the whale sharks. 

Marie has been to Placencia four times and has experienced the weather from January to March. Placencia seems to wind/cloud/rain at the end of January and beginning of February but after that its glorious sunshine through April.

By the end of March, you are usually guaranteed hot weather in Placencia Village. 

It does get windy (which happens at the ocean), which can bring in Sargassum (seaweed) which was the worst everywhere in the Yucatan Peninsula 2018 and 2019.

However, the seaweed was very minimal in 2020.  By the end of March, it starts to get pretty hot in Placencia Village.

Things to Know Before Going to Belize

What language is spoken in belize.

English is spoken in Belize, making it one of the best Caribbean vacation destinations for Americans, Brits and Canadians. This is due to the fact that it was a British Colony until 1981.

Is it Safe in Placencia?

Both Marie and Kerri felt very safe in Placencia! They recommend avoiding Belize City as it is considered dangerous and after spending 2 nights there in 2015 and walking around the town, Marie mentioned there is very little to see and do compared to the beach areas. 

Anywhere the tourists visit will generally be safe, but you should still use common sense just like you would anywhere else you visit. Don’t go looking for trouble and it won’t find you.

In fact, the Prime Minister of Belize actually owns a vacation home in Placencia and was there when my friends were visiting the area. 

Drinking Water

You can drink the water in Placencia because it comes from an underground aquifer and is really great. There is no problem with drinking the water or eating at any of the food places in Placencia.

What Shots or Vaccinations Do You Need to Go to Belize? 

While you don’t need any special shots in particular, you should make sure that you’ve had or are up to date on the most common vaccinations like Hepatitis A, Hep B, DPT (diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus), MMR (measles, mumps, rubella) and typhoid, yellow fever.

Chances are you’ve likely been vaccinated already but it’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before your trip to be safe.

How Expensive is Belize?

In Placencia, you’ll find it’s a little more expensive than parts of Mexico. The currency in Belize is the Belize dollar, and the conversion rate makes it very easy to calculate as it is 2:1.

Meaning, two Belize Dollars equal one US dollar. Cash is king in Belize, and most places will always accept US dollars. But if you pay in US dollars, you will get change back in BZ. 

The local food is very reasonable and the restaurants are not expensive except for a couple of higher end places. In Placencia, the average price for a dinner entree is about $15-20 usd (or 30-40 BZ). There are also some good happy hour specials at a few of the beach bars, bistros and restaurants! 

Beer and rum are quite cheap. And even if you’re not a big rum fan, there are so many fresh flavored rums to try, like ‘ginger mint’ or ‘blackberry’.

A pint of domestic beer (Belkin) will run you about $2, whereas wine is more expensive.

Travel tip: When visiting Placencia, buy your wine at the duty free shop in the Belize City airport, while you wait for your shuttle flight. Much cheaper than in the village!

In high season, the average price for a beach hotel is about $200-250 USD per night, while renting a villa can be a much more inexpensive option averaging around $100-150 per night.

How Do You Get to Placencia?

For Canadians wanting to visit Placencia, Westjet offers seasonal direct flights from Toronto and Calgary from October to April, making it an easy Caribbean getaway.

The fastest way to get from Belize City to Placencia is to fly. Fly into Belize city and then take a small plane (about 14 passenger) about 40 minutes to Placencia. 

It is possible to rent a vehicle and drive, however, the roads are not in the best shape and it takes about 3-4 hours to drive. Car rentals are expensive and like any developing country not all car rentals offer the best vehicles. Plus, you won’t need a vehicle in Placencia – or you can always rent one for a day. 

So, is Placencia, Belize worth visiting?

If you want the perfect mix of laid-back beach vibes and water and jungle adventures, then yes, it absolutely is!

If you’re interested in the Yucatan Peninsula , you might be interested to read: Off the Beaten Path in Mexico – Valladolid to Ek Balam (Yucatan)

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19 Fun and Unique Things to Do in Placencia Belize

Posted on Published: October 30, 2021  - Last updated: January 29, 2024

It’s one of the most beautiful – no magical – places in all of Belize. And with so many things to do in Placencia Belize, it’s a must on every tropical vacation bucket list.

This post may contain affiliate links. For more info, see my  disclosures .

Placencia has the right mix of small-town charm, beautiful beaches and jungles to explore. It’s certainly one of the most underrated spots and a bit hidden from tourism at this point too.

Whether you’re looking to spend a day on a private island like Laughing Bird Caye , have some of the best food and cocktails in the area, or hit up a local waterfall, it can all be done in a day in Placencia.

👉Don’t have time to read the whole article? Here’s the  best tour from Placencia; Laughing Bird Caye snorkel trip . A must-do for first-time visitors!

This guide covers the best things to do in Placencia Belize , as well as how to get there and places to stay. After reading this guide, you’ll be ready to pack your bags and hit the beach!

Why visit Placencia Belize?

It’s a small, residential spot that tourism hasn’t really hit yet. With only a few hotels, most of the accommodations are in vacation rental properties. More about where to stay later in this guide.

If you’re from the US, it’s a relatively affordable destination, too. Belize dollars are approximately twice as much as the US dollar. So if your dinner is $20 BZ, it’s actually just $10 USD.

Check out this post for a full guide to visiting Belize on a budget .

Placencia is a destination where you can lounge on the beach the entire time, or submerge yourself in the history and culture. It’s a fantastic spots for couples, friends trips and even families, too.

Getting to Placencia

You might be asking yourself “where is Placencia?” Located on the very tip of the peninsula on the eastern side of the country is the village of Placencia.

There is a small airport in Placencia which you could fly a small plane from Belize city do Placencia. However, I’d highly recommend renting a car in Belize City and driving to Placencia.

It really gives you ultimate freedom and flexibility for your time in the area, plus it’s a beautiful drive through the mountains and jungle region of Belize. And if you’re from the US, driving a car is relatively easy in Belize with similar traffic laws.

Belize City to Placencia is a little over 3 hour drive.

By the way, if you’re looking for an affordable rental car, try the discount car service at Discover Cars . It’s a free service where they find the best rates on reputable rental cars – at no cost to you. I typically save 10-30% this way!

Map of things to do in Placencia Belize

If you’re a visual person like I am, then this map will help you get familiar with the area and plan out your days in Belize. Zoom in and scroll to find more detail about specific activities on the map.

As you can see, this guide is full of the best activities in Placencia and the entire area!

Best things to do in Placencia Belize

You ready for a fantastic vacation full of adventure? Thought so!

Placencia Village is a small town with such a fun vibe! Since it’s so small and the country itself is small and drivable, this guide will explore everything there is to do in the village plus the best day trips from Placencia . Staying in Placencia opens up so many possibilities to explore the country based on it’s proximity to so much.

Alright enough chatting already, let’s dive in!

1. Placencia Beach 

You cannot go to a tropical destination like Belize and not go to the beach! The Caribbean blues are strong in Belize.

Gorgeous, turquoise water meets the sand and welcomes you in. Palm trees line these beaches creating a stunning beach scene and the perfect way to spend the afternoon.

The beaches in Placencia are perfect for swimming or snorkeling (we’ll get to that later!) The Placencia Beach on the Placencia Peninsula is the longest stretch beach in the entire country of Belize.

Many hotels and restaurants can be enjoyed from the beach. But perhaps the best place to enjoy it is the public access point on the very tip of the peninsula.

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2. Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

For nature lovers, this is a must! The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is a protected area for the jaguar. It’s one of the best spots in the world to observe wild jaguar in their natural habitat.

It’s also a great hiking destination with gorgeous mountain views and beautiful waterfalls.

Here’s a guide to the best hikes in Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary .

Aside from jaguars and amazing scenery, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is also home to monkeys and hundreds of species of birds. It’s highly recommended to hire a local guide when visiting the sanctuary to make the most of your time there.

Just remember you’ll be in the jungle of Belize, so bring these items when visiting:

• Bug spray and reef-safe sunblock
• Light layers to protect your skin
• Good hiking boots with traction to avoid slipping on muddy terrain
• Water, water, water
• Swimming suit if hiking to a waterfall

Book it now: Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary tour from Placencia

3. Try the local food: Fry Jacks (find them at most Placencia Belize restaurants)

Finding local foods is one of the best ways to experience local culture. In Belize, one of the local favorites are Fry Jacks.

They’re basically deep fried dough in the shape of triangles. Oh, and they’re delicious! Think of them as similar to beignets in New Orleans an sopaipillas in Mexico.

You can find them at many Placencia restaurants. One of my favorite breakfast spots is Wendy’s Creole Restaurant and Bar.

4. Hang out at the Tipsy Strip

One of the most popular areas in Placencia Belize for tourists is the Tipsy Strip . It gets it’s name because of the proximity to the Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar.

Tipsy Strip includes:

• Restaurants and bars
• Water sports
• Art gallery
• Spa treatments
• Tours departures
• Baked goods

In the evenings and weekends you’ll find live music along the Tipsy Strip. The bars can get a bit wild on the weekends and after dark, too.

The Tipsy Strip is right on the beach on the east side of the peninsula in Placencia Village. Visit the Tipsy Strip on Facebook for the latest happenings.

5. Day trip to Xunantunich

One of the most incredible Mayan cities in all of Central America is the Xunantunich Mayan Ruins . Located near San Ignacio, this is a day trip from Placencia.

It was one of the coolest experiences I had in Belize, and I’d highly recommend it! If you have a rental car in Belize, you can drive yourself. If you don’t feel comfortable driving or want the inside knowledge on the Mayan ruins with a tour guide, you can book a day trip from Placencia .

Xunanutnich is different than other Mayan ruins you may have seen in Mexico, because you can actually climb to the top of the highest pyramid. You can literally feel the energy when standing on top – it’s truly an indescribable experience!

Book it now: Xunantunich Mayan Ruins tour

6. Visit the Nim Li Punit ruins

More history and culture is on the southern end of Belize. A little less than 2 hours southwest of Placencia is the Mayan ruins of Nim Li Punit. It’s one of the smaller Mayan Cities, but definitely worth visiting.

Known for the large volume of intricately carved stones and monuments (called stelae), these stones are one of the features that attract visitors . There are also 3 plazas and pyramids you can explore.

Be sure to check out the ball court, which is one of the most preserved on all Mayan cities! There are also these fun artificial hills with flat tops that were created during the city’s rich history, which are interesting to see.

If you’re renting a car in Belize , you can drive there yourself from Placencia. Guides are typically available near the entrance for hire to provide details that may otherwise be missed!

7. Day trip to Laughing Bird Caye

One of the most natural, pristine beaches in all of Belize is a short boat ride from Placencia. Laughing Bird Caye National Park is a gorgeous island worthy of spending a day.

It’s a bird sanctuary and popular snorkeling destination. Located about 45 minutes from Placencia via boat, this island is every bit as perfect as you imagine a tiny island in Belize to be . It’s actually one of my favorite things to do in Placencia Belize (that’s not actually in Placencia!😆).

Palm tree lined beaches. Bright white sand. Stunning turquoise water. It’s perfection in an island!

By booking a tour to Laughing Bird Caye , you’ll be able to snorkel or lounge your day away on this tropical paradise. And it will be one of your favorite experiences in Belize!

Book it now: Laughing Bird Caye tour

8. Explore Mayflower Bocawina National Park

A little over an hour north of Placencia is the Mayflower Bocawina National Park. It’s an amazing jungle that simply begs to be explored!

If you’re looking for a way to stay active during your vacation, this is it! Seeing the stunning Antelope Falls is a reward after a steep, challenging hike. Pack your swimming suits and water shoes for this one!

With ropes that help you during the steep parts, the hike to Antelope Falls is as challenging as it is rewarding. You’ll even get a Tarzan-style swing rope into the cool pool of water!

Pro tip: slather up in bug spray for this one! You’ll be in the rainforest. This is my favorite all-natural bug spray I travel with and it actually works great! Don’t forget to reapply after swimming.

And if you really want to experience the jungle, be sure to go zip lining in Bocawina ! With 9 zips, it’s almost 2 hours of zip lining fun!

9. Find all the photo ops (one of the unique things to do in Placencia Belize)

Whether you’re going for the most Instagrammable spots in Placencia or you just like to be cheesy and take some group shots, you’ll find plenty in Placencia!

This oversized chair and boardwalk is at the tip of the island near the marina. Also check out the Tipsy Strip for plenty more! From the picturesque beaches and signs for the local premium rum – you’ll know it when you see it. 😆

Part of the fun of exploring a new place is the photos you get to bring home!

10. Swing on the beach

Speaking of photos…on the very tip of the Placencia Peninsula, right near the water is The Shak Beach Cafe . It’s the perfect vibe for your Placencia vacation!

The whole area is beautiful and visiting it is one of the top things to do in Placencia Belize. Not to mention the food is fantastic! From fruit smoothies and sandwiches to frozen cocktails, you’ll find something you love at The Shak Beach Cafe.

If you’re looking for the most vibrant photo op, make sure to grab a seat on the swings. Plop your toes in the sand and enjoy a beverage with a beautiful view of the marina. Perfection!

Book a photo shoot: The best souvenir, booking a photo shoot while traveling preserves memories of your vacation! I love Flytographer because the photo sessions are fun, easy and affordable. you can get $25 off if you book through this link or use the code SSST.

11. Take a chocolate making class (one of my favorite things to do in Placencia)

Dive into the Mayan culture with a chocolate making class . This was one of the most fun activities I experienced in Belize, and highly recommend it!

You’ll learn how to turn cacao beans from a local farm into a chocolate paste, then finally how into a chocolate bar! The entire process is so interesting, and you’ll get to taste the cacao along the way.

Mayans have created some of the most well-known chocolate in the world. However, if you go to the EU, you’ve got to try Belgian chocolate, it’s one of the things Belgium is famous for .

Anyway, if you’re looking for an informative immersion into local culture, take a chocolate making class.

Book it now: Mayan chocolate making class

12. Watch a sunrise on the beach

Considering the beach faces to the east, it’s not the best place for a tropical sunset. But sunrises are! I was fortunate enough to catch multiple sunrises during my stay in Placencia.

Staying directly on the beach is the best way to catch a sunrise comfortably (suggestions below). Otherwise head over to the public beach at the end of the peninsula or at the Tipsy Strip to catch the morning glow. 😍

13. Gelato at Tuttifrutti Gelateria

As someone who takes ice cream and its cousins, gelato and sorbet very seriously, I can tell you this is worth the stop. After all, From San Diego , California to Providenciales, Turks and Caicos , ice cream is a part of nearly every trip. I stopped twice during my time in Placencia!

Anyway, the owners of Tutti Frutti are from Italy so this is the real deal. Gelato as it’s intended to be. And with fun flavors like Passion Fruit, Ferrero Rocher and Stracciatella, you’ll find something you love.

Tutti Frutti is located on the main street in Placencia Village Belize.

14. Kayak or paddle board

Experience the gorgeous Caribbean water from above! Renting stand-up paddle boards or kayaks and hit the surf!

Whether it’s kayaking on Put-in-Bay, Lake Erie , through the mangrove forest in Siesta Key, Florida or off the coast of Aruba , being on the water with a kayak or paddle board never gets old!

Located on the Tipsy Strip, simply walk up to grab your board or boat and hit the water! No advance reservations required through Placencia Awesome Water Sports . 😊 It’s a fun way to spend an hour (or more) enjoying the water right off the coast of Belize.

15. Shopping in Placencia Belize

This quaint village is a fun spot for shopping and picking up souvenirs. It’s one of the best things to do in Placencia Belize if you like a slower pace for vacation.

You won’t find big chains or high-end stores here. Instead, you’ll find hand-crafted items from local artisans . Pick up a Belize-carved salad set or napkin holder. How about unique book ends or Mayan wall decor? Purses, seashell crafts and jewelry, you’ll find a bit of everything in Placencia.

One of the best places for shopping in Placencia is the artisan market near the Tipsy Strip. You’ll also find a few shops in the main street downtown in the Village.

16. Maya King Waterfall

Are you up for swimming in a waterfall in the jungle of Belize? Well you need to go to Maya King Waterfall! At less than an hour from the village, it’s one of the closest activities to Placencia and it’s worth a stop.

Grab your swimming suit and expect a fun time. The waterfall is especially fun during the rainy season, June to December. You may want to bring your water shoes too, so you don’t worry about the slippery rock when walking around the falls.

The Maya King Waterfall has more to offer as well – like hiking, horseback riding, rafting and zip lining!

17. Placencia snorkeling

If you love the water, you absolutely must experience Placencia snorkeling! One of my favorite ways to snorkel is by bringing my own snorkel gear to beachy destinations. I’ve done this while snorkeling in Kauai , Turks and Caicos , Puerto Rico, Costa Rica and a ton of other beachy destinations.

I recommend buying this snorkel gear before you leave for your vacation to Belize if you want to snorkel right off the beach.

If you’re looking to snorkel the incredible reef system right off the coast of Belize, you’ll need to book a tour and get there via boat.

Best places to snorkel near Placencia:

• Silk Caye (via snorkeling tour )
• Ranguana Caye (via snorkeling tour )
• Laughing Bird Caye (via snorkeling tour )
• Placencia Beach along the coast ( with your own gear )

Pro tip: be sure to book your tour in advance, as they do sell out! Also make sure to bring your anti-nausea medicine for the boat ride if you’re on the queasy side. And pack your beach bag with a few extra snacks and drinks for the day, too!

18. Monkey river tour (one of the most popular things to do in Placencia Belize)

This! It’s a fantastic adventure and you’ll have a blast! It’s a must-see if you’re traveling to Belize with kids, too.

Explore the Monkey River and see the local wildlife including – you guessed it – Howler Monkeys . They’re the star of the show, but you’ll also get a chance at crocodiles, huge iguanas, manatees and countless birds.

The Monkey River tour is a full day from Placencia and includes lunch.

I didn’t get to take this tour while in Belize, but did experience how funny Howler Monkeys are while visiting Tikal in Guatemala. This tour is on my list next time I’m in the area!

Book it now: Monkey River tour in Belize

19. Hop on up to Hopkins Beach

One of my very favorite afternoons while visiting Belize was spent in Hopkins. It’s a laid-back beach town about an hour north of Placencia Village. If you have a rental car , it’s a fun way to enjoy a quiet afternoon.

The beaches and restaurants in Hopkins are in a picturesque setting and the perfect day enjoying the sand and surf in Belize. I loved hanging out on the beach at Coconut Row. The frozen drinks from the Coconut Husk were fantastic!

So while this isn’t in Placencia directly, if you’re looking for a low-key change of pace, Hopkins might be a good idea!

Best places to stay in Placencia

Now iff you’re wondering where to stay in Placencia, this is the list for you!

I stayed in Placencia as part of a budget trip to Belize , so I had very basic accommodations. The picturesque photo above of the cabanas on the beach was where I laid my head a few nights!

Honestly, the accommodations were very basic – few amenities and not much for modern luxuries (like A/C or a pool). But I was so busy out exploring that I put my priority on activities versus amenities.

If you want to book these super affordable cabanas in a perfect location, check the availability here .

Placencia has such a variety of properties to stay at. You won’t find mega hotels and high rises here, which is part of the allure! The list below are the best places you might want to consider.

Where to stay in Placencia Belize

• Ocean Breeze Beach Resort . It’s located right on the beach, very near the cabanas I stayed in. It’s the perfect location for walking to Placencia restaurants and shops, not to mention steps away from the beach!
• Brisa Oceano Resort . With a location in the center of town, close to the beach, and the rentals include kitchens for extra convenience, this resort is a great option for a vacation in Placencia.
• Caribbean Beach Cabanas (a PUR Hotel) . Also steps away from the beach, this property is adults-only and located at the end of the peninsula, in prime location.
• Itz’ana Resort & Residences . A little further away from the action, this beach-front property feels more secluded than the others. It’s luxurious boutique hotel vibe is the perfect romantic getaway.

During peak season (Dec – Feb) you’ll want to book property as early as possible for the best rates and to get your preferred spot!

Save money on travel with points: Check out the best credit card offers to save big money by using rewards points for flights and hotels. They’re so good; I regularly have 2-3 in my wallet and book most of my travel with points!

Whew! What a fun list, right?! I hope you’ve had fun checking out all the best activities in and around Placencia. With so many amazing things to see and do, I’m sure you’ll have a fantastic vacation!

Let’s recap those activities again in a much more condensed list…

What to do in Placencia Belize

• Beach time at Placencia Beach
• Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
• Local food: Fry Jacks
• Hang out at the Tipsy Strip
• Day trip to Xunantunich
• Visit the Nim Li Punit ruins
• Day trip to Laughing Bird Caye
• Explore Mayflower Bocawina National Park
• Find all the photo ops
• Swing on the beach
• Take a chocolate making class
• Watch a sunrise on the beach
• Gelato at Tuttifrutti Gelateria
• Kayak or paddle board
• Shopping in Placencia Belize
• Maya King Waterfall
• Placencia snorkeling
• Monkey river tour
• Hop on up to Hopkins Beach

So have you decided how you’ll spend your time in Placencia? Comment below with your plans!

Related content: Ultimate Guide to Belize: 20 Things to Do for an Epic Vacation How to Visit Belize on a Budget: Money Saving Tips & Tricks Laughing Bird Caye: Ultimate Guide to Belize’s Secret Island Belize’s Xunantunich Mayan Ruins: What to Know Before Yo u Go

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Friday 30th of June 2023

Thanks for this article and all of your suggestions. Our older son wants a beach trip for his college graduation next year and Belize sounds great (and less expensive than Jamaica, Maui, etc.

Wednesday 5th of July 2023

Oh Marni that would be a spectacular graduation gift! You'll love Belize!

Monday 19th of September 2022

This is very helpful for our upcoming trip in November to Placencia, especially booking a rental car! Hopefully it safe to leave the car overnight and easy enough to find places to go.

Tuesday 20th of September 2022

I'm so glad you found this guide helpful! I found Placencia to be incredibly safe, although use best practices like not leaving any valuables in the car when it's locked overnight and you should be fine! Enjoy your trip to Belize 💛

Tuesday 26th of April 2022

Thanks Nikki for all the excellent info and recommendations!!! I’m travelling to Placencia this weekend for a few days, I’m really looking forward to it now, I’ve just got to make my mind up on what I’d actually like to do…..laughing bird Caye is definitely on the list, as well as the Maya King waterfall!!!! Thanks again, Mike 😎

Ah that's so exciting! You'll have a great time in Placencia! You can't go wrong with Laughing Bird Caye or Maya King Waterfall - both are great! Hope you have a fantastic time :)

Sunday 31st of October 2021

Belize is on my list! Love all 19 of these fun and unique things to do in Placencia Belize.

Tuesday 9th of November 2021

Thanks! Hope you get to Belize soon!

Saturday 30th of October 2021

What a beautiful place! I love the less touristy areas, they are usually more beautiful!

Agreed, Sue! Nothing like a hidden gem to knock you off your feet and provide that incredible vacation!

Placencia, Belize: BEST Places to Visit, Stay, Eat, & Do!

Want to enjoy the laid-back natural ambiance and scenic beauty of a seaside village? Placencia, Belize, is the perfect location to visit. It’s the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of your busy life in the city.

Placencia is a serene beach village off the southern coast of Belize. There are numerous things to do in this area, including touring Monkey River, visiting the majestic Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, exploring Bocawina National Park, and enjoying local food.

Placencia is truly an experience you’ll never forget. In this article, you’ll learn about Placencia, its jaw-dropping ambiance, things to do, when to visit, how to get there, and more. Let’s dig in!

About Placencia, Belize

Placencia is a fishing shoreline settlement drenched with natural beauty. It sits at the steep edges of the 16-mile-long (26 kilometers) Placencia Peninsula in Southern Belize, Stann Creek District .

Placencia is a corruption of the Spanish word “Punta Placentia.” The name was given to the peninsula by the Spaniards in 1800. It means Point Pleasant in English. The official Belize language here is English, and the locals welcome tourists warmly.

Many people regard the village as an island , but it’s not. It’s one of the three communities of the Placencia Peninsula, a 16-mile (26 kilometers) stretch of beautiful beaches. The other two are Maya Beach and Seine Bight.

Once a sleepy coastal village, Placencia today has been transformed into a beautiful holiday destination, full of luxury resorts, bustling Beach bars, and exotic restaurants. These features mean that both international and local tourists make their way to the peninsula all year round.

Despite its recent transformation, the village retains its initial laid-back charm and all elements of nature that make it irresistible. The most popular mode of transportation here is still golf carts, and the local population is so small (below 2,000) that everyone knows when a tourist steps in.

Placencia is more than simply a destination of beach stretches, lavish restaurants, and fine resorts. It’s a location that also offers you the model jungle experience of a lifetime.

Resting 20 miles (32 kilometers) off the Belize Barrier reef, this peninsula serves the perfect blend of jungle and beach experience, whether you’re a full-time tourist or a bored workaholic.

How To Get to Placencia Peninsula

There’s no international airport here, so you’ll have to fly to an airport near Belize City. The best option is the Philip Goldson International Airport . From here, you can either take a domestic flight, taxi, rent a car or board a local bus to Placencia.

If you’re going to Placencia using the local bus in Belize city , it will take six hours to get there for approximately $15. A domestic flight is the fastest option at 30 minutes maximum and costs about $120.

If you rent a car or use a shuttle, the journey is three hours faster than traveling by bus. However, it will cost you between $150-$300 for the taxi shuttle and approximately $125 per day for a car rental service.

On arrival, you can get around the village with golf carts, taxis, bikes, cars, and your feet. The streets are very narrow, and bikes are the best fit if you want to avoid walking.

Where To Stay

There are several accommodation options in Placencia to choose from. If you have a big budget, your options begin with hotels and luxury resorts. These options afford you prime luxury, scintillating views of the Caribbean Sea, and the best hospitality on the peninsula. Many of them come with on-site dive centers, and the perks are attractive.

Some of these hotels and resorts include:

• Mariposa beach resort
• Chabil Mar hotel
• Caribbean Beach Cabanas
• Nautical Inn
• Ocean Beach Breeze Resort
• Belizean Nirvana
• Robert’s Grove Beach Resort

However, you can also opt for budget-friendly options in neighboring private islands like the Coral Caye run by Francis Ford Coppola’s Turtle Inn.

Other cost-effective options include:

• The Miramar Apartments
• Harry’s Cozy Cabanas
• Any of the high-end family vacation villas

Best Time To Visit Placencia

You can plan your trip to Placencia at any time of the year and still enjoy the beach-jungle experience. Discounts run all year round on hotel prices and fun activities. However, revelers and tourists love to visit from December to June.

During these periods, the peninsula becomes the melting pot of marine festivities like snorkeling, diving, swimming, surfing, and more. June is also the month of the Placencia Lobster Festival, which is the village’s most prestigious festival.

The Belize weather from December to April is the country’s dry season, making it perfect for vacationers, honeymoons, and families planning weekend getaways. There will be no rains to disrupt your fun – instead, the sunny blue skies are yours to enjoy.

However, you should also be prepared to squeeze out extra cash from your purse for hotel bills. Prices are higher at this time due to high demand from visitors.

If you’re a lover of arts, February is the best time to visit Placencia. You will witness the annual arts festival that converges artists from all over Belize in one spot as they display their works on the 4-foot (1.22 meter) wide Placencia sidewalk.

Things To Do in Placencia

When planning a trip to Placencia, gear up for fun. It will be a refreshing experience that will leave you feeling ecstatic, broaden your horizon, and, most of all, make you happier.

You won’t run out of things to do in Placencia, especially if you are short on time. That said, here are a few options to get you started creating your itinerary:

Take a Tour of Monkey River

You can’t afford to visit Placencia and miss this tour. Monkey River is a village situated on the fringes of Toledo, and a tour of this village allows you to soak in its rich cultural heritage and history.

You’ll experience the majestic flow of the Monkey River on a boat while birds, nature, and wildlife greet you on the side.

You will also explore the luxurious vegetation of this small Creole fishing village and get up close to crocodiles, howlers, and iguanas. You can end the day with the icing on the cake – a manatee-watching tour close to Harvest Caye.

Explore the Stunning Beaches

The Placencia Peninsula plays host to multiple picturesque Belize beaches . At every turn you take, you are met with beaches which you can explore, sunbathe, play in, hold picnics, swim, and fish. Alternatively, you can always sit back, relax, and sip a cocktail as you watch the world go by.

You can also watch the sun rise and set on the beaches, offering a scenic view you will remember long after you’ve left the beach.

The beaches also boast lush green palm trees dotting the shorelines, complementing the turquoise blue waters and providing shade for resting visitors. It’s great for taking pictures with family and friends to frame at home.

Known as the longest beach stretch in Belize, the beaches around Placencia are ideal for endless fun, eating, chit-chats, reunions, and more.

Watch Wild Jaguars at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Placencia is a haven for the wild jaguar and the best location in the world to observe these wild cats in their native habitat.

If you’re looking to go jaguar-watching, Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is where you need to be. However, jaguars are the only attraction in this natural reserve. It’s also a beautiful place to hike through the scenic mountains and picture the magical waterfalls.

The sanctuary is also home to a large diversity of monkeys and birds, which you will see as you take a tour through this lush, verdant area. That said, you will need a local guide if you want to enjoy your exploration to the fullest. We also recommend coming prepared with a swimsuit, bug spray, enough water to drink, and enthusiasm for adventure.

Explore the Peninsula, Southern Barrier Reef, and the Cayes

The coasts of Placencia are home to numerous islands referred to as “Cayes.” The Southern Barrier Reef is the main attraction in the Cayes as you witness the Barrier Reefs in their splendor while you go snorkeling on its crisp, clear waters.

Swimming and diving are on the menu here. It’s a thrilling experience you’ll never forget, and it is one of the best places in the world to go swimming with whale sharks.

If you aren’t as adventurous as to go swimming with sharks, you can still enjoy the waters from the safety of a boat. Hire a boat to take you fishing or go kayaking between islands – the crystal blue waters offer a ton of options!

As to the rest of the peninsula, you also have Seine Bight and Maya Beach to explore – after all, Placencia isn’t the only community in the peninsula, simply the one that is most popular with Belizean tourists .

The streets are a part of the fun. The main street of Placencia is remarkably narrow and made it to the Guinness Book of World Records in 2013 as the narrowest sidewalk in the world, so you definitely don’t want to miss this iconic path.

Learn How To Make Chocolates

Traveling is learning, and learning the art of chocolate making ensures you’ll have access to your favorite sweet treat no matter where you are. Additionally, you can immerse yourself in the local Maya culture when you enroll in a chocolate-making class.

In this class, you will learn how to convert cocoa beans into a chocolate paste and finally transform it into bars of chocolate. You’ll be taught by local farmers, allowing you to mingle with locals in a unique way.

Enjoy the Local Food

You can’t isolate food from the culture of a people, and your trip will be incomplete without a taste of the local food. Placencia is home to numerous restaurants that promise delicious local meals paired with world-class taste and ambiance.

No matter whether you’re looking for quaint shacks on the beaches or formal sit-down restaurants for a date night, Placencia has it all.

One of the famous meals in Belize is Fry Jack. This is also the traditional breakfast in the country, so you’ll need to get to a restaurant early if you want to experience this treat. Wash it down with a glass of juice, and you’ll be ready for a day exploring all that Placencia has to offer.

When you return, you can treat yourself to delectable seafood, including cooked barracuda, hogfish, crab, lobster, and Maya bistro plate steaks.

Visit the Tipsy Strip

The Tipsy Strip is a popular spot for fun-lovers who throng Placencia from season to season. This spot is located right on the beach on the east side of the peninsula.

It’s named after the Tipsy Tuna Sports Bar close to it and plays host to a water sports facility, an art gallery, gift shops, spa treatments, restaurants, and bars.

Things get happening in the evening thanks to live music from a variety of performers. Towards the dead of the night, the party ascends to a wilder dimension, and fun-lovers go gaga.

Explore the Bocawina National Park

It’ll take an hour to get to this park from Placencia, but it’s worth mentioning since it’s a fascinating destination that will leave you gasping for breath – and will only get better if you’re an adventurous outdoor enthusiast.

This park boasts swing ropes that drop you into a cold water pool. The swing ropes also help you get past the jungle’s steep terrains. Alternatively, you can take a hike through the jungle, where you’ll be treated to the sight of three gorgeous waterfalls. Don’t forget to get your swimsuits if you want to swim, and bug spray since it’s a rainforest region.

Other things to do when you visit Placencia include:

• Tour the Nim Li Punit Ruins
• Enjoy the Gelato at Tuttifrutti Gelateria
• Visit the laughing bird caye
• Swing on the beach
• Visit the Xunantunich

What Are the Best Places to Visit in Spanish Lookout, Belize?

When exploring Spanish lookout community , be sure to visit Barton Creek Cave to marvel at its stunning limestone formations. Don’t miss out on a guided tour of the scenic Mennonite village and its farm fields. For a taste of local culture, visit the Spanish Lookout Museum to learn about the area’s history.

What are the similarities and differences between the best places to visit and things to do in Placencia and San Ignacio, Belize?

When considering the best places to visit in Placencia, Belize, the stunning beaches and vibrant local culture stand out. In San Ignacio, Belize, the best places to visit include ancient Mayan ruins and adventurous cave tours. Both destinations offer unique experiences, but with distinct atmospheres and activities to enjoy.

Final Thoughts

Placencia is an amazing place to be and a must for your bucket list if you plan to tour the Caribbean.

It’s an ideal destination for honeymoons, reunions, family bonding, vacations, exclusive weddings, and solitude. However, you should remember to gear up properly, especially if you’re planning an adventurous day out.

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25 Things You Need to Know Before You Travel to Placencia Belize

One of the most popular destinations in Belize, Placencia is a charming, low-key fishing village located at the southern tip of the Placencia Peninsula in southeastern Belize. Bordered on one side by a lovely mangrove-lined lagoon and on the other by the Caribbean Sea, Placencia is renowned for having some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

The Placencia Peninsula measures approximately 19 miles from north to south but is just half a mile wide. With the look and feel of an island, it’s no surprise that Placencia is often described as the “caye (island) you can drive to.” But despite its popularity as a tourist destination, the main activities in Placencia are strolling the beach or motoring around on an electric golf cart.

The southeastern coast of Belize is famous for its natural beauty. Although luxury resorts and condominium developments have sprung up, Placencia has successfully managed to retain its old-world charm. Locals still head out to sea every morning in small boats to bring in the daily catch, and visitors can meander along the village’s 4,000-foot long “main street” that is a pedestrian-only sidewalk adorned with colorful murals and artwork.

Placencia is just one of three villages located on the peninsula but has lovely shops, charming cafes, seafood restaurants, a small medical clinic, and an airfield.

Whether you coming for a family vacation , a destination wedding , or romantic honeymoon , Placencia is one of the most beautiful spots in the country. It also serves as the gateway to the southern reef, a mecca for maritime activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing , and sailing.

And on the mainland, nearby attractions include hiking through the vast Cockscomb Basin Nature Reserve (home to some of Central America’s last surviving jaguars), learning about native wildlife and plants on a boat trip up the aptly named Monkey River , and touring ancient Maya ruins such as Nim Li Punit and Lubantuum.

Lonely Planet, the largest travel guide book publisher in the world describes Placencia as follows:

“How you wind up feeling about Placencia really depends on what you’re looking for. If it’s laid-back ambience, varied accommodations and some of the best restaurants in Southern Belize,  this beachfront paradise may well prove to be your personal Margaritaville. If it’s off-the-beaten-path adventure and cheaper living you’re after,Placencia might serve better as a way-station. Come on down for a few days of sandy beaches, sunny skies and great seafood before heading off to less trodden paths.”

If you are traveling to Placencia very soon, here are 25 things you need to know:

• Placencia Village sits at the very tip of the narrow 16 mile Placencia Peninsula in Southern Belize.
• Chabil Mar is located in Placencia Village. While other resorts along the Peninsula regularly advertise their location as Placencia Village, they are on the Placencia Peninsula as much as 12 miles north of the Village, in the communities of Seine Bight and Maya Beach, for instance.
• To a lot of people, the Placencia Peninsula feels like an Island but it is not. Less than 2000 people live in Placencia Village.
• The Placencia Peninsula is also home to two other communities: Seine Bight and Maya Beach.
• The name “Placencia” is actually a distortion of Punta Placentia, the name the Spaniards gave to the peninsula in the 1800s.

In English, it means Point Pleasant.

• Many people visit Placencia during the months of April, May and June to swim, dive or snorkel with giant whale sharks at the Gladden Spit Marine Reserve.
• Placencia’s Lobsterfest is the village’s most famous festival and is held in June of every year. In 2013, the Placencia Lobsterfest won an award from the Belize Tourism Board as the Festival of the Year!
• An Arts Festival is held in February each year, that brings artists from all over Belize to showcase their art along the 4071 foot (3/4 mile), 4 foot wide Placencia Sidewalk.
• Placencia was once a sleepy fishing village.
• The Placencia Peninsula boasts 16 miles of tranquil beaches.

• Placencia has a range of Belize resorts and hotels that can fit almost any budget.
• Placencia is 35 minutes away from Belize City by air.
• The road into Placencia Village is bordered by the lagoon on one side and the turquoise Caribbean on the other, and ends at the end of the Peninsula.
• Placencia is world renowned for offshore fishing, diving and snorkeling.

• The average temperature in sub-tropical Placencia is 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Anytime of the year is  good to visit Placencia.
• Getting around Placencia is very easy.
• Francis Ford Coppola, the American Film Director, Producer and Screenwriter owns a resort in Placencia.
• Placencia is home to many world class luxury resorts like Chabil Mar.
• Laughing Bird Caye is a favorite camping site for reef kayakers who base their expeditions in Placencia.
• Placencia is also known for its great food and restaurants.
• The Placencia Lagoon is an imperative breeding area for saltwater crocodiles, marine turtles and the rare and endangered manatees.

Visit our website  chabilmarvillas.com  for more information on Placencia Belize, and don’t hesitate to send us an  email , or call US/CAN Toll Free: 1-866-417-2377, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning your Belize vacation .

17 thoughts on “ 25 Things You Need to Know Before You Travel to Placencia Belize ”

Went to Placencia with Bookbag Santa group the last of July. Had an awesome time! Hope to go back next year!

We just returned this January from a two week visit The first week we spent on a catamaran from Moorings and explored the reefs. What made this extra special was our captain Dwayne, as well as being a great navigator he was a superb fisherman and chef so we enjoyed the bounty of the reefs. We were interested in the local culture and music so we spent our last three days in Hopkins, a quiet friendly place on our last night we enjoyed the punta rock at one of their eateries The only draw back were the taxi’s who could take advantage of you in their charges

I’m visiting Placencia in June. It’s nice to discover this is the season of the lobster festival and whale sharks. Thanks for the write-up.

When in February is the annual art festival in Placencia?

We are so sorry to say that the 2021 Arts Festival, typically held in February, was cancelled this year by the Placencia Town Council.

There will be an Artisan’s Market on July 3 & 4 this year, to coincide with the opening of our Lobster Season in Belize. Maybe you could make it to that celebration?

We are retired educators and traveling to Belize in August. On other similar vacations the cities and or resorts were collecting school supplies. Does Placencia have anything like that that supports students and their education?

Thank you very much for asking. Yes, we do. We have partnered with “Pack for a Purpose” to support St. John’s School in Placencia. Are you staying at Chabil Mar?

If you are not at Chabil Mar, then you can contact the St. John’s directly or bring your donations to Chabil Mar and we can get it to the school. Here is our listing with “Pack for a Purpose”. https://www.packforapurpose.org/destinations/central-america/belize/chabil-mar/

My little family of 3 will be in Placencia for Christmas this year. It is our first trip to Belize. Any happenings on Christmas? Any tips on where to snorkel and charter a boat to go out fishing and snorkeling?

Hello, Sarah. Are you staying at Chabil Mar while you are in Placencia? If you are, we suggest you contact our concierge for information about tours and to-do’s while with us. You can email them at [email protected] or call from the US/Can toll free: 1-866-417-2377

If not, another very good source of information about Placencia is the local tourism board website: http://www.placencia.com .

So glad to hear that you are coming to Placencia for the Christmas holidays! Welcome to Belize, welcome to Placencia!

Also, here’s a blog that we posted regarding the holidays in Placencia that we think you might enjoy reading: https://chabilmarvillas.com/christmas-in-belize.html

Thinking of coming down in March or April & have this question of the times : What is Covid 19 doing to you all? Restrictions include…?

Hello, Ric. Thank you for your question. We would be very pleased to have you stay with us at Chabil Mar. We have very many guests now, and December is nearly sold out for us. With regard to the restrictions in Belize, by the Government of Belize, they change so regularly that we suggest you go to the Belize Tourism Board website, travelbelize.org, where any updates are posted as they occur. They have been changing nearly monthly for the last year, so that is our recommendation for knowing what they are at any given time.

Currently, there is a curfew at 10PM on weekdays and 11PM on weekends. Mask wearing is required. At Chabil Mar, as a private, guest exclusive resort, our guests wear masks into our Registration Office, if they need to speak with a front office person, but most just call the office and both arriving and departing processes occur via email communications, what’sapp or outside on site. All tours are available and our staff wears masks at all times.

Also, for information about Villa availability in March, April, or any other dates, it is best to contact our reservations manager, Mr. Jordan. His email is: [email protected] . We do have about 25% of our Villas reserved in 2022 as of today.

Thanks again for your question. We encourage you to contact our Reservations Manager for more information.

Thinking of moving there too..hopefully the right choice..what r your dislikes about it..thanks

Quite honestly, James, we don’t have any dislikes about where we are in Placencia. We love being close to Placencia Village. As a resort serving the Belize tourism industry, being close to Placencia Village is a very good choice since there are so many local restaurants, a few beach bars, grocery stores, a pharmacy and wonderful residents. I guess the only thing to know about before moving here is the limitations on medical services if you live here full time. For visitors that is not much of an issue since they are only here a short time and we do have a clinic across the street from us.

I just retired in California I had planned to move to Belize before I retired and now here I am in Placencia I have been here two months and the people here are so amazing they are beautiful people the beaches are beautiful the food is great And the vibe it’s amazing I think I made the right move

Hello, Thomas. That is such great news from you. We concur. Living life in Placencia, Belize is beautiful because the people are beautiful. The scenery gets most of the attention, but it’s the day to day interactions with the people of Placencia that seals the deal, as they say. All the best to you.

Is this recommendable for 70 year olds on a small income to visit?

Your question brings a friendly smile to my face. I am 73 and love it in Placencia. As far as income, we hope, of course, that Chabil Mar’s luxury Villa accommodations, excellent service and amenities are affordable to you. Staying close to Placencia Village would be important to keeping costs down, while having access to the local markets so you can prepare your own food, assuming you stay at accommodations with kitchens, and, the local culture, while walking through the Village also provides much entertainment and education for free. We hope you will be able to visit with us sometime soon. Personally, I have been loving it for 16 years.

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Located in southern Belize, Placencia has become a top beach destination in the Caribbean. Lonely Planet,  the largest travel

guide book publisher in the world describes this stunning Belizean paradise as follows:

“How you wind up feeling about Placencia really depends on what you’re looking for. If it’s  laid-back ambience,

varied accommodations and some of the best restaurants in Southern Belize,  this beachfront paradise may well

prove to be your personal Margaritaville. If it’s  off-the-beaten-path adventure and cheaper living you’re after,

Placencia might serve better  as a way-station. Come on down for a few days of sandy beaches, sunny skies and great

seafood before heading off to less trodden paths.”

If you are traveling to this beautiful destination this year, here are 25 things you need to know:

• Chabil Mar is in Placencia Village, while resorts all along the Peninsula regularly advertise  their location as Placencia, they are on the Peninsula,

but as  much as 12 miles north of the Village, in the  communities of Seine Bight and Maya Beach, for instance.

• The name “Placencia” is actually a distortion of Punta Placentia, the name the Spaniards gave  to the  peninsula in the 1800s.
• The Main Street in Placencia Village is just a sidewalk! In fact, the   “ Guinness Book of World Records ”  recognizes it as the

narrowest main street in the world.

• Placencia’s Lobsterfest is the village’s most famous festival and is held in June of every year. And it won  an award from the Belize Toursim Board

in 2013 as the Festival of the Year!

• An Arts Festival is held in February each year, that brings artists from all over Belize to showcase their art  along the 4071 foot (3/4 mile),

4 foot wide Placencia Sidewalk.

• Many travelers who vacation in Placencia do the Monkey River and the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary Tours.
• Placencia has a range of resorts and hotels that can fit almost any budget.
• The road into Placencia Village is bordered by the lagoon on one side and the turquoise Caribbean on the other,  and ends at the end of the Peninsula.

• Placencia is also well known for its very laid-back, no-shoes ambience where locals go out of their way to make  sure you enjoy your visit.
• The most popular time to visit Placencia is from January through May.

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Placencia Belize Resorts & Things to Do: Placencia Travel Guide

Placencia, Belize is a destination for beach and adventure lovers.  In Placencia, experience tranquil shores, spectacular snorkeling and scuba, and laid-back beach bars in a small-town setting.  On its own or part of a longer Belize itinerary, Placencia resorts, beaches and tours make for a stress-free tropical getaway.

Belize first landed on my vacation radar as a place to see whale sharks in the wild.  Upon researching it, though, I discovered that the window of time is very limited: a few days before and after the full moons in April, May, and June.  But there are so many other options for amazing snorkeling, as well as chilled-out beach towns, that I quickly added Belize to my bucket list.

When I traveled to Belize, my first stop of Placencia did not disappoint: it’s been my favorite snorkeling destination yet, and I loved its small-town island vibes.  The friendly people and atmosphere reminded me of the Florida Keys , another favorite beach vacation!

In this travel guide, I’ll share tips on the best Placencia Belize resorts for your stay, as well as Belize Airbnb rentals, things to do, plus bonus planning and packing tips.  Ready for a beach getaway?

Pin this Placencia Belize Guide to your travel inspo board!

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In this Guide to Placencia, Belize Resorts, Airbnbs & Tours

Belize Travel Basics | Where to Stay in Placencia | Placencia Belize Resorts | Airbnb Placencia Stays | Placencia Belize Things to Do | Best Time to Visit | Getting to Placencia | Placencia Packing Tips

Belize Travel Basics

Language: The official language of Belize is English, due to its former status as a colony known as British Honduras.  Many Belizeans also speak a creole patois known as Kriol. Currency: Belize currency is known as the Belize Dollar, abbreviated as BZ$.  The exchange rate is locked at 2 BZ$ to 1 USD.  You do not need to exchange US Dollars when you arrive in Belize; most merchants will accept it, but might return change in BZ$.  Try to take newer bills in denominations of $20 or smaller.  ATMs are available in most tourist destinations. Belize cuisine:   Rice and beans with stew chicken is a Belizean staple, served with a side of plantains.  The Maya influence in Belize is still seen though foods like tamales and marinated cochinita pibil pork.  And of course, ceviche, fresh fish and seafood are abundant.  Belize’s most popular beer is Belikin, available in lager and stout. Souvenirs: Popular souvenirs of Belize are woven baskets, artisan wood carvings, Marie Sharp’s hot sauce, chocolate, and One Barrel Rum. Instagram tips: Get ready with your punniest captions, including “You better Belize it,” “The snorkeling was un-Belize-able,” and “Belize it or not, I’m staying an extra week.” Safety in Belize: Find updated Belize information and advisories from the US State Department here .

Where to Stay in Placencia Belize

The Placencia Peninsula is a narrow, 16-mile stretch of golden beaches ending in the town of Placencia.  Between the peninsula and the mainland lies the mangrove-lined Placencia lagoon, home to manatees, marine turtles, and saltwater crocodiles.  

The other side of the peninsula faces the Caribbean Sea and the Belize Barrier Reef, a section of the Mesoamerican Barrier reef which begins near Cancun and continues to Guatemala and Honduras.  

There are many Placencia accommodation options, from budget stays to mid-range boutique hotels and luxury resorts. I’ve got tips on all, including Placencia Airbnb stays.

The Best Place to Stay in Placencia

For first time visitors and those wanting to experience the laid-back atmosphere here, the best place to stay is the Placencia Village, at the southern end of the peninsula. 

North of Placencia Village, there are luxury resorts in Maya Beach that include “Placencia” in their name. There are also luxury resorts at the edge of the village which are just a quick bike or golf cart ride away. If you’re looking to disconnect in a luxury setting, one of these resorts might suit you best.

The Placencia Sidewalk

Many Placencia resorts and vacation rentals are located in the village along the Placencia Sidewalk.  This is a pedestrian-only “main street” just 4 feet wide, which you can follow more than 4,000 feet through the colorful homes and shops of Placencia Village.  Local artists showcase their work here, and it’s a popular place to stroll in the early evenings.

Placencia Belize Resorts

In Placencia, you’ll find hidden gems that offer romantic beach views with a side of luxury, plus fantastic home bases close to the restaurants and beach bars of the village. Whether you’re headed to Placencia with someone special or planning a family getaway, these hand-picked Placencia resorts will provide an escape at prices anyone can afford.

Caribbean Beach Cabanas – A PUR Hotel | Beachfront Placencia Resort

Caribbean Beach Cabanas is a stylish beachfront Placencia resort, conveniently located on the Placencia Sidewalk, but far enough away that it is secluded and peaceful. Each cabana has a kitchen and balcony, while the larger 2-bedroom cabanas also feature a living area. The resort also has a pool, beach area, sun deck, free parking, and complimentary paddleboards, kayaks, and bikes.

If this resort is available, don’t hesitate to book! It has spectacular reviews for attentive service, and is perfect for couples, families and friends visiting Placencia.

Miramar Apartments | Oceanfront Placencia Belize Resort

The Miramar Apartments are located along the Placencia Sidewalk, within easy walking distance to restaurants and shops in town. Each apartment has its own kitchen, dinette, and balcony, making this a perfect extended stay option. The oceanfront apartments also feature a shared pool, free parking, a terrace with barbecue grills, and free rental bikes for getting around the village.

Ocean Breeze | Beachfront Placencia Belize Resort

Located in Placencia Village on the Placencia Sidewalk, Ocean Breeze resort offers bright studios and one-bedroom suites for up to 4 guests with kitchenettes and balconies. Resort amenities include a pool, swim-up bar, sun deck with barbecues, and free bicycles. Ocean Breeze gets exceptional reviews for helpfulness of staff, sparkling clean rooms, and convenient location.

Chabil Mar Villas | Boutique Placencia Beach Resort

The luxury Chabil Mar Villas are located just steps from the Placencia Beach with an outdoor pool, a bar-restaurant and stylish villas with partial or full sea views. The Chabil Mar Villas are located just outside of town, but bikes are available or inquire about renting a golf cart. With two pools, a gorgeous garden setting, onsite bar and restaurant, and secluded beach, Chabil Mar is perfect for a romantic getaway, family vacation, or honeymoon.

More Beachfront Placencia Belize Resorts

The Placencia, a Muy’Ono Resort

The posh Placencia, a Muy’Ono Resort, is a luxury pick located in North Maya Beach, about 10 miles north of Placencia Village. With an outdoor pool, spa, wellness center, a private beach area and a tennis court, this is a perfect honeymoon or couples option for a chic retreat.

Turtle Inn is a luxe beach getaway located about 1.5 miles outside of Placencia Village. Featuring an outdoor pool and a spa, Turtle Inn cottages and villas are located on a private beach with garden or sea views.

The Village Inn

This was where we stayed, at the edge of the Village. I rented a golf cart to get around since it wasn’t on the Sidewalk, but this was a quiet retreat that I really enjoyed. With kitchens, porches with hammocks, and a private beach area, plus friendly staff.

Belizean Nirvana

Belizean Nirvana is located on the Placencia Sidewalk, just steps to the beach as well as restaurants and shops. With a private beach area, lanai, airport shuttle, kitchenettes, and breakfast included, Belizean Nirvana is a top Placencia resort with great reviews.

Placencia Airbnb & VRBO Rentals

Want more Belize travel tips and unique stays in Placencia? Don’t miss my guide to the best Airbnbs in Belize: jungle getaways, beach escapes, and luxury private island rentals!

Airbnb Belize Stays With Un-Belize-able Charm & Luxury!

Plan a tropical escape with these Airbnb Belize stays: luxury homes, Belize Airbnb islands + chic condos for beaches, snorkeling & adventures. Includes options with pools and kitchens, at prices anyone can afford.

Things to do in Placencia, Belize

The Belize Barrier Reef just off the coast of the Placencia Peninsula is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. This makes for fantastic snorkeling, scuba diving, and sport fishing opportunities! The coastline of Belize makes up 30% of this reef system, including protected areas and parks.

Placencia also has many options for nature adventures on land as well including hiking, boat trips, exploring the jungle, and even ancient Maya ruins.

It’s possible to arrange tours from local outfits in the Village and along the Placencia Sidewalk once you arrive. But if you’re visiting during peak season, or will have only a few days, you might want to book online ahead of time. I’ll include links to tour companies with online bookings and good reviews, so you can be sure to fit in the sights you want to see!

Interested in more snorkeling adventures on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef? Don’t miss my guide to visiting Utila, Honduras !

Utila Honduras: Things to Do + Complete Travel Guide

Escape to Utila, Honduras for amazing diving, snorkeling and beaches! Things to do in Utila, where to stay + complete travel guide.

Placencia Belize Snorkeling & Scuba Diving

Placencia is a great destination for both snorkeling and scuba diving enthusiasts. The dive shops here also offer PADI Open Water Certification for anyone who wants to get scuba certified.

I recommend at least one snorkeling tour in Placencia. The corals are so beautiful, and it’s exciting to see colorful tropical fish, rays, nurse sharks, and sea turtles. We even saw a spotted eagle ray!

If you’re worried about snorkeling from a boat rather than the beach, your tour company can provide a life jacket for you to wear.

Laughing Bird Caye

Just 10 miles off the coast of Placencia, Laughing Bird Caye is a tiny island and popular day trip for scuba and snorkeling. Laughing Bird Caye is a national park named for the Laughing Gull, which used to breed on the island. The small island’s position on a faro – an angular atoll on a continental shelf – contributes to its abundance of coral habitats and marine life.

Laughing Bird is both a snorkeling and diving location, with many options for day trips from local tour companies. Most tours include a picnic lunch on the island. We went to Laughing Bird with the Splash Dive Center, which offers online booking here for Laughing Bird Caye snorkeling. Splash is a larger dive center just at the edge of the village (less than 1 mile), which was very professional.

Gladden Spit & Silk Cayes

If you have to choose just one snorkeling tour in Placencia, I would choose the Silk Cayes. It’s possible to snorkel with sharks and rays here, as well as see other marine life like sea turtles and fish, and many coral formations. As with day trips to Laughing Bird, a picnic or barbecue lunch is usually included.

Our tour included two guided snorkels from the beach and another from the boat, where we got to see a sea turtle and spotted eagle ray (which I was super excited about). We also saw butterflyfish, parrotfish, and many types of coral. The water was very clear and visibility good.

One thing to note: the Silk Cayes Marine Reserve is about a 1-hour boat trip from the Placencia dock. Be sure to bring what you’ll need for the day including reef-safe sunscreen ( see my packing tips below ) and take Dramamine if you have a tendency to get motion sickness. This is a good outing to book early in your trip, in case you get a day with big waves and it has to be rescheduled.

We went to the Silk Cayes with Seahorse Dive Shop , a friendly local snorkeling and diving company, which I recommend. To read reviews and book online with instant confirmation, you can book with Splash Dive Center here for Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes snorkeling. We went with them to Laughing Bird Caye and had a great experience.

In comparing the two companies, in my opinion Splash is a larger outfit, with newer boats and equipment; while Seahorse is a smaller local outfit with a friendly feel. I would definitely book with both again.

Need a Camera for Snorkeling?

All of my underwater snorkeling photos above were taken with an Olympus Tough TG . Waterproof to 50 feet, it also takes good underwater videos and photos on land! It’s easy to switch between photo and video modes underwater, too. Be sure to get the floating wrist strap and case with a clip to secure it for your adventures. If you want to take video, check out the new GoPro Hero10 Black with Hypersmooth image stabilization.

Deep Sea Fishing

Sport fishing aficionados can spend a day chasing marlin, tuna, wahoo, snapper, grouper, mackerel, jacks, and more. Blue Reef Adventures, On the Hook, and Placencia Fishing Charters are companies with good reviews.

If you’d like to book online, Placencia Fishing Charters has options for Outer/Inner Reef Fishing and Inner Reef Fishing with instant booking and confirmation. Or book a combo tour with snorkeling and “island time” – perfect for a family or group with varied interests!

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Spend a adventurous day hiking, inner tubing, and exploring the world’s only jaguar preserve at Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary! The jungle sanctuary covers about 150 square miles of tropical forest. Hike to Ben’s Bluff and cool off in a secluded waterfall before a leisurely inner tube float. Most tours here include a picnic lunch.

Note: Jaguars are masters of stealth, so it’s unlikely you will see one. 🙁 It’s more common to see jaguarundi, peccary, howler monkeys, gibnut, agouti, snakes, coatamundi, and over 300 bird species.

Check out tour reviews and book online with Splash Dive Center or Barefoot Services .

Island Hopping in a Private Charter

Want to punch up your Instagram? Book a private catamaran charter to island hop for a day! Snorkel and explore pristine beaches with a private charter and captain. Check out Daytripper and Nautical Adventures . Or spend all day on a private island with this day trip to Ranguana Island .

Monkey River

The village of Monkey River, located about 15 miles south of Placencia, is home to abundant flora and fauna. It’s possible to see many tropical birds, butterflies, crocodiles, iguanas, howler monkeys, and manatees. Tours here often include seeing local life in this fishing village with no cars and only two streets! Book online with Untame Belize.

Day Trip to See Mayan Ruins

If, like me, you enjoy your vacations with a side of history, consider adding on a day trip to explore the Maya ruins of Xunantunich. The core of the ancient city covers about one square mile, and is made up of a series of six plazas surrounded by more than 26 temples and palaces. El Castillo, the main temple, is the second-tallest structure in Belize at 130 feet tall. You can climb it for views over the site.

The Xunantunich ruins are located deep in the jungle several hours from Placencia, so some companies offer this trip by small plane. Or book an adventure tour that includes Xunantunich and cave tubing or this option that adds ziplining too.

Love ruins and history sites? Check out my Mexico ruins guide with history, visit tips, and virtual and in-person tours!

Ultimate Mexico Ruins Guide: 20+ Best Mayan & Aztec Ruins

Love history and ruins? Don’t miss my guide to the best ruins in Mexico for your bucket list, including top day trip tours to visit each!

More Placencia Tours

Some Belize sights are best explored from other cities like San Ignacio or Belize City. But if you’ve picked Placencia as your base and are looking for more adventures, check out these other tours includng the famous Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave, Blue Hole, and even Maya ruins at Tikal in Guatemala!

Restaurants and Bars in Placencia

What should you eat in Belize? Rice and beans with stew chicken is a Belizean staple.  The Maya influence in Belize is still seen in food like tamales and marinated cochinita pibil pork.  And of course, you’ll also find ceviche, fresh fish and seafood on most menus. 

Belize’s most popular beer is Belikin, available in lager and stout. As in many Caribbean countries, rum is practically a way of life: popular rum drinks include rum with cranberry juice and rum punch.

Placencia Beach bars to check out: Barefoot Beach Bar | Tipsy Tuna

Restaurants: Rumfish y Vino Maya Beach Hotel Bistro | Omars Creole Grub

When to Visit Placencia, Belize

The best time of the year to visit Placencia is during the dry season, from December to May.  This is also the busiest tourist season, but you’re practically guaranteed sunny skies and dry days for all of your adventures.  I visited in mid-April and had perfect weather; it was a bit busy, but not overrun by tourists.

• Check Placencia weather averages for your vacation dates

If you want to try your luck at seeing whale sharks, local lore says that April, May and June are your best chance.  For a few days before the full moon and up to 10 days after, it’s possible to see whale sharks in the Gladden Spit and Silk Cayes.

If you’re hooked on whale sharks, check out my guide to visiting La Paz, Mexico in Baja California, where they’re seen daily inside the La Paz Bay.

How to Get to Placencia

Placencia is located about 130 miles south of Belize City and can be reached by car along the Southern Highway. There are inexpensive buses that depart every few hours from Belize City.

Placencia also has a small airport (PLJ), which is about 10 minutes north of Placencia Village.

To get to Placencia via bus from Belize City, buses take about 4.5 hours and depart twice daily.

• Check bus schedules from Belize City to Placencia

Belize Airlines

Two airlines operate within Belize: Maya Island Air and Tropic Air. I ended up flying both during my travels there, and both were fine.

The planes are very small, though – I was surprised to be able to sit next to the captain! Your flight might also make stops at other airports along the way to let some passengers off and allow others to board. (I experienced this in Brazil, so this part didn’t freak me out!)

On one of my trips back to Belize City, our flight stopped at both the Belize City Municipal Airport (TZA) and the Philip Goldson International Airport (BZE). Just ask the captain to be sure you’re getting off at the right stop.

• Search flights: Maya Island Air | Tropic Air

Note that Tropic Air has a bit better reviews on TripAdvisor . Also when I booked with Maya Island Air, there was no confirmation page, which caused me to think the sale didn’t go through. I later received two confirmations and realized I had double booked. After talking to customer service and following up via email, I did get refunded, but it could not be credited back for two weeks.

Getting Around Placencia

When I arrived, taxi drivers were there to meet incoming flights and shuttle passengers to resorts or to the Village.  Many resorts also offer airport shuttle service, which is an easy way to be sure you have a ride!

Or book a private transfer to have a car waiting when you arrive: this option has online booking and good reviews.

Once in Placencia, you’ll be able to walk to most spots in the Village. Or you can rent a golf cart at one of the local shops or with the help of your resort. Many resorts also provide bikes to get around.

What to Pack for Placencia

Placencia Village is a very laid-back beach destination. It’s definitely a place where you can pack shorts, t-shirts, and casual dresses for evenings out. I recommend also bringing a cardigan or light jacket for cooler evenings.

If you’re staying at a luxury resort, you’ll probably want to pack a few more dresses for dinners at the resort. Men might want to bring khakis for cool weather or nicer dinners; but the most “dressed up” I saw guys in Placencia was shorts and a polo or short-sleeve button down.

You’re probably gonna want a packable sun hat and a cute straw bag too 😉

Swimwear and Rashguards

Pack at least 2 bathing suits and cover-ups or sarongs for pool and beach time. The Caribbean sun is very strong, so for snorkeling trips, I also recommend a rashguard shirt with UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor).  In fact, if you burn easily, you might even want UPF capris or tights so that your backside doesn’t get burnt (true story, so painful!) .

Gear for Beaches, Snorkeling & Day Trips

A dry-bag is a must-have for any boat trips. It will keep your extra clothing, phone, wallet, etc. dry, and it’s easy to take ashore. You might also want a mesh beach bag or cute beach tote .

I also recommend a pair of hiking sandals – my favorites are these from Keen . They give you a little slip resistance for boats and wet rocks, and you can even swim in them!

Some tours and most hotels will provide beach towels, but I always bring an extra along. Quick-dry microfiber towels are easy to pack, or check out this plush option or a beach blanket towel .

Most day trips include snorkeling gear. But if you’d like to have your own, this kit from Cressi includes a bag. I tend to travel with just my mask and a tube, and use flippers from the rental company. I wear glasses, so I have a mask that lets you switch the lenses for Rx lenses like this one .

Sunscreen, Bug Spray & Toiletries

Be sure to pack reef-friendly sunscreen. Sun Bum is a great brand with options for face lotion , high-SPF sunscreen , and after-sun care .

The mosquitos are the only not laid-back creatures in Placencia! For tropical destinations, I always pack Ben’s bug repellent spray and wipes that I can tuck into my purse.

Want more packing tips?

Get my full packing list for snorkeling trips and liveaboard adventures and check out my list of favorite gear . Plus, sign up for my mailing list to get free packing list planners and links to my curated Amazon gear lists including quick-ship travel-size toiletries!

Safety Note: USCG Approved Life Jackets for Kids

Tour companies should provide life jackets for all passengers, but it’s especially important for children to have a life jacket (or personal flotation device – PFD) that is meant for their age, size and weight and approved by the US Coast Guard (USGC). USGC ratings specify that jackets for infants and small children should have a padded head support, grab handle, and crotch strap to keep it from riding up (and the child from slipping out).

Learn more here and get tips from REI including getting kids used to jackets ahead of time at home. 

Love Caribbean adventures?

Don’t miss my tips on visiting Utila Honduras , the best Belize Airbnbs and guides to the Virgin Islands: catamaran sailing charters , and sights and stays of St. John and St. Thomas !

Sailing the Virgin Islands: Airbnb & VRBO Catamaran Charters

Plan your best vacation ever with family or friends: sailing the Virgin Islands in a catamaran for beaches, snorkeling, and laid-back beach bars in the US Virgin Islands & British Virgin Islands!

Pin this Placencia Travel Guide to your travel inspo board!

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I was a travel hot mess, but I got better! I kept the name and now blog my best tips for culture + adventure travel from around the globe. Follow along for travel advice, destination guides, and photography from faraway lands and at home in Washington, DC.

Travel Writer | Photographer | Licensed Drone Pilot Member, Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)

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10 Amazing Day Trips You Can Take from Placencia

Placencia belize tours.

Placencia, in southern Belize, is one of the most popular destinations in the country. Home to golden sands, boutique cafes, and an idyllic Caribbean vibe, Placencia is a great place to visit for locals and international visitors alike.

And while you’re in Placencia, you can enjoy amazing day trips such as these:

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary 

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary (CBWS) is one of the most interesting wild areas on the planet. Home to the world’s only jaguar conservation project, the CBWS is a vast, trackless enclave that contains mountains, valleys, wetlands, and a cornucopia of plant, bird, and animal life.

Monkey River 

The Monkey River is a well-named watercourse running through some of Belize’s lushest jungle before terminating in the Caribbean just a few miles north of Placencia. Boat tours on the Monkey River are a great way to see more of the abundant wildlife in Belize, including black howler monkeys, as well as visit traditional villages.

Laughing Bird Caye 

One of Belize’s most beautiful protected marine environments on the reef, Laughing Bird Caye is home to an abundance of dive sites that are far off the beaten path. With shallow lagoons and coastal waters, Laughing Bird Caye is a great place for beginning divers as well as nature lovers who come to admire some of the many seabirds that nest in this area.

Scuba Diving and Snorkeling 

With clear, shallow waters and a bright white sandy seafloor, scuba diving or snorkeling on the Belize Barrier Reef near Placencia is like jumping into an enormous aquarium filled with colorful fish and exotic marine creatures like rays, sharks, dolphins, sea turtles, and manatees.

Whether you’re trying to catch your dinner or want to complete your personal Grand Slam, the fishing in and around Placencia is spectacular. All year long, gamefish such as snook, tarpon, barracuda, bonefish, and permit abound. Whether it’s fly fishing from the flats or deep fishing for marlin and sailfish on the outer edge of the reef, Placencia is a popular destination for anglers from around the world.

Barefoot Rentals and Services , a locally owned tourism services company based right in southern Belize, is your go-to company when visiting Placencia. Barefoot also organizes day trips to all of the destinations listed above and many more .

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• Click for Covid-19 Info Belize’s Tourism Health & Safety: The Gold Standard for Belize Travel

Getting Around Placencia: Two Fun Ways to Explore the Peninsula

If you enjoy a more relaxed pace of travel, one in which you immerse yourself in a place and venture off the well-beaten path as opposed to racing through just the top attractions of a destination, then you might be a “slow traveler.”  With warm and welcoming people, a plethora of mom-and-pop shops rather than big chains or franchises, and more hidden gems than a pirate’s treasure chest, Belize perfectly appeals to the slow traveler type.  Take an unhurried approach to exploring the cute and casual communities along the Placencia Peninsula and delve deeper than just a cursory surface glance.  Here are two fun ways to get around Placencia, and as a bonus, reduce your carbon footprint!

Get Around Placencia By Bicycle

The preferred mode of transportation among locals for quick commutes to school, work, the vegetable stand, or the beach is by bicycle.  Particularly within the epicenters of Placencia or Seine Bight Village, where parking is at a premium, bicycling is often the quickest and most convenient way to get around.  Many accommodations large and small on the peninsula provide bicycles for their guest’s use.  Turtle Inn , for example, has a huge fleet of impeccably maintained cruisers but if you need to rent some wheels you will find a few options.  One World Gift Shop on the Main Road across from Placencia’s football field offers half-day, whole-day, and week-long bike rentals at very reasonable rates.

Detour off the main road and wind your way through neighborhoods where local life is lived.  Wave a good morning greeting to the woman hanging laundry on her line in the yard and dodge the pack of friendly puppies out for a roadside roam.  Some of the best, authentic cuisine can be found in humble little take-away stands just off the main drag.  To find them, simply peddle slow and follow your nose.

Or Explore By Golf Cart

Photo courtesy Captain Jak’s

Golf carts are surely the second most popular means of transport, and you can travel the entire length of the peninsula on one.  Open-air and more fuel-efficient than traditional motor vehicles, golf carts aren’t just fun, they’re an eco-friendly way to get around too. 

While personally propelling your own pedals is great, golf cart rentals are an easier option for families and can extend your range of exploration, particularly on hot and sunny days.  4-seater, 6-seater, and even deluxe 8-seater golf carts are available to rent, making them perfect for any size group of slow-travel expeditioners.  Captain Jak’s has the largest and newest fleet of golf carts on the peninsula, and they can be rented for as few as 4 hours or by the week. 

Begin at one end of the peninsula and lazily plod your way along the narrow slip of land, stopping in at beachside watering holes to refresh yourselves.  If wandering without a destination in mind doesn’t quite align with you, plan your outing to end at either Maya Beach’s Jaguar Lanes bowling alley or Inky’s 18-hole mini golf course at Sirenian Bay Resort for some casual competition.  Getting up and down the Placencia Peninsula by golf cart is a breeze and because they’re equipped with turn signals, horns, and headlights, they’re a safe mode of transport even at night.

Whether by two wheels or four, be sure to take it easy and soak in the sights, scents, and sounds of the Peninsula while you make your slow travel exploration of Placencia.  

Featured Photo courtesy of Captain Jak’s

Megan Rodden

Megan's motto is "work less, play more" and that mantra became the inspiration for both her move to Belize in 2017 and the life she chronicles on her personal blog. She's always on the lookout for the next adventure and delights in daily opportunities to learn more about the fascinating cultures, cuisines, history, and landscapes of this beautiful country. Megan's background in Social Services and Broadcast Media has forged her into a Jack-of-many-trades and a master of none. But that's just fine with her, as she values experiences over achievements.  

Coral Caye: The Belize Holiday Hideaway to Exceed All Your Travel Expectations

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Placencia, Hopkins or where with our young adult daughter - Belize Forum

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Placencia, Hopkins or where with our young adult daughter

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I’ve been researching a bit, and I think like the towns mentioned above, but I have some hesitation when it comes to our daughter & her friend. It would be nice for them to have access to a teenie bit of nightlife if they want, but I really don’t like the all-inclusive atmosphere of Mexico, etc. Are the towns I mentioned too “sleepy” for young adults who may want to meet some other young adults or are they the right fit? These kids aren’t big partiers, but they do like to have fun. Your thoughts?

We maintain a calendar of daily events in Placencia. Take look at it to see what a typical week looks like here.

https://realliferecess.com/events-calendar-placencia-belize/

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Belize Hotels and Places to Stay

10 Best Places To Visit In Belize In 2024

B elize is a magnificent country tucked between Mexico and Guatemala, with a long stretch of coastline along the Caribbean Sea. We spent a week in Belize during our Central America backpacking trip and could’ve easily stayed much longer! 

I was blown away by the kindness of the local people and their vibrant energy. Not to mention the stunning beaches and relaxed island lifestyles. I loved nature and wildlife and just how welcoming Belize felt.

Belize is not only a perfect destination to visit on its own and spend a week or two exploring but you could also easily combine it with a longer trip from Mexico to Guatemala for example, thanks to its relatively small size. 

With so many incredible places to visit in Belize, this list will give you all of the best options to choose the perfect destinations for you.

Best Places To Visit In Belize

Belize may be a small country but there are so many great places in this beautiful country.

Here are the top 10 best places to visit in Belize.

1 – Caye Caulker

Caye Caulker is a small island with a very relaxed and laid-back vibe . In fact, it is more correct to describe it as 2 islands since it was hit by a hurricane in 1961 and torn in two. Naturally, the locals took this in their stride and this narrow channel of sea between the 2 islands is now named ‘The Split’.

The Split is a popular place to hang out and enjoy the beautiful clear waters. There is a great beach bar by the split called the Lazy Lizard, where I highly recommend spending an afternoon. 

Caye Caulker is well known for being a backpacker hub , especially around the main town. You will find plenty of hostels and bars to meet fellow travelers. We loved the beachside coffee shack called Ice & Beans. They do great coffee and have hammocks on the beach so you can swing while you sip.

If you are looking for something a little more luxurious, on the other side of The Split you will find more resor t s and hotels that are geared more toward families visiting Belize with kids .

2 – Ambergris Caye

Ambergris Caye is one of the best Caribbean islands for families . The largest of the Belizean islands, and one of the most popular places to visit in Belize, Ambergris Caye is around 25 miles long but no wider than 1 mile .

The main town is San Pedro, towards the south of the island. There are a lot of things to do in San Pedro , as it is a bustling hub with a much more authentic feel than Caye Caulker. 

In this town, you will find more local people going about their day-to-day lives than you will tourists.

We stayed at the Sandbar Beachfront Hostel and this was one of the best hostels we found in Central America . Located right on the beach they have a private pier over the water, a great pool and the restaurant makes the best pizzas!

If you head further north along Ambergris Caye you will find many quiet and stunning beaches with breathtaking turquoise waters. From the shores of the island, you can even see the Barrier Reef that runs alongside Belize.

3 – San Ignacio

Found just a short drive from the Belize-Guatemala border is the town of San Ignacio. Located in far western Belize , it is often used as a stopover by travelers heading from one country to the other. But the town of San Ignacio actually has an awful lot to offer.

San Ignacio is a small town and can be explored on foot , you can take a stroll along the river or head to the big local market for some fresh fruit or homemade local delicacies. 

San Ignacio has a lot to do , and is a great place to base yourself if you want to visit the ATM Cave (Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave) or explore some of the other places mentioned on this list such as Caracol or Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.

San Ignacio is also home to its very own Mayan Ruins site called Cahal Pech .

Cahal Pech is only $5 USD to enter and when we visited we had the entire site to ourselves for hours! You are even allowed to climb the Pyramids still at this site.

If you are heading from Belize to Guatemala, it is worth spending a couple of days in San Ignacio before moving on to Guatemala .

ALSO READ: WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING GUATEMALA WITH KIDS

4 – Hopkins

Hopkins is a quiet and peaceful beach village located in the south of the country. It is steadily growing in popularity among travelers but this south Belize gem still maintains its authentic nature, food and culture . This is what visitors love most about Hopkins. 

You can enjoy the quiet, pristine beaches in peace and get a real experience of the way of life in this area. One of the most special things to do while in Hopkins is experience the Garifuna drumming . An art that is only practiced in a handful of places still, so it is not to be missed. 

The Garifuna people are of mixed Afro-Caribbean descent. They immigrated from the island of Saint Vincent to Belize, settling primarily in the coastal areas, like Hopkins, where Garifuna culture is a celebrated part of the visitor experience.

Hopkins is also the best place to stay if you want to explore the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Jaguar Reserve . This is one of the only Jaguar reserves in the world.

You can join a tour to hike through the reserve , swimming in beautiful waterfalls as you keep your eyes peeled for a rare glimpse of a Jaguar.

5 – Belize City

If you are flying directly to Belize then you will be landing in Belize City as this is the only international airport in the country . It then makes sense that you may want to spend a day or two exploring the country’s capital city. 

There is a surprising amount of colonial history and architecture to be found throughout the city and the best way to experience it all is on a guided tour of the city . This way you will have a local guide who can explain more about what you are seeing as well as advising on the safe areas to stick to around the city.

Some more great spots to have on your itinerary in Belize City are the government buildings, St John’s Cathedral and the Museum of Belize.

Spend a day exploring these sites before you head out to the Cayes and you will really be able to appreciate the contrast between city and island life.

6 – The Blue Hole

Perhaps one of the most iconic and well-known places to visit in Belize is the magnificent Blue Hole . This incredibly unique sinkhole is a natural wonder that is located around 43 miles off the coast of Belize.

It is possible to experience the Blue Hole by boat or from above in a helicopter or small plane. Boat trips are best from Ambergris Caye as this is closer to the hole and the journey will be 3-4 hours each way.

Flights also leave from the small airstrip in San Pedro each day to take tourists on an hour-long flight over the hole .

It is also known to be one of the most sought-after dive sites in the world , drawing experienced divers from far and wide to experience its mysterious depths.

7 – Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley

Belize is located right next to the second-largest barrier reef in the world . If you are an ocean lover then no trip to Belize should be complete without taking a diving or snorkeling trip out to Hol Chan Marine Reserve on the Belize Barrier Reef.

The reef is a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising seven protected areas, including the Blue Hole, Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and stretching as far south as the South Water Caye Marine Reserve and Sapodilla Cayes Marine Reserve, located off the shores of Placencia. 

We did a combination of snorkeling and diving and were blown away. Hol Chan Marine Reserve is home to hundreds of colorful fish, rays and sea turtles and the water visibility is great.

Shark Ray Alley is an incredible spot that is now home to hundreds of friendly nurse sharks and rays. You can jump right in and swim amongst them. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. These waters are also home to Manatees .

We were lucky enough to see one and they are much larger than we expected.

Hol Chan Marine Reserve can be accessed by boat from either Ambergris Caye or Caye Caulker .

8 – Caracol Mayan Ruins

Belize is known for its impressive Mayan ruins. The ancient Mayan archeological site of Caracol is pretty special.

It’s no secret that there are hundreds of Maya sites in Belize , as well as sprinkled across Mexico and Guatemala. While there are a few more famous than Caracol, like Tikal in Guatemala and Chichén Itzá in Mexico, Caracol is seriously underrated.

This impressive site is buried deep within the Belize jungles, 2 hours from the nearest town and no public transport goes there. Making this one of the most off-the-beaten-path places to visit in Belize.

You will need to join a tour or rent a 4×4 to get there as there is an hour of driving off road before you reach the site.

Caracol was once one of the major Maya hubs, covering an area of 55 square miles. Now the main pyramids have been uncovered and tower over the jungle.

9 – Placencia

Placencia is the most southern beach destination on this list, located a little further south along the coast from Hopkins. 

This sleepy fishing village is slowly becoming a favorite among travelers thanks to its small and charming main street, lack of traffic and incredible beaches.

Placencia is the name of the village that sits at the end of the 16 mile-long Placencia Peninsula. The narrow strip of land is only half a mile wide at its widest point making it very much feel like a remote caye.

Luckily for us, it has all the vibes of a gorgeous caye but we can drive there. It is still largely undeveloped and mostly inhabited by locals. You will find no high rises here.

Each morning the local fishermen still head out in their boats around the peninsula and during the summer months, this is an ideal spot to head out on a snorkeling tour find Whale sharks.

10 – Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve

The Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve is a unique landscape in Belize. You won’t find the iconic pine trees in the other jungles across the country.

This entrance to the reserve is around a 45-minute drive from San Ignacio . It is possible to drive yourself however the roads inside the reserve can get treacherous after rainfall. The best way to visit the pine forest reserve is on a guided tour . 

A tour can take you to multiple spots in a day so you make the most out of your time there. The reserve is home to beautiful towering waterfalls as well as smaller rock pools like Rio On Pools which are perfect for swimming. 

It is also where you can find the impressive Rio Frio cave . An enormous cave that leads to a huge underground river system. It is well worth a trip to this wonderful nature spot if you enjoy time in the great outdoors.

BOOK A TOUR TO RIO ON POOLS, RIO FRIO CAVE, AND THE CARACOL MAYAN RUINS

Best Places To Visit In Belize FAQs

If you’re planning a trip to any of the best places to visit in Belize, you likely have some other questions about this Central American destination.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Belize.

What part of Belize is best to stay in?

If you are looking for beautiful beaches and to meet lots of fellow travelers then you should stay on Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. The water around the cayes is shallow and calm, which is ideal if visiting on a Belize family vacation . 

If you want beaches but peace and quiet then you should stay along the beaches in the south of the country. If you are looking to experience the jungles and Mayan ruins then you should stay in San Ignacio.

The jungles around San Ignacio are also home to some beautiful eco-lodges that are great for a peaceful escape.

How long do you need in Belize?

I would recommend spending no less than one week in Belize to get the most out of your time there.

Ten days or more would be the ideal amount of time if you want to experience the islands and the coastal area along the mainland, as well as see the Mayan ruins and the jungles in western Belize.

If you have less than a week then I recommend spending your time on the Cayes and not moving around too much.

When is the best time of year to visit Belize?

The best time to visit Belize is during the dry season from January to May. This is when you will have the best temperatures and the least rainfall.

From August to December there is a low risk of hurricanes so always check before you travel.

Is Belize safe to visit?

Belize is generally known to be a safe country for tourists to visit. Belize City has a bit of a reputation for being unsafe in certain areas but crime is rarely directed towards tourists. If in doubt there are plenty of great group tours you can join to explore the city with a local who knows the area.

Regardless of where you visit, it is always best to leave your valuables at home and not wander around alone at night time.

Is Belize cheap or expensive?

Belize is not typically a budget travel destination. It is possible to find cheaper hostel beds, take public buses and eat street food. However, there are far more luxury resorts and activities in Belize which are usually pretty expensive.

A Summary of the Best Places to Visit in Belize

So, this concludes our list of the best places to visit in Belize and hopefully, you now have all the information you need to decide which places to visit on your next trip to Belize. 

From the beautiful Cayes to the lush jungles, Belize is home to some of the best places to visit in Central America for families , couples, or even solo travelers. It is such a wonderful country that it feels like visiting a true gem, hidden in plain sight.

Like it? Pin this list of the best places to visit in Belize to save it for later!

Do you have a question or comment about any of these best places to visit in Belize? We’d love to hear from you! Leave your thoughts in the comments below.

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Planning at multiple scales for healthy corals and communities

To understand trade-offs for coastal communities along the Mesoamerican Reef, new research looks at watershed interventions regionally versus nationally.

Coral underwater near Half Moon Caye island, a natural monument of Belize in the Lighthouse Reef Atoll. (Image credit: Antonio Busiello, WWF)

Governments in the Mesoamerican Reef region are exploring the use of nature-based solutions to strengthen coral health and societal benefits for coastal communities. A new study in Nature Sustainability led by Stanford researchers in collaboration with scientists from the World Wildlife Fund, the Healthy Reefs Initiative, and others from the Smart Coasts project quantified the outcomes of different watershed interventions to support coral health at regional versus national scales, and identified target areas that could improve both ecosystem and societal benefits nationally and across the region.

The nature-based approaches evaluated as key watershed (e.g., drainage area) interventions include ecosystem restoration or protection, and sustainable agriculture. Yet determining which areas to target for these interventions requires understanding the complex relationships between terrestrial and marine ecosystems, also known as “land-sea linkages,” their benefits to people, and the spatial scale being considered.

This work pushed the boundaries of how scientists analyze biophysical and ecological relationships, using cutting-edge optimization models (for the first time in a coastal context) of how to maximize benefits – and to whom – while meeting spatial or resource constraints.

“To restore nature – in this case, a large barrier reef – international collaborative actions at a large scale are what will really help,” said Jade Delevaux, the study’s lead author and senior fellow at Stanford’s Natural Capital Project . “At the same time, if you want to support coastal communities’ resilience by protecting properties and infrastructure along the coast or tourism-based livelihoods – you’re probably making decisions on a smaller scale.”

The research focused on illuminating some of these trade-offs for decision-makers and seeking places where there might be win-wins for the environment and people.

Land-sea connections

Healthy coral reefs provide essential economic, social, and environmental benefits to the communities that depend on them. These include coastal protection from storms, climate regulation, nature-driven tourism, and fisheries that feed communities.

While marine ecosystems can be affected by human activities in the ocean, like dredging or aquaculture, or natural hazards such as hurricanes, they are also affected by the health of upstream terrestrial ecosystems. Intensified deforestation in mangroves and tropical forests is a key factor, as it worsens pollution and carbon emissions on land. It also leads to sediment runoff from loss of their root systems, which harms downstream coastal water quality and consequently coral reef health.

The coastal and marine ecosystems of the Mesoamerican Reef stretch over 1,000 kilometers, establishing it as the largest transboundary barrier reef system in the Northern Hemisphere. Belize, Guatemala, and Honduras, three countries in the region, significantly affect the reef through human activities that impact the coastal watersheds. Yet these watersheds don’t always align with political boundaries, complicating policy interventions.

“It would be hard to justify, even scientifically, asking Guatemala or Honduras to finance watershed interventions if most of the benefits are accrued by the people in Belize,” said Delevaux. “That’s when we asked the question: if you were to manage watersheds with an eye towards supporting both people and climate resilience, would you target the same areas as you would if you were solely focused on coral reef health?”

A fisherman casts his fishing net to catch shrimps in a mangrove off the coast of Guatemala. (Image credit: MayaCom, iStock)

Mapping benefits across scales

To answer that question, researchers and local partners identified target areas where three key watershed interventions could be implemented: restoration of agricultural land to native forest; protection of existing forest; and sustainable agriculture – converting conventional agriculture and ranching to agroforestry and silvopasture.

“It was amazing to see the level of coordination and collaboration happening while covering such a large geographic area. The communities’ knowledge, needs, and questions really influenced the science through the many workshops, participatory mapping exercises, and capacity trainings we held to gather the information for these analyses,” said Delevaux. “I’d say that part of the work was really inspiring, because you see how it’s going to be used firsthand.”

Then, using InVEST Ⓡ ecosystem services models , Delevaux and colleagues quantified the effects of different interventions in different target areas on coral health through sediment retention. They found that the most important target areas for coastal communities – where interventions would maximize societal benefits like tourism, fisheries, and coastal protection – changed depending on whether they prioritized a regional- versus national-scale scale approach.

Sediment retention and coral health improve the most in models prioritizing regional interventions that target larger, transnational watersheds. A national emphasis on smaller, non-transboundary watersheds lined by reefs provides more localized societal benefits.

“At the regional scale, across countries, we found we have the best opportunities for making investments in watersheds that are going to help reduce sedimentation and increase coral health across the region,” said Katie Arkema, senior fellow at the Natural Capital Project and senior scientist at the Pacific Northwest National Lab, with a joint appointment at the School of Marine Environmental Affairs at the University of Washington. “At the national scale, we can make investments that are going to really specifically benefit the coastal communities in that country through those societal ecosystem service benefits,” said Arkema.

While the study results show trade-offs between regional coral health and country-level societal benefits, there were also some interventions that prioritized similar target areas in both.

“These spatially explicit results are empowering for both local and regional managers. A donor or investor might be interested in improving reef health in a specific reef area or Marine Protected Area and could use these results to target the watersheds that yield maximum improvement in their focal area. A national government could determine the best set of interventions and watersheds that maximize both social and ecological benefits,” said Melanie McField, co-author, founder, and director of the Healthy Reefs for Healthy People Initiative.

“The model can also quantify the regional reef and social benefit to cooperative work in the major watersheds, supporting potential large-scale multi-national conservation efforts.”

Katie Arkema and attendees collaboratively add to maps in a 2015 Honduras workshop. (Image credit: Stacie Wolny)

Co-creating for the future

Researchers co-designed the study with local partners, including Healthy Reefs for Healthy People, and locally based affiliates of the World Wildlife Fund.

In Honduras, the results of the study are helping to guide investments in watershed restoration through replanting mangrove forests to minimize sediment runoff.

For Belizeans in Placencia, these results add to almost two decades of support for mangrove-forward development between the Natural Capital Project, WWF, Belize Coastal Zone Management Authority and Institute (CZMAI), and others. Delevaux also continues to work with communities in Placencia, Belize through an NSF project to find equitable nature-based solutions like mangrove restoration and conservation at the local level.

“It can be useful to emphasize for decision-makers that we do have some quantitative models and tools that can help support the kinds of decisions they have to make on where to direct funds. [Our research] can help provide insights into how the decisions that they make today might influence what happens in the future,” said Arkema.

Additional Stanford co-authors include ecosystem services analyst Jess Silver and senior GIS analyst Stacie Wolny, both affiliated with the Natural Capital Project. Additional co-authors are from Seascape Solutions LLC; the University of Washington; World Wildlife Fund-Mesoamerica; World Wildlife Fund, Mexico; World Wildlife Fund, Washington, D.C., USA; Sound GIS; Healthy Reefs for Healthy People; and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

This study was funded by the International Climate Initiative (IKI) Smart Coasts; the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation; the National Science Foundation Coastline and People prime agreement; the Marianne and Marcus Wallenberg Foundation, the Summit Foundation, and CORESCCAM BNP-PARIBAS foundation.

More From Forbes

3 english-speaking countries to retire to.

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The view of Bacuit archipelago islands from El Nido, Philippines

For many people considering a move overseas, one of the biggest barriers they face is the language barrier.

They may not feel able to master a new language… not have time to… or simply not want to… but the fear of not being able to communicate in your adopted homeland can be off-putting.

Happily, there are plenty of destinations around the world where English is widely-spoken meaning fluency in a new language doesn’t have to be a requirement for a new adventure overseas.

Here are some of your best options for destinations where you’ll find English-speaking locals and an easy route to expat life…

Paradise beach in Placencia, Belize

Formerly a British colony, Belize’s official language is English. Indeed, it’s the only English-language-official country in Central America.

About 83% of the country speaks English as their first language, while many also speak Creole and Spanish.

Leases and legal contracts are in English… English-speaking staff are available at clinics… Media and the news are delivered in English. The average person you come into contact with, whether it’s a cashier or a government official, speaks English.

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This ease of language is a big reason why many American and Canadian expats choose to move to Belize.

Plus, the people are welcoming, open-minded, and eclectic—and the country has excellent residency programs.

In addition, Belize offers Caribbean living at a much lower cost than elsewhere in the region—around $1,500 a month is a good guide as a start point for your costs here.

When it comes to residency options things are straightforward. There’s the Qualified Retirement Program (QRP) which is open to applicants over 40 who can prove a monthly income from a source outside of the country (such as a pension or Social Security) of $2,000.

Alternatively, you can just go to Belize and stay there for 12 months continually renewing your tourist visa. After that time you can then apply for permanent residency.

For many expats the easy-going lifestyle and live and let live attitude of the locals here is a big selling point.

View of Lady of Mount Carmel church, St.Paul's Cathedral in Valletta city, Malta

Malta, a former British colony, has two official languages: English and Maltese. About 88% of the population is fluent in English, and laws are enacted in both languages so you shouldn’t have any trouble being understood or understanding the locals.

Your residency options here include Citizenship by Investment, a Permanent Residence Scheme, a Family Visa and the Ordinary Residence Scheme.

The Ordinary Residence Scheme is the most popular with the key requirements being able to show a net worth of €14,000 for a single or €23,000 for a couple, that you spend a minimum of 183 days per calendar year in Malta, and evidence of a physical address in the country which can be through a real estate purchase or rental agreement.

Once you’ve been a legal resident in Malta for five years, you can apply for permanent residency.

Malta also offers excellent health care, a beautiful natural landscape, fantastic climate,—the year-round daytime temperature hovers around 73°F—rich history, large expat communities, and friendly locals.

As regards downsides, Malta is both small and popular so beaches can get crowded and traffic congested, particularly in the capital, Valletta.

The Philippines

Puka beach in Boracay Island, Western Visayas, Philippines

Lying about 500 miles off the southeast coast of China and to the northeast of Borneo, the Philippines is a breathtakingly beautiful archipelago of over 7,000 islands.

Colonized by the Spanish in 1521, their influence remains today in architecture, names, food, and more. Indeed, Spanish was the official language of the Philippines for over three centuries and was the lingua franca up until the 21st century. Today, Filipino and English are the official languages.

English has official status because the Philippines was a U.S. colony from 1898 to 1946 and today it’s recognized as one of the world’s largest English-speaking nations. English is the language of business and law, and more than half of the country’s population—which totals around 118 million people—speak it.

The Philippine Retirement Authority offers several options for those looking to move to the country. The most popular and well-known of which is the Special Resident Retiree’s Visa.

To qualify, applicants need to be aged 50 or older, show a pension of $800 per month ($1,000 per month for couples), and deposit a minimum of $10,000 in a Philippine bank account. If you can’t prove a monthly pension, you can opt to make a $20,000 deposit in a local bank account, instead.

The Philippines also offers top-notch health care and is home to the only overseas VA hospital in the world—the Manila Regional Office and Outpatient Clinic. Add to that, world-class beaches, a tropical climate, and a low-cost of living—on $2,000 a month a couple could live very well here—and it adds up to a great option for an overseas retirement.

These are just some of your options for an overseas retirement without having to learn a new language but the fact is in a host of countries you’ll find areas where you can settle in easily and get by in English.

Other Options Around The World

In Europe, consider Greece, Cyprus, Spain, Portugal, Croatia, Germany, Norway, Slovenia, and France where you’ll find either a large number of English-speaking locals, areas with large expat populations and healthy tourism trades, or a combination of both meaning getting by in English poses no problem.

In Mexico, Lake Chapala, Puerto Vallarta, Puerto del Carmen, Cancun, Guadalajara, San Miguel de Allende, and beyond would work for those who only speak English, and the same applies in Panama’s expat havens of Boquete and Coronado.

Of course, it’s always a good idea to pick up as much of the local language anywhere you go, the locals will appreciate it and it will broaden your social circle, but it’s by no means essential to be fluent before you pack your bags for pastures new.

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