About Placencia

Three hours south of Belize City by car (quicker if you fly) are the palm fringed beaches of the gorgeous Placencia peninsula — aptly named by the Spanish as a most pleasant land. This 16-mile-long strip of paradise is connected to the mainland by a tiny causeway, so staying here gives the visitor a real feeling of 'getting away from it all'. Needless to stay, this formerly sleepy land of fishing villages has in recent years become a very fashionable place to visit, so there are a number of resorts and hotels dotting its silky sand beaches. Below, we have selected the best places to stay in Placencia for you, covering a range of budgets and styles.

One of the attractions of Placencia is the range of activities you can access here. To one side is a gentle lagoon, fringed with mangroves, great for wildlife such as manatees or crocs, while to the east are the turquoise waters of the Caribbean, with its windsurfing, diving in Belize's Southern Marine Reserve, and deep sea fishing for snapper, kingfish and wahoo. An excellent boat excursion — though overnight stays can be arranged — is to Ranguana Caye 20 miles out to sea, a two acre private island with clear waters and white sand. It's a perfect gateway to dive or snorkel the spectacular Belize Barrier Reef, home to more than 500 species of fish and more than one hundred different types of coral,

Meanwhile, inland and easy to access on a day trip are all the attractions of mainland Belize — Mayan ruins, rainforest birdlife, and, not to be missed, the jaguar wildlife sanctuary at Cockscomb Basin. Many visitors, however, add a few days stay on the Placencia Peninsula after a jungle trip of the interior — because it's the perfect place to kick back and decompress. Use our guide to the best places to stay in Placencia and start planning your relaxing beach break.

The best places to stay in Placencia

Luxury

  • For the ultimate in pampering, check in to the Itz'ana Belize Resort. With its large pool, luxurious beachfront suites and villas, fine dining and chic spa, it's an excellent place to unwind. It's family friendly too, though one of the pricier resorts in Placencia.

Budget

  • For a simpler stay, Robert's Grove ticks all the boxes. It's right on Placencia beach, with a small pool, two restaurants, and its own pier with access to diving and boat trips, which they can arrange. Choose ocean view rooms with balconies or the family suite, though garden view rooms are perfectly fine and great value.

Romantic

  • Romantics and style gurus will appreciate the second of Francis Ford Coppola's properties in Belize, the magical Turtle Inn. Choose from garden, poolside or ocean view cottages, each with a private walled garden with outdoor shower, Balinese hand-carved décor, and ceiling fans. There are also a number of independent, family size pavilions and cottages to rent with private pools. You won't want to leave.

For a self catering holiday apartment or villa

  • If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel information

  • December to May offer the best weather of the year, with temperatures in the 27-30 degree range, making Placencia a great place to escape winter in North America and Europe. While August and September are best for fishing, snorkeling and diving, the weather can be muggy and hot. September/October can be wet.
  • An alternative to driving from Belize City is to fly to Placencia — a 35 minute flight in a Cessna. You can also fly in from San Ignacio.

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The best hotels in Placencia

Robert's Grove

Placencia (Placencia)

A charming, good value hotel on the pristine white Placencia beach, with a pier for easy access to diving and boat trips. Ocean view and garden view rooms sport white washed walls, tiled flooring and simple wooden furniture. A choice selection of restaurants. Ideal for families and couples alike.

  • Beach Life - Situated on a white sand beach and just minutes from Belize's barrier reef this is seaside perfection.
  • Diving - Make the most of some of the best diving in the world in the Barrier Reef of Belize.
  • Birdwatching - Take a boat ride up monkey river and find numerous species of birds.
  • Views - Beautiful views of the Caribbean sea and Belize's barrier reef.
from CA$245 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Laru Beya Resort

Placencia (Stann Creek)

This laid-back resort on Belize’s Placencia Peninsula offers a blend of beachside tranquility and adventure. Its breezy rooms feature modern comforts and some have ocean views, while the beach bar and al fresco dining provide the perfect setting for unwinding. A spot for relaxation and exploration.

  • Beach Life - Relax on a private stretch of sand, enjoy al fresco dining by the water, and unwind in serene oceanfront rooms
  • Learning - Explore the vibrant Garifuna culture in nearby Seine Bight village, just a short stroll from Laru Beya Resort
  • Other Activities - Experience the thrill of river tubing through the lush landscapes of the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Active Holiday - Dive into adventure with complimentary kayaks, bicycles, and fishing trips, or explore Mayan ruins nearby
from CA$304 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Itz'ana Belize Resort & Residences

Placencia (Placencia)

This luxury resort is located on the beachfront in Belize. Guests can choose from stylish beachfront suites and private villas; interiors draw on the natural setting with feature walls and fresh flowers. Book a lagoon villa for a waterfront plunge pool. Unwind in the chic spa; a plush beach getaway.

  • Families - There are great accommodation options for all the family here, plus activities that will keep the kids entertained all day
  • Active Holiday - There's a huge range of activities available at this resort for all kinds of guests, from paddle boarding to zip lining
  • Beach Life - With its privileged seafront location and luxury facilities, this hotel makes a fantastic beach holiday
  • Sailing - Climb aboard a 40-foot catamaran and set sail on Belize’s Southern Marine Reserve, book through the resort
from CA$365 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Turtle Inn

Placencia (Placencia)

Delightful seaside hotel on the picturesque island of Placencia. The elegantly furnished cottages are decorated with traditional interiors and open out onto beautiful tropical gardens. These are great pool and a private beach, and a kid’s club with a wide range of activities on offer.

  • Families - With a kid's club and family rooms, it's perfect for a family trip to Belize.
  • Beach Life - Located moments from your very own private beach.
  • Diving - Scuba diving tours can be organised by the hotel and guests can go on a lionfish dive.
  • Fishing - Fishing trips can be organised by the hotel.
from CA$447 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Chabil Mar

Placencia

This beachfront boutique resort on Placencia Beach offers a peaceful escape. Villas are uniquely decorated with local wood and vibrant artwork, creating a homey feel. Enjoy amenities like infinity pools, a private pier, and easy access to local dining and attractions. A true tropical retreat.

  • Active Holiday - Bike, kayak, or paddleboard to Placencia Village and explore ancient Maya ruins or vibrant jungle life - all from your doorstep
  • Kayaking - Take a kayaking adventure to Laughing Bird Caye, where vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life await your exploration
  • Beach Life - With 400 feet of private beach, two infinity pools, and villas offering stunning sea views, it's pure coastal bliss
  • Fishing - Indulge in a private fishing excursion, casting your line in the clear waters bursting with diverse fish species
from CA$473 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Sirenian Bay Resort & Villas

Placencia (Stann Creek)

This laid-back beachfront resort in Placencia offers the perfect balance of comfort and adventure. Relaxed Caribbean-inspired decor, surrounded by vibrant colours and natural materials. Enjoy an outdoor pool, hot tub, on-site dining, and access to kayaks, bikes, and mini-golf. A tranquil escape.

  • Snorkelling - Explore the vibrant underwater world with a snorkelling trip to Silk and Moho Cayes, teeming with marine life
  • Golf - Make use of the complimentary mini-golf at the resort, perfect for family fun and friendly competition
  • Other Activities - Embark on a thrilling cave tubing adventure at Xunantunich, combining history with natural wonders
  • Active Holiday - Enjoy complimentary bikes, kayaks, paddle boards, and fun games like mini-golf and pickleball
from CA$864 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Coral Caye

Placencia

Escape to your own private island, a secluded slice of paradise just off Belize’s coast. Rustic yet refined, its beachy cottages blend weathered wood, airy fabrics, and sea-inspired tones. Unwind with a private chef, a sand-floored Great House, and waters teeming with marine life. Bliss.

  • Families - Two breezy cottages and a Great House give families space to unwind, with kayaks, snorkelling, and fresh Creole feasts
  • Beach Life - A private island escape with rustic-chic cottages, a sand-floored Great House, and fresh seafood grilled to order
  • Fishing - Cast a line and try your luck at fishing, then enjoy your fresh catch cooked up Creole-style by the island’s private chef
  • Kayaking - Paddle a kayak through calm Caribbean waters, exploring hidden coves and spotting marine life just beneath the surface
from CA$3365 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees