Belize's Placencia Peninsula: A Tropical Paradise

Placencia is a village in the Stann Creek District of Belize, located at the southern tip of the Placencia Peninsula in southeastern Belize. The peninsula is bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the east and a mangrove-lined lagoon to the west, with the Maya Mountains visible in the distance. Placencia is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and access to the southern barrier reef, cayes, and mainland jungles. The village has a population of around 1,500 permanent residents and is divided into two parts: south of the airstrip and north of the airstrip. The busy part of Placencia, with a concentration of shops, restaurants, and guest houses, lies in the south. The northern portion is less densely populated and home to more expensive resorts.

Placencia's beaches

Placencia, located at the southern tip of the Placencia Peninsula in southeastern Belize, is known for its beautiful beaches. The beaches in Placencia are often described as tranquil and idyllic, with a unique toast-coloured sand. The 16-mile stretch of coastline is dotted with small resorts, beach bars, and restaurants.

The beaches are a great resource for water sports enthusiasts, with many resorts offering dive and snorkel trips to the nearby reef. The beaches are also a great place to relax and soak up the sun, with the warm, turquoise Caribbean Sea providing a stunning backdrop.

The peninsula is divided into two parts: south of the airstrip and north of the airstrip. The south is the busy part of Placencia, with a greater concentration of shops, restaurants, and guest houses. The north is less densely populated and home to more expensive resorts.

The beaches of Placencia are also a draw for fishermen, with the nearby reefs and offshore cayes offering the opportunity to catch permit, tarpon, and bonefish. The area is also known for its saltwater fly fishing and whale shark watching during the full moons between April and July each year.

The beaches of Placencia provide a great introduction to life in the village, with locals and tourists strolling along the long concrete sidewalk that runs through the centre of the village. The beaches are a hub of activity, with golf carts still a popular mode of transportation along the shore.

The beaches of Placencia offer something for everyone, from those seeking a quiet, laid-back atmosphere to those looking for water sports and fishing adventures.

Placencia's history

Placencia, Belize, is a charming seaside town located at the southern tip of the Placencia Peninsula, which parallels the mainland. It is known for its stunning natural scenery, including vivid blue waters and white sandy beaches, as well as its laid-back Caribbean atmosphere. Once a sleepy fishing village, Placencia has emerged as a popular tourist destination, offering a range of outdoor adventures and a glimpse into the area's rich history.

Prior to the European colonisation of the Americas, the Placencia Peninsula was inhabited by the Maya. Archaeological evidence suggests that the Maya in this region produced salt and engaged in coastal trade. The Maya established at least 14 sites around the Placencia Lagoon, making it a significant centre for salt production and trade.

In the 17th century, Placencia was settled by English Puritans from Nova Scotia and Providence Island. However, this settlement died out during the Spanish-American wars of independence in the 1820s. The Placencia Peninsula was then resettled in the late 1800s by several families, including the Garbutt family, who eventually owned most of the peninsula. Placencia prospered and became a village, relying on the sea for its livelihood.

In the late 20th century, Placencia began to attract tourists and has since become a significant tourism destination. It offers a unique combination of natural beauty, cultural diversity, and a variety of activities for visitors. The village is home to colourful shops, cafes, seafood restaurants, a small medical clinic, and an airfield.

Placencia is also known for its annual festivals, such as the Placencia Lobster Fest and the Placencia Peninsula Arts Festival. Additionally, it serves as a gateway to the southern reef, offering maritime activities like snorkelling, scuba diving, fishing, and sailing.

On October 8, 2001, Hurricane Iris struck southern Belize, causing significant damage to nearly 95% of the buildings in Placencia. Despite this setback, Placencia has recovered and continues to be a popular destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation and adventure in a culturally rich setting.

Placencia's villages

Placencia is a small town near the tip of a peninsula in southern Belize. It is a popular tourist destination, with beautiful beaches, restaurants, shops, and bars. The Placencia Villas are located in the heart of the village, just a short walk from the beach, restaurants, and shops. The villas offer a range of amenities, including free Wi-Fi, air conditioning, fully equipped kitchenettes, and cable TV. They are set around an attractive courtyard and offer a private residential feel with a community vibe in the outdoor areas.

The villas are managed by a friendly family who lives onsite and is always helpful with recommendations. The staff is amazing, friendly, and helpful. The villas are also great for larger groups, as they offer multiple villas that can accommodate up to 11 people.

The Placencia Villas provide a comfortable and cozy home away from home for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. They are highly rated for their very comfy beds and excellent location.

Placencia's food and drink

Placencia, a seaside village on the tip of Stann Creek’s 16-mile-long Placencia Peninsula in Southern Belize, is known for its thriving food scene, which includes everything from luxurious dinners at upscale restaurants to casual meals at beach shacks.

Seafood

As a seaside village, it's no surprise that Placencia has an abundance of fresh seafood on offer. Omar's Creole Grub is a local, family-owned restaurant that serves up traditional Belizean dishes, including fresh fish, lobster, crab, conch and barracuda, cooked in a choice of coconut or Caribbean curry, traditional Creole, or butter and garlic sauces. De Tatch Seafood Restaurant and Bar is another beachside restaurant that has perfected the cooking of Belizean seafood, with the added bonus of a thatched cabana setting.

International Cuisine

For those craving a taste of home, or something a little different, Placencia has a variety of international restaurants. La Dolce Vita is an Italian and Mediterranean restaurant run by an owner/chef from Rome, serving up favourites like pizza and a glass of chianti. Cha Chi’s Pizza is another popular spot for pizza, with a central village location and an open-air environment. For something a little more upscale, Rumfish y Vino is known for having the best wine list in Belize and a relaxing atmosphere, perfect for a romantic evening. Their menu includes Caribbean Fish Stew, Conch Fritters and Pescado Putanesca.

Coffee and Breakfast

Above Grounds Coffee House is a wonderful little coffee shop overlooking the Main Street near the southern tip of Placencia. They serve freshly brewed coffee and other hot and cold drinks, as well as homemade baked goods for breakfast. For something more substantial, Maya Beach Hotel Bistro is known for its cinnamon roll french toast and breakfast burritos, served up with beautiful beach and ocean views.

Sweet Treats

No trip to Placencia would be complete without a visit to Tutti Frutti Gelateria, an Italian gelato shop with unique flavours like lavender and soursop, as well as more traditional options like tiramisu.

Bars

For a casual drink, Barefoot Beach Bar is a great spot for lively music and pub food, including kid-friendly options. For something a little more off the beaten path, Buba Wuba’s Grill & Smoke Shack is a hidden gem loved by locals, with a lovely setting on a small canal and occasional live music. J-Byrd’s Bar, located right next to the municipal pier, is another great option, with well-priced drinks, darts and pool tables.

Placencia's attractions

Placencia, Belize, is a charming, low-key fishing village located at the southern tip of the Placencia Peninsula in southeastern Belize. With the Caribbean Sea to the east and the mangrove-lined Placencia lagoon to the west, Placencia boasts some of the country's most beautiful beaches. Here are some of Placencia's top attractions:

Explore the Placencia Peninsula

The Placencia Peninsula is a narrow, 16-mile stretch of golden beaches, with the village of Placencia at its southern tip. The peninsula is home to several villages, including Riversdale, Maya Beach, Seine Bight, and Placencia itself. Visitors can enjoy bar-hopping, dining at top restaurants, and exploring the various beaches along the coast. The peninsula is easily navigable by bike or golf cart, and its laid-back atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a relaxing getaway.

Diving and Snorkelling

Placencia is a popular destination for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. The southern Belize Barrier Reef is just 20 miles away, offering easy access to some of the best snorkelling and diving spots in the country. The waters off Placencia are famous for attracting whale sharks every year, particularly during the full moons of April, May, and June. Other popular snorkelling and diving sites near Placencia include Laughing Bird Caye National Park, Silk Cayes, and Gladden Spit.

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, located in the Stann Creek District, is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers. Globally recognised as the world's first jaguar preserve, the sanctuary is home to cascading waterfalls, panoramic mountain views, nature trails, and a diverse array of wildlife. While jaguars are nocturnal and rarely spotted, visitors can observe their tracks, along with those of tapirs, deer, and other wildlife. River tubing is a favourite activity for many visitors to this unique tropical paradise.

Kayaking at Laughing Bird Caye

Belize's crystal clear waters and balmy Caribbean breezes make it an ideal location for kayaking expeditions. Kayakers can glide across the warm waters, taking in untouched coral reefs, white sandy beaches, and abundant marine life such as sea turtles. Laughing Bird Caye National Park, a mini atoll located off the coast of Placencia, is a favourite stopover for reef kayakers.

Monkey River and the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

A boat trip to Monkey River Village offers the chance to observe the resident howler monkeys, crocodiles, exotic birds, iguanas, and even manatees. The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, located near Placencia, is another popular attraction, offering hiking trails, jungle adventures, and the opportunity to explore the world's first jaguar preserve.

Maya Temple Sites

Placencia is also a great base for exploring Maya Temple sites. Archaeologists estimate that over 1 million Maya people lived in present-day Belize, and there are several temple sites within reach of Placencia. These include Nim Li Punit and Lubantuun in the Toledo District, and Xunantunich and Cahal Pech in western Belize.

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