Although Belize is blessed with more than 180 miles (300 km) of coastline and beaches, many consider the beaches along the Placencia Peninsula in southeastern Belize to be the very best. Composed of pure sugar white sand, the 16 miles of beaches on the peninsula are referred to by locals as “barefoot perfect”, an apt description.
The Maya Beach area in the northern part of the peninsula is home to unspoiled nature, quiet little hotels, and spectacular views of the sapphire waters of the Caribbean. Further south a bit is the village of Seine Bight, home to Belize’s unique Afro-Caribbean Garifuna culture. At the southern tip of the peninsula is Placencia Village, the unofficial capital of the peninsula and home to the best bars, restaurants, and cafes.
The golden sands of Placencia Village, Seine Bight, and Maya Beach are public and freely accessible by the public. Many visitors enjoy taking leisurely barefoot strolls up and down the coastline or use bicycles to traverse this lovely strip of paradise.
Although a popular tourist attraction, Placencia Peninsula is still a rather quiet place with a perfect mix of travelers and hard-working locals employed as fishermen, musicians, and tour guides. Many visitors to Belize fall in love with Placencia for its easygoing attitude, beautiful vistas, and lovely mix of excellent nightlife, luxury accommodations, and delicious food, including fresh-caught seafood.
Placencia Village is also a great place to find local charters and dive masters to take visitors to the nearby Belize Barrier Reef. Dozens of islands dot the waters immediately offshore of Placencia Peninsula, popular with visitors and locals alike for the crystal clear shallows, brilliantly colored tropical fish species, sea turtles, and an explosive riot of marine flora and fauna. An ideal location for fishing, kayaking, sailing, swimming, snorkeling and diving, the portion of the Belize Barrier Reef includes the protected marine reserve of Laughing Bird Caye National Park.
With a private beach, swimming pool, and a full range of modern amenities, the beach resort of Laru Beya offers premiere luxury accommodations on the Placencia Peninsula. Laru Beya is just a few minutes’ walk from the Garifuna village of Seine Beight and approximately three miles from Placencia Village.
