A long, narrow peninsula of sandy white beaches hugging Belize’s Caribbean coastline, Placencia is a popular destination for beach lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and holiday breakers. Placencia comprises the three villages of Maya Beach, Seine Bight and Placencia Village, which can all be explored easily by walking, biking and golf cart rentals.

Placencia’s most popular sightseeing attraction is the paved pedestrian path known as “The Sidewalk,” a strip lined with shops, art galleries and numerous bars and restaurants. Most of the activities in Placencia are centered around the peninsula’s natural scenery. The Placencia Lagoon is a great place to kayak or canoe along the wetlands to spot wildlife like manatees, dolphins, crocodiles and birds. With the nearby waters teeming in sport fish like tarpon, grouper, snook and snapper, tourists will find a number of tour operators for deep-sea fishing. The largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere is just a short boat ride away, presenting exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities. The Laughing Bird Caye National Park is also nearby, offering diving tours, diving courses and wildlife viewing. Additionally, tourists can enjoy jungle tours and visits to Mayan ruins.

Dining choices are abundant in Placencia, with most restaurants right along the beach. Tourists can find a variety of food and price options from burgers and pizzas to Mexican quesadillas and Caribbean ceviche.