August 2025 - Chabil Mar Villas

Placencia Yamaha Saltwater Fishing Tournament Returns

Posted on August 29, 2025

Grab your calendar and mark the date for the return of this year’s Yamaha Saltwater Fishing Tournament, which will be held during the September celebrations in Placencia Village.

The two-day, fun-filled event will be held on September 21st and 22nd at the Placencia Municipal Pier, which is situated at the center of the village. Organizers of the tournament say that discounts and incentives for carrying out early registration are available, while tons of big prizes are literally on the line and waiting to be reeled in by the best anglers and their teams.

The Yamaha Saltwater Fishing Tournament is one of the most exciting two-day family-filled affair to be held in southern Belize. Fishermen from the tiny fishing village as well as those who live nearby will gather at the break of dawn at the pier, and go over their strategy, before sailing out to the Caribbean Sea to see what luck awaits them.

One of the rules is that all the competition boats must depart from the pier at the same time and return at the end of the day together. Upon their return, their catch is usually weighed in the presence of the judges and placed on the record. On the following day, that result will be added to the day’s catch and whichever team has the most points would emerge the winner of the tournament.

Points are distributed as follows; Kingfishers are worth 3 points per pound and must be a minimum of 8 fish. Barracuda are tallied at 1 point per pound and must be a minimum of 12 fish, while Jacks are also 1 point per pound and must be a minimum of 12 fish. Wahoos are worth 5 points per pound, with a minimum of 15, while Dorados are 5 points per pound with a minimum of 7. Tunas are worth 3 points per pound with a minimum of 5 fish.

No fishes are to be shared between boats and all fishing crews must use lures to land their fish. No noose/bare hooks, live bait, or cast nets are permitted to be used during the competition.

There are also various categories and prizes for best boat, largest barracuda, largest kingfish, largest extraordinary fish, and largest fish caught by a female. With so many prizes to be shared among competing teams and anglers, this year’s event is promising to be a big one.

While the crews are out on the water hauling in their catches, there will be much to see and do in Placencia, such as the crowning of the Placencia Queen of the Bay 2025/2026. Villagers will also be participating in the 10th of September parade which will be passing through the village. With so many activities being planned it is the perfect weekend to enjoy the celebratory festivities with friends and family.

Chabil Mar, situated just a short walk from the center of the village is the best option for visitors or even anglers and their teams to stay. Our award-winning resort, with it’s seafront view and private beaches and pools, is the doctor’s prescription for the ultimate relaxation and escape.

Take advantage of our, exceptional guest exclusive boutique service, luxury accommodations, beach, pools, pier, privacy, high-speed internet, and complimentary use of bicycles, kayaks, and paddle boards when you book your stay with us.

Need to know more about the tournament? Contact Us at: Reservations@chabilmarvillas.com or the Placencia Tourism Center at placenciatourismcenterinfo@gmail.com

WhatsApp it to: 624-2100

10 Reasons Why You Should Have A Winter Holiday In Belize

Posted on August 25, 2025

A quiet, easygoing nation located in the heart of Central America, Belize is fast becoming one of the top destinations for people wanting to escape the cold and misery of winter. The weather in Belize is always pleasant and warm all-year round and the country features a uniquely harmonious mix of different cultures. Friendly, English-speaking natives will make you feel right at home as you explore some of the many amazing attractions that Belize has to offer.

Below are 10 reasons why you should pack your bags right now and have a winter holiday in Belize:

1 – Maya Ruins

Belize was once the heart of the ancient Mayan Empire. Today, dozens of Mayan cities can be explored throughout the country, featuring a rich mix of towering temples, beautiful carvings, and grand plazas.

2 – The Great Blue Hole

Declared by famed marine biologist Jacques Cousteau as one of the best diving sites on the planet, the Great Blue Hole is a unique circular depression adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef. Divers can explore an enormous underwater series of caverns carved out during the last great Ice Age.

3 – Wildlife

Whether you’re interested in viewing some of the rarest tropical bird species on the planet or want to see the last surviving jaguars in the region, Belize has it all. Visitors can see crocodiles, monkeys, and manatees at play in their natural habitat or embark on exclusive diving tours to frolic with whale sharks.

4 – Drinking in the Scenery

Belize is a relatively small country but has a richly diverse natural landscape. Travel between destinations is affordable and safe, offering visitors the chance to observe verdant mountains, lush fertile valleys, and pristine rainforests on their journey.

5 – Beaches

Beaches abound in Belize, as the country is located on the western shores of the lovely Caribbean Sea. With hundreds of miles of pristine, white beaches, you can enjoy the tropical fantasy vacation of your dreams swaying in a hammock under the shade of a palm tree in Belize. Almost nothing can compare to watching the sun set over the gorgeous turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea.

6 – Food

Belize is the home to a rich mix of indigenous cultures, resulting in some of the most delicious food anywhere on the planet. Casual food is king here, with plenty of fresh-caught lobster, savory Caribbean dishes, and spicy Mexican food to choose from.

7 – Diving and Snorkeling

The clear waters of the Caribbean make snorkeling and diving in Belize some of the best to be found anywhere on Earth. The nearby Belize Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world, is home to dozens of species of colorful fish, nurse sharks, and unique invertebrate species.

8 – Belize Adventures

Whether you’re interested in tubing down a river through a network of caves, hiking mountains, spelunking in huge caves, or exploring the jungle, there is plenty to do for the adventurous-minded in Belize.

9 – Belize Islands

Locally known as cayes (pronounced “keys”), Belize has hundreds of gorgeous islands, ranging from the laid-back party town of San Pedro on Ambergris Caye to the diving paradise of atolls fronting the Belize Barrier Reef.

10 – The Belize Weather

With a warm, tropical climate, and sunny skies nearly all year-round, the weather in Belize is fantastic. You’ll rarely need anything heavier than a sweater when in Belize, and T-shirts and sandals are the dress code of choice for visitors and locals alike.

Where to Stay

The award-winning resort of The Villas at Chabil Mar offering outstanding accommodations just minutes away from all the action in Placencia Village in southeastern Belize. With gorgeous views of the beautiful Caribbean Sea, each villa is a richly-appointed two-room suite combining traditional Belizean decor with modern luxury.

For more information about visiting Belize or Placencia, feel free to chat with our Concierge at: concierge@chabilmarvillas.com or contact our Reservations Manager at: reservations@chabilmarvillas.com. Or perhaps you would like to call toll free from the US or Canada: 1-866-417-2377.

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Best Things To Do In Belize During Winter

Posted on August 20, 2025

Throughout much of the world, winter is a time when activity slows down. As the cold sets in, the adventures of summer are put away in favor of the obligations of work, school, and holidays. That’s not the case in Belize. An idyllic paradise situated right along the equator, Belize’s winter is actually its tourist season. It’s during these months that the weather is the driest, but the temperatures stay in the same pleasant range of 70s and 80s that the rest of the year is known for. There are a lot of things to do in Belize during the winter, but here are the activities you have to consider.

Explore the Barrier Reef

The vibrant life that calls the world’s second largest bar rier reef home is worth seeing, but how you see it is up to you. Snorkeling lets you get up close and personal, while scuba diving offers an even more immersive experience. Deep sea fishing expeditions offer you an even more leisurely way to enjoy the barrier reef and a fresh meal you can enjoy for dinner. From the Silk Cayes Marine Reserve to the Blue Hole, there are countless aquatic exploration sites perfect for everyone from beginners to accomplished scuba divers.

Venture Into the Rainforest

While there are plenty of beautiful islands off the coast of Belize, it’s worth staying at a mainland destination with beach access — like Placencia — because it allows you to truly explore the world on land. National parks are abundant throughout Belize, as are the surprisingly extant ruins left behind by the ancient Maya empire centuries ago. More adventurous travelers will find themselves satisfied with excursions offering chances to tube through pitch black underground caves, zipline over expansive rainforest canopies, or enjoy the peaceful experience of kayaking down interior rivers. And for those who like things a little more relaxed, winter is the perfect time for birding and horseback riding.

Enjoy Chabil Mar

Winter can also be a time to relax, and no resorts offer an experience quite as luxuriant as Chabil Mar. Located on the Placencia Peninsula, guests are within reach of Belize’s coolest destinations but have everything they need right on the property. Our guest exclusive resort includes two infinity pools in addition to 400 feet of private beach just for you. Whether you’re looking to take a paddleboard out on the water, enjoy some seaside yoga, or simply spend your time napping on the beach with a good book, everything you could want is at reach when you stay at Chabil Mar.

Visit chabilmarvillas.com for more information on 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 a Belize vacation.

Cahal Pech Maya Ruins in San Ignacio, Belize

Posted on August 20, 2025

Now perched on the highest hill overlooking San Ignacio Town, the Maya ruins of Cahal Pech were originally built as an enclave for the elite. Located in a gorgeous natural setting and surrounded by tropical birds and colorful jungle fauna, Cahal Pech is one of the most popular visitor attractions in Belize. An informative museum on the grounds gives visitors an introduction to the hilltop city and features a dazzling collection of artifacts found at the site.

Layout of Cahal Pech Maya Ruins

Today, archeologists have excavated a total of 34 structures in Cahal Pech in an area measuring just over two acres in size. The “downtown” portion of Cahal Pech includes several temple pyramids, residence buildings, and seven impressive courtyards. The tallest structure on the site is a temple that measures 77 feet high. Other attractions at Cahal Pech include a ceremonial altar, five historical stelae, and two ball courts.

History of Cahal Pech Maya Ruins

Archeologists estimate that Cahal Pech was first founded around 1,000 years Before the Common Era. During the Classic Period (300-800 of the Common Era) of the Maya civilization, most of the surviving buildings, including the largest temples and palaces, were constructed during this time. Around the year 800, the citizens of Cahal Pech abandoned the city for unknown reasons, particularly mysterious because nearby Maya sites in Belize continued to be thriving population centers for several more centuries.

Although the original name for the site is lost to history, today it is called Cahal Pech, a combination Yucatan/Mopan Maya term meaning “place of the ticks”. This was the name local cattle farmers in the 1950s gave to the area.

Cahal Pech Maya Ruins Tour Information

Visitors to Cahal Pech are encourage to wear comfortable, loose, lightweight clothing and proper shoes. Long pants are recommended over shorts as they will help give additional protection from insects. All visitors are encouraged to bring plenty of drinking water, and fair-skinned individuals are recommended to make ample use of sunscreen and hats.

The Cahal Pech Visitor’s Center is open Monday through Sunday, and contains a reconstructed model of the entire site.

Chabil Mar in Placencia & Cahal Pech Maya Ruins

The award-winning Chabil Mar resort on the Placencia Peninsula offers its guests organized tours and vacation packages that include a visit to Cahal Pech. Guests can choose to include a tour of Cahal Pech as part of the resort’s popular Belize Reef and Jungle vacation package.

For more information about things to see and do in Belize, feel free to chat with our Concierge at: concierge@chabilmarvillas.com or contact our Reservations Manager at: reservations@chabilmarvillas.com. Or perhaps you would like to call toll free from the US or Canada: 1-866-417-2377.

Here Are 5 Fun Things To See And Do in Placencia Belize in January 2026

Posted on August 20, 2025

January, a month often synonymous with cold and dreary weather in many parts of the world, is transformed into a time of vibrant celebration and warmth in Belize. Placencia, a stunning peninsula known for its pristine beaches and rich cultural experiences, emerges as a perfect escape from the winter blues.

For those visiting Placencia in January 2026, there are numerous fun things to see and do, offering an ideal blend of relaxation and adventure. From exploring the colorful marine life through snorkeling to enjoying local festivals, the activities are endless. As we venture into the heart of this paradise in January 2026, we find ourselves wrapped in an experience that is both invigorating and relaxing, filled with unique opportunities to explore and enjoy.

Welcoming 2026 in Placencia Style

The new year in Placencia is not just a change of calendar; it’s a festive, joyous affair that sets the tone for the rest of your visit. As 2026 dawns, the air is electric with excitement. The beaches come alive with sparkling lights and music, creating a festive atmosphere that is both exhilarating and uniquely Belizean. The New Year’s Eve celebrations here are a delightful mix of local traditions and modern festivity, offering a memorable way to ring in the new year under a canopy of stars.

Relax on Placencia Beaches

While much of the world is bundled up against the cold, Placencia’s beaches offer a sunny respite. Recognized as the best in the country, these stretches of sand are more than just a picturesque setting; they are a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. Imagine lounging on soft sands, listening to the gentle waves, and feeling the warm sun melting away the stress of the previous year. The beaches here are not just beautiful; they are therapeutic.

Tours Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and Monkey River

For nature enthusiasts, Placencia is a gateway to some of the most breathtaking natural wonders in Belize. A nature tour in January is a refreshing adventure. The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, a haven for jaguars and a myriad of other wildlife offers an immersive experience in Belize’s lush jungle. The Monkey River tour, meanwhile, is a delightful journey through mangroves, where curious howler monkeys and diverse bird species captivate visitors. These tours are not just excursions; they are vivid stories written by nature itself.

Snorkel or Scuba Dive the Belize Barrier Reef

Placencia’s proximity to the Belize Barrier Reef makes it an ideal spot for snorkeling and scuba diving. The reef, teeming with marine life, is a world waiting to be explored. Sites like Laughing Bird Caye and the Silk Cayes are underwater sanctuaries where divers can swim alongside a rainbow of fish, graceful rays, and perhaps even gentle sea turtles. Each dive is a discovery, and each snorkel trip is an encounter with the miraculous beauty of the underwater world.

Explore The Vibrant Life of Placencia Village

No visit to Placencia in January is complete without exploring the heart of its community: Placencia Village. This charming community buzzes with life, offering a glimpse into the soul of Belizean culture. A stroll through the village in January is a feast for the senses, with beach bars and restaurants offering an array of culinary delights. Each establishment, from the quaint to the sophisticated, tells a story, inviting visitors to become a part of Placencia’s vibrant community, even if just for a meal or a refreshing drink.

Chabil Mar – Your Dream Stay in Placencia

As you plan your unforgettable January 2026 getaway to Placencia, consider making Chabil Mar your home base. Our stunning beach resort, nestled near all the attractions mentioned above, is more than just a place to stay. It is an experience, a part of your journey. With a variety of Belize vacation packages, Chabil Mar ensures that your visit is not just a trip but a tapestry of memorable moments. In Placencia, every day is an invitation to explore, relax, and celebrate the joy of life, especially in the warmth of January.

Don’t miss out on this exceptional experience; book your stay at Chabil Mar now and transform your January into a story of adventure and relaxation.

For more information about Placencia, feel free to chat with our Concierge at: concierge@chabilmarvillas.com or contact our Reservations Manager at: reservations@chabilmarvillas.com. Or perhaps you would like to call toll free from the US or Canada: 1-866-417-2377.

Month: August 2025

Placencia Yamaha Saltwater Fishing Tournament Returns

10 Reasons Why You Should Have A Winter Holiday In Belize