She changed your diapers, put up with your “terrible twos,” stood by when your teen romances dissolved like bubbles and she’s the first person to say, “I really don’t want a thing” each time you say, “Mom, what do you want for Mother’s Day?”

If you know that flowers and candy won’t cut it because neither conveys the deep love you have for your mother, the gift of a vacation in Belize is guaranteed to elevate you to the status of being mom’s favorite child (even if you have no brothers and sisters).

The Caribbean in mid-May becomes a wonderland for moms who are often shocked that their kid(s) sprung for such a remarkable gift. You don’t have to reveal that shoulder season has started and while the weather stays idyllic, rates drop appreciably. Winter crowds have vanished, so she doesn’t have to deal with crowds. 

Once Mom gets over the shock of learning that you’re taking her to Belize, we recommend handing her pen and paper and asking her what she thinks about the following attractions so you can book the ones that are ideal:

-Did she call you “little monkey” when you were a toddler? A Monkey River tour is relaxing and calming–until primal shouts of critters for whom the river was named liven up the journey. 

-Does your mom wax poetic about reading poetry on a beach with a cocktail in hand? Belize, and particularly Placencia peninsula beaches, has so many gorgeous beaches, making a decision can be difficult.

-Does your mom literally light up when the word chocolate is mentioned? Belize chocolate tours are delicious. Mom can make her own chocolate bar and she doesn’t have to share it with you if she doesn’t want to. 

-Is your mom known for taking in every stray animal on the planet? Delight her with Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, Belize Zoo or other animal-focused tours that she’ll talk about for years to come.

-Has your mom read so many murder mysteries, it’s hard to find one she hasn’t already finished? Mayan ruins throughout Belize are tucked into jungles and mysterious caves where sacred chambers still hold artifacts, ritual items and skeletal remains. 

Of course, the resort you pick for mom’s getaway can make the difference between a so-so journey and one that’s unforgettable. One of Placencia’s most popular resorts is Chabil Mar where villas, amenities and luxury are exactly what mom deserves. Chabil Mar’s onsite gourmet restaurant, spa and pool get rave reviews from Fodor’s, TripAdvisor and organizations dedicated to promoting resorts that prioritize the environment, so she’ll be pampered throughout her stay. 

Direct Mom to this page on the Chabil Mar website. Don’t be surprised if she tears up and says, “The place looks like paradise!” It is. And since she’s your angel, Chabil Mar is exactly the place she deserves to be over the Mother’s Day holiday.

Belize is a lot of things to a lot of people: a tropical paradise where newlyweds can connect, a living obstacle course for outdoor adventurers, a natural spa for rest and relaxation. But this Central American country is a great destination for families as well. Here are some of the best activities in Belize that are also suited for vacationers with kids.

Silk Cayes and Laughing Bird

Snorkeling is a great low-intensity way for kids to experience the tropical fish and other sea life off the coast of Belize safely, and there’s no better spots in Belize than Laughing Bird and Silk Cayes. The gentle, shallow waters are ideal for first-timers, but there’s still an abundance of life occupying this stretch of the Caribbean Sea. Both cayes are accessible as day trips.

Monkey River Tour

Monkey River is aptly named. The habitat is home to a vibrant population of mischievous howler monkeys, and the popularity of this region has made them hospitable to strangers. Whether your family is looking to cruise the river by boat, experience the hiking trails, or do a little light spelunking, there are plenty of options. And your kid can go back with stories of meeting wild monkeys up close and personal.

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Looking for something a little more fierce? Cockscomb Basin is home to the world’s first jaguar preserve, but don’t worry, it’s perfectly safe for visitors of all ages. It’s also known for its gorgeous waterfalls, and its biodiversity extends well beyond the local jaguar population. It can double as a learning experience as well, instilling in kids the complicated balance of life that makes up the natural world.

Maya King Waterfalls

Maya King Waterfalls is a great place for a relaxing and laidback afternoon with the family. Your kids can go splashing in the cool pool at the foot of the waterfall while you bask on the nearby rocks. The surrounding jungle is a true sight to behold.

Nim Li Punit and Lubantuum

Belize is home to a wealth of natural beauty, but it was also once home to one of the most expansive empires in history. If you’re looking to expose your kids to the importance of history and the experience of immersing themselves in other cultures, you owe it to yourself to make a visit to Nim Li Punit or Lubantuum. Located in the south of the country, these remarkably intact ruins are a testament to the extraordinary engineering skills of the Mayan people.

A Golf Cart Stroll on the Placencia Peninsula

The Placencia Peninsula is a beautiful stretch of territory where the beach is never more than a few miles away. That means that it’s a great region to explore by golf cart. A leisurely journey through the peninsula is an ideal way to soak up the local habitat and have some quiet family bonding time.

If you’re thinking about bringing your family to Belize, don’t wait to call Chabil Mar. We offer a variety of jungle and sea packages, and we can work with you to create an itinerary your family will love.