Summer is here, and if you’re dreaming of crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs teeming with life, and underwater encounters that will leave you breathless, then Belize is calling your name. With the magnificent Belize Barrier Reef, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, just a stone’s throw away from our shores, it’s no wonder this tropical paradise is a haven for divers and snorkelers alike. So, grab your gear and let’s plunge into the underwater wonderland that awaits you in Belize this summer.
The Belize Barrier Reef: A Natural Masterpiece
The Belize Barrier Reef is not just a reef; it’s a masterpiece of nature. Stretching over 180 miles, it’s the second-largest barrier reef in the world and a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and marine life. Prepare to be amazed by the sheer diversity of coral formations, from delicate branching corals swaying in the current to massive brain corals that have stood the test of time. This underwater spectacle is a testament to the raw beauty and power of nature.
Beyond the mesmerizing corals, the Belize Barrier Reef is a bustling metropolis of marine life. Graceful sea turtles glide through the water, playful dolphins frolic in the waves, and schools of fish shimmer like rainbows in the sunlight. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive manatee, a gentle giant that grazes on seagrass beds, and if luck is on your side, you might even catch a glimpse of the majestic whale shark, the largest fish in the world. These encounters are not just sightings; they’re heart-pounding, soul-stirring connections with the natural world.
Beyond the Reef: Submerged Caves and the Great Blue Hole
Belize’s underwater adventures extend beyond the reef. For the intrepid explorers, the St. Herman’s Blue Hole National Park offers a network of underwater caves waiting to be discovered. Dive into these ancient limestone caverns, adorned with stalactites and stalagmites, and feel like you’ve stepped into another world. And then there’s the legendary Great Blue Hole, a giant submarine sinkhole that beckons divers from around the globe. Descending into this natural wonder is like entering an underwater cathedral, its walls plunging into the abyss and its depths teeming with marine life.
Summer: The Perfect Time to Dive In
Summer is an ideal time to experience Belize’s underwater treasures. The warm, calm waters offer exceptional visibility, making it a breeze to explore the reef’s intricate details and spot its many inhabitants. Plus, summer coincides with the breeding season for many marine species, increasing your chances of witnessing vibrant displays of courtship and new life. The summer months truly bring the reef to life.
Chabil Mar: Your Dive into Luxury and Adventure
After a day of underwater exploration, retreat to the luxurious embrace of Chabil Mar, your beachfront oasis on the Placencia Peninsula. Our villas offer the perfect blend of comfort and elegance, with spacious living areas, private plunge pools, and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. Our dedicated staff will ensure your every need is met, from arranging diving and snorkeling excursions to recommending the best local restaurants and activities.
Whether you’re a seasoned diver seeking new challenges or a snorkeler eager to dip your toes into the underwater world, Belize’s summer diving and snorkeling experiences are sure to leave you spellbound. At Chabil Mar, we’re passionate about providing our guests with unforgettable adventures, and we can’t wait to share the magic of Belize’s underwater realm with you.
Visit our website 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 summer vacation.
Although Belize is an exceptional destination to visit throughout the year, summer provides a truly distinctive and lively experience for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in this multifaceted, tropical utopia. Boasting magnificent beaches, lush jungles, and an intriguing mix of history and culture, Belize offers an abundance of reasons to make summer the ultimate time for exploration.
Let’s delve into the reasons that make Belize the perfect choice for an unforgettable summer adventure.
Bask in the Warm Belizean Sun
Summer in Belize boasts warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, providing the perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures and relaxation. With average temperatures ranging from 79°F to 87°F (26°C to 31°C), the warm weather and clear skies create ideal conditions for beach days, snorkeling, and exploring the country’s diverse landscapes.
Experience Lively Festivals and Cultural Events
During summer in Belize, the air is filled with the excitement of colorful festivals and cultural events. Don’t miss the annual Placencia Lobsterfest in July, where you can savor delectable lobster dishes while being entertained by live music, games, and dancing. The Belize International Music and Food Festival is another captivating event that highlights the country’s rich musical diversity and tantalizing cuisine. This lively gathering unites locals and visitors, providing a one-of-a-kind chance to immerse yourself in Belize’s dynamic culture and delight in its exquisite culinary creations
Encounter Wildlife in Their Natural Habitat
Summer is the perfect time to witness the magnificent wildlife of Belize in their natural environment. The Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, home to the world’s first jaguar reserve, offers the unique opportunity to spot these elusive cats and other native species such as tapirs, howler monkeys, and various exotic birds. Additionally, summer is the prime time for whale shark sightings off the coast of Placencia, providing a once-in-a-lifetime experience for snorkelers and divers.
Explore Ancient Maya Ruins
Belize is home to several awe-inspiring ancient Maya ruins, and visiting these archaeological sites in the summer offers an unparalleled experience. The summer solstice, usually occurring on June 21st, is a significant event in Mayan culture, and many sites, such as Caracol and Xunantunich, hold special celebrations on this day, providing visitors with a unique insight into the ancient civilization.
Enjoy Off-Peak Travel Benefits
Summer is considered the off-peak travel season in Belize, which means fewer crowds and lower prices on accommodations and tours. This allows you to enjoy a more serene and budget-friendly vacation without compromising on the quality of your experiences.
Adventure Awaits
From cave tubing and zip-lining through lush jungles to diving into the depths of the iconic Great Blue Hole, summer in Belize presents countless opportunities for adventure seekers. The country’s diverse landscape and abundant natural resources provide the perfect playground for an exhilarating vacation.
Discover Placencia and Chabil Mar: The Perfect Summer Getaway
As you plan your exhilarating summer getaway to Belize, make sure Placencia and Chabil Mar top your list of must-visit destinations. Placencia, an enchanting travel destination, boasts breathtaking beaches, pristine waters, and a wide array of water sports, setting the stage for the ultimate summer escape. Don’t miss the chance to explore the nearby Laughing Bird Caye National Park, offering unparalleled snorkeling and diving experiences.
Nestled in Placencia, Chabil Mar is a luxurious beachfront resort that serves as the perfect base for your Belize summer adventure. The resort features exquisitely designed villas, a private beach, and two mesmerizing infinity pools, ensuring a stay that is both comfortable and unforgettable. With attentive personalized service and easy access to Belize’s finest attractions, Chabil Mar becomes your dream home away from home for a truly memorable Belize summer vacation.
Visit our website 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 summer vacation.
Placencia Village on the southeastern coast of Belize is a popular holiday destination for North American expats and tourists. The village is located on the southern tip of the 16-mile long narrow Placencia Peninsula, a relaxed “barefoot friendly” community that bills itself as the caye (island) that you can drive to as it is easily accessible by automobile via a paved 27-mile road that branches off from the Southern Highway.
Placencia is a popular destination for vacationers but each tourist brings their own expectations to the kind of experience that they have in the area. Many enjoy the laid-back barefoot atmosphere where you can wander up and down the public beaches or mosey into some of the best bars and restaurants in the area. Others visitors looking for a more pampered experience can stay at top-rated luxury resorts like Chabil Mar located just a few minutes’ walk from the village.
The high season in Placencia starts in mid-December and lasts until after Easter, although any time of the year is a good time to visit. There’s always a bump in the number of visitors during the full moons of the months of May and June as that’s when the whale sharks come to feed in the waters just offshore.
Here are 8 must do activities/tours in Placencia.
Explore Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
Located in the Stann Creek District and not far from Placencia Village, the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary is globally recognized as the world’s first jaguar preserve and is home to cascading waterfalls to swim in, panoramic mountain views, nature trails, furry mammals, colorful insects, scaly reptiles and a variety of neotropical birds. In addition, river tubing is a favorite adventure for the many visitors to this unique tropical paradise. Tours leave daily from Chabil Mar.
Although the jaguar (the largest spotted cat in the world) is what the reserve is famous for, you are unlikely to see one as the cat is nocturnal. However you will see its tracks along with tracks of tapir, deer, and other wildlife that inhabit the nature reserve. Cockscomb Basin is also home to one of Belize’s highest points — Victoria Peak and many travelers who vacation in Placencia go on this tour.
Go on a Kayaking expedition at Laughing Bird Caye
Kayaking in Placencia is a joy! The crystal clear waters, tepid sunshine and balmy Caribbean breezes that Belize offers make for an ideal kayaking expedition. As you glide across the warm waters, you will observe untouched coral reefs, white sandy beaches and abundant marine wildlife like the amazing sea turtle.
Belize has numerous cayes that can be explored on a kayak. Laughing Bird Caye National Park for example, is a mini atoll and is a favorite stopover for reef kayakers.
Pay a Visit to the Resident Howler Monkeys
Take a boat to Monkey River Village and head up Monkey River and into the jungle to pay a visit with the resident howler monkeys. Complete your adventure along the ride to observe crocodiles sunning along the river banks, along with exotic birds, iquana hanging in the trees, a few bats and lizards and enjoy a lunch with the villagers in Monkey River. On the way back to Placencia you may even see a few manatees along with their pups.
Explore Maya Temple Sites
According to archeologists, over 1 million Maya people lived in present day Belize. Today there are a range of Maya temples scattered throughout Belize. If you are vacationing in Placencia, you might want to explore Maya Temples like Nim Li Punit and Lubantuun in the Toledo District or Xunantunich and Cahal Pech in western Belize. While visiting some of these sites, maybe even add on a swim up river and into a cave! That is a thrill of a lifetime.
Dive or Snorkel – even with Whale Sharks
Home to the second largest barrier reef in the world, Belize is a diver and snorkeler’s dream come true. In addition, over 100 islands dot the coastline, just offshore from Placencia, providing endless opportunities for diverse diving and snorkeling opportunities.
During the months of March, April, May and June around the full moon, giant whale sharks will emerge in the turquoise clear waters of Gladden Spit and Silk Caye Marine Reserve near the Placencia Peninsula. This marine reserve is used by over 30 species of tropical fishes to release their eggs and it is the eggs of the cubera, mutton and dog snappers that the whale sharks munch on.
Both divers and snorkelers can swim with these giant whale sharks in the pristine and warm waters of southern Belize without any risk from these magnificent creatures as they do not pose any significant threat to humans.
Fishing is Extraordinary
As a traditional fishing Village, Placencia is the residency of some of the finest fishing captains in Belize. And, due to its location on a peninsula, the lagoons to the west, the Caribbean to the east and the barrier reef 18 miles offshore, while being dotted with multiple islands (cayes, pronounced “keys”), fishing is inherent in the population and history of this beautiful Village of 1500 residents. A grand slam is a definitely a possibility while visiting Placencia.
Enjoy delicious Belizean Cuisines
Placencia Village is a traditional fishing Village with a tourist element. It is this small tourist exposure that has encouraged its residents to populate it with amazing restaurants like Tipsy Tuna, Rum Fish, Barefoot, La Dolce Vita, Secret Garden, Yoli’s, Pickled Parrot, Purple Space Monkey and Wendy’s (no not the fast food restaurant) and these well known restaurants offer a variety of fresh sea food at a reasonable price. Dotted along the streets are many vendors serving some of the best Belizean dishes in the country, passed down from generations and prepared with local ingredients. Rum Fish for example, sells the best fish tacos and if you are into gourmet burgers you’ll have to try Barefoot Restaurant & Bar which is located right on the beach.
You can also check out the Italian Gelato Shop that offers incredible and authentic fruit gelatos. Gelato in Placencia? Yes, and we dare say among the best you will ever have the pleasure to put to your palate.
Placencia Beaches
In a country with more than 180 miles of beaches, the Placencia Peninsula truly stands out. Lovely white sand, refreshing tropical breezes, and the sight and scent of the sparkling waters of the Caribbean combine for a truly unforgettable tropical beach experience.
While many people partake in organized adventures on both the mainland and nearby Belize Barrier Reef, one of the truly special joys of a Belize vacation is relaxing and exploring the beaches of the Placencia peninsula.
Below are a few ways to make the most of Placencia’s golden beaches:
Take a long walk – In some parts, it’s considered a cliche to say that you enjoy a long walk on the beach, but in Placencia the words won’t matter. Whether you’re strolling hand in hand with a loved one or simply admiring the view on your own, walking along the beach in Placencia is undeniably good for the soul.
Enjoy a fine meal – Whether you’ve packed a picnic basket filled to the brim with tasty local goodies or you’ve decided to enjoy a seafront view at one of the peninsula’s amazing restaurants, few experiences can compare to dining on delicious food and drinks on the beach.
Main Street – New York has Fifth Avenue and Paris has the Champs-Élysées, but the village of Placencia has its own unique claim to fame. Officially declared the smallest main street in the world, the central “boulevard” running through the middle of the village is actually a sidewalk just four feet across. No cars are allowed which makes it the perfect place to visit cute little shops, grab a coffee, or sit down for a delicious snack.
Relax! – Many people get so wound up trying to cram in as many activities and tours during their vacation that they forget the reason why they decided to visit Belize in the first place. The lovely golden dunes of Placencia are a great place to work on your tan, swing in a hammock, or dip your toes in the Caribbean while unwinding and relaxing.
Seine Bight – Heading north from Placencia Village, visitors walking along the beach have the opportunity to go see the village of Seine Bight. Home to Belize’s unique Garifuna culture, Seine Bight is a great chance to experience Garifuna music, dancing, and food.
Take unforgettable photos – Whether you want to impress your friends on social media with your amazing selfies or simply want to capture the happy memories of vacation, the beaches of Placencia are ideal for taking photographs.
Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize and Placencia, 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.
No need to hire a translator to find out why one of Belize’s most remarkable Caribbean resorts was named Chabil Mar Villas. It’s a translation of “beautiful sea,” derived from an ancient Mayan dialect. And while the Caribbean sea is soothing, it’s not the only example of beauty you’ll find at this lush tropical resort. We unearthed 10 other beautiful reasons to stay at Chabil Mar. You’ll discover more!
1. Chabil Mar is located on the Placencia peninsula, Belize’s hottest destination. At 16 miles long, it’s filled with charming towns and endless recreational opportunities.
2. Families preferring more tranquil waters can take youngsters one mile east to where Placencia’s lagoon washes up on equally beautiful beaches. Your kids could spot the manatees living in the lagoon – if these endangered mammals decide to show themselves.
3. The 400-feet of private beach at Chabil Mar is beautifully manicured and awash in palm trees and comfy lounge chairs. All your senses will come alive as you are treated to soothing vistas, waves, and breezes. Digging in the sand and popping into the sea are not just invited but encouraged!
4. For guests who prefer fresh water, two Chabil Mar pools await. Just steps from the small number of accommodations that make this resort one of the most navigable in Belize, family members enjoy having two choices when pool time arrives.
5. Chabil Mar villas are beautifully appointed, face the Sea, and offer families room to spread out within from 925- to 2000-square feet of space. From beautiful furnishings and well-appointed baths, attached verandas bring the best of the outdoors inside.
6. Dine at Café Mar where mouth-watering plates prepared by executive chefs are a feast for the eyes and tummy. Bring a camera. Your fussiest eaters will clean their plates and you’ll want to record it.
7. Chabil Mar’s sugar-white beaches invite guests to avail themselves of sporting equipment kept on hand just for visitors. Pilot kayaks and paddleboards. Active families eager to explore the peninsula can borrow complimentary bicycles, too.
8. Chabil Mar’s Belize family package is filled with delights and removes all the work of planning from stressed moms and dads. Believe every word you read when exploring this website page. Like what you see? It’s better in person!
9. Staffers at Chabil Mar are trained in the art of family pampering. They really love kids. Requests for assistance, recommendations, and service are at the very heart of this resort’s culture so whether it’s a beverage on the beach or a request for a fresh towel, all you need do is ask.
10. Seeing is believing, so may we suggest that you put Chabil Mar Resort atop your vacation shortlist after viewing this video? Site browsers say that this beautifully-shot footage is so inspiring, that family members set off on suitcase searches immediately after watching it. We’d be surprised if your family didn’t feel the same way!
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.
Do you frequently find yourself debating the merits of one issue, place, or subject over another? Perhaps you are motivated by this back and forth. Maybe debates satisfy your need to win, or you just love to hone your persuasion skills. The fact is, some of us are hard-wired for healthy debates and if you’re one of them, perhaps you just like to argue for the sake of seeing how good you are at articulating your perspective.
Humans, it seems, aren’t the only entities drawn to the debate stage. There’s been an unofficial competition between the two most popular Belize destinations for longer than either Ambergris Caye or Placencia peninsula fans will admit, and for couples planning honeymoons, the decision to pick one over the other can be tough because both destinations are popular, diverse, and packed with opportunities that make ordinary honeymoons become extraordinary ones.
We can help you decide…
The Ambergris Caye/Placencia decision is simply no contest. Placencia is the clear favorite among honeymooners who want it all, minus the crowded beaches and rowdy all-night bacchanals for which Ambergris is not just known but beloved by folks who wouldn’t vacation or reside elsewhere. Allow us to make a case for Placencia if you’re sitting on the fence by citing these 10 reasons:
1. Placencia beaches are lauded by travel experts as being the best in Belize.
2. Honeymooners enjoy two coasts: The Caribbean and a tranquil bay where manatees frolic.
3. Ambergris is more crowded at 10 times the population of Placencia.
4. Placencia offers quick access to top tourist attractions. Every Ambergris mainland tour requires a time-consuming boat ride.
5. At 16 miles long, Placencia is delightfully navigable. Ambergris covers 25 miles.
6. Ambergris is the Caribbean version of the wild west! Placencia is laid-back and mellow.
7. Honeymooners find Placencia to be quaint, romantic, and charming. Ambergris? Crazy-busy!
8. Get to Placencia from the airport quickly to start your honeymoon. Add a boat ride to reach Ambergris.
9. Ambergris is the quintessential tourist town, so you’ll likely spend more money during your honeymoon.
10. Ambergris will satisfy your wish for 24/7 partying. Prefer privacy and intimacy? Placencia is Nirvana.
The honeymoon haven you seek awaits
At Chabil Mar Villas, perched on Placencia’s Caribbean shoreline, honeymooning is elevated to an art. An exaggeration? Hardly. Can you think of another resort that offers you six separate honeymoon escapes and then invites you to curate the one that’s closest to your heart so it becomes a one-of-a-kind getaway?
Your honeymoon launches your life together as man and wife so why not celebrate it in luxury and seclusion that only a Placencia resort of this caliber offers? Learn more about this idyllic peninsula and you’ll be convinced that making a decision to skip Ambergris Caye in favor of this paradise on earth is exactly the honeymoon you’ve dreamed about, and so much more!
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