Belize Resort and Vacation Blog Archives - Page 51 of 143

Run the End of the World, Then Relax in Paradise at Chabil Mar

Posted on June 3, 2025

Lace up your sneakers and get ready to run where the road meets the sea—because the 14th Annual End of the World Marathon is back on December 7, 2025! Held on the breathtaking Placencia Peninsula, this one-of-a-kind marathon isn’t just about crossing the finish line—it’s about soaking in the beauty of Belize while supporting an incredible cause.

The End of the World Marathon is more than just a race. It’s a movement. All proceeds go toward funding scholarships for Belizean youth in high school, university, and trade programs. So every step you take helps a student get closer to their dreams. And with early bird registration offering a 15% discount from June 1–30, 2025, now is the perfect time to commit to a run with purpose.

But after the adrenaline and achievement, you’ll want a place to unwind, celebrate, and reflect—and that’s where Chabil Mar Villas Boutique Guest Exclusive Resort comes in. Located right here in Placencia Village, Chabil Mar offers luxurious beachfront accommodations perfect for both athletes and spectators looking to enjoy the best of Belize.

Our villas are private, spacious, and ideal for recharging post-race. Enjoy gourmet meals, tropical drinks, and our signature barefoot luxury service—because after you’ve conquered 13.1 or 26.2 miles, you deserve to be pampered. Take a dip in our sea-facing infinity pools, stroll along the beach, or toast your achievement with dinner on the pier as the sun sets over the Caribbean.

Plus, Chabil Mar’s location puts you just minutes from the start line and the post-race celebrations. Whether you’re here to run, cheer, or simply soak up the energy of this unforgettable event, we’ll make sure your stay is as memorable as your marathon.

So, runners and race fans alike: register early, pack your gear, and book your stay at Chabil Mar. This December, the end of the world is just the beginning of an incredible Belize adventure.

Learn more about the event or register/donate at runbelize.org

Book your beachfront villa with us today at chabilmarvillas.com

Let’s make 2025 a year of movement, meaning, and memories in Placencia, Belize.

The Baird’s Tapir, the National Animal of Belize

Posted on June 3, 2025

With so many interesting and exotic animals living in Belize, choosing to see the Baird’s Tapir (Tapirus bairdii) may seem a little unusual. Baird’s tapirs are the national animals of the country and are rarely seen in the rainforests and jungles of Belize primarily because they are only active at nighttime and spend most of their lives completely alone.

But there’s a lot to appreciate about these creatures, the largest indigenous land mammal in Belize. Baird’s tapirs are named for Spencer Fullerton Baird, an American naturalist who first observed the animals in Mexico in 1843 but are known as “mountain cows” by Belizeans.

These mammals can grow up to six feet long (two meters) and weigh up to 500 pounds (225 kilograms). Baird’s tapirs are entirely vegetarian, usually feeding on fruits, leaves, grasses, and aquatic vegetation but they are happy to snack on corn and other crops when they get a chance. But don’t let their size fool you. Despite their big size and ungainly appearance, they are fantastic swimmers. In Belize, Baird’s tapirs range across vast territories, often having to cross rivers, creeks, and wetlands. These land mammals are also excellent at climbing steep terrain even in the thickest jungle.

It takes approximately 13 months for a Baird’s tapir to gestate and three years to grow to full maturity. During those three years, young tapirs will stay close to their mothers, the only time in their lives when they will live in proximity to their parents. It is estimated that they can live 30 or more years in the wild.

Baird’s tapirs don’t actually look like a cow. Their appearance is more of a big, gray anteater or elephant due to their long, prehensile nose. These mammals are actually most closely related to horses and rhinoceroses. Although it’s hard to spot a tapir in the wild, the tracks they leave behind are easily identifiable, a deep, splayed hoofmark with four toes in front and three in the rear.

Baird’s tapirs were once found all throughout Central and South America, but their numbers have dwindled due to poaching and the encroachment of human developments. Today, Belize is home to some of the biggest populations of these mammals. Baird’s tapirs don’t pose any risk to humans. When surprised, they usually like to flee to the nearest body of water, but on occasion, they will emit a loud whistle and stamp their feet.

If you’re interested in seeing a Baird’s tapir up close and personal, be sure to book your visit to the Belize Zoo with Chabil Mar.

Celebrating Father’s Day in Placencia, Belize: The Ultimate Dadventure

Posted on June 1, 2025

Father’s Day is a time to honor the special men in our lives, and what better way to do so than with an unforgettable getaway to the sun-kissed shores of Placencia, Belize? This charming peninsula is a treasure trove of experiences, offering a diverse range of activities that cater to every dad’s interests, from exciting adventures to relaxing retreats.

Adventures to Remember

For the dad who loves to cast a line, Placencia’s fishing charters are second to none. The Caribbean Sea teems with snapper, grouper, barracuda, and even the elusive tarpon. Whether he’s a seasoned angler or a novice, the thrill of the catch and the subsequent seafood feast will undoubtedly be a highlight of his trip.

If your dad is a certified diver, the Belize Barrier Reef awaits. As the second-largest barrier reef in the world, it boasts a mesmerizing underwater world of vibrant coral gardens and diverse marine life. Swimming alongside gentle nurse sharks is an experience he’ll cherish forever. For those who prefer to stay closer to the surface, snorkeling offers an equally captivating glimpse into this underwater paradise.

A wildlife safari up the Monkey River is a must for nature-loving dads. Cruising through the mangrove forests, you’ll encounter howler monkeys, crocodiles, iguanas, and a plethora of bird species. This eco-adventure is a fantastic way to connect with Belize’s rich biodiversity and create lasting memories.

Relaxation and Rejuvenation

Placencia’s picturesque beaches are the perfect place to unwind. Miles of sandy shores invite you to soak up the sun, swim in the crystal-clear waters, or simply stroll hand-in-hand. Kayaking and paddleboarding offer a more active way to explore the coastline, while a good book and a hammock provide the ultimate in relaxation.

For dads who deserve a bit of pampering, Placencia’s luxurious resorts offer a range of spa treatments. Massages, facials, and body wraps are just a few of the ways to melt away stress and rejuvenate body and soul.

No trip to Placencia is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Influenced by Caribbean, Latin American, and Maya flavors, Belizean dishes are a treat for the taste buds. Fresh seafood, rice and beans, stewed chicken, and fry jacks are just a few of the must-try delicacies. Pair your meal with a refreshing Belikin beer or a tropical cocktail for the perfect culinary experience.

Chabil Mar: Your Father’s Day Haven

When it comes to choosing accommodations, Chabil Mar is the epitome of luxury and comfort. Located on the beachfront, this exquisite resort offers spacious villas, personalized service, and a range of amenities to ensure your dad’s every need is met. Gourmet dining, an infinity pool overlooking the Caribbean Sea, and private villas with stunning ocean views create an ambiance of pure indulgence. Chabil Mar’s commitment to providing an unforgettable experience makes it the ideal destination to celebrate Father’s Day in style.

Whether your dad is an adventurer, a nature enthusiast, a foodie, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, Placencia has something to offer everyone. This coastal haven is sure to provide the perfect backdrop for a Father’s Day celebration he’ll never forget.

For more information about vacationing 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.

Getting Excited For The 2025 Annual Placencia Lobsterfest

Posted on May 21, 2025

As the July sun shines high above the glistening waters and sandy white beaches of the Placencia Peninsula in Belize, one of the most popular events of the year is expected to draw record crowds. The world-famous Placencia Lobsterfest, held this year between July 4-6, will kick off the lobster season with music, games, and plenty of savory dishes made from everyone’s favorite crustaceans.

Regular visitors to Placencia know that the area is famous for its abundance of fresh-caught seafood, including conch, shrimp, snapper, grouper, kingfish, lionfish, and barracuda. The advent of the lobster season heralds an unparalleled opportunity to sample some of the finest cooking anywhere in the country, with local chefs competing to make the most savory dish from lobster.

Starting with the ubiquitous boiled lobster served with drawn butter, culinary competitors will tempt festival-goers with lobster curry, stewed lobster, lobster ceviche, and gourmet dishes elevated to a fine art. Along with all of the seafood, market stalls, restaurants and cafes will also feature fresh local organic fruits, vegetarian dishes, and savory dishes made from chicken, pork, and beef.

“We like to kid our guests about the weight-loss benefits of going to Lobsterfest,” says Larry France, the marketing manager at Chabil Mar Villas, a luxury resort on the peninsula, “because lobster is packed with protein and very low in fat. Gorging on lobster in combination with dancing to all the great local music and participating in sporting events is really a lot of fun.”

The main attraction of the Lobster Festival is, of course, all of the delicious food but it also has a serious side as well. The festival is organized by the Placencia Village Council to promote awareness of the local population as well as to raise money for charitable causes. In order to preserve the natural beauty of the area, the Placencia Village Council has instituted a “Keep It Green, Keep it Clean” policy for the festival. All food vendors are required to use biodegradable containers and bars are restricted to pouring drinks into reusable “stadium cups”. Bottled water won’t be on sale but thirsty festival-goers can refill their stadium cups or personal bottles at free water stations located throughout the festival area.

Chabil Mar situated on the Placencia Peninsula just a few minutes’ stroll down the beach from all the action at the Lobster Festival, is an ideal place to stay. Because of the popularity of the Lobster Festival, rooms are filling up fast so be sure to make your reservation today.

Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on the Placencia Lobsterfest, 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.

Chabil Mar Featured in Season 8 of “Travel With Kids” on Amazon Prime Video

Posted on May 14, 2025

Chabil Mar Villas Boutique Guest Exclusive Resort in Placencia is proud to announce its feature in the newest season of the beloved family travel series, “Travel With Kids” on Amazon Prime Video. In Season 8, Episode 2, hosts Nathan and Seamus return to the scene after a six-year hiatus, bringing viewers an authentic, engaging, and personal travel experience in the heart of Belize—with Chabil Mar as their home base.

After the long pause brought on by the global pandemic, this season of Travel With Kids feels extra meaningful. The brotherly duo returns to travel with a sense of appreciation and curiosity, embracing cultural exploration and reconnecting with the world through the eyes of family travel. And in Belize, their journey kicks off in style and comfort—at our beachfront resort right here in Placencia.

Placencia Adventures with a Chabil Mar Touch

During their stay at Chabil Mar, Nathan and Seamus take full advantage of everything Placencia has to offer. They cook massive local lobsters, cruise around the village in a golf cart, hike to hidden waterfalls, and wake up to breathtaking sunrises over the Caribbean Sea—all while calling one of our private villas home.

The episode captures the essence of staying at Chabil Mar: personal, immersive, and effortlessly scenic. Whether they’re exploring Placencia’s vibrant day-to-day life or venturing into the jungle in search of Belize’s natural wonders, the show beautifully highlights the luxury and local charm that define the Chabil Mar experience.

Reconnect With Real Travel

“Travel With Kids” has long been praised for its honest, unfiltered storytelling. In this new season, the hosts not only revisit iconic destinations—they reflect on how travel has evolved. In Belize, they find a place that remains welcoming, warm, and full of adventure, and Chabil Mar becomes the perfect lens through which viewers see this tropical paradise come to life.

For families considering a Belize vacation, this episode is both a visual invitation and a helpful guide. It shows how easy it is to balance comfort with adventure, luxury with culture, and relaxation with exploration.

Watch the Episode and Start Planning Your Stay

You can watch Travel With Kids: Belize, Season 8, Episode 2 now on Amazon Prime Video here:
Watch Now on Amazon Prime

From stunning scenery and rich local culture to unforgettable family moments, Chabil Mar is honored to be part of this special episode and to represent the beauty of Belize to viewers around the world.

Ready to write your own Belize story? Start where Nathan and Seamus did—at Chabil Mar in Placencia.

Visit our website Chabilmarvillas.com for more information on Belize and Chabil Mar, and don’t hesitate to send us an email, or call & chat with us via WhatsApp Free Worldwide: +501-633-7547, Local: (011-501) 523-3606, if you have questions or need help in planning a Belize vacation.