If you have been thinking about a Belize vacation but dreaded the idea of a connecting flight, we have good news. The Belize Tourism Board has announced that WestJet will launch a new nonstop service between Winnipeg Richardson International Airport and Philip Goldson International Airport in Belize City, with the first flight departing December 14, 2026. For travelers in Manitoba and across western Canada, that means one less reason to wait.
The new weekly service joins WestJet’s existing nonstop flights from Toronto and Calgary, making Belize more accessible to Canadian travelers than it has ever been. And for those ready to make the trip, Chabil Mar is ready for you.
What the New Route Means for Canadian Travelers
Direct access changes everything. There is a meaningful difference between a trip that begins with a layover and one that has you stepping off a plane and into warm Caribbean air without interruption. The Winnipeg nonstop does exactly that, opening Belize’s reef, rainforest, ancient Maya sites, and rich cultural experiences to a new wave of Canadian travelers who can now arrive refreshed and ready.
Canada has long been one of Belize’s most important international source markets, and this new route is a strong signal of confidence in the destination’s continued growth. For winter travelers looking to trade Manitoba’s cold for the warmth of the Placencia Peninsula, the timing could not be better. The route launches just as Belize’s peak season begins, putting some of the best weather, clearest water, and most vibrant reef conditions of the year within easy reach.
Why Chabil Mar Is Where You Want to Land
Getting to Belize is now easier. Choosing where to stay should be just as straightforward. Chabil Mar sits on the Placencia Peninsula, right on the Caribbean Sea, and it has been welcoming guests who want something more than a standard resort experience for years. Boutique by design, with a limited number of private villas all facing the water, the property offers the kind of personalized, unhurried hospitality that larger resorts simply cannot replicate.
Our winter season is exceptional. The dry season brings warm sunny days, calm Caribbean waters, and ideal conditions for snorkeling the Belize Barrier Reef, sport fishing, exploring ancient Maya sites, and island hopping to the cayes. Back at the resort, the infinity pool, the private beach, and the pace of life on the Placencia Peninsula do the rest.
For Canadian travelers arriving on WestJet’s new Winnipeg service, the journey from Philip Goldson International Airport to Chabil Mar is straightforward, and our team is happy to help arrange transfers so that your vacation begins the moment you land.
Now Is the Time to Book
Peak winter dates fill quickly at Chabil Mar, and with a new direct route from Winnipeg bringing more Canadian travelers to Belize this season, availability will go fast. Whether you are planning a romantic escape, a family trip, or simply the kind of vacation that reminds you why you work so hard the rest of the year, we would love to have you with us this winter.
Reach out to our reservations team today, check availability, and let us take care of everything else. Winnipeg to Belize nonstop. Belize to Chabil Mar. The hardest part is deciding to go.
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.
When most people think of a Caribbean vacation, they imagine peak-season crowds, high prices, and jam-packed schedules. But Belize in August offers something completely different—something more laid-back, authentic, and personal. If you are looking for a destination where nature is alive, the beaches are uncrowded, and the culture is rich, August might just be the perfect time to visit Belize. And if you’re headed south, Chabil Mar in Placencia is the ideal place to make the most of it.
Why August is a Hidden Gem in Belize
August falls during the low season in Belize, which means you can enjoy more space, better deals, and a relaxed vibe. The weather is warm and tropical, with occasional short showers that cool things off and bring out the lush green of the landscape. Don’t let the idea of the “rainy season” scare you off. Most of the time, showers roll in during the late afternoon or night, leaving the day open for exploring.
August is also a great time for those who prefer a more intimate travel experience. You won’t be elbowing your way through tour groups or waiting in line for a table at the best restaurants. The pace slows down in the most beautiful way. You can take a barefoot walk down the Placencia sidewalk, chat with friendly locals, and enjoy freshly prepared Belizean dishes with a view of the sea and no rush at all.
What to Do in Belize in August
Placencia in August is all about slow mornings, sunny afternoons, and eclectic local culture. At Chabil Mar, you can begin your day with breakfast on your villa’s private veranda, then spend the morning paddleboarding, swimming, or snorkeling just off the beach. The water is warm and clear, and marine life is active. A quick boat ride can take you to the Belize Barrier Reef for snorkeling or diving, or you can head inland for a river tour or a visit to ancient Maya ruins like Nim Li Punit or Lubaantun.
August is also prime time for seafood lovers, especially those craving fresh lobster. The lobster season is in full swing, and local chefs know exactly how to serve it—grilled with garlic butter, stewed Belizean style, or tucked into tacos and pasta dishes. Placencia is known for its culinary creativity, and August offers the perfect chance to indulge in mouthwatering lobster dishes without the peak-season crowds. Pair your meal with a cold Belikin or tropical cocktail, and you’ve got the perfect evening by the sea.
If you’re interested in nature and wildlife, August is a great time for birdwatching and exploring the nearby Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. The jungle is teeming with life, and you might catch glimpses of toucans, howler monkeys, or even a jaguar paw print in the mud. The afternoon rains bring the jungle to life in a way that few travelers get to see.
Why Chabil Mar is the Perfect Place to Stay
At Chabil Mar, you’re not just booking a room—you’re stepping into a boutique beachfront villa experience with all the comforts of a resort and the personal touches of a private retreat. Our property is reserved exclusively for our guests, so you’ll never feel crowded. You’ll enjoy beautifully designed villas, tropical gardens, gorgeous infinity pools, and direct access to our private beach. And when you want to explore, Placencia Village is just a short stroll or complimentary bike ride away.
In August, we offer attractive rates and vacation packages that let you experience the best of Belize without the peak-season price tag. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a solo reset, or a family vacation, our team is here to make every detail perfect—from tour bookings to spa treatments to candlelit dinners on the pier.
Plan Your August Getaway to Belize
If you’re looking for an unforgettable August vacation, Belize has what you’re looking for—natural beauty, friendly faces, and endless adventure. And at Chabil Mar, you’ll find the perfect place to call home while you enjoy it all. Escape the ordinary this August. Book your stay at Chabil Mar Villas and discover what it really means to vacation in Belize.
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.
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.
Placencia is a small peninsula measuring about 1 mile across and 16 miles north and south attached to the southeastern corner of Stann Creek District in southeastern Belize. Placencia is approximately 160 miles (by land) south of Belize City and 33 miles south of Dangriga, the capital of Stann Creek District.
Placencia Peninsula
Due to its unique geography, the Placencia Peninsula offers visitors two very different terrains. On the landward side, the peninsula is bordered by several mangrove-lined lagoons, known for their rich abundance of fishing opportunities. The seaward side fronts the Caribbean and offers spectacular vistas and easy access to the nearby Belize Barrier Reef. The beaches of Placencia Peninsula are renowned for their pristine beauty.
Placencia Village
Located at the southern part of the peninsula where it joins the mainland, the small village of Placencia is still primarily a fishing-oriented community. With the advent of tourism into the area, the village is now home to ATMs, restaurants, cafes, luxury resorts, and dive shops.
Placencia Belize Weather
Like the rest of Belize, the Placencia Peninsula enjoys warm temperatures all year-round. The green season runs approximately from May to November, with heavier rains usually found in September and October. Daytime temps average between about 70F (21C) to 83F (28C) and nights range from about 70F (20C) to 77F (25C).
Placencia on the Belize Map (see photo above)
If you look at southeastern Belize and can find the Stann Creek District, it is very easy to spot the Placencia Peninsula. Shaped roughly like a boot with the toe pointing towards the mainland, the peninsula is at the very bottom of Stann Creek District right where it meets Toledo District.
Where to stay in Placencia Belize
Due to its beautiful beaches and fantastic views of the Caribbean, the peninsula has become a growing tourist hotspot. One of the finest resorts on the peninsula is Chabil Mar, which offers guests modern luxury in fully-equipped villas just a few minutes’ beach stroll from Placencia Village.
With close access to some of the finest attractions on the mainland like the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary and just minutes away from some of the most beautiful parts of the Belize Barrier Reef, the Placencia Peninsula has become a popular destination in recent years. When not exploring the mainland or the offshore reefs, visitors can relax on one of the many fine beaches, learn more about the Garifuna culture, or pass the time away in one of the bars and restaurants on the peninsula.
Visit our website chabilmarvillas.com for more information on 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 Placencia Belize vacation.
When school lets out and summer stretches ahead, families everywhere face the same question: where can we go that everyone will love? The answer might be closer than you think. Belize’s Caribbean coast, and the Placencia Peninsula in particular, offers everything a family vacation should be: warm seas, real adventure, friendly culture, and value that makes the whole trip easier to say yes to.
English is the official language, the flight from many U.S. cities is shorter than a cross-country hop, and the mix of reef, rainforest, and beach means no one in the family gets bored. Here are seven reasons summer is the perfect time to bring the whole crew to the Caribbean coast of Belize.
1. Summer Is Green Season Value at Its Best
Summer falls within Belize’s green season, when resorts offer their most attractive rates and promotions. Families can enjoy premium beachfront accommodations, and often extra nights or added experiences, for far less than peak season pricing. Brief tropical showers keep the landscape lush and vibrant, while mornings typically shine bright and sunny, which is perfect for beach days and excursions.
2. The Belize Barrier Reef Is a Living Classroom
Just offshore lies the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere, and summer’s warm, calm waters make it wonderfully family friendly. Kids can snorkel alongside sea turtles, rays, and rainbow-colored fish at spots like Laughing Bird Caye, while older family members dive coral gardens teeming with life. It is science class, adventure, and pure wonder rolled into one unforgettable day.
3. Adventures for Every Age and Energy Level
Belize packs remarkable variety into a small country. Families can paddle the Monkey River spotting howler monkeys and manatees, hike to jungle waterfalls, zip-line through the rainforest canopy, or visit the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, the world’s first jaguar preserve. Thrill seekers and nap lovers alike will find their perfect pace.
4. History Comes Alive at Ancient Maya Sites
Forget textbooks. In Belize, kids can climb real ancient Maya sites such as Nim Li Punit, Lubaantun, and Xunantunich, standing where an extraordinary civilization flourished more than a thousand years ago. Local guides bring the stories to life in ways no classroom ever could, making history the surprise favorite part of many family trips.
5. Placencia Lobsterfest Brings Summer to Life
Held annually over the first weekend of July, Placencia Lobsterfest is one of Belize’s most beloved celebrations. Families enjoy fresh lobster dishes, live music, games, and a joyful beachside atmosphere that captures the warmth of village life. It is a cultural experience the kids will talk about long after the tan lines fade.
6. Warm Belizean Hospitality Makes Travel Easy
Belizeans are famously welcoming, and Placencia Village embodies that spirit. The famous Placencia Sidewalk invites families to stroll past art galleries, gelato shops, and cafés, chatting with shopkeepers along the way. With English spoken everywhere and a culture that adores children, parents can relax knowing the whole family feels at home.
7. Chabil Mar Makes Family Travel Effortless
The right home base turns a good family vacation into a great one. Chabil Mar, the only guest-exclusive resort on the Placencia Peninsula, gives families room to breathe with spacious beachfront villas featuring full kitchens and private verandas, plus two infinity pools, 400 feet of private beach, and al fresco dining where even picky eaters find something to love.
The concierge team arranges every excursion, from reef trips to rainforest adventures, so parents can skip the planning stress. And because the resort is guest exclusive, the pools and beach stay peaceful, giving families a private slice of the Caribbean all summer long.
This summer, trade the theme park lines for sea turtles, ancient temples, and beachside festivals. The Caribbean coast of Belize is waiting, and it is closer, easier, and more affordable than you might imagine.
Plan your family’s summer escape to Chabil Mar, where guest-exclusive comfort, endless adventure, and barefoot luxury come together on the beautiful Placencia Peninsula.
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.
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