Belize Travel Archives - Chabil Mar Villas

Where Should I Go For A Weekend In Belize?

Posted on April 22, 2026

Are you looking for a perfect destination to relax and enjoy your weekend? Look no further! Placencia is the ideal destination for a weekend getaway. The 16-mile peninsula is located in southeastern Belize and it features golden sand beaches, luxurious resorts, perfect nightlife, and top-notch food. All these factors make it an ideal place to unwind, relax and savor what Belize has to offer.

Here are the top reasons why you should go to Placencia for a weekend escape:

1. Explore the Best Belizean Beaches

Belize is a country with many beaches, but the Placencia Peninsula has always been the best. Beaches here have soft golden sand and amazing views of the Caribbean Sea. The great news is that these beaches are open to the public, so anyone can visit them. There are also plenty of beachfront bars and restaurants, where visitors can eat, drink and relax.

2. Go Snorkeling or Swimming with Whale Sharks

From around April to June, a huge number of docile whale sharks visit Gladden Spit near the coast of Placencia. These types of sharks are gentle, curious, and harmless, so you can go swimming or snorkeling with them. This has always been on the bucket list of many divers and snorkelers.

3. Wildlife and Birdwatching on Monkey River

Another adventurous activity to do while in Placencia is going out on the Monkey River. Take a tour and spot a variety of birds such as the Heron, Toucan, and Tanager. You can also take your time to look for the loudest monkeys – Howler monkeys.

4. Indulge Yourself in the Garifuna Culture

Initially, Placencia was a small fishing village, and the population here comprises of Creoles and other ethnic groups like the Garifunas, Mayas, and Mestizos. The Placencia Peninsula is also home to Seine Bight, a Garifuna village. By visiting this village, you’ll experience the vibrant Garifuna culture, traditions, music, art, and food.

5. Walk on the World’s Narrowest Street

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, Placencia has the world’s narrowest main street. The street measures 4,071 ft. in length and 4 ft. wide. You can take a stroll along this sidewalk and discover small eateries, the works of local artists, and numerous shops.

While visiting Placencia, book your accommodation at Chabil Mar, an award-winning beach-front Caribbean luxury resort. The resort’s villas are brilliantly tucked in lush gardens, giving you excellent views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea. Here, you’ll enjoy modern amenities and experience world-class adventures. So, get in touch with the staff from Chabil Mar and book your accommodation today.

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.

8 Hidden Gems around Belize You Need to Visit

Posted on February 12, 2026

In almost every corner you visit in Belize, you will encounter something beautiful – a Maya site, a diverse culture, a pristine nature reserve. The charming beauty of Belize is one of a kind and will certainly entice you to become one with Belize as the Belize Tourism Board alludes.

Below, we share with you 8 hidden gems that in our opinion are top attractions in the country that you must explore on a Belize vacation.

Xunantunich

Xunantunich is the most visited Maya sites in the Cayo District and is located atop a ridge above the Mopan River in the quaint village of San Jose Succotz in western Belize. The site served as a Maya civic ceremonial center in the late terminal Classic periods to the Belize Valley region and Xunantunich’s name means “stone woman” in the Maya language.

“El Castillo”, the largest pyramid offers an impressive and panoramic view of the area.

Monkey River

The Village of Monkey River is habitat to a plethora of flora and fauna and as a result it has been rated as one of the top destinations to visit in Southern Belize. Tropical birds, butterflies, crocodiles, iguanas, and of course howler monkeys are just a few of the wildlife that you will find encounter in this hidden gem.

Laughing Bird Caye

Laughing Bird Caye is an elegant and stunning Belizean Isle that is located 11 miles from Placencia Village and serves as an ideal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. In fact, many travelers who vacation in Placencia visit this gorgeous piece of paradise for a full day of diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking and even picnicking.

Laughing Bird Caye got its name from the Laughing Gulls – the birds that once used to breed on the Caye, however due to a growing human presence, the colonies moved to a nearby undisturbed Caye for breeding. Presently, the Island is home to a number of exotic birds like the brown pelican, green heron, and melodious blackbird.

Placencia

Over the years, Placencia has been recognized as one of the best beach destinations not only in Belize but in the Caribbean, and this exquisite hidden gem can serve as a base to a potpourri of adventures like snorkeling, diving, deep sea fishing, hiking, and even exploring ancient Maya cities.

ChabilMar, a guest exclusive resort is located right on the beach and their professional staff can assist you in arranging tours to the natural attractions in Placencia and surrounding areas.

Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary

Cockscomb Basin is recognized globally as the world’s first jaguar preserve and this hidden gem has been voted by travelers as a must see nature reserve in Belize.

Cascading waterfalls, panoramic mountain views, nature trails, furry mammals, colorful insects, scaly reptiles and a variety of tropical birds are just a few of the things you will see at this sanctuary. Cockscomb Basin is also home to one of Belize’s highest points — Victoria Peak.

Half Moon Caye in Belize

Another hidden gem in Belize that a lot of travelers do not know about is Half Moon Caye. This incredible caye offers divers the chance to go on a wall dive – a dive in which the vertical facades of the earth’s landmasses are explored. The depths at Half Moon Caye (and really at any wall dive) are tremendous, giving divers the very correct feeling that you are staring into an abyss.

The waters of this beautiful gem are particularly clear, despite the depth, so you will be able to see all manner of wildlife, including loggerhead turtles, rays, barracuda, and eels.

Great Blue Hole

The world famous Blue Hole is an incomparable natural wonder in Belize. It is located at the center of Lighthouse Reef and measures 1000 feet across and 412 feet deep. Giant stalactites, dripstone sheets and columns, and colorful marine life are the enchanting geological wonders that will fascinate you if you decide to dive this gem in Belize.

It is interesting to note that Jacques-Yves Coustea, the popular ocean explorer revealed the secrets of the Blue Hole to millions of viewers in 1971 through the television serious The Undersea World of Jacques-Yves Coustea.

Actun Tunichil Muknal Cave

Actun Tunichil Muknal or the ATM Cave as it is locally known is one of the most breathtaking caving experiences you will have in Belize. The cave is located in the karstic limestone terrain of Roaring Creek Valley in the Cayo District and is approximately 5 km long and contains a perennial stream that runs through it including a ledge with two stelae and a large chamber full of intact human remains and Maya pots.

Jaime Awe, Director of Archeology asserts that Actun Tunichil Muknal was a sacred place to the Maya who utilized the cave during the classic period AD 250-909.

Discover the Soul of Belize Through Local Eyes

Posted on December 25, 2025

As lovers of Belize, we understand that the true essence of our nation isn’t solely found in its breathtaking landscapes or the clear blue waters that caress our shores. It’s in the rhythm of our communities, the narratives of our people, and the rich culture thriving in every nook. That’s why visiting Belize and engaging in sustainable tourism by patronizing local businesses isn’t merely a recommendation—it’s a call to deeply connect with what makes us distinctly Belizean.

Empowering Our Local Economy

In Belize, our small enterprises do more than just underpin our economy; they’re the vibrant heartbeat of our communities. Take Chabil Mar, for instance—a place that offers more than just lodging. It presents an opportunity to meaningfully contribute to the welfare of our land. By choosing locally owned businesses, you play a direct role in invigorating our economy, ensuring your visit has a lasting, positive impact.

Chabil Mar stands out for its commitment to reinvesting profits into the local community. This commitment is evident in the locally sourced ingredients in your meals, the Belizean-made products that adorn the premises, and the support for local artisans. This cycle of economic activity not only fosters the growth of other local businesses but ensures the benefits of your stay ripple throughout our community, impacting many lives.

Celebrating Our Cultural Heritage

Our culture is a rich collection of stories, traditions, and heritage, waiting to be discovered by visitors from around the globe. Places like Chabil Mar serve as custodians of this cultural wealth, offering a window into the Belizean lifestyle. Through cultural events, traditional dishes, and an ambiance steeped in Belizean history, they ensure our culture is not just seen but felt.

Supporting local enterprises is crucial for preserving our distinctive cultural identity. It’s about participating in an exchange where each meal, dance, and handmade item tells a story of our ancestors, our land, and our people. It’s about making sure the essence of Belize remains alive and appreciated by future generations.

Fostering Community Growth

The role of local businesses extends beyond economic and cultural enrichment; they’re essential for creating opportunities for our people. In a country where tourism is a major source of employment, these establishments are more than just vacation spots; they’re crucial pillars of community support, offering vital jobs and career paths to Belizeans.

This emphasis on local employment means the positive effects of tourism are felt directly within our communities, enhancing living standards and empowering our citizens. It fosters a sense of pride and inclusion, ensuring that visitors are met with genuine warmth and hospitality, born from a place of gratitude and community spirit.

Building a Legacy Together

To our valued visitors, choosing to embrace the Belizean way of life during your stay means joining a journey that’s about more than just a vacation. It’s about adopting a travel philosophy that honors our environment, celebrates our culture, and supports our communities.

By supporting local ventures like Chabil Mar, your trip to Belize becomes more than a moment in time; it turns into a lasting contribution to our sustainable future. We invite you to dive deep into the heart of Belize, to experience, enjoy, and live as one of us. Together, let’s ensure the beauty of Belize continues to thrive, not just in our natural surroundings but in the lives of every Belizean you meet on this remarkable journey.

Ready to make a difference? Start planning your transformative Belize adventure today, and let’s craft a legacy of sustainability and unity, ensuring the splendor of Belize shines on for generations. Join us in this enriching experience and become a catalyst for positive change in our beloved country.

It’s Engagement Season: Pop the Question in Paradise

Posted on October 22, 2025

Even folks who don’t read the Bible have heard the popular Ecclesiastes passage that states, “To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the sun.” That wise statement has been applied to everything from sales to spices, but here’s a season that you may never have heard of: Proposal Season!

From late November to Valentine’s Day on February 14th, this segment of time has become so popular for popping the question, the website The Knot says that 37% of all engagements happen during this period! If you’ve been looking for the perfect time and place to add to that statistic, how about a lush beach in Belize?

Sophie Ross, the writer who dug up that impressive statistic for The Knot, believes that the joy of holidays triggers romantic thoughts, spurring decisions to buy engagement rings, thus leading to this seasonal trend. Further, men are no longer the only gender getting down on one knee. Plenty of women are proposing to their soulmates, too.

You can keep your reason for heading to Belize a secret, so your mission isn’t revealed. “I got us tickets for a Belize holiday,” can be the most casual of hints. Save the real reason for the trip for a moment on the beach while the rest of the world deals with winter weather! No ordinary beach will do for this big occasion. Choose Chabil Mar Resort on the Placencia peninsula, home to the highest rated beaches in Belize!

So many places to propose!

Chabil Mar’s landscape is awash in natural beauty so if you don’t want to propose on the beach, beautifully landscaped grounds, poolside, or your beautiful accommodation all suffice. Propose over a sumptuous meal at any of the resort’s dining spots: Café Mar, the Kaleidoscope Bar & Lounge or make arrangements to reserve a private place on the pier where the moon and stars can witness your proposal.

Show the love of your life your practical side by booking a Belize vacation package that can be customized to suit your interests and lifestyle, and since a package includes digs, meals, onsite activities, arrival and departure perks, you couldn’t pick a bad one if you tried! You, of course, must remember to bring the ring!

Make Placencia your paradise on earth

Since Chabil Mar is ideally located along this 16-mile-long finger of land, it’s easy to navigate, so when you’re in the mood to wander a bit, fun awaits. Walk to Placencia Village to shop, sightsee, browse galleries, and sample ethnic foods. Chabil Mar’s complimentary shuttle is your conduit to pub crawling and dancing in town.

Experience romance like never before in Placencia in 2025. Placencia’s breathtaking beauty provides the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments, from dream proposals to magical celebrations. For couples who have been waiting for the perfect time to celebrate their love, this tropical paradise offers an idyllic setting. Imagine a proposal under the stars or a beachside celebration – Placencia is the place where your romantic dreams come to life. Start planning your special moment in this enchanting destination now.

Contact the Reservations Team at reservations@chabilmarvillas.com or use the toll-free number to do so: 1-866-417-2377 to learn more about Belize. Everything you crave awaits in Placencia Belize where Mother Nature reigns supreme and Chabil Mar staff looks forward to taking care of you.

Where to Ring in 2026 in Belize

Posted on October 8, 2025

Still dreaming about how to start 2026 on a high note? There’s still time to book your dream getaway to Belize and celebrate the New Year where the Caribbean sun meets golden beaches. Imagine swapping snow boots for flip-flops, and crowded city streets for the soft rhythm of ocean waves. At Chabil Mar, New Year’s isn’t just a date on the calendar—it’s an experience that fills your heart, lifts your spirit, and welcomes you into a year of joy.

Belize Knows How to Party

Few places know how to celebrate quite like Belize. Whether you’re joining locals in lively towns or watching fireworks dance over the water from your private beachfront villa, you’ll feel the magic of a nation that truly knows how to welcome the new.

Spend the day soaking up the tropical sunshine, and when night falls, toast to fresh beginnings with a cold Belize beer or a fruity rum cocktail. Let’s be honest—it beats shivering in a city crowd waiting for a ball to drop.

Learn Belizean Traditions

In Belize, the New Year is more than a party—it’s about renewal and gratitude. One beloved tradition involves sweeping your home to symbolically brush away last year’s troubles, making space for good fortune ahead.

Locals also enjoy round cakes to represent the circle of life—a sweet reminder that every ending brings a new beginning. You don’t have to join in, but why not? A little luck and a slice of cake never hurt anyone.

Eat and Be Merry

If you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat. New Year’s in Belize means feasting on seafood simmered in coconut milk, tamales wrapped in plantain leaves, and rum-soaked fruitcakes that taste like celebration itself. Every bite is a toast to good times and great company.

Enjoy Life and Laughter

If the past year has been heavy, Belize is your place to let go and breathe again. Between the warm smiles of the people, the irresistible cuisine, and the lush natural beauty, you’ll rediscover joy in its purest form.

Take a nature walk, swim beneath a waterfall, or explore one of Belize’s incredible nature reserves. Everywhere you turn, the beauty of the land invites peace and renewal.

It’s time to start the New Year with a fresh perspective. Belize makes it easy to shed your worries and greet the New Year with joy.

Enjoy New Year’s Eve at Chabil Mar

If you’ve decided to greet 2026 in Belize, book at Chabil Mar. On the stunning beaches of the Placencia Peninsula, our luxury resort offers everything you need for a spectacular New Year’s Eve or a 2026 Belize vacation.

Start your year with sunrise views over the Caribbean, world-class dining by the sea, and memories that will last a lifetime.

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 vacation.