Belize is known for its lush tropical climate, almost 400 islands, the Great Belize Barrier Reef, and Mayan ruins. If vacationing in this small country bordering Mexico isn’t at the top of your list—think again. With direct flights from DFW and a short plane ride to villages along the Caribbean, it’s a place that has plenty of amenities without losing its charm. Whether you want a relaxing beach vacation, an exciting expedition, or a cultural experience, you can find it all in Belize.
Located 130 miles south of Belize City, the Placencia Peninsula stands out for its stretch of pristine beaches and several small villages known as the Stann Creek District, which offer opportunities to experience the beauty of Belize. Maya Beach is the most serene village of the bunch, and it’s the first one on the road from Belize City. Known more for quiet beach time than an active nightlife scene, it’s a vacation destination perfect for those looking for a more laid-back spot.
If you want an adventure or two, the good news is that Maya Beach is near Laughing Bird Cay National Park, the Cockscomb Wildlife Basin, and the Mayan ruins of Nim Li Punit and Lubantuum are perfect for a day trip. Snorkeling and scuba diving are offered right off the resort beaches, as well as kayaking or canoeing.
For more cultural experiences, book a chocolate-making tour at the Che'il Mayan Chocolate Factory in the heart of the Stann Creek District. You’ll see the cacao farms and learn how the bean becomes chocolate. Another must-do is visiting the historic Garifuna village of Seine Bright. Largely underdeveloped by Caribbean vacation destination standards, there are local artisans, traditional dance ceremonies, and plenty of spots to try the region’s cuisine.
Where should you stay while visiting Maya Beach? There are several options, but it depends on what you need in a resort.
Maya Beach Hotel & Bistro is your best bet if you’re looking for a bohemian boutique vibe. With a range of lodging options, the beachfront cabanas will astound as they are situated a few feet from the ocean. The cabanas have a kitchenette with a refrigerator, sink, coffee maker, and an electric stove. Just a short walk from the hotel is a pizza place, a bowling alley, a grocery store, and a bakery, so you can stock up on snacks and food if you don’t feel like dining out.
But you should dine out (a few times!) because the hotel is home to the Maya Beach Bistro, easily one of the best restaurants in the entire country. While the menu changes regularly, you can’t go wrong with the nut-crusted fresh catch fish, the coconut ribs, or, if in season, the lobster tail. Try the popular rum punch during happy hour, and be sure to make a reservation.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly spot with extra perks for kids, consider booking a stay at Sirenian Bay. Owned by a Texas family, it has many activities for families, including pickle ball, putt-putt golf, tennis, corn hole, pools, beach volleyball, hammocks, and access to bicycles, kayaks, paddle boards, and beach toys. There are five restaurants included in your all-inclusive stay; the bungalows are perfect for single families and the villas that sleep up to 14 are ideal for large groups and multi-generational travel. If you book the Manatee or Seahorse Villa for four nights or more, you will be greeted with a chef-prepared, three-course dinner featuring local cuisine on your first night.
How do you get to Maya Village and the Stann Creek District? There are direct flights from Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport to Belize City. From there, you can board a short flight to Placencia Airport. From there, it is a short drive to Maya Beach and the other villages on the peninsula.
Discover more about Belize by visiting their tourism board website at www.travelbelize.org.
