Placencia, Belize, is affectionately known as “the caye you can drive to.” It’s a tiny finger of land, just 16 miles long, flanked by the Caribbean Sea and a placid lagoon, and it’s the perfect example of why they say big things come in small packages. Charming and quintessentially Caribbean, Placencia holds a world of promise for anyone looking to settle down someplace quiet. In addition to its unmistakably tranquil atmosphere, one of its main draws is its convenient location on the Caribbean coast of Belize.

Home to some of the best beaches in the country, Placencia’s popularity among travelers has been growing in recent years. With that growth, it has seen much development in the form of resorts, restaurants, and condos. Still, it has also managed to hold on to the unhurried and authentic atmosphere that lends to the beloved “Placencia lifestyle” many adore it for.

Experience

There’s no shortage of things to do in Placencia. In fact, the peninsula serves as multiple destinations in one, comprising a handful of unique and picturesque communities. Some might compare it to a much smaller and much more laid-back version of the Florida Keys, but Placencia is in a league of its own. It has a lot to offer in terms of unique experiences, doubling as a hub for activity as well as a launching pad for adventures both offshore and on the mainland.

Just a quick boat ride away, the southern Belize Barrier Reef is a diver’s playground, offering the chance to encounter diverse marine life like loggerhead turtles, spotted eagle rays, and maybe even the occasional whale shark. Meanwhile, countless cayes and island resorts provide the perfect backdrop for a day of island hopping, fishing, or relaxing.

On the Peninsula itself, things are no less exciting. Explore Placencia Village, a former fishing village that is now the center of all activity in Southern Belize. Here, days at the beach, boating, and cafe hopping are common pastimes. Head to Seine Bight for gorgeous beaches and a healthy dose of culture. The heart of all things Garifuna culture on the Peninsula, Seine Bight offers the chance to immerse yourself in the art, music, and food of one of Belize’s most vibrant communities. Meanwhile, at Maya Beach, enjoy a touch of luxury at a beachfront bar or restaurant.

Beyond being a bustling community of locals and expats, Placencia also serves as a fantastic base for exploration. Sitting just minutes away from the Peninsula nature reserves like the Mayflower Bocawina National Park, are perfect for hiking, tubing, and waterfall rappelling. Additionally, ancient Maya temples, caves, and historical sites are all just a stone’s throw away.

Live

If you’re thinking of moving to Placencia, consider yourself lucky. Living in Placencia is a breeze, especially if you’re in search of a slower pace of life (The peninsula’s growing expat community would certainly agree.)

Despite its idyllic “island” charm, Placencia has everything needed to settle down, including supermarkets, schools, an airstrip, and a brand new medical clinic. And when it comes to Southern Belize real estate, the area is in no short supply of desirable properties for sale. That’s true whether you’re looking for something luxurious, like a sprawling waterfront villa, or a build-ready beachfront property perfect for starting from scratch. When browsing the Placencia, Belize real estate market, potential buyers—whether they’re thinking of living in Placencia or investing—are often happy to find a wide range of choices, from homes for sale in gated communities to condos and vacation homes and everything in between.