Chasing Sunsets: 3 Great Spots On The Peninsula For A Sundowner

Placencia isn’t known for its spectacular sunsets; the peninsula is oriented to afford a sunrise or moonrise view over the Caribbean Sea, so to situate yourself to see a sunset behind the Maya Mountains you will need a bit of height or a clever angle. But have no fear! If you’re seeking a sunset and only a sunset will do, here are the top three places on the peninsula to catch one.  Have a drink and a bite to eat at any (or all, if the timing of your visit permits) of these spectacular settings and toast that sinking sun to another day of fun in ‘barefoot-perfect’ paradise.

Three60 Martini Bar at Sirenian Bay

The new three60 Martini Bar at Sirenian Bay is a sleek and sexy rooftop lounge offering panoramic views of the Placencia Lagoon in the forefront and the Maya Mountains in the distance. Pick between bistro tables, comfortably cushioned conversation nooks, or belly up to the impressive bar featuring a polished and preserved Strangler Fig as the centerpiece.  Martinis are on the menu here and the list is long! All the classics, of course, plus flavored martinis, wines, and specialty coffees. Pair your libation of choice with some small bites from their tapas menu. Everything is thoughtfully prepared and presented, with many of the ingredients coming directly from the on-site organic garden. 

After you’ve watched that golden globe go down from your rooftop-vantage point, you can head downstairs to Inky’s for a round of mini golf.  Not just for kids, playing a round at Inky’s is a great date-night activity too.  The course is beautifully landscaped and lit at night so it feels equal parts romantic and campy.

Muna Rooftop Restaurant & Bar

The elegant and sophisticated Muna Rooftop Restaurant and Bar at the top of the Ellysian Hotel provide Placencia’s tallest observation point and the most stylish purlieu for sunset cocktails and candlelit dinners. Muna presents patrons with views of Placencia Village, the caye-studded Caribbean Sea, mangrove forests along the lagoon, and in the background, the beautiful Maya Mountains. If the sights outside aren’t captivating enough, perhaps the handsome and refined décor inside the restaurant will wow you. Sleek, modern lines contrast beautifully with earthy touches such as hand-woven reed lampshades and driftwood accents. Linger over one of Muna’s signature hand-crafted cocktails on the open-air patio during sunset then indulge in dinner inside the air-conditioned restaurant. 

Muna’s menu aims to please discerning palates by focusing on the best Belizean fare and elevating it just a bit to fine dining standards; think bite-sized tostones topped with savory pork pibil and bright pico de gallo, or fresh coconut in a creamy split pea soup with roasted pork belly. Muna is a splurge by Placencia standards but the perfect excuse to swap your flip-flops for slingbacks for a night.

The Placencia Yacht Club

Yacht Club is a bit of a misnomer for this cool and casual lounge. Placencia Yacht Club is located on a dock over the water on Placencia Caye, a stone’s throw from the village proper.  You needn’t be a member of an exclusive club or sport Sperry’s and drive a pleasure cruiser to hang out here, though you do need to sort out your own aquatic transportation to the restaurant.  The Yacht Club offers a unique perspective for sunset; it might be the only place in Placencia with unobstructed views along the sea to the south. Listen to the gentle lapping of the waves underfoot and savor a glass of their excellent rum punch, the not-so-secret ingredient that makes their’s special is nutmeg, as you quietly appreciate the breeze off the water and the slowly setting sun.

Written by Megan Rodden. Header image via Carolee Chanona.