Placencia is taking the top spot for the newest openings in Belize! Between the end of 2019 and the first month of 2020, Placencia has seen 4 new openings that should not be missed!
Sirenian Bay – Placencia
Opened in November 2019, this new resort is in a class of its own. All the units have been designed with comfort at the forefront of its mission and its very obvious as you step onto the property. Each Villa or Home was created with the guest in mind and caters specifically to couples, multiple families and multi-generational family trips. Each unit has its own theme and differs from one another to suit the needs of its visitors. It has everything you could want, including a private chef, a fully stocked kitchen, a car at your disposal along with a driver if you so desire. https://sirenianbay.com
The developers of Sirenian Bay have also opened the family-friendly Inky’s Miniature Golf right across the street from Sirenian Bay, and there’s more than just mini-golf, there are a restaurant and bar for your enjoyment too! https://placenciaminigolf.com
Photo by Sirenian Bay
Ray Caye Island Resort – Placencia
Formerly known as Hatchet Caye – this private island paradise is about to officially pull the trigger on re-opening on February 18th, 2020 as Ray Caye Island Resort. While the island was a beauty to behold even before new ownership, the resort has taken on a new level of tropical luxury with the addition of many new amenities but most notably the new villas and suites. With floor to ceiling glass windows, your view of the Caribbean Sea surrounds you at every turn. You can keep your doors closed in air-conditioned comfort or you can open them for through and through open-air units. The view is spectacular! You can spend your entire holiday just on your balcony (which can also come equipped with private plunge pools as well).
If you’re looking for an intimate romantic setting, an exciting family adventure or a unique private island experience with a group of friends, this is the place. You can rent the whole island if you’d like too! www.raycaye.com
It’zana Belize Resort and Residences – Placencia
The highly anticipated resort opened its doors on December 10th, 2019. Accommodations at Itz’ana include natural cotton-knit towels, robes and linens, custom-painted murals, 49” LCD TV’s, custom organic bath products and exceptional water views from every room. The Main House is a Hemingway-inspired gathering place for amazing cuisine located in the heart of the property, where guests can dine at their restaurant, Limilia. There’s a little bit of everything here, sprinkled with a touch of luxury throughout. http://www.itzanabelize.com
MUNA – Placencia
Officially opened on January 17th, 2020 Home to Belizean culture, Muna Restaurant & Bar, located in the heart of the Placencia Village offers the very essence of Belizean character – bold flavors, unique tastes, and vibrant colors. Prepared to suit even the most discerning of palates yet pays homage to local Belizean flare. The rooftop restaurant has some of the best views of the Caribbean Sea, the village, and the Maya Mountains. https://www.theellysian.com/muna/
Photo by Muna Restaurant
San Pedro undoubtedly is full of new projects underway, and while Alaia Belize (www.alaiabelize.com) and Salt Life Belize (www.saltlifebelize.com) are coming up towards the end of 2020, there are some new happenings already up and running in San Pedro.
Mahogany Bay Resort and Beach Club, Phase 2
As early as February 2020, look forward to more booking opportunities at Mahogany Bay Village. The resort has recently added up to 70 brand new additional rooms and Coastal Living homes within the resort development. These new additions include new family and garden cottages as well as keeping suites (one of the most popular units at Mahogany Bay!) Keep an eye on this property as they’ll be continuously expanding their village. https://mahoganybayvillage.com/resort/ In 2019, the village started to host a popular Garifuna Night celebration every Tuesday Night at 6:30 PM at the Shaken Deck at the resorts Great House, a must-do when on San Pedro.
The Coconut Shuttle
Lastly, developed by the owner of Coconut Carts, Terry Beck has created what is set to be the most convenient ferry on the island, taking guests from downtown San Pedro to Secret Beach by boat. Guests staying south of the bridge no longer have to make a 45-50 minute golf cart ride to Secret Beach. They can jump on the coconut ferry and take the easy-breezy route. Below has the hours of operation and schedule.
Written by Tanya McNab
