TOP 10 Things To Do in Placencia, Belize

If you’re dreaming of a laid-back beach retreat with easy access to breathtaking offshore cayes and some of the most luxurious resorts in Belize, Placencia has you covered.

I can’t lie; there’s not too much to “do” here aside from eating and relaxing at your beach resort. But here’s what I think are the best things to do around Placencia, Belize!

1. Stroll Through Placencia Town and Beach

At the southern tip of the Placencia Peninsula lies the charming village of Placencia. With vibrant shops, delicious eateries, and a welcoming vibe, it’s perfect for a leisurely day out.

Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the calm waters just offshore, or simply wander through the streets and enjoy the beach bars.

2. Visit the Pristine Silk Cayes

Escape to paradise at the Silk Cayes, also known as the Queen Cayes. These remote islands, surrounded by crystal-clear waters, offer an escape just off the Placencia coast.

The only way to visit is by booking a guided tour, making it a true adventure.

These tiny islands are the perfect spot to relax on soft sandy beaches or dive into the water for snorkeling with colorful coral reefs and tropical fish.

→ Book this Silk Caye Snorkeling Tour

3. Discover Laughing Bird Caye

A short 45-minute boat ride from Placencia will bring you to Laughing Bird Caye, a national park and island haven.

Protected as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the island is named after the laughing gulls that once nested here, though you’ll now find other fascinating wildlife both above and below the water.

Snorkeling is a highlight, with vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine species to explore.

→ Book this Snorkeling Tour to Laughing Bird Caye

4. Hike the Trails of Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve

Just over an hour from Placencia, the Cockscomb Basin Forest Reserve is a must-visit for adventure seekers. Known for its role in protecting Belize’s endangered big cats, this lush wildlife preserve is a trove of biodiversity.

The reserve is home to jaguars, pumas, and other elusive wildlife, as well as a vibrant array of bird species.

Even if the animals are shy during your visit like they were mine (I mean, I really want to see a jaguar or puma—but do I really?!), the scenic rainforest trails and cascading waterfalls make the trip worthwhile.

Ben’s Bluff Waterfall is a particular highlight, offering a refreshing dip after a hike. If you’re up for a challenge, climb to the summit of Belize’s highest peak for breathtaking views of the jungle canopy.

→ Book this Wildlife & Waterfall Tour

5. Beach Bum on Placencia Beach

Placencia Beach might not win awards for being the most picturesque in the world, but it’s one of the most classic beach experiences in Belize.

This long stretch of sand invites you to kick back under a palm tree with a good book or cool off in the calm, shallow waters.

While sections of the beach may seem taken over by resorts or vacation homes, there are still plenty of open spots to lay down your towel and soak in the Caribbean vibes.

For a little extra comfort, head to Placencia Beach Club, where you can enjoy beachside service and a refreshing dip in their pool. It’s the perfect place to unwind and embrace that laid-back Belizean lifestyle.

6. Chocolate Making

Dive into Belize’s rich cacao heritage with a chocolate-making experience that’s as sweet as it sounds.

Placencia is a great jumping-off point for visiting cacao farms, where you can learn about the process of transforming cacao pods into velvety chocolate. Tour a working farm, crush cacao nibs by hand, and try your hand at crafting your own chocolate bar.

→ Book this chocolate-making experience

7. Visit Nim Li Punit and Lubaantun Ruins

Step back in time and uncover the fascinating history of the Maya civilization with a visit to Nim Li Punit and Lubaantun.

These ancient ruins are about two hours from Placencia and make for an incredible day trip.

Nim Li Punit, known for its intricate stelae (carved stone monuments), was once a ceremonial center, while Lubaantun, meaning “place of fallen stones,” is famous for its unique dry-stone construction.

8. Monkey River Adventure

Hop aboard a boat and cruise down Monkey River for an eco-adventure like no other.

This waterway is the spot for wildlife, and your guide will help you spot everything from howler monkeys to crocodiles, iguanas, and colorful tropical birds!

You’ll also venture into the jungle for a short hike, where you’ll learn about the local flora and fauna—and maybe even hear the distinctive calls of the monkeys overhead.

→ Book this Monkey River Tour

9. Relax at Your Resort

Placencia is home to some of the best resorts in Belize, and there’s no shame in spending a day indulging in luxury at your resort. Honestly, this is probably the best thing to do IN Placencia because almost everything else is a bit of a day trip away.

Chabil Mar Resort is my personal top pick, offering stunning beachfront views, lush gardens, and impeccable service. Lounge by the pool with a cocktail in hand or unwind in one of the overwater cabanas for a truly serene experience.

The resort also offers complimentary kayaks and paddleboards if you’re feeling a bit adventurous.

There are so many other incredible resorts as well, explore them here…

10. Get Grub!

Here’s a quick list of places we enjoyed eating at in Placencia:

• Hobbs Brew Barge – literally barge on the water serving up yummy fish n chips and craft beer!
• Placencia Beach Club – This is a cool spot to lounge for the day, but if you get thirsty or munchy, they have the typical fare and some mean cocktails.
• Hibiscus Cafe – If it’s a good coffee and some breakfast you’re after, head here for some sweet jacks or a filling omelet.

More Belize!

Check out my other guides to Belize:

• 27 Amazing Things To Do in Belize — A Complete Guide!
• Where To Stay In Belize: 21 of the Best Hotels and Resorts
• 7 Best Beaches in Belize for Beach-Bumming
• 7 MUST-VISIT Waterfalls in Belize
• 9 TOP Things To Do in Placencia, Belize
• 11 Best Things To Do in Caye Caulker, Belize
• 12 Most EPIC Things to Do in San Pedro, Belize!
• 10 Things To Do in San Ignacio, Belize: Your Adventure Guide
• Your Guide to Hopkins, Belize: Where to Play, Eat, and Sleep!
• Caye Caulker Snorkeling: Your Underwater Playground!
• 11 ESSENTIAL Belize Travel Tips
• How to Get from Belize City to San Pedro
• How to Get from Belize City to Caye Caulker
• Getting The Water Taxi from San Pedro to Chetumal (READ FIRST!)

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