Belize may be a small country in Central America, but it’s big on fun for the whole family. There’s so much to see and do in this exotic country that once people come here as kids, they’re often hooked for life. As the only English-speaking country in Central America, Belize holds multiple attractions for families such as nature reserves and parks, ancient Maya pyramids and temples, virgin rainforests and jungles, and a stunning barrier reef that is the largest in the northern hemisphere.
Add delicious Belizean cuisine, friendly people from different cultures, and posh luxury resorts to the mix and you see why Belize is the ideal family vacation destination in the region.
Families who visit Belize opt for the Placencia Peninsula in southern Belize due to its white sandy beaches (some of the best in Belize and the Caribbean) and proximity to the majestic barrier reef and mainland attractions.
The Placencia Peninsula is divided into four villages: Riversdale, Maya Beach, Seine Bight, and Placencia Village. Measuring 19 miles from north to south but just half a mile wide, the Placencia Peninsula is described as the “island you can drive to”. Less than 4,000 people live in the entire peninsula and despite its popularity as a tourist destination, the main activities are strolling the beautiful beaches, imbibing on fresh seafood like lobster and shrimps, and exploring the area in a golf cart.
Top marine activities for families include sailing, windsurfing, kayaking, fishing, and snorkeling. Located off the coast of Placencia are Laughing Bird Caye and Silk Cayes, two amazing destinations that families enjoy due to its clear crystal waters that are ideal for snorkeling and scuba diving.
Not far away from the Placencia Peninsula is Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary, one of the top nature reserves in Belize that is regarded as a premier site for jaguar preservation in the world. And then there is Monkey River Village, a coastal watercourse that is a popular destination for kids to spot howler monkeys, birds, crocodiles, and ocelots.
Families interested in exploring Maya temple sites on the mainland can check out Xunantunich and Cahal Pech in Cayo and Lubantuum and Nim Li Punit in Toledo.
There are so many things to see in and around the Placencia Peninsula so parents need not to worry about keeping the kids entertained. Other popular tours that families enjoy on their vacation include learning about the Garifuna culture, visiting Marie Sharps Factory, touring banana farms, and also taking a swim at the beautiful waterfalls in Bocawina National Park.
A family-friendly resort to stay in the Placencia Peninsula is Laru Beya. Located right on the beach, Laru Beya features luxurious accommodations, a swimming pool, and a gourmet restaurant and bar.
The resort also offers unique excursions to the Belize barrier reef and mainland attractions. Contact Laru Beya today to learn more about the different Belize vacation packages for families.
