Hello Belize - Beach, Jungle, and Luxury
Belize is a destination that enchants every traveler, blending lush jungles, pristine beaches, and ancient Mayan history. On a recent familiarization (fam) tour with Namu Travel, we explored the diverse beauty of this Central American gem. Our journey took us from the beach to the jungle and back again, visiting luxurious resorts, savoring authentic cuisine, and immersing ourselves in the cultural and natural wonders of Belize. Here’s a closer look at the extraordinary experiences and accommodations that made this trip unforgettable.
How We Got There
Our journey to Belize began with a flight from Charleston to Belize City, the country’s main hub. From there, we boarded a Tropic Air Cessna Grand Caravan, a small and efficient plane designed for short regional flights. This quick and scenic flight offered breathtaking views of Belize’s turquoise waters and lush jungles, setting the tone for our adventure. Just note - This is a small plane and you need to set your expectations for such!
From the air, we transitioned to private drivers who navigated us through winding jungle roads to our next destinations, golf cat rides to sightsee all that the small towns had to offer. We can’t leave out the private boat charters, to take us island hopping. We truly saw Belize from all angles and all modes of transportation.
Where We Stayed
Victoria House Resort & Spa
Located on Ambergris Caye, this stunning beachfront property combines elegance and relaxation. Guests can choose from plantation-style rooms, casitas, or villas with private pools. Dining here is exceptional, with options ranging from casual beachside meals to gourmet dinners. Activities include snorkeling at the Great Blue Hole, exploring the Belize Barrier Reef, and indulging in spa treatments.
Ka’ana
Nestled in the jungles near San Ignacio, Ka’ana offers an intimate boutique experience. Accommodations range from charming casitas to private pool villas, each blending modern luxury with local touches. Known for its farm-to-table dining, the property also offers unique activities like private cave tours and visits to the nearby Xunantunich ruins.
Itz’ana Resorts & Residences
Located in Placencia, this oceanfront resort redefines barefoot luxury. With a collection of luxury villas and penthouses, their one-of-a-kind destination has something for everyone: breathtaking sea views, access to world-class amenities, unrivaled accommodations and services tailored just for you. Relx on the soft, white-sand beach along the glistening waters of the Caribbean Sea. Swim, kayak, paddle board and snorkel in the clear-blue sea and spot sealife and dolphins. Wake up to magnificent sunsets over the ocean and lagoon.
Itz'ana has thought of every luxury for their guests, including private chefs, a stocked bar, and even babysitting services for parents to enjoy a romantic dinner alone at their on site restaurant - Limilia. The restaurant celebrates the fresh flavors and culinary spirit of the Caribbean with a nod to the Garifuna, Belize's native people. Seasonal, seafood-forward cuisine highlights locally sourced ingredients, including vegetables and herbs from our organic farm and fresh fish line-caught by our own fisherman.
Resorts We Toured
La Terraza
A boutique resort on Ambergris Caye, offering spacious beachfront villas with full kitchens. Perfect for families or groups seeking privacy and comfort. The resort features a tranquil pool, gourmet dining, and easy access to the vibrant town of San Pedro.
We experienced lunch at the O Restaurant, which offers seasonal menus showcasing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From their signature seafood risotto with fresh shrimp and locally caught snapper, the guacamole adorned with pecans, or the filet mignon seared to perfection the food at the O Restaurant is amazing!
Alaia Belize
A modern, luxurious property in San Pedro, Alaia boasts chic rooms, suites, and villas. Guests have exclusive access to six restaurants, four bars, and three pools. Experience the Caribbean charm of historic San Pedro by golf cart, while our concierge team curates unique experiences to the reef and rainforest. Guests can relax at the rooftop pool, explore marine adventures, or unwind at the spa.
Blancaneaux Lodge
Part of The Family Coppola Hideaways, this jungle retreat in the Mountain Pine Ridge offers riverside cabanas and private villas. The resort is known for its eco-conscious design, organic gardens, and access to waterfalls and nature trails. Blancaneaux Lodge is a 20-room luxury hideaway where waterfalls tumble into turquoise pools above the jungle canopy. Its remote mountain setting allows guests to explore the ancient civilization of the Maya and to return to their own thatched roof dwelling, rich with Guatemalan décor and nestled in the foliage of the Mountain Pine Ridge Reserve.
We enjoyed lunch at Montagna Ristorante -Italian cuisine in a tropical setting. Their menu features traditional Italian dishes with a special focus on Coppola family recipes, drawn from their history in the southern region of Basilicata, Italy. Pastas, fresh fish, and braised or grilled local meats are all prepared with herbs and vegetables.
Chaa Creek
Set on a private nature reserve, Chaa Creek combines eco-luxury with adventure. This resort is rated one of the world's best Eco Lodges & a pioneer in adventure travel to Belize since 1981. Accommodations range from thatched-roof cottages to luxurious villas. Activities include horseback riding, guided tours to Mayan sites, and wellness treatments at the hilltop spa.
We had the privledge to experience the Blue Morpho Butterfly Exhibition. The "Belizean Blue" can be observed during every stage of their life cycle. Their objective is to encourage learning about our environment and to have fun at the same time. It was a magical experience for The Hello Team.
Situated in Hopkins, this beachfront resort is part of The Belize Collection. Jaguar Reef offers colorful suites and villas, private plunge pools adorn the balconies of each Deluxe Suite and Seaview Suite, and Two-Bedroom Villas are set against the picture-perfect main pool. A two-story over-the-water ceviche and cocktail bar serves a constantly revolving menu of Caribbean and Central American small bites in the open air, perfect for an aperitivo. Guests can also enjoy the neighboring town’s vibrant Garifuna culture.
Nestled along the golden shores of the Placencia Peninsula, Naia Resort and Spa is a hidden gem that seamlessly blends barefoot luxury with authentic Belizean charm. This serene retreat is more than just a resort—it's an experience that nourishes the mind, body, and soul.
Spread across 19 acres of lush tropical gardens and tranquil beachfront, Naia features beautifully designed accommodations ranging from intimate studios to spacious private villas, each offering breathtaking views and modern comforts.
The resort's crown jewel is its award-winning spa, located on a private lagoon. Here, wellness takes center stage with treatments inspired by local traditions and natural ingredients, ensuring you leave rejuvenated and refreshed.
Prana Maya
A all new, intimate retreat on the Placencia Peninsula, Prana Maya focuses on wellness and rejuvenation. The resort offers yoga sessions, meditation retreats, and luxurious accommodations with serene lagoon or ocean views. Each stay, a transformation. Light-filled and artisan-crafted, The Villas offer uninterrupted views of the Caribbean and private infinity plunge pools—the art of leisure, fully curated.
The Grill at Prana Maya is a celebration of the island’s offerings. Atmospheric and authentically Belizean, daily menus nourish and renew. We had the privledge to meet their Executive Chef Liesel Kirste and sample a few of her new creations. Chef Liesel is dedicated to crafting extraordinary dishes that blend Mayan culture with fresh ingredients from Prana Maya’s farm and the shores of Placencia Caye.
Unique Experiences
Alaia’s Chef's Table Experience - The 6 Course Dinner with perfectly curated wine pairings was a culinary highlight for our team! Alaia offers an array of dining experiences for guests to book, a few include - a mixology masterclass, cooking lessons and rum tasting experiences. Find out more HERE.
Dining Al Fresco Beachside: At Itz’ana we were treated to a surprise Garifuna cultural showcase featuring handmade clothing that was hand selected for us and authentic Caribbean dishes, served during a magical beachside dinner. The expereinces was nothing short of amazing!
Exploring the Xunantunich Ruins: A highlight of our trip was exploring the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich, a site steeped in history and mystery. Located near the Guatemalan border, this archaeological gem is perched atop a limestone ridge and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle and the Mopan River. The name Xunantunich translates to "Maiden of the Rock" or "Stone Woman" in Maya, referencing the legend of a ghostly woman who is said to appear near the site. The centerpiece of the ruins is El Castillo, a towering pyramid standing over 130 feet tall, making it one of the tallest structures in Belize. Climbing to the top rewards visitors with panoramic views and a sense of connection to the ancient civilization that once thrived here. Guided tours provide fascinating insights into Mayan history, architecture, and rituals, making it a must-visit for culture and history enthusiasts.
Snorkling the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef : Part of the Hello team enjoyed a private boat trip with Captain Jak's who took us to Laughing Bird Caye. This idyllic national park is the snorkeling adventurers dream! The vibrant coral formations, crystal-clear waters, and diverse marine life created an unforgettable underwater experience. With our snorkle guide we were able to see -
Barracudas - Nurse Sharks - Spiny Lobsters - Fire Coral - Tropical Fish of All Colors - AND SO MUCH MORE!
A Sidewalk Stroll in Placencia: The famous sidewalk runs north to south and is sandwiched between the road and the beach, the three running in parallel for about two miles in the heart of the little village. The Sidewalk has been in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the world’s narrowest main street. In true Caribbean fashion, its foundation is made of broken conch shells and the buildings are bright bold colors.
We stopped in at the Barefoot Bar, a casual bar located right on the beach. We highly recommend you stopping into this cute bar the next time you are in Placencia!
Why Belize Should Be Your Next Destination
Belize offers an unparalleled mix of adventure, relaxation, and luxury. Every person we met, from our transfer drivers to the hotel staff, we were treated like family - everyone offering us a smile and greeting. Whether you’re exploring the ancient ruins of Xunantunich, diving into the Belize Barrier Reef, or savoring farm-to-table cuisine, this destination promises memories that will last a lifetime. Each resort we visited offered its unique take on Belizean hospitality, ensuring a personalized experience for every traveler.
Ready to plan your Belize adventure? Reach out to us for insider tips and curated itineraries tailored to you!
