Conde Nast Traveler recently highlighted some of the best places to visit in December, and among its most notable is the seaside village of Placencia at the southern tip of the Placencia Peninsula in Belize.
Placencia has become increasingly popular, yet it still provides a peaceful, laid-back experience with a tropical paradise feel and plenty of things to do, including at Christmastime. While there are plenty of luxury resorts for those seeking a more upscale stay, you’ll find more budget-friendly apartment rentals too.
Celebrating the Holiday
While there won’t be any snow, you can expect warm, sunny days with temperatures averaging around 82 degrees, perfect for enjoying a variety of unique local festivities such as the Christmas Night Markets and Christmas Boat Parade. The downtown area will be decked out for the season with all sorts of holiday decor and twinkling lights while the shops sell handcrafted ornaments that make for ideal souvenirs. If you’re looking for unique gifts, the local markets offer handmade items created by talented artisans that make it easy to find that one-of-a-kind present while supporting the community.
Many of the resorts and restaurants also offer special brunches, dinners, and other events for Christmas, although you might want to trade that ham for some fresh seafood. If you want to immerse yourself in the rich traditions and culture of the Maya, head to one of the villages nearby and enjoy a celebration featuring the exotic rhythms of traditional music and dancing.
Snorkeling and Diving
Placencia is also an ideal base for snorkeling and diving, providing access to one of the top spots on the planet. The Belize Barrier Reef boasts a diverse ecosystem as part of the larger Mesoamerican Barrier Reef spanning 625 miles, the largest in the Western Hemisphere, second behind only the Great Barrier Reef in Australia.
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the crystal-clear turquoise water is home to hundreds of different fish species, from butterflyfish and parrotfish to spotted eagle rays, loggerhead sea turtles, and Atlantic bottlenose dolphins. The dolphins like to play in the wakes of the boats, so you might even get to see them up close by taking a boat tour, ideally around sunset for an especially colorful backdrop.
Beach Time
Of course, you can always simply relax on the beach. Placencia Beach is one of the most popular, extending from the village’s pier, providing a great place to unwind and dine with local bars and eateries. Maya Beach is further up the peninsula, providing a more tranquil spot with calm water for swimming and soft white sands where you can toss down a towel and enjoy the breathtaking view.
