Laru Beya Resort & Villas, Placencia Belize

Located 100 miles south of Belize City, along the coast of the Stann Creek District, lies the Placencia Peninsula, and the quaint village of Placencia. This area boasts the nicest stretch of beaches along the coast, and is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Gay and lesbian travellers can kayak through the mangroves on the lagoon side, go for a dive out to the many Caye’s, or take in a bird watching tour. The nearby Mayan Ruins of Lubaantun and Nim Li Punit are the perfect day trip, and if you want a little more excitement check out the cave tours, or jungle trails through Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary- the world’s first Jaguar Reserve. Placencia also thrives in the diving industry especially during these months when Whale Sharks frequent the area.

Gay Travel Belize was invited to Laru Beya Resort and Villas, which is just 3.5 miles north of the village of Placencia. We chose to fly with Tropic Air from San Pedro, but you could as well take a bus from Belize City, or rent a car for a more scenic journey to your destination. Upon arrival to the airstrip in Placencia, we were warmly greeted by Lizbeth Casasola who made our transfer to the resort very efficient. The resort is located on the beach and set amongst a lush tropical garden, full of birds and colorful  butterflies, certainly a beautiful setting.

After a long day, we were so pleased to get into our spacious and comfortable suite. The accommodations are more like condos, offering a full kitchen, spacious bedroom with 4 piece en- suite, open and bright living space with access to the deck. The views are stunning since the resort is located on a great stretch of beach, its quiet, and certainly very tranquil. The pool is large enough to have your own space, and the deck surrounding it offers fresh towels, and lounge chairs. The resort also offers free use of their kayaks, Hobie cat, and bikes, definitely enough to get your adventure started.

We started by having a quick lunch at the resorts restaurant The Quarter Deck, which offers breakfast, lunch and dinner serving meals prepared with fresh local ingredients. The bar serves everything from fresh juices, delicious smoothies, local cocktails and of course icy cold Belikin.

We needed some supplies so took a couple bikes and headed north a mile to Seine Bight a small village which has a the closest grocery store to the resort. The bike ride was great, and the store had everything you could want for your stay. If you want to head into Placencia for a night out, or to see the sights of the village, I would recommend taking a taxi in, as the roads are quite narrow at points with some decent corners, and once it gets dark, it would be a bit risky on a bike.

Staying at Laru Beya was certainly fun. From the pool, to our morning kayak along the coast, and the 13 hole mini golf course we had a blast. The staff is very knowledgeable, and will ensure that all you want to see while in the area can be accomplished. if chilling on the beach, or by the pool is more your style, Laru Beya has everything to ensure your stay is all you want it to be.