Casinos in Belize (2025): Where to Play, Stay, and Relax Caribbean-Style
- Craig Densham
- Aug 7, 2024
- 4 min read
A Different Kind of Jackpot
Belize isn’t Las Vegas — and that’s exactly what makes it special. Here, casinos blend into the laid-back tropical lifestyle, offering a relaxed mix of slots, table games, and local nightlife for travelers who want a little excitement between snorkeling, rum cocktails, and beach sunsets.
While most casinos are in Belize City, you can also find a tiny slot-machine lounge in Placencia Village — a fun, casual spot that adds a spark to this otherwise quiet seaside town.
Are Casinos Legal in Belize?
Yes — casino gambling is legal in Belize and regulated by the Gaming Control Board. Licenses are issued mainly to hotels and resorts, so gaming is closely tied to tourism.
Belize’s casinos are smaller than those in the U.S., but the vibe is friendly, easygoing, and social — more like a tropical gaming lounge than a high-roller floor.
Casinos in Belize City: The Heart of Belize Gaming
If you’re serious about casino entertainment, Belize City is the country’s gaming capital. It’s where you’ll find the largest, best-equipped casinos with table games, live entertainment, and restaurants.
1. Princess Casino at Ramada Belize City Princess Hotel
Location: Newtown Barracks, Belize City
Type: Full-scale casino and entertainment complex
The Princess Casino remains Belize’s biggest and best-known casino. Located inside the Ramada Princess Hotel, it draws locals and tourists alike.
Features:
Hundreds of slot machines
Table games: blackjack, poker, roulette, baccarat
Sports lounge for live betting
Karaoke nights and live shows
On-site bars and restaurants
Stay: The Ramada Princess Hotel overlooks the Caribbean Sea and offers everything under one roof — gaming, dining, and ocean views.
Vibe: Energetic, lively, and a must-visit for anyone wanting a night out in Belize City.
2. Tropicana Lounge & Casino
Location: Baymen Avenue, Belize City
Type: Smaller, boutique-style casino
The Tropicana Lounge offers a low-key, friendly environment. It’s a favorite among local players and visitors who prefer a smaller, more casual night.
Features:
Slot machines and a few table games
Bar and casual dining
Laid-back atmosphere
Vibe: Easygoing and sociable — perfect for winding down after a day of exploring.
3. Las Vegas Hotel & Casino (Ladyville)
Location: Northern Highway, near Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport
Type: Modern, traveler-friendly casino
Located just outside Belize City, Las Vegas Hotel & Casino offers modern facilities and a convenient stop for anyone arriving or departing from the international airport.
Features:
Slots and table games
Sports bar and restaurant
Comfortable, well-lit casino floor
Vibe: Clean, modern, and perfectly placed for a pre-flight or arrival-night game.
Casinos in Northern Belize (Corozal Free Zone)
For travelers heading north, Corozal’s Free Zone near the Mexico border offers a cluster of duty-free casinos, shopping, and entertainment.
Popular Options Include:
Princess Casino Free Zone
Royal Palm Casino
These casinos are more extensive than those in Belize City and attract Mexican tourists crossing the border to enjoy tax-free shopping and gaming.
Vibe: Energetic and cross-border festive — think nightlife meets travel stopover.
Casinos in Placencia: A Tiny Local Gaming Lounge
While Placencia is best known for its beaches, diving, and relaxed atmosphere, there is a very small slot-machine casino right in the village.
Placencia Village Casino (Local Gaming Lounge)
Location: Placencia Village, near the main sidewalk
Type: Small slot-machine room (no table games)
It’s more of a locals’ hangout than a resort casino — but it’s friendly, fun, and open most evenings.
What You’ll Find:
A handful of electronic slot and poker machines
Small bar area and casual seating
Cash only (BZD/USD accepted)
18+ entry, ID required
💡 Tip: Don’t expect flashing lights or luxury. It’s a chill spot to try your luck, enjoy a drink, and mingle with locals after dinner.
⚠️ Note: The larger Placencia Resort Casino (at The Placencia Hotel) closed several years ago and remains inactive. The small gaming lounge in the village is currently the only operational casino in the area.
Casino Etiquette & Travel Tips in Belize
Minimum Age: 18+ to enter and play
Dress Code: Resort casual (no beachwear)
Currency: Belize Dollar (BZD) and U.S. Dollar (USD) both accepted
Bring Cash: ATMs may be limited inside casinos
Tipping: Dealers and bartenders appreciate small gratuities
Casino Nightlife in Belize
Beyond gaming, casinos in Belize double as local entertainment venues. Expect:
Live bands and karaoke nights
Seafood buffets and rum bars
A warm, local crowd that makes you feel welcome
Whether you’re sipping cocktails at the Princess Casino’s bar or chatting with locals in Placencia’s tiny lounge, Belize offers a more personal, low-pressure gaming experience.
Where to Stay Near Belize Casinos
Area | Recommended Stay | Nearby Casino | Notes |
Belize City | Ramada Princess Hotel | Princess Casino | Largest casino in Belize |
Ladyville | Las Vegas Hotel | Las Vegas Casino | Near airport, modern |
Corozal | Princess Casino Hotel | Princess Free Zone | Larger cross-border casinos |
Placencia | Ocean Breeze Beach Resort | Village Casino (Slots Only) | Quiet, local vibe + beachfront stay |
Final Thoughts: Easygoing Gaming in Paradise
Belize’s casino scene is small but charming — perfect for travelers who want a touch of nightlife without the intensity of big-city gambling.
Whether you’re rolling dice in Belize City or trying a few slots in Placencia Village, you’ll find the same island hospitality Belize is famous for: friendly smiles, laid-back vibes, and maybe a lucky streak under the Caribbean stars.
Fun Fact: You can legally gamble in Belize as a foreign visitor — no extra permit needed. Just bring valid ID and enjoy responsibly.
Stay in the Heart of Placencia
Book your stay today at OceanBreezeBeachResort.com and discover why guests call it one of the top beachfront resorts in Belize.
👉 Read our Ultimate Belize Travel Guide for everything you need to know before you visit Belize.
👉 Or head south and explore the coast with our Placencia Village Belize Travel Guide.
About the Author
Craig Densham is the owner of Ocean Breeze Beach Resort, a boutique seaside resort in Placencia, Belize. With years of local experience and a passion for hospitality, Craig loves helping guests discover the best of Belize — from hidden beaches to authentic local cuisine. Follow Ocean Breeze Beach Resort on Facebook and Instagram for travel inspiration.
