How to Get to Placencia, Belize: Complete Travel Guide
- Craig Densham
- Nov 9
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
🌴 The Journey to Paradise
You’ve seen the photos — palm trees swaying, turquoise water lapping at white sand, and cocktails with names like “Belize Breeze.” Now you’re ready to go. But one question remains: how do you actually get to Placencia, Belize?
Good news: getting here is easier (and more beautiful) than you might think. Whether you’re flying, driving, or arriving by boat, this guide will walk you through every step — from your first flight into Belize to your toes in the sand at Ocean Breeze Beach Resort.
🛫 Step 1: Fly Into Belize City (BZE)
All international flights arrive at Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE), located just outside Belize City.
Airlines flying to Belize City include:
American Airlines (Dallas, Miami, Charlotte)
Delta (Atlanta)
United (Houston, Chicago, Newark, Denver)
Air Canada & WestJet (Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver)
Alaska Airlines (Los Angeles, Seattle)
Most flights take under 3 hours from major U.S. cities — making Placencia one of the most accessible Caribbean escapes.
Pro tip: If possible, choose a morning flight. You’ll have time to connect and reach Placencia the same day.
🛩️ Step 2: Get from Belize City to Placencia
Once you land in Belize, you have four easy ways to get to Placencia: plane, shuttle, rental car, or boat. Each has its own charm (and travel time).
✈️ Option 1: Domestic Flight (Quick & Scenic)
This is by far the fastest and most popular option — and the views are unforgettable.
Two local airlines, Tropic Air and Maya Island Air, run frequent flights between Belize City and Placencia.
Flight time: ~40 minutes Cost: $120–$160 USD one-way
Experience: You’ll soar over emerald jungle and turquoise reef — keep your camera ready!
Placencia’s airstrip is just a few minutes from Ocean Breeze Beach Resort, and we can arrange airport pickup upon request.
🚐 Option 2: Shuttle or Private Transfer
If you’d rather stay on the ground and enjoy the scenery, a shuttle or private car is a comfortable and affordable choice.
Travel time: 2.5–3 hours
Route: The Hummingbird Highway, one of the most scenic drives in Central America. You’ll wind past citrus orchards, rainforest hills, and charming villages before reaching the coast.
Many guests love this route for its photo stops and authentic Belizean roadside cafes.
🚗 Option 3: Rent a Car and Self-Drive
If you like flexibility, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore along the way — maybe stop at the Inland Blue Hole or Cockscomb Jaguar Preserve.
Travel time: 2–3 hours
Road quality: Well-paved most of the way; some narrow stretches but easy to drive with good signage.
You can pick up your rental at the airport or in Belize City. Just make sure your accommodation (like Ocean Breeze!) offers secure parking — we do.
📍 Step 3: Welcome to Placencia!
Once you arrive, you’ll find yourself in one of Belize’s most charming seaside villages — a laid-back blend of Caribbean soul and barefoot luxury.
Placencia is known for:
Its famous Sidewalk (the narrowest street in the world!)
Colorful beachfront bars and cafes
Friendly locals who’ll greet you with “Go slow” — the town motto
Endless adventures: snorkeling, jungle tours, and sunset sails
Ocean Breeze Beach Resort sits right on the beach along the Sidewalk — walkable to everything, yet peaceful and private when you’re ready to unwind.
→ See Our Location & Directions
🧭 Bonus: Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors
Currency: 1 USD = 2 Belize Dollars (you can use USD almost everywhere).
Language: English is the official language — no translation needed!
Plug Type: Standard U.S. outlets (110V).
Cell Service: Most U.S. carriers work here; Wi-Fi is widely available.
Local Flights: Book ahead online — flights fill up quickly in high season.
Best Time to Visit: December–May for dry weather; May–August for quieter deals.
🏖️ Stay Beachfront in Placencia
At Ocean Breeze Beach Resort, paradise begins the moment you arrive. Our boutique property offers direct beach access, private balconies, and personalized tour bookings — everything you need for a relaxing Belize getaway.
Whether you fly, drive, or cruise your way here, our team can help plan each leg of your trip. We’ll even greet you with a welcome drink when you arrive. 🍹
→ Plan Your Belize Stay→ View Packages & Specials
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.
