To the east, the Caribbean Sea is studded by a patchwork of coral cayes and the Belize Barrier Reef UNESCO World Heritage site. Directly behind Turtle Inn to the west lie the calm waters of the Placencia Lagoon and spectacular views of the Maya Mountains and Victoria Peak.
South of the Placencia Peninsula is the Monkey River formed from the Swasey and Bladen rivers that flow from the jungle clad peaks of the Maya Mountains across the coastal savanna out into the extensive mangrove flats and barrier islands that hug the coastline.
Accommodations are in individual thatched cottages, decorated with handcrafted Balinese furnishings and naturally cooled by the ever-present sea breezes. Just steps beyond your private deck, the white-sand beach dissolves into the clear Caribbean ocean.
In addition, two swimming pools offer a choice of freshwater and saltwater bathing. With its friendly, attentive staff, two restaurants, a rejuvenating spa and idyllic seafront setting, Turtle Inn is a perfect refuge for those seeking a stress-relieving getaway.
Turtle Inn's unique location also provides a wealth of exciting activities. The coral reef just offshore offers some of the best diving and scuba in the world, and our dive shop can accommodate the needs of both beginners and experienced divers.
Inland hikes to hidden lagoons, canoe trips up the Monkey River and the short bicycle ride into our local, typically Belizean town will also enrich our guests’ experience of this magical country.
Set in an open-air Balinese Rice House featuring hand-painted murals inspired by ancient art, the Sunset Spa relaxes those who’ve spent a full day touring, swimming, snorkeling, and diving. All treatments use locally-sourced organic ingredients.
At the request of the Coppolas, our Belize spa hideaway specializes in traditional Thai massage, practiced by a professional staff that has studied these ancient techniques at the Sacred Wat Pho Temple in Bangkok.
The best beach swimming in Belize is located in Placencia. The sandy beach and calm, clear waters create perfect conditions for swimming and snorkeling as well as a host of other water-related adventures.
Visit the Dive Shop for more information on renting sailing boats, snorkel gear, kayaks and beach bicycles.
Turtle Inn also has two infinity swimming pools to help you enjoy the day. The oval-shaped infinity pool is located between the Mare Restaurant and the Laughing Fish Bar while the triangular infinity pool with its striking ceramic turtle tiling and tranquil surroundings is located to the north of the property close to the Gauguin Grill.
Poolside Garden View Cottage
Nestled in lush gardens and a few paces from the Caribbean Sea, each Poolside Garden View Cottage has a private screened porch, spacious bathroom with a Japanese bath, and a private walled garden with an outdoor shower.
Poolside Sea View Cottage
Each Poolside Sea View Cottage has a private screened porch, spacious bathroom with a Japanese bath, and a private walled garden with an outdoor shower. All rooms feature Balinese hand-carved doors and décor, and ceiling fans.
Seafront Villas
Seafront Villas are just a few steps from the Caribbean Sea. These Balinese themed 2-bedroom/2-en-suite bathroom villas provide luxurious proportions with a living room, separate sitting rooms, and an extended screened porch surrounded by a private walled garden with an outdoor shower.
Starfish Cottage
Feel as if you are staying in your own private seafront home, fully equipped with a kitchen, living room, full bathroom on the main floor, and two air-conditioned bedrooms. Each bedroom has a queen-size bed, and there's a shared bathroom on the second floor
Colibri Villa
The Colibri Villa is a 2 bedroom/ 2 bathroom Villa located on the further end of the property. This is a beach front unit with A/C in the bedroom.
Swimming
Our sandy beach and calm waters create perfect conditions for swimming and snorkeling as well as a host of other water-related activities. Visit our Dive Shop for more information on renting sailing boats, snorkel gear, kayaks, water bicycles and paddle boards.
Yoga
Stephanie's deep passion for yoga infuses every aspect of her life. Her teachings are full of joy, compassion, and an authentic desire to help students connect to their own limitless potential. What Stephanie loves most about yoga is the balance between physical and spiritual - the opportunity to transcend the physical body and find a deeper truth.
Yoga classes are adapted depending on the ability and needs of the person, from gentle flow to a fun and challenging Vinyasa.
Birding
Whether you are an amateur or professional birder or have not even considered this as an activity while on vacation, joining our on-site ornithologist Melvin on a guided bird watching experience at Turtle Inn will delight you. Enjoy the morning sun rising over the Caribbean Sea while strolling through the grounds of the resort with Melvin who will ensure you don’t miss seeing a large variety of beautiful birds. More experienced birding enthusiasts may want to schedule an adventure further with our guide.
Sunset Cruise
The sunset over the distant Maya Mountains is nothing short of spectacular and there is no better place to see it from than the calm waters of the Placencia Lagoon. The cruise generally lasts from 60 to 90 minutes and includes hors d'oeuvres and Coppola wines. Stay on the lookout for dolphins and manatees that are often visible from the deck of the boat!
Fishing
Troll, spin-cast or drop-fish in some of the most populated waters in the Caribbean. Barracuda, king mackerel, snapper, grouper, tuna and snook are among the many species that thrive here. Tour includes all necessary fishing gear. Please note this is not 'blue water' fishing for pelagic species.
Placencia is a haven for every level of fly fisherman. The productive sand and coral flats off Placencia combine to offer the chance of salt-water fly fishing’s grand slam: permit, bonefish, tarpon and snook. Our waters provide some of the best fishing in the Caribbean and we offer experienced and professional local guides. Select fly fishing gear is available to loan from our tackle shop.
Snorkeling
Clear, calm waters combined with an abundance of fascinating coral and fish make Placencia a premier spot for snorkeling. Spend the day exploring exotic coral species such as branching fire, rose lace and blushing star, and keep an eye out for the dazzling stoplight parrotfish, queen angelfish, squirrelfish and the great barracuda. Depending on what time of year you visit, you may also be able to catch a glimpse of the majestic whale shark.
Bicycling
Complimentary beach and mountain bicycles available to guests who would like to pedal around the beautiful surroundings.
Coral Caye Private Island
Sheltered behind the world famous Belize Barrier Reef, Coral Caye is a completely private island that can be yours alone for a romantic, restorative or adventurous get away. You and your lucky travel companions will feel like you are castaways with all the comforts needed to leave all of your cares behind. Learn more about Coral Caye here.
