When looking for a vacation home, finding something that overlooks the ocean is nice, but a home that is literally on the water is even better. Itz’ana Resort & Residences in Placencia, Belize look like adorable little boutique houses floating along 16 miles of the Caribbean peninsula. The location is actually even better than that, since the coastal resort village is positioned right between the peninsula and the sea. The thin stretch of land gives access to nearby islands, beaches, rivers, jungles, caves, and the world’s second largest barrier reef.
All together there are 39 luxury cottages and villas, all designed for waterfront living with huge windows and high ceilings. A native of the area, Boston-based architect Roberto de Oliveira Castro tackled the exteriors, while the interiors are being handled by Samuel Amoia. Ranging in size from 1,000-5,000 square feet and priced from $240,000 to over $1 million, Itz’ana gives you the option of beach or lagoon living, with each home positioned right on the waterfront. Personally, we would go for the lagoon options, since they look like they are literally floating on the water and come with private boat slips.
Of course, where there is a resort, there are luxury amenities. Itz’ana offers The Rum Room (a private bar with Caribbean and Central American rums), Members Club, the Limilia Restaurant by Chef Mara Jernigan, a full-service marina, yoga deck, a water sports adventure center, gym, a spa with a salt-water pool, and much more.