Hooked On Paradise with Itz’ana Belize
Belize: vibrant turquoise waters, lush rainforests, and unmistakably warm people. Belize is home to one of the country’s premier escapes: Itz’ana Resort & Residences! Nestled along the shores of Placencia, Itz’ana is more than a luxury beachfront retreat. It is a place where adventure meets relaxation, where the reef meets the rainforest, and where guests are invited to connect deeply with the land, sea, and community. Itz’ana was built with a clear vision: “to offer an immersive hospitality experience that blends barefoot luxury with sustainability”. From thoughtfully designed accommodations and full-service marina, to an organic garden and a strong commitment to the environment. Itz’ana provides a refined yet laid-back escape for couples, families, groups, anglers, and adventurers alike.
This year as a Platinum Sponsor of BGFA, Itz’ana is bringing an energy of adventure and excitement. Their philosophy is simple yet powerful: “comfort and elegance should coexist with sustainability.” They value authenticity, sustainability, and community connection. At Itz’ana Resort & Residences, hospitality means caring for both their guests and the community they call home. They proudly employ and train locals, partner with artisans and farmers, and showcase Belizean talent through handcrafted decor, monthly beach markets, and farm-to-table cuisine.
How Itz’ana Chooses To Support The Environment
From using solar energy and reducing plastics to operating an eco-conscious marina and supporting marine conservation, sustainability is definitely at their core! Beyond their shores, Itz’ana collaborates with community organizations to champion education, youth development, and cultural preservation. By weaving care for people and the environment into everything they do, Itz’ana is not only shaping unforgettable guest experiences but also helping to preserve the very essence of Belize.
Itz’ana Resort & Residences sponsoring the Belikin Blue Water Classic was perfectly aligned. With their full-service marina and strong ties to Belize’s coastal culture, they are passionate about supporting sport fishing, sustainable practices, and marine-based tourism. This partnership celebrates community, adventure, and Belize’s growing reputation as a premier destination for world-class sport fishing. Supporting sport fishing and conservation reflects Itz’anas mission to create experiences that honor both adventure and sustainability. They believe luxury and responsibility go hand in hand. By promoting catch-and-release practices and marine conservation, Itz’ana reinforces its vision of being more than a resort: a place where guests connect deeply with nature, community, and purpose-driven travel.
If you all did not know, Itz’ana now has its very own Wahoo Classic! Their first tournament, held in November 2024, was a resounding success! As they shared:
“One of the most memorable highlights from our first Wahoo Classic Fishing Tournament has been witnessing the shared excitement and camaraderie. From early morning launches at the marina to the proud return of boats with incredible stories, big catches, and even bigger smiles. The energy is contagious, bringing together local anglers, international guests, and our own team in celebration of Belize’s marine beauty.”
BGFA is proud to celebrate this new chapter in Placencia’s fishing legacy, and we look forward to the next Wahoo Classic alongside our friends at Itz’ana. The resort added: “We are excited to continue growing this partnership, expanding opportunities for youth engagement, sustainable sport fishing education, and positioning Placencia as a premier destination for eco-conscious adventure tourism.”
Not Just Luxury Travel
At Itz’ana Resort & Residences, the vision goes far beyond luxury travel; it’s about creating meaningful impact in Belize. Plans are already underway to expand community and sustainability initiatives, including re-launching their organic garden to supply hyper-local produce and teach regenerative agriculture, mentoring youth in hospitality and marine conservation in partnership with schools and NGOs, innovating future designs with renewable energy and low-impact materials, and offering immersive cultural and eco-experiences like artisan workshops and reef restoration excursions. Each of these initiatives reflects its mission to “lead with purpose” and ensure every guest's stay is both world-class and a step toward positive change in Belize.
The Itz’ana team wanted to close with a heartfelt invitation to the fishing community: “We’d like to extend a heartfelt invitation to join us for the 2nd Annual Wahoo Classic, happening November 7–9 at the Itz’ana Marina. This signature tournament is more than just a competition - it’s a celebration of community, conservation, and the thrill of the catch, all set against the stunning backdrop of Placencia. Whether you're a seasoned angler or new to the sport, we welcome you to be part of the excitement, connect with fellow ocean lovers, and help us grow a tradition rooted in adventure and respect for the sea. We can’t wait to see you there!”
With BGFA and Itz’ana side by side, Belize’s sport fishing future shines brighter than ever, rooted in community, conservation, and the thrill of adventure!
