Rising Like a Phoenix: The Transformation of Blue Reef Beach Resort

Amidst the visceral juddering of jackhammers, the wail of drills, plumes of concrete dust and the racket of the work radio, a phoenix is rising. Months of dedication and commitment are starting to bear fruit as the new 70x30 pool reaches its crescendo, being adorned with finishing artistic flourishes, the kitchen equipment is about to be fitted into the crisp modern beachfront restaurant and the family and honeymoon suites overlooking the Caribbean receive their new electrical circuitry before being crowned with a new luxury interior.

It’s a thrilling time in the project’s journey as the resort’s forms and functions take their final, tangible, shape and the hopes of the owners - to transform this once loved property back into a beating heart of the neighbourhood, ready to welcome travelers from across the world - and the dreams and goals of all involved in its renaissance reach the possibility of fulfillment. 

Sheer grit, rigid yet realistic budgeting and unilateral attentiveness have brought the former Robert’s Grove Resort into the mid-2020s, rebirthing it into one of Belize’s newest beach resorts near Placencia -  Blue Reef Beach Resort.

Rebuilding and reasserting the property’s multiple, impressive, rooms and services - from the two waterfront restaurants to the 19 suites, pool and swim-up bar, to the gas and butane stations at the marina as well as the backbone of operations - office spaces, reception and a laundry, has been a labour of love for General Manager Polly Wood and her team. The vast renovation will soon give the property back to the birds and wildlife and to vacationers and residents to enjoy once more, after the former resort closed its doors in 2022. 

The original marina restaurant, Habanero, was the first to receive the Blue Reef Beach resort treatment. Interior designer and project manager Jana Belknap recreated a 1930s speakeasy with a fun decor, tongue-in-cheek portraiture and bohemian disco accents and lighting. Opening in May 2024, Blue Lagoon quickly became a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike looking for something unique to do in Placencia, Belize, with its Instagrammable setting and neon sunsets. 

Offering delicious takes on Latin American classics such as tacos and spicy shrimp salad, together with unexpected twists in the form of loaded fries (a Blue Lagoon take on the Canadian classic poutine and US ‘disco fries’), innovative craft cocktails, and a lively atmosphere overlooking the marina. The successful launch gave the team even more momentum and excitement as they continued the renovations on the beach side.

With Blue Lagoon buoyant, attention turned to the Caribbean Sea side of Blue Reef Beach Resort. This ambitious phase of the project involved a complete renovation of 19 rooms and suites, the beachfront restaurant, and the pool area. The mission was to create spaces that were not only beautiful and comfortable but also reflected the unique spirit of Belize, plus a sprinkling of the relaxed, bohemian ease of Tulum and Santorini-inspired blues.

Rather than strip and demolish the original structure, Blue Reef Beach’s approach to adapting the existing space for a new guest experience involved upcycling and repurposing a multitude of materials and not wasting anything in the process. Drawing upon local textiles, crafts and resources as much as possible, whilst keeping the existing footprint and height of the resort and not building higher or heavier, has been a priority.

The reworked beachfront restaurant and bar will have inside seating in an air conditioned section, an outdoor terrace and comfortable bar and lounge space. The restaurant will be transformed into a culinary destination, offering fresh, locally sourced ingredients and innovative fusion dishes. With stunning views and a relaxed atmosphere, it will be the perfect place to enjoy a memorable meal.

Exciting news for boaters and residents alike! Construction is underway of the provisioning store at the marina at Blue Reef Beach. The team are transforming the former dive shop into the ultimate one-stop shop for yacht guests and crews, day skippers and local residents. Soon, sea adventures can be stocked with ease — from ice, champagne, and freshly made sandwiches to snacks, soft drinks, and essentials such as bug spray and reef safe sunscreen.

Gourmet cheeses will complement the handpicked selection of international wines. The store will look and feel like a rural, rustic farm shop, full of everything a seafarer could possibly want. The new laundry and shower facilities will refresh crews and their guests, a walk-in chiller room will keep wines perfectly cold, and convenient gas and butane stations will be next door for the one-stop pit stop passing vessels may need.

 

Stay tuned - there is so much more to come in this renaissance story!

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