Zama Caye is a private tropical island located just off the southern tip of the Placencia Peninsula in southern Belize, surrounded by crystal‑clear water, vibrant coral, and abundant marine life. A true snorkeler’s paradise, the island offers pristine beaches, lush foliage, and direct access to some of the region’s most spectacular underwater environments. Previously known as Scipio Caye, this rare offering presents an opportunity for a resort developer or a family seeking a long‑term island retreat.
The Property
The island features established infrastructure and natural landscapes suited for private enjoyment or future development. Existing amenities include the Paradiso Grill with a 48” wood‑fired pizza oven, large BBQ grill, outdoor kitchen with bamboo‑roofed deck, dining table for 12, beach games, snorkeling gear, hammocks, umbrellas, SUP, and a storage building. A one‑bedroom island‑chic casita includes high ceilings, screened aluminum windows, air conditioning, LED lighting, pressurized water, propane appliances, ceiling fans, a large bathroom/dressing room, king bed, window seats, quartz countertops, stainless steel fixtures, a covered verandah, rainwater storage tanks, septic system with macerator, and garden lighting. Additional structures include an outdoor guest bathroom with men’s and ladies’ facilities, outdoor shower, rainwater storage, septic system, and lockable tool storage; a generator hut with diesel generator and solar‑ready electrical hookup; employee accommodations for two staff with kitchen and solar lighting; and a saltwater‑fed pond supported by a 55’ drainage pipe. Three employees rotate on duty, with two present at all times.
Land and Water
Zama Caye offers pristine beaches, tropical vegetation, and surrounding coral reefs ideal for snorkeling, fishing, and marine exploration. The northeast side features coral and reef systems, while the southwest side is naturally protected and suitable for dock construction.
Access and Utilities
The island’s proximity to Placencia allows for easy guest transfers to and from the mainland or airport in all weather conditions. Its location reduces the need for on‑site staff housing, large storage facilities, and extensive operational infrastructure. Supplies, fuel, and waste removal are easily managed, and emergency medical access is straightforward. The Belize Coast Guard is stationed less than a mile away, enhancing security. Utilities include diesel power with solar‑ready wiring, rainwater systems, septic systems, and pressurized water.
The Lifestyle
Zama Caye supports a private, nature‑immersed lifestyle with opportunities for snorkeling, fishing, and enjoying the island’s beaches and marine life. Its proximity to Placencia allows for simplified operations, access to amenities, and flexible staffing. The island’s existing infrastructure, natural beauty, and development potential make it suitable for a resort concept or a long‑term family retreat.
Development Potential
A resort development plan is available, subject to Department of Environment approval. The current concept includes 18 over‑water units with plunge pools (16 one‑bedroom and 2 two‑bedroom), an arrival pavilion, helicopter pad, arrival boardwalk, reception building, water sports center, activity beach with movie area and fire pit, outdoor grill with pizza oven, manager’s house, staff housing, staff café, BOH storage, kitchen, pool equipment, power plant, BOH workshop, water treatment, sewage treatment, spa reception, spa treatment rooms, spa water feature, yoga platform, party barge, island residence, main dining, and feature pool.
