Beach lovers will rejoice following one Academy Award-winner's big reveal of his newest private island getaway in Belize.
You may be familiar with his talents in the film industry, but did you know Francis Ford Coppola is out to make your next vacation the best one in the books? The famed American screenwriter and film director has recently unveiled the next addition in his expanding portfolio of hospitality offerings – a private island just off the coast of Belize.
Known as Coral Caye, the tiny island getaway is situated eight miles off the coast of Placencia, Belize. Promoting quite literally the perfect, quiet castaway experience, the island is only two acres in size. That means that a Coral Caye "walk on the beach" would take but five minutes.
Don't let the size fool you, however. The rustic retreat, described as a 20-minute boat ride from another piece of Coppola's portfolio, the Family Coppola Resort's Turtle Inn, is the only offering of its kind. Coral Caye is the only accommodation featured on the mainland of Belize to also offer with it a private island.
The island features two cabins, allowing for accommodations for a group of up to 12. No worries though, as couples as encouraged to make Coral Caye a private escape all their own in a romantic retreat package.
Amenities on the island are surprisingly plentiful given the two-acre stretch. The island comes packed with everything guests will need to relax and sunbathe, including hammocks, lounge chairs, picnic tables, outdoor showers, canoes, sunscreen, bug spray, music and children's activities. Additionally, equipment is made available for guests who are interested in fishing or snorkeling during their visit.
Despite being literally miles from the mainland, visitors won't have to fend for their food. A Coral Caye stay comes with the services of the island's on-call caretakers, Alberto and his wife Pauline. The couple is available to provide all meals for guests, from Belize-inspired brunches to exotic seafood suppers.
With a strict emphasis on relaxation and escape from the world, Coppola fans will have to wait until they're back home to enjoy Apocalypse Now or The Godfather as the island is entirely television-free, although Wi-Fi and cellular reception is available. Optional extra include a private butler, private chef, alcohol, spa services, guided fishing tours and diving boat trips.
Coppola Family Resorts
Both cottages – the Seahorse cottage and the Great House – provide multiple amenities, including multiple beds, bathrooms, kitchens, games and other useful amenities for any island escape vacation. Coral Caye room rates run from $895 – $1869 before taxes.
Back on the mainland, guests can opt to pay a visit to Coppola's Turtle Inn, a 25-room seafront resort with plenty of its own amenities. Beyond Coral Caye and Turtle Inn, The Family Coppola Resorts includes Belize's Blancaneux Lodge, Guatemala's La Lancha, Italy's Palazzo Margherita, and Argentina's Jardin Escondido resorts.
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Francis Ford Coppola can attribute much of his $250 million net worth to his success and prominence in what is considered to be the New Hollywood wave of filmmaking. His work as a screenwriter and director has earned him multiple Academy Awards for such films as The Godfather and The Godfather Part II. Beyond filmmaking and the resort investment world, Coppola has successful endeavors in wine, restaurants and publications.