Turtle Inn, Belize - A Francis Ford Coppola Hideaway

"Turtle Inn, much like Blancaneaux Lodge, its older sibling in the Belizean jungle, bears the cinematic imprint of owner Francis Ford Coppola. From the tropical exuberance of its entryway and its thatch-roof cottages with hand-carved doors and Japanese baths to the garden pizzeria with its twinkling lights, this is one part Gilligan’s Island, one part barefoot-chic Bali beach club. You wouldn’t be blamed for not wanting to leave this idyllic refuge, but Turtle Inn’s location makes it the perfect jumping off point for riverine adventures and treks into jaguar territory. You’ll always be glad to return, though: to its pools, the beachside bar, and lobster feasts best enjoyed with toes in the sand. But perhaps there is no luxury greater than the warmhearted service extended by staff who treat you just as they would the Coppolas—like returning family. From $419. —Arati Menon" - CNT Editors

"An elegant retreat owned by the Coppola family, located near the Belize Barrier Reef. The inn features hibiscus-lined paths, thatched cabanas, Japanese soaking tubs, and offers both marine adventures and relaxation. It's known for its familial and stylish yet simply decorated bungalows."

"Turtle Inn is one of two upscale resort properties in Belize owned by American movie director Francis Ford Coppola. (The other is Blancaneaux.) This inn is in the town of Placencia, but despite its proximity to the town's services, the privacy afforded by the resort makes guests feel insulated and more isolated than they actually are. The cabana-style accommodations are luxurious and spacious, with high ceilings and exceptional attention to design detail. The architecture blends in with the environment, but inside the cabanas and villas, guests will feel as if they've been transported to another part of the world. The decor is inspired by Bali , with hand-carved wooden wardrobes and trunks and richly embroidered textiles and tapestries. These sit alongside ultramodern amenities and conveniences, such as Delonghi espresso machines and iPod docking stations. Common areas include a triangle-shaped, infinity-edge pool and a gift shop with pricey luxury goods, including handbags and clothing."

"Of the Coppola clan’s two exceptional ecolodges in Belize, the mangrove-encircled Turtle Inn, in the fishing village of Placencia, is where their cinematic vision really kicks in: thatched cottages with hand-carved Balinese doors, rustic-Italian dishes flavored with items from the organic garden, and a private castaway island, Coral Caye, with hammocks for post-snorkel naps. Besides setting you up for an exquisite and relaxing beach vacation, the beach hideaway serves as a perfect jumping off point for adventures to Mayan ruins or a trip into the nearby jaguar preserve. Doubles from $329."

"The Turtle Inn, part of the Coppola Family Hideaways collection, makes it easy to live out your castaway fantasies without quitting your job. Set on the white sand beach of Placencia, the hotel invites guests to feel like a local with its Inn Residence package. Stay 30 days or longer and you’ll receive 20 percent off the nightly room rate and all food and beverage, one private-chef prepared meal per week of your stay, and a $300 credit for tours and activities. Speedy wifi allows guests to work from the comfort of their open-air beach bungalow or villa and devote downtime to pursuing passions, like finally getting PADI certified. On weekends, guests can immerse themselves in the local culture with Maya/Creole cooking lessons, trips to Mayan ruins or birding workshops with the resident ornithologist. (from $329 per night)" - Jen Murphy