Nine miles north of Corozal, the tiny fishing village of Consejo is home to a beach hideaway, an upscale hotel, a nine-hole golf course, and a retirement community of some 400 North Americans called Consejo Shores (www.consejoshores.com).

Rent one of three bayside units at Smuggler’s Den (two miles northwest of Consejo, tel. 501/600-9723, http://smugglersdenbelize.tripod.com, US$40–65), nicely furnished and with hot and cold water—quite a bargain if you’re looking for isolation. Two have private baths and kitchenettes; the unit without a kitchen is cheaper. Discounts can be had if requested. Smuggler’s is locally famous for its Sunday afternoon roast beef dinners; reserve in advance.

Right in Consejo, Casablanca by the Sea (tel. 501/423-1018, U.S. tel. 781/235-1024, www.casablanca-bythesea.com, from US$65) is an intimate hotel with lovely grounds and views of the Bay of Consejo. Casablanca has eight stately rooms with queen-size beds, private bathrooms, air-conditioning, hot and cold water, and TV. The bar and dining room offer excellent seafood dishes and other meals, eaten while watching the lights of Chetumal, just across the bay. There’s rooftop stargazing, volleyball, and top-notch conference/group facilities.

The New Millennium Restaurant, in the heart of Consejo village, is a friendly watering hole and eatery serving up daily specials at great prices (closed Tues.). Derricks Cozy Bar is a popular hangout in the afternoons, and you can meet other expats. Challenge Mr. Derrick to a game of dominoes, as he is a wily player.