Transportation....There used to be a shuttle to and from Placencia Village. I don't believe it is still running. I have heard that taxi's are available, we never used one, but I think it is in the $10.00 BZE category. Bicycles are offered, that was a rather long hot ride for us, so we didn't do that.

There are several resorts & bars up and down the beach. South is Mangos, a bar. It wasn't there when we were. Another place that is south is Singing Sands, a resort, bar and dining. Then up in the north direction, is a sports bar called Maya Beach Bar and Resort.( I am not sure of the dining, we only made a quick stop there.) It wasn't there then either when we stayed at Green Parrot, but we did go back to visit that area and stopped in there with our friends. That was nice.
The area is growing so since we have not been there for over 2 years, I don't have much more to add. I do know that you will find the mainland more laid back, in Maya beach area. The village of Placencia was lots of fun and very very pleasant to visit. We had good food at all of the places we ate.

One year we stayed in Placencia, pre Iris, and had a great time. But, still preferred Green Parrot, because we spent a week there. In Placencia village we spent only one night because we drove a rented car and also did a few nights on a caye.

If you want to, make a reservation for one night, somewhere. Then you have the choice of looking at other places to stay.

Have you looked into Mariposa? That too caught my eye, on the internet, since we visited.

We went to relax, others go to party. We had the choice to do either. It depends on what you want from your vacation. Most places will help you with any tours. You don't need to make reservations for tours ahead of time.
No matter what you do, you will enjoy yourselves if you go s l o w, because they will in Belize.
Enjoy.