The best time to visit Belize: a month-by-month guide

Belize in January

January is one of the best months to visit Belize, offering warm temperatures, clear skies, and ideal conditions for both beach relaxation and outdoor adventure. It’s the heart of the dry season, making it perfect for travelers who want reliable sunshine and calm seas. Coastal hotspots like Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and Placencia are lively yet not overwhelming, and January is also an excellent time to stay on one of Belize’s private islands, where the water is calm and visibility for snorkeling and diving is at its peak.

January is also a fantastic month for inland exploration. With low humidity and comfortable temperatures, it’s easy to hike through lush rainforest, explore ancient Maya ruins such as Xunantunich and Caracol, and venture into Belize’s famous cave systems like ATM Cave. Wildlife viewing is also strong at this time of year, especially in reserves like Cockscomb Basin and the Belize Zoo.

Although January is part of Belize’s high tourism season, the atmosphere remains relaxed and friendly. You’ll find colorful local markets, festive New Year events, and plenty of opportunities to experience Belizean culture, from Garifuna drumming to coastal seafood feasts. For travelers who want sunshine, adventure, and a chance to experience Belize at its most vibrant, January is a top choice.

Weather in January

Temperature: 73–82°F (23–28°C), warm and comfortable across the country.

Sunshine: Predominantly sunny days with low humidity.

Rainfall: Minimal rain, mainly brief, light showers along the coast.

Sea & Nature: Excellent visibility for snorkeling/diving, with frequent sightings of rays, nurse sharks, and sea turtles around the reef. Also calm waters for kayaking, sailing, and swimming.

Belize in February

February is a wonderful time to visit Belize, offering warm, dry weather and some of the most reliable conditions of the year. It’s one of the most comfortable months for travelers, thanks to low humidity and steady sunshine. Although it’s part of the high season, the atmosphere still feels relaxed, especially if you stay in smaller beach towns like Hopkins or Placencia, or on Belize’s private islands where crowds are minimal.

This is also an excellent time for outdoor activities. Snorkeling and diving conditions are superb, with calm seas and excellent visibility along the Belize Barrier Reef. Inland, the cooler mornings make it ideal for exploring Maya sites such as Xunantunich, trekking through the rainforest, or joining guided cave adventures like ATM Cave. Resorts often offer February specials, especially on the mainland, making it possible to create a more budget-friendly itinerary even during peak season.

February is also a fun month for cultural experiences. Local events, seafood festivals, and Garifuna drumming nights are common in coastal communities. While Belize doesn’t have a large national Carnival this month, towns and islands often host small-scale celebrations, live music, and beach parties, giving travelers a lively yet authentic glimpse of Belizean life.

Weather in February

Temperature: 74–82°F (23–28°C), warm and comfortable throughout the country.

Sunshine: Plenty of bright, dry days with low humidity.

Rainfall: Very little rain, mostly brief light showers, if any.

Sea & Nature: Clear, calm waters ideal for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and sailing; frequent sightings of rays and sea turtles around the reef.

Belize in March

March is a fantastic time to visit Belize, sitting right in the heart of the dry season when the weather is warm, sunny, and incredibly reliable. Days are bright and breezy, humidity stays comfortable, and the country feels vibrant without being overwhelmingly busy. It’s an excellent month for travelers who want beautiful conditions before the Easter and spring-break crowds arrive later in the season.

March is ideal for exploring both the coast and the mainland. The cayes, like Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker, offer perfect beach weather, calm turquoise water, and excellent visibility for snorkeling and diving along the Belize Barrier Reef. Inland destinations such as San Ignacio, Belmopan, and the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve are equally enjoyable, with cooler mornings ideal for visiting Maya sites, hiking jungle trails, and joining cave tubing or zip-lining tours.

Nature lovers will find March especially rewarding. The rainforest is lush after earlier seasonal showers, river levels are stable for canoeing, and wildlife viewing is strong in reserves like Cockscomb Basin and Crooked Tree. Coastal areas are at their most picturesque this time of year, and ocean conditions are perfect for sailing, kayaking, and island-hopping adventures, including visits to Belize’s private islands.

Weather in March

Temperature: 75–84°F (24–29°C), warm but not overly hot.

Sunshine: Long, sunny days with plenty of blue skies.

Rainfall: Very low rainfall; brief showers are uncommon.

Sea & Nature: Calm seas with excellent visibility, great for snorkeling, diving, and boating; lush inland landscapes ideal for hikes and wildlife spotting.

Belize in April

April is one of the best months to visit Belize. It falls at the end of the dry season, offering consistently warm, sunny days, calm seas, and excellent conditions for both beach relaxation and outdoor adventures. Maya Beach, in the Placencia area, is particularly inviting in April, with quiet white sands and calm turquoise waters ideal for swimming, kayaking, or simply soaking up the sun away from the crowds.

April is also slightly more affordable than the peak winter months, with lower accommodation rates and fewer tourists on private islands and popular cayes like Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker. Inland, conditions are perfect for exploring Maya ruins in the Cayo District, hiking rainforest trails, or enjoying activities like cave tubing and zip-lining, all without the intense heat and humidity of the summer months.

The combination of reliable weather, relatively quieter destinations, and opportunities for both adventure and relaxation makes April one of the most balanced months for a Belize getaway.

Weather in April

Temperature: 77–86°F (25–30°C), warm and comfortable.

Sunshine: Mostly sunny, perfect for beach trips, island hopping, and outdoor adventures.

Rainfall: Minimal; occasional brief showers are possible, mostly in the afternoons.

Sea & Nature: Calm, clear waters ideal for snorkeling, diving, kayaking, and sailing; Maya Beach and other coastal areas are serene and inviting.

Belize in May

May is a great time to visit Belize, offering warm tropical weather and fewer crowds than the peak winter months. Early in the month, you can expect plenty of sunshine and comfortable conditions, making it ideal for exploring both the coast and the interior. This is also a more budget-friendly time to travel, with lower prices on accommodations, tours, and flights compared to the high season.

The cayes and coastal areas are still inviting, with calm, clear waters perfect for swimming, sailing, and snorkeling along the Belize Barrier Reef. Inland, the weather is pleasant for visiting Maya archaeological sites, hiking rainforest trails, or enjoying adventure activities like cave tubing and zip-lining in the Cayo District.

With warm temperatures, manageable rainfall, and a quieter atmosphere, May strikes a nice balance between adventure and relaxation, allowing visitors to experience Belize at a more leisurely pace.

Weather in May

Temperature: 78–88°F (26–31°C), consistently warm.

Sunshine: Mostly sunny with long daylight hours early in the month.

Rainfall: Increasing gradually; short afternoon showers are common later in the month.

Sea & Nature: Calm waters ideal for snorkeling, diving, and sailing; lush inland areas ready for hiking and wildlife exploration.

Belize in June

June marks the start of Belize’s wet season, but early in the month is still warm and largely sunny, making it a great time to explore both the coast and inland areas. Temperatures are tropical, and while short afternoon showers become more frequent as the month progresses, mornings are usually bright and perfect for outdoor activities. This is a quieter time for tourism, offering more space to enjoy Belize’s natural beauty before the busier summer months.

The cayes and coastal waters are ideal for adventure in June. Snorkelers and divers can explore the Belize Barrier Reef and Hol Chan Marine Reserve, where calm waters reveal colorful coral formations and abundant marine life. Sea turtles, nurse sharks, rays, and schools of tropical fish are frequently spotted, adding to the excitement of reef excursions. Sailing, kayaking, and swimming in the warm Caribbean waters are also perfect during this time.

Inland, Belize’s lush landscapes are vibrant from the early rains. Wildlife lovers will find excellent opportunities to spot howler monkeys, toucans, and other tropical birds in the rainforests and nature reserves. The Cayo District offers Maya ruins, hiking trails, and cave tubing adventures through scenic limestone caves. Warm evenings are ideal for enjoying local cuisine, strolling through coastal towns, or relaxing in a hammock while listening to the sounds of the jungle.

Weather in June

Temperature: 79–89°F (26–32°C), consistently warm and tropical.

Sunshine: Mostly sunny mornings with occasional afternoon showers.

Rainfall: Increasing gradually as the month progresses; usually brief.

Sea & Nature: Calm, warm waters ideal for snorkeling, diving, sailing, and swimming; excellent wildlife spotting opportunities both on the reef and inland in the rainforest.

Belize in July

July is the height of summer in Belize, with consistently warm tropical weather and long sunny days. Temperatures typically range from 80–90°F (27–32°C), making it ideal for beach activities, snorkeling, diving, and exploring inland attractions. While this is part of the wet season, rain usually falls in brief afternoon showers, leaving plenty of bright, sunny hours to enjoy the country’s natural beauty.

The cayes and coastal regions shine in July. Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and Belize’s private islands offer calm, warm waters for swimming, sailing, and snorkeling along the Belize Barrier Reef. Early summer crowds are smaller than in the peak winter months, so popular spots feel lively but not overwhelming, and you can enjoy both adventure and relaxation.

Inland, the landscapes are lush and green from the early rains. The Cayo District, Mountain Pine Ridge, and other reserves offer opportunities for hiking, exploring caves, and visiting Maya ruins. Evenings are warm and pleasant, perfect for strolling through towns, enjoying fresh local seafood, or relaxing by the water after a day of activities.

Weather in July

Temperature: 80–90°F (27–32°C), hot and tropical.

Sunshine: Mostly sunny mornings with brief afternoon showers.

Rainfall: Moderate; showers are usually short-lived.

Sea & Nature: Calm, warm waters ideal for swimming, snorkelling, sailing, and diving; inland areas remain lush and green.

Belize in August

August in Belize is warm and tropical, with temperatures generally ranging from 79–89°F (26–32°C). It’s part of the wet season, so brief afternoon showers are common, but mornings are usually sunny and perfect for outdoor activities. The cayes and coastline remain inviting, with calm seas ideal for swimming, snorkeling, diving, and sailing. Southern areas, including Placencia and Belize’s private islands, are particularly pleasant for relaxing by the water or hopping between cayes.

Nature and adventure enthusiasts will find plenty to do in August. Inland regions, including the Cayo District and Mountain Pine Ridge, are lush and vibrant from early rains, with waterfalls, hiking trails, and cave systems at their best. Maya ruins, jungle treks, and river excursions provide rewarding experiences while the landscape is at its greenest.

Belize’s mix of calm coastal waters, scenic cayes, waterfalls, and verdant inland terrain makes August a great month for travelers who enjoy both adventure and relaxation, with the added bonus of fewer crowds than in the peak winter season.

Weather in August

Temperature: 79–89°F (26–32°C), hot and tropical.

Sunshine: Mostly sunny mornings with occasional afternoon showers.

Rainfall: Moderate, usually short-lived.

Sea & Nature: Warm, calm waters for swimming, snorkelling, and sailing; lush inland landscapes with waterfalls, jungle trails, and scenic cayes.

Belize in September

September in Belize is a quieter month, falling in the wet season, but it still offers warm, tropical weather and plenty of opportunities for exploration. Temperatures generally range from 79–88°F (26–31°C), making it comfortable for both coastal and inland activities. Afternoon showers are more common, but mornings are usually bright and ideal for getting out and enjoying the country.

The cayes and coastline remain appealing. Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and Belize’s private islands provide calm waters for swimming, snorkelling, and sailing. It’s a great time to enjoy these areas without the high-season crowds, giving travellers a more relaxed experience on the beach or reef. Inland, the jungles, rivers, and hills are lush and green, perfect for hiking, exploring Maya ruins, or taking part in adventures like cave tubing and zip-lining in the Cayo District.

September is ideal for visitors who appreciate a slower pace. With fewer tourists and lower prices compared to the peak winter months, you can experience Belize’s natural beauty, coastal charm, and cultural highlights at a more leisurely pace. It’s a good month for scenic drives, relaxing on the cayes, or discovering inland treasures in comfort.

Weather in September

Temperature: 79–88°F (26–31°C), consistently warm.

Sunshine: Mostly sunny mornings with intermittent afternoon showers.

Rainfall: Moderate, typically short bursts rather than prolonged rain.

Sea & Nature: Warm, calm waters for swimming, snorkeling, and sailing; inland areas lush and inviting for hiking and exploration.

Belize in October

October in Belize is part of the wet season, but it can still be a rewarding time to visit. Temperatures remain warm, generally ranging from 78–88°F (26–31°C), and while afternoon showers are more frequent, mornings are usually sunny and perfect for exploring both coastal and inland attractions. With fewer tourists than in the peak winter months, it’s an excellent time for a more relaxed and leisurely experience.

The cayes and coastal areas continue to offer great opportunities for water activities. Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and private islands provide calm, warm waters ideal for swimming, snorkelling, and sailing. Beaches are quieter than during the high season, giving visitors space to unwind or enjoy peaceful coastal walks. Inland, Belize’s lush rainforest and river valleys are at their greenest, offering scenic hiking, Maya ruins exploration, and adventure activities like cave tubing and zip-lining.

October is perfect for travellers who enjoy a slower pace and want to combine nature, culture, and relaxation. Whether exploring the cayes, taking scenic drives inland, or sampling local cuisine in coastal towns, Belize offers a rich experience without the crowds.

Weather in October

Temperature: Warm and tropical, ranging from 78–88°F (26–31°C).

Sunshine: Mostly sunny mornings, giving plenty of daylight for outdoor activities.

Rainfall: Increasing compared to earlier months, usually brief afternoon showers rather than all-day rain.

Sea & Nature: Waters remain warm and calm for swimming, snorkeling, and sailing, while inland areas are lush and vibrant, perfect for hiking and exploring.

Belize in November

November is one of the best times to visit Belize. It marks the transition from the wet season to the dry season, bringing warm, sunny mornings, fewer showers, and a calmer, more relaxed atmosphere. Temperatures generally range from 77–87°F (25–31°C), making it comfortable for exploring both the coast and inland areas.

This month is especially appealing for travelers seeking great value and quieter destinations. Flights, accommodations, and tours are often more affordable than during the peak winter season, and popular spots like Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and private islands feel peaceful and uncrowded. The cayes and beaches are ideal for swimming, snorkeling, sailing, or simply relaxing by the water.

Inland adventures are also excellent in November. The rainforest, rivers, and Maya ruins are easily accessible, and cooler, drier conditions make hiking, cave tubing, and exploring scenic trails enjoyable. With fewer tourists, you can take your time exploring Belize’s natural beauty, cultural sites, and charming towns at a leisurely pace.

Weather in November

Temperature: 77–87°F (25–31°C), warm and comfortable.

Sunshine: Mostly sunny mornings with occasional light showers.

Rainfall: Decreasing from the wet season; brief, scattered showers possible.

Sea & Nature: Calm, warm waters for swimming, snorkeling, sailing, and diving; inland areas are lush yet easy to explore.

Belize in December

December is also one of the best months to visit Belize, offering warm, tropical weather, sunny days, and a welcoming start to the dry season. Temperatures generally range from 75–85°F (24–29°C), making it perfect for beach activities, reef excursions, and inland adventures. It’s also a great time for travelers seeking good value and fewer crowds compared to the peak winter holiday season later in December.

The cayes and coastal towns are especially inviting in December. Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker, and private islands have calm waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sailing. Inland, the cooler, drier weather is perfect for exploring Maya ruins, hiking rainforest trails, or taking part in adventure activities like cave tubing and zip-lining.

Early December offers lower prices and quieter resorts, making it ideal for travelers who want to enjoy Belize’s natural beauty and activities without the busier holiday crowds. Later in the month, Belize celebrates Christmas and New Year with festive local traditions, lively street events in towns like San Pedro, and a warm, friendly atmosphere that highlights the country’s Caribbean charm.

Weather in December

Temperature: 75–85°F (24–29°C), warm and comfortable across the country.

Sunshine: Mostly sunny days with bright mornings, ideal for outdoor activities.

Rainfall: Low, as the wet season ends; occasional brief showers possible.

Sea & Nature: Calm, warm waters perfect for swimming, snorkeling, sailing, and diving; inland areas dry and pleasant for exploring.

How do you get there?

Guests typically travel by private boat with a captain from coastal towns like Belize City, Ambergris Caye, or Placencia.

What currency is used in Belize?

The Belize Dollar (BZD) is the official currency. US dollars are widely accepted, and credit cards are often used in resorts, restaurants, and larger towns.

How do I get around Belize?

Travel between coastal towns and the cayes is mostly by boat (water taxis or private charters). Inland, buses, shuttles, and rental cars are common for getting around.

When is the best time to visit Belize?

The dry season from December to April is ideal for beaches, snorkeling, diving, and inland adventures. May to November is the wet season, with occasional showers but fewer crowds and lower prices.