Belize is one of those rare places where the season you choose can completely change your trip. Visit in January and you will find bright skies and calm seas that are perfect for snorkeling the barrier reef. Come in April and you might swim alongside whale sharks during their brief annual migration. Travel in June and you can witness endangered hawksbill turtles nesting on quiet beaches. By November, Garifuna Settlement Day fills towns with music, dance, and history.
The best time to visit Belize depends on whether your priority is weather, wildlife, or culture. This guide explains the country’s two main seasons, breaks down what each month offers, and highlights the activities and events that make Belize one of the Caribbean’s most rewarding destinations.
Belize’s Seasons at a Glance
Belize has two main travel seasons. The dry season runs from November to May and is the most popular time for visitors. Days are sunny, humidity is lower, and the sea is calm, making it the best period for snorkeling, diving, and exploring Maya ruins. Hotels and resorts fill quickly during this time, and prices are at their highest.
The green season stretches from June to October. Afternoon showers are common, but mornings are usually clear, and the landscape is at its most vibrant. This is a quieter season with fewer crowds and lower rates, ideal for travelers who want more space at cultural sites and a more affordable experience.
Insider Tip: If you want to travel at Christmas or New Year, book 6 to 12 months ahead. Belize has limited hotel capacity and the best properties sell out quickly.
Belize Weather Basics
Belize has a tropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. Average highs range from 80 to 88°F (27 to 31°C), while nighttime lows rarely fall below 70°F (21°C). The sea remains warm year-round, usually between 79 and 84°F (26 to 29°C), making it comfortable for swimming and snorkeling in every season.
Rainfall varies by region and time of year. The north and the cayes tend to be drier, while the southern coast and rainforest areas receive more rain, especially during the green season. Showers often come in short bursts rather than lasting all day, and mornings are frequently clear even in the wettest months.
Humidity is lower during the dry season from November to May, which many travelers find more comfortable. The rainy season from June to October brings higher humidity, but the landscape is greener, rivers are full, and wildlife activity peaks.
Belize is also within the Atlantic hurricane belt. August through October is the peak of hurricane season, although direct hits are rare. Travelers visiting during these months should consider trip insurance and stay flexible with plans.
Month-by-Month Guide to Belize
Here is a quick-reference chart showing what to expect throughout the year.
| Month | Weather | Wildlife & Nature | Festivals & Events | Crowds & Prices | Insider Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | Dry, sunny, cool evenings | Peak birdwatching, manatees in lagoons | — | Peak crowds, high prices | Book at least 6 months ahead for top resorts |
| February | Dry, warm | Birding excellent | Carnival in Belize City | Busy resorts, higher rates | Split time between coast and inland |
| March | Dry, warm | Manatees visible, birding strong | Easter celebrations | Very busy, higher rates | Expect minimum stays at top hotels |
| April | Hot, dry | Whale shark season begins, great diving | — | Peak season continues | Time your trip with the full moon for whale sharks |
| May | Hot, dry, pre-rains | Whale sharks continue, nesting birds | — | Fewer crowds, better rates | Best month for honeymoons before rainy season |
| June | Start of rains, mornings clear | Turtle nesting begins, rainforest wildlife active | — | Lower prices, fewer visitors | Great for families or eco-travelers |
| July | Warm, green landscapes | Bird activity high, turtles nesting | — | Quieter, moderate rain | Combine coast and jungle stays |
| August | Humid, occasional storms | Turtle nesting continues | — | Low crowds, low prices | Pair Maya ruins with beach days |
| September | Rainier, hurricane risk | Turtle hatchlings on beaches | Independence Day | Very low tourist numbers | Stay inland if storms are a concern |
| October | Wettest month, storm risk | Jaguars more active in rainforest | — | Lowest crowds, lowest prices | Some hotels close, buy travel insurance |
| November | Dry season begins | Migratory birds arrive | Garifuna Settlement Day | Growing crowds, moderate rates | Hopkins fills early for Garifuna festival |
| December | Dry, festive, cool evenings | Migratory birds, active wildlife | Christmas & New Year | Peak crowds, peak prices | Book 6–12 months ahead |
Best Time for Activities and Wildlife
Diving and Snorkeling
December through May offers calm seas and clear visibility. April to June is the best time to dive with whale sharks at Gladden Spit Marine Reserve.
Insider Tip: Book whale shark dives months in advance. Operators have limited permits.
Sea Turtles
Belize is one of the most important nesting sites in the Caribbean for hawksbill turtles, a critically endangered species. Hawksbills, along with green and loggerhead turtles, nest along Belize’s beaches from June to September. Hatchlings emerge in late summer, especially in the southern cayes. Protecting these nesting beaches is a major conservation focus, making turtle season not only fascinating to witness but also significant for global biodiversity.
Birdwatching
Belize is home to over 500 species. November to March is peak birding season when migratory species arrive from North America. February to May is excellent for spotting breeding plumage and nesting activity.
Insider Tip: Visit Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary with a guide for the best sightings of rare species.
Manatees
Manatees are visible year-round, with calm dry-season waters improving visibility.
Insider Tip: Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary near Belize City is a reliable spot for encounters.
Honeymoons and Romantic Travel
Belize is ideal for couples who want both relaxation and adventure. Luxury overwater villas, intimate jungle lodges, and boutique resorts offer private escapes.
The best months for honeymoons are May and November. Both combine good weather with lower crowds and better value. Couples who prefer privacy can also consider the quieter green season.
Festivals and Events
- February: Carnival in Belize City
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March/April: Easter celebrations across the country
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September: Independence Day, Belize’s largest national holiday
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November: Garifuna Settlement Day in Hopkins and Dangriga
When to Avoid Travel
Belize can be enjoyed year-round, but September and October have the highest risk of storms. Some resorts close for maintenance. While prices are lowest, it is not the best choice for first-time visitors who want reliable beach weather.
Insider Tip: If you travel in hurricane season, purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover delays or cancellations.
Finding Your Perfect Season in Belize
Belize does not have a single “best” season. Instead, it offers different rewards at different times of year. Choose the dry months between November and May if you want the most reliable weather and the best conditions for diving and beach days. Plan your trip in April or May if swimming with whale sharks is on your list. Visit in the green season from June to October if you want lush rainforests, nesting turtles, and smaller crowds. Come in November if you want to experience Garifuna Settlement Day, or in September if you want to join Belizeans ain their Independence celebrations.
Whatever your priority, Belize has a season that will match it. With careful planning, you can time your trip to align with the experiences that matter most to you and enjoy a country that is as rich in natural wonder as it is in culture.
