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✓ Updated December 2025

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When is the Best Time to Visit Ambergris Caye, Belize?

Ambergris Caye, Belize travel destination - scenic view of Dive the Great Blue Hole during ideal visiting season
Image: Ambergris Caye from space.jpg viaWikimedia Commons

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Quick Answer:

For a truly vibrant experience on Ambergris Caye, Belize, aim for the dry season from December through May. During these months, the Caribbean sun casts a lively glow on the turquoise waters, perfect for snorkeling the barrier reef and enjoying the lively beach bars. You'll find comfortably warm temperatures, ideal for exploring the island's colorful streets and savoring fresh seafood under the golden sunsets. While the summer months bring a livelier, more tropical feel with occasional brief showers, the winter months offer consistently sunny skies and a lively buzz of activity before the warmer, wetter season arrives.

Airport Code

CZF

Coordinates

17.76°, -87.97°

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Top Things to Do

Dive the Great Blue Hole

Descend into the mesmerizing depths of this world-renowned sinkhole, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Witness the dramatic stalactites and the diverse marine life that calls this geological wonder home. For the best visibility and calmer waters, aim for the dry season.

Explore Secret Beach's Shallows

Venture to the less-developed side of Ambergris Caye to discover Secret Beach, where the water is impossibly clear and shallow for hundreds of yards. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and float lazily, enjoying the sun and the gentle lapping of waves. Arrive mid-morning to beat any potential crowds and enjoy lunch at one of the rustic beach bars.

Savor Authentic Belizean Fry Jacks

Start your day like a local with fluffy, deep-fried dough pockets, often served with refried beans and eggs. Seek out smaller, family-run eateries away from the main tourist drag for the most authentic and delicious experience. The aroma alone is worth the early wake-up call.

Wander Through San Pedro Town

Lose yourself in the vibrant, sandy streets of San Pedro, the island's bustling hub. Browse colorful artisan shops for handmade jewelry and local crafts, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the iconic golf carts, the primary mode of transportation, zipping by.

See all 8 things to do →

💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.

Essential Travel Tips

transport

Forget renting a car on Ambergris Caye; golf carts are the way to go! You can rent them by the day or week from numerous spots right off the ferry dock in San Pedro. Just be aware that the roads can be bumpy and sandy, especially outside of town, so drive carefully and watch out for pedestrians and other golf carts.

money

While US dollars are widely accepted, it's smart to carry some Belizean dollars (BZD) for smaller purchases or local markets. The exchange rate is fixed at 2 BZD to 1 USD, so it's easy to calculate. Many smaller vendors might not have change for larger US bills, so having smaller denominations of both currencies is key.

food

Don't leave Ambergris Caye without trying some authentic Belizean street food, especially the fry jacks for breakfast and the delicious stew chicken. Look for local 'food stalls' or small, unassuming eateries away from the main tourist drag for the most authentic and affordable flavors. Ask locals for their favorite spots – they'll point you to the best hidden gems!

culture

Embrace the 'island time' mentality – things move at a more relaxed pace here. Don't get frustrated if service is a little slower than you're used to; instead, take a deep breath and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. A friendly 'good morning' or 'good afternoon' goes a long way with the locals.

packing

Pack light, breathable clothing, plenty of reef-safe sunscreen, and insect repellent. You'll be spending most of your time in swimwear and casual wear, and the sun can be intense. Don't forget a hat and sunglasses, and consider bringing a reusable water bottle to cut down on plastic waste.

safety

While Ambergris Caye is generally safe, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Avoid walking alone on unlit beaches after dark and keep your valuables secure. Stick to well-trafficked areas and if you're out late, consider taking a taxi or golf cart.

💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.

Weather Details

Jan
4 days
Feb
3 days
Mar
3 days
Apr
5 days
May
10 days
Jun
14 days
Jul
13 days
Aug
15 days
Sep
16 days
Oct
14 days
Nov
10 days
Dec
5 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan29°C22°C84°F72°F25mm
4 days
11.2h
Feb30°C23°C86°F73°F20mm
3 days
11.5h
Mar31°C24°C88°F75°F20mm
3 days
12.1h
Apr31°C25°C88°F77°F40mm
5 days
12.6h
May30°C25°C86°F77°F120mm
10 days
13.0h
Jun30°C25°C86°F77°F180mm
14 days
13.2h
Jul30°C25°C86°F77°F170mm
13 days
13.1h
Aug30°C25°C86°F77°F190mm
15 days
12.7h
Sep30°C24°C86°F75°F220mm
16 days
12.2h
Oct29°C24°C84°F75°F180mm
14 days
11.7h
Nov29°C23°C84°F73°F100mm
10 days
11.3h
Dec29°C22°C84°F72°F40mm
5 days
11.0h

Ambergris Caye, Belize Month by Month: Complete Guide

Planning your trip to Ambergris Caye, Belize? Here's what to expect each month:

Jan in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Weather

29°C°C / 84°F°F

4 days rainy days • 25mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season with cooler temperatures. Fewer tourists but some attractions may have limited hours.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Jan offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Feb in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

3 days rainy days • 20mmmm

What to Expect

Late winter, beginning to warm up. Good for budget travelers seeking lower prices.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Feb offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Mar in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Weather

31°C°C / 88°F°F

3 days rainy days • 20mmmm

What to Expect

Spring begins, mild weather. Shoulder season with moderate crowds.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Mar can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

Apr in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Weather

31°C°C / 88°F°F

5 days rainy days • 40mmmm

What to Expect

Spring in full bloom. Pleasant temperatures and growing tourist activity.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Apr can be quite hot. Stay hydrated and plan indoor activities.

May in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

10 days rainy days • 120mmmm

What to Expect

Late spring, excellent weather. One of the best times to visit for most travelers.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: May sees significant rainfall. Bring waterproof gear.

Jun in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

14 days rainy days • 180mmmm

What to Expect

Early summer, warm and sunny. Peak season begins, book accommodations early.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jun sees significant rainfall. Bring waterproof gear.

Jul in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

13 days rainy days • 170mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Jul sees significant rainfall. Bring waterproof gear.

Aug in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

15 days rainy days • 190mmmm

What to Expect

Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Aug sees significant rainfall. Bring waterproof gear.

Sep in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Weather

30°C°C / 86°F°F

16 days rainy days • 220mmmm

What to Expect

Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Sep sees significant rainfall. Bring waterproof gear.

Oct in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Weather

29°C°C / 84°F°F

14 days rainy days • 180mmmm

What to Expect

Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.

Crowd Level

🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability

Quick Tip: Oct sees significant rainfall. Bring waterproof gear.

Nov in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Weather

29°C°C / 84°F°F

10 days rainy days • 100mmmm

What to Expect

Late fall, cooler weather. Off-season begins, significant discounts available.

Crowd Level

🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation

Quick Tip: Nov offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

Dec in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Weather

29°C°C / 84°F°F

5 days rainy days • 40mmmm

What to Expect

Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.

Crowd Level

🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early

Quick Tip: Dec offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists.

All Things to Do in Ambergris Caye, Belize

Dive the Great Blue Hole

activity

Descend into the mesmerizing depths of this world-renowned sinkhole, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Witness the dramatic stalactites and the diverse marine life that calls this geological wonder home. For the best visibility and calmer waters, aim for the dry season.

Best time: December-May

Explore Secret Beach's Shallows

nature

Venture to the less-developed side of Ambergris Caye to discover Secret Beach, where the water is impossibly clear and shallow for hundreds of yards. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and float lazily, enjoying the sun and the gentle lapping of waves. Arrive mid-morning to beat any potential crowds and enjoy lunch at one of the rustic beach bars.

Savor Authentic Belizean Fry Jacks

food

Start your day like a local with fluffy, deep-fried dough pockets, often served with refried beans and eggs. Seek out smaller, family-run eateries away from the main tourist drag for the most authentic and delicious experience. The aroma alone is worth the early wake-up call.

Wander Through San Pedro Town

shopping

Lose yourself in the vibrant, sandy streets of San Pedro, the island's bustling hub. Browse colorful artisan shops for handmade jewelry and local crafts, and soak in the lively atmosphere. Keep an eye out for the iconic golf carts, the primary mode of transportation, zipping by.

Snorkel Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley

activity

Immerse yourself in an underwater wonderland teeming with nurse sharks, stingrays, sea turtles, and a kaleidoscope of fish. Hol Chan is a protected marine park, ensuring an incredible density of marine life. Go in the afternoon for a chance to see more active feeding behaviors.

Experience Live Music at Fido's

nightlife

Feel the rhythm of the island at Fido's, a popular beachfront spot known for its lively music and energetic atmosphere. Enjoy fresh seafood and tropical cocktails while listening to local bands play everything from reggae to rock. It's the perfect place to unwind and mingle after a day of adventure.

Discover the Art of Maya Chocolate Making

cultural

Delve into the rich history of cacao with a hands-on chocolate-making workshop. Learn traditional Maya techniques, from grinding cacao beans to creating your own delicious chocolate treats. This is a wonderfully immersive cultural experience, especially rewarding during the cooler, drier months.

Best time: November-April

Kayak the Mangrove Forests

nature

Paddle through the serene mangrove channels that fringe Ambergris Caye, a vital ecosystem for juvenile fish and countless bird species. Look for manatees and spot exotic birds like the magnificent frigatebird. Early morning offers the best light and the most tranquil conditions.

Planning your Ambergris Caye, Belize adventure? Enhance it with a customizable private tour guide via GoWithGuide—perfect for exploring beyond the city.

GoWithGuide Tours and Experiences

Getting Around Ambergris Caye, Belize

Golf Carts

The primary mode of transport on Ambergris Caye, especially in and around San Pedro town. Renting a golf cart gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace, from the bustling town center to quieter southern stretches.

Cost:$50 - $75 USD per day for a 4-seater, $75 - $100 USD per day for a 6-seater. Weekly rates are often available.
Tip:Book your golf cart in advance, especially during peak season (December-April). Many resorts offer them, but independent rental companies can be cheaper. Always drive on the right side of the road and be mindful of pedestrians and other carts. Don't leave valuables visible inside when parked. Ensure you have a valid driver's license; some companies are strict.

Water Taxis (San Pedro Belize Express & Ocean Ferry)

These are essential for getting to and from the mainland (Belize City or Corozal) and also for day trips to nearby islands like Caye Caulker. They offer a reliable and scenic way to travel between these key points.

Cost:$15 - $25 USD one-way to Belize City, $10 - $15 USD one-way to Caye Caulker.
Tip:Purchase tickets online in advance or at the dock. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure, as they often leave promptly. Be aware of luggage weight limits, though they are usually generous. The ride can be bumpy in rough seas; take seasickness medication if you're prone to it. Check schedules carefully, as they can change seasonally.

Tuk-tuks

These three-wheeled motorized rickshaws are readily available in San Pedro town and can be hailed for short trips within town or to nearby resorts. They are a convenient option when you don't want to drive a golf cart or are going a short distance.

Cost:$5 - $10 USD for short trips within San Pedro, $15 - $20 USD for longer trips to resorts just outside town.
Tip:Agree on the fare *before* you get in. Drivers are usually friendly and can offer local insights. They are less common for travel further north or south on the island, where golf carts are preferred. Be prepared for a bit of a bumpy ride, especially on unpaved sections.

Bicycles

For the more active traveler, bicycles are a great way to explore San Pedro town and the immediate surrounding areas. They offer a slower, more intimate way to experience the island's vibe.

Cost:$10 - $20 USD per day, with weekly discounts available.
Tip:Many hotels and guesthouses offer complimentary or rental bicycles. Ensure the bike is in good working order before you take it. Lock it up securely when not in use, as petty theft can occur. Be aware of sand patches on roads, which can be tricky to navigate. Not ideal for exploring the entire length of the island due to distance and road conditions.

Walking

San Pedro town itself is quite walkable, especially the main streets and the beachside. It's perfect for short excursions, exploring local shops, restaurants, and enjoying the beachfront atmosphere.

Cost:Free
Tip:Wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated, especially during the hotter months. Be mindful of golf cart traffic and uneven sidewalks. It's the best way to soak in the local ambiance and discover hidden gems you might miss otherwise.

💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.

Similar Destinations

Frequently Asked Questions

When's the absolute best time to visit Ambergris Caye if I want perfect weather and fewer crowds?

For that sweet spot of sunny skies, calm seas, and manageable crowds, aim for the dry season, specifically from December to April. While it's technically peak season, the shoulder months of December and April offer a fantastic balance. You'll avoid the heaviest holiday crowds but still get that glorious Caribbean weather.

How do people *really* get around San Pedro town and the rest of Ambergris Caye?

Forget taxis and buses; golf carts are king here! Renting one is practically a rite of passage and the most fun way to explore. For longer distances or to reach more remote spots, you might hop on a water taxi, but for zipping around town and along the main roads, a golf cart is your best bet. Just be mindful of the sandy paths and the occasional pothole!

I've heard about the 'sargassum season.' How much does it really impact a beach vacation?

Sargassum seaweed can be a bit of a mixed bag, typically appearing more heavily in the late spring and summer months. While it can sometimes wash ashore and affect the smell and appearance of the beaches, many resorts and local efforts work diligently to clear it daily. If you're planning a trip during these months, check recent reports and know that the incredible barrier reef is still pristine for snorkeling and diving, often just a short boat ride away.

Beyond the main drag, are there any 'locals-only' spots you'd recommend for food or a drink?

Absolutely! For an authentic taste, head a little north of town to 'Secret Beach' – it's not so secret anymore, but the vibe is still laid-back with several beach bars serving up fresh seafood and cold Belikin beers. Another insider tip is to look for the small, unmarked food stalls that pop up, especially in the evenings, offering delicious fry jacks or Belizean meat pies – just follow your nose!

Is it safe to swim and snorkel right off the beaches on Ambergris Caye, or do I need to go on tours?

While you can certainly swim off many of the beaches, the real magic lies just offshore. The famous Belize Barrier Reef is a short boat ride away, and that's where the world-class snorkeling and diving happen. For the best experience and to see the most vibrant marine life, I highly recommend booking a boat tour to spots like Hol Chan Marine Reserve and Shark Ray Alley – it's absolutely worth it.

What's the deal with money? Should I bring USD, Belize Dollars, or rely on cards?

You're in luck – US dollars are widely accepted everywhere on Ambergris Caye, and the exchange rate is a straightforward 2 BZD to 1 USD. While many restaurants and shops take credit cards, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller vendors, golf cart rentals, and tips. ATMs are available in San Pedro, but they can sometimes run out of cash, so don't rely on them solely.

What is the cheapest month to visit Ambergris Caye, Belize?

The cheapest months to visit Ambergris Caye, Belize are typically Jun and Jul during the off-season. You can save 30-40% on hotels and flights compared to peak summer months. While weather may not be ideal, you'll enjoy fewer crowds and significant savings.

How many days do you need in Ambergris Caye, Belize?

We recommend spending 3-5 days in Ambergris Caye, Belize to see the main attractions without feeling rushed. This gives you time to explore the top sights, experience local culture, and take a day trip if desired. Budget travelers might do 2-3 days, while those wanting a deeper experience should plan for a week.

What should I avoid in Ambergris Caye, Belize?

Avoid visiting Ambergris Caye, Belize during Jun if possible, when weather conditions are less favorable. Also, be cautious of tourist traps in heavily visited areas - research attractions beforehand and consider booking skip-the-line tickets for popular sites.

Is Ambergris Caye, Belize expensive to visit?

Ambergris Caye, Belize can be enjoyed on various budgets. Daily costs typically range from $50-80 for budget travelers, $100-200 for mid-range visitors, and $250+ for luxury experiences. Prices are highest during peak season and lowest during off-season months. Book accommodations early to secure better rates.

What is Ambergris Caye, Belize famous for?

Ambergris Caye, Belize is famous for its unique attractions, rich culture, and memorable experiences. The destination is best known for its architectural landmarks, local cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere. Visit during for the best experience.

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