✓ Updated February 2026
Weather data and travel information verified current
When is the Best Time to Visit Belize Barrier Reef, Belize?

Quick Answer:
For an energetic underwater adventure at the Belize Barrier Reef, aim for the dry season from December to May. During these months, the skies are typically clear, offering vibrant visibility for snorkeling and diving amongst the lively coral formations and schools of energetic fish. You'll experience warm, breezy days perfect for exploring the cayes, with fewer chances of rain interrupting your aquatic explorations. While the summer months bring a more energetic, tropical downpour, the dry season ensures consistently bright sunshine and calm seas, making it the prime time to witness the reef's dazzling biodiversity.
Airport Code
BZE
Coordinates
17.18°, -87.95°

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Top Things to Do
Dive the Great Blue Hole
Descend into the iconic Great Blue Hole, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for an unparalleled diving experience. Witness the dramatic underwater caves and stalactites, a geological marvel teeming with marine life. For the best visibility, aim for the dry season.
Snorkel with Whale Sharks at Gladden Spit
Embark on a thrilling boat trip to Gladden Spit during the full moon to snorkel alongside majestic whale sharks. These gentle giants congregate to feed on snapper spawn, offering an unforgettable encounter in the warm, clear waters.
Explore the Lamanai Mayan Ruins by Riverboat
Journey up the New River Lagoon, a scenic and wildlife-rich waterway, to reach the ancient Mayan city of Lamanai. Explore the towering temples and intricate carvings, imagining life here centuries ago, and keep an eye out for crocodiles and diverse bird species along the riverbanks.
Savor Fresh Ceviche in Placencia
Indulge in the freshest ceviche Belize has to offer at a local eatery in the laid-back village of Placencia. Prepared with locally caught fish, zesty lime, and a hint of chili, it's the perfect light and flavorful meal after a day on the water.
💡 Travel Tip: For the best value on hotels during this season, check current rates on Trip.com.
Essential Travel Tips
While US dollars are widely accepted, especially in tourist areas, it's smart to have some Belizean dollars (BZD) on hand for smaller purchases or local markets. The exchange rate is fixed at 2 BZD to 1 USD, so you can easily calculate. Ask for change in BZD if you're paying with USD to build up your local currency stash.
Forget expensive taxis for island hopping; the local water taxis are your best bet and surprisingly affordable. For example, a round trip between San Pedro (Ambergris Caye) and Caye Caulker usually costs around $15-$20 USD. Just head to the main docks and ask for the next available service.
Pack reef-safe sunscreen and a rash guard – it's not just about protecting your skin, but also the delicate coral. Many tour operators are now strict about sunscreen ingredients, and wearing a rash guard reduces your reliance on it. Look for brands that use non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
Embrace the 'go slow' mentality, especially on the cayes! Things run on island time here, so don't expect lightning-fast service. Relax, enjoy the laid-back vibe, and if your dinner order takes a little longer, just appreciate the sunset while you wait.
Don't leave without trying 'fry jacks' for breakfast and 'stew chicken' for dinner. Fry jacks are delicious, puffy fried dough often served with eggs and beans, while stew chicken is a flavorful, slow-cooked national dish. Look for local eateries away from the main tourist strips for the most authentic and budget-friendly options.
When exploring on foot, especially in larger towns like Belize City or San Ignacio, be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying flashy jewelry or large amounts of cash. Stick to well-lit areas after dark and it's generally a good idea to use reputable taxi services if you're unsure.
💡 Travel Tip: If you're planning your trip, it's worth checking flight prices on Trip.com before you decide.
Weather Details
Monthly Weather Data Table
| Month | High (°C) | Low (°C) | High (°F) | Low (°F) | Rainfall (mm) | Rain Days | Daylight (h) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jan | 29°C | 22°C | 84°F | 72°F | 50mm | 6 days | 11.1h |
| Feb | 30°C | 23°C | 86°F | 73°F | 40mm | 4 days | 11.4h |
| Mar | 31°C | 24°C | 88°F | 75°F | 30mm | 3 days | 12.1h |
| Apr | 31°C | 25°C | 88°F | 77°F | 50mm | 4 days | 12.6h |
| May | 31°C | 26°C | 88°F | 79°F | 120mm | 9 days | 13.0h |
| Jun | 31°C | 26°C | 88°F | 79°F | 180mm | 12 days | 13.2h |
| Jul | 30°C | 25°C | 86°F | 77°F | 160mm | 13 days | 13.0h |
| Aug | 30°C | 25°C | 86°F | 77°F | 170mm | 14 days | 12.6h |
| Sep | 30°C | 25°C | 86°F | 77°F | 190mm | 15 days | 12.1h |
| Oct | 29°C | 24°C | 84°F | 75°F | 150mm | 12 days | 11.6h |
| Nov | 29°C | 23°C | 84°F | 73°F | 100mm | 9 days | 11.2h |
| Dec | 29°C | 22°C | 84°F | 72°F | 50mm | 6 days | 11.0h |
Belize Barrier Reef, Belize Month by Month: Complete Guide
Planning your trip to Belize Barrier Reef, Belize? Here's what to expect each month:
Jan in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Weather
29°C°C / 84°F°F
6 days rainy days • 50mmmm
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
Feb in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Weather
30°C°C / 86°F°F
4 days rainy days • 40mmmm
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
Mar in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Weather
31°C°C / 88°F°F
3 days rainy days • 30mmmm
What to Expect
Spring begins, mild weather. Shoulder season with moderate crowds.
Crowd Level
🟢 Low - Quiet season, easy to find accommodation
Apr in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Weather
31°C°C / 88°F°F
4 days rainy days • 50mmmm
What to Expect
Spring in full bloom. Pleasant temperatures and growing tourist activity.
Crowd Level
🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability
May in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Weather
31°C°C / 88°F°F
9 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
Jun in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Weather
31°C°C / 88°F°F
12 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
Jul in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Weather
30°C°C / 86°F°F
13 days rainy days • 160mmmm
What to Expect
Peak summer season. Hot weather and highest tourist crowds. Most expensive time.
Crowd Level
🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early
Aug in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Weather
30°C°C / 86°F°F
14 days rainy days • 170mmmm
What to Expect
Peak summer continues. Very crowded but great weather for outdoor activities.
Crowd Level
🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early
Sep in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Weather
30°C°C / 86°F°F
15 days rainy days • 190mmmm
What to Expect
Early fall, shoulder season. Weather still good, crowds decreasing. Great value.
Crowd Level
🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability
Oct in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Weather
29°C°C / 84°F°F
12 days rainy days • 150mmmm
What to Expect
Fall season, mild temperatures. Lower crowds and good prices. Comfortable for sightseeing.
Crowd Level
🟡 Moderate - Comfortable crowds, good availability
Nov in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Weather
29°C°C / 84°F°F
9 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
Dec in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Weather
29°C°C / 84°F°F
6 days rainy days • 50mmmm
What to Expect
Winter season, holiday atmosphere. Festive but can be cold. Mixed crowds.
Crowd Level
🔴 High - Peak tourist season, book early
All Things to Do in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Dive the Great Blue Hole
activityDescend into the iconic Great Blue Hole, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for an unparalleled diving experience. Witness the dramatic underwater caves and stalactites, a geological marvel teeming with marine life. For the best visibility, aim for the dry season.
Best time: December-May
Snorkel with Whale Sharks at Gladden Spit
natureEmbark on a thrilling boat trip to Gladden Spit during the full moon to snorkel alongside majestic whale sharks. These gentle giants congregate to feed on snapper spawn, offering an unforgettable encounter in the warm, clear waters.
Best time: March-June
Explore the Lamanai Mayan Ruins by Riverboat
attractionJourney up the New River Lagoon, a scenic and wildlife-rich waterway, to reach the ancient Mayan city of Lamanai. Explore the towering temples and intricate carvings, imagining life here centuries ago, and keep an eye out for crocodiles and diverse bird species along the riverbanks.
Savor Fresh Ceviche in Placencia
foodIndulge in the freshest ceviche Belize has to offer at a local eatery in the laid-back village of Placencia. Prepared with locally caught fish, zesty lime, and a hint of chili, it's the perfect light and flavorful meal after a day on the water.
Discover the Secret Lagoon of Caye Caulker
activityEscape the crowds and find the 'Secret Lagoon' on Caye Caulker, a tranquil spot perfect for a refreshing dip. Ask a local for directions to this secluded haven, where you can enjoy the calm waters and vibrant fish in peace.
Experience Garifuna Culture in Hopkins
culturalImmerse yourself in the vibrant Garifuna culture in the village of Hopkins. Enjoy rhythmic drumming, traditional dances, and delicious Garifuna cuisine like hudut (a fish stew with coconut milk). Visit during November for the Garifuna Settlement Day celebrations.
Best time: November
Shop for Hand-Carved Wooden Art
shoppingBrowse the artisan shops for unique, hand-carved wooden sculptures and souvenirs. Look for intricate pieces depicting local wildlife or Mayan motifs, a perfect memento of your Belizean adventure. Many vendors on the cayes offer authentic, locally made crafts.
Kayak through Mangrove Forests
activityPaddle through the serene mangrove forests surrounding the cayes for a different perspective of the reef ecosystem. This quiet activity allows you to spot juvenile fish, crabs, and various bird species in their natural habitat, often with fewer people around.
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Getting Around Belize Barrier Reef, Belize
Water Taxis (Shared & Private)
These are the workhorses for getting between the cayes (islands) like Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker from the mainland hubs of Belize City or San Pedro. Shared taxis are frequent and economical for most travelers, while private charters offer flexibility for groups or those on a tighter schedule.
Local Flights (Tropic Air & Maya Island Air)
For a quicker, albeit more expensive, way to reach the cayes or remote jungle lodges, domestic airlines are a fantastic option. They offer stunning aerial views of the reef and landscape, saving significant travel time.
Rental Cars (Mainland Only)
If your itinerary focuses on exploring the mainland's Mayan ruins, caves, and jungles, a rental car offers the most freedom. However, they are not an option for reaching the islands.
Tuk-tuks (On the Cayes)
On larger islands like Ambergris Caye (San Pedro town) and Caye Caulker, tuk-tuks are the primary mode of short-distance transport. They are open-air, fun, and perfect for navigating sandy streets.
Bicycles (On the Cayes)
Especially on Caye Caulker, renting a bicycle is the quintessential way to explore. It's eco-friendly, affordable, and allows you to stop and soak in the island vibes at your own pace.
Local Buses (Mainland)
For the budget-conscious traveler exploring the mainland, the local bus system is an authentic experience. Buses connect major towns and cities, offering a glimpse into daily Belizean life.
💡 Travel Tip: This season usually means better deals — check what's available on Trip.com.
Similar Destinations
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the absolute best time to visit the Belize Barrier Reef for calm waters and great visibility?
For the ultimate underwater experience with the calmest seas and clearest visibility, aim for the dry season, specifically from December to May. You'll find the Caribbean exceptionally placid during these months, making it perfect for snorkeling and diving without the choppy conditions that can sometimes plague the wet season. Just remember to book accommodations and tours well in advance, as this is peak tourist time.
Beyond the famous Hol Chan Marine Reserve, what are some lesser-known snorkeling or diving spots that offer incredible marine life?
While Hol Chan is fantastic, don't overlook the South Water Caye Marine Reserve; it's a bit more off the beaten path and boasts an astonishing diversity of coral and fish, plus you might even spot a manatee! Another gem is the Glover's Reef Atoll, a UNESCO World Heritage site that requires a bit more effort to reach but rewards you with pristine reefs and fewer crowds. Many local dive operators can arrange trips to these incredible locations.
What's the deal with 'no-see-ums' and how can I best protect myself from them, especially near the coast?
Ah, the infamous Belizean 'no-see-ums'! These tiny biting insects are most active at dawn and dusk, especially in humid conditions. Your best defense is a good quality insect repellent containing DEET, applied liberally, and consider wearing long sleeves and pants during those peak times. Staying in accommodations with good screens on windows and doors also makes a huge difference.
How do I get around between the cayes, and is it expensive?
The primary way to hop between the cayes like Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker is via water taxi, and it's quite efficient and reasonably priced for the convenience. Companies like San Pedro Belize Express and Ocean Ferry Belize run frequent schedules. While it's not the cheapest transport, it's the most practical and offers beautiful views of the turquoise waters as you travel.
Are there any specific marine conservation rules or local customs I should be aware of while visiting the reef?
Absolutely! Belize takes its marine conservation very seriously. Always remember to never touch coral, as it's a living organism and easily damaged, and never feed the fish. It's also customary to use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the delicate ecosystem. Most tour operators will brief you on these guidelines before you head out, so pay close attention.
What's the best way to experience the reef if I'm not a strong swimmer or diver?
Don't worry, you can still have an amazing time! Many operators offer glass-bottom boat tours, which are perfect for seeing the reef without getting wet. Alternatively, you can opt for guided snorkeling tours where you'll be provided with flotation devices and a guide who will help you stay comfortable and point out the best sights. Even just wading in the shallows around some of the cayes can reveal a surprising amount of marine life.
What is the cheapest month to visit Belize Barrier Reef, Belize?
The cheapest months to visit Belize Barrier Reef, 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 Belize Barrier Reef, Belize?
We recommend spending 3-5 days in Belize Barrier Reef, 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 Belize Barrier Reef, Belize?
Avoid visiting Belize Barrier Reef, 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 Belize Barrier Reef, Belize expensive to visit?
Belize Barrier Reef, 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 Belize Barrier Reef, Belize famous for?
Belize Barrier Reef, 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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