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✓ Updated February 2026

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When is the Best Time to Visit Belize Barrier Reef, Belize?

Belize Barrier Reef, Belize travel destination - scenic view of Dive the Great Blue Hole during ideal visiting season
Image: Satellite image of Belize in March 31, 2002.jpg viaWikimedia Commons

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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.

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

money

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.

transport

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.

packing

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.

culture

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.

food

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.

safety

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

Jan
6 days
Feb
4 days
Mar
3 days
Apr
4 days
May
9 days
Jun
12 days
Jul
13 days
Aug
14 days
Sep
15 days
Oct
12 days
Nov
9 days
Dec
6 days

Monthly Weather Data Table

MonthHigh (°C)Low (°C)High (°F)Low (°F)Rainfall (mm)Rain DaysDaylight (h)
Jan29°C22°C84°F72°F50mm
6 days
11.1h
Feb30°C23°C86°F73°F40mm
4 days
11.4h
Mar31°C24°C88°F75°F30mm
3 days
12.1h
Apr31°C25°C88°F77°F50mm
4 days
12.6h
May31°C26°C88°F79°F120mm
9 days
13.0h
Jun31°C26°C88°F79°F180mm
12 days
13.2h
Jul30°C25°C86°F77°F160mm
13 days
13.0h
Aug30°C25°C86°F77°F170mm
14 days
12.6h
Sep30°C25°C86°F77°F190mm
15 days
12.1h
Oct29°C24°C84°F75°F150mm
12 days
11.6h
Nov29°C23°C84°F73°F100mm
9 days
11.2h
Dec29°C22°C84°F72°F50mm
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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

All Things to Do in Belize Barrier Reef, Belize

Dive the Great Blue Hole

activity

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.

Best time: December-May

Snorkel with Whale Sharks at Gladden Spit

nature

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.

Best time: March-June

Explore the Lamanai Mayan Ruins by Riverboat

attraction

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

food

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.

Discover the Secret Lagoon of Caye Caulker

activity

Escape 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

cultural

Immerse 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

shopping

Browse 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

activity

Paddle 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.

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

GoWithGuide Tours and Experiences

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.

Cost:$20 - $30 USD per person for a one-way shared trip between Belize City and San Pedro; private charters can range from $200 - $400+ USD.
Tip:Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season, through companies like San Pedro Belize Express or Ocean Ferry. Arrive at the water taxi terminal at least 30 minutes before departure. A common mistake is not accounting for the sea sickness potential; bring medication if you're prone to it. Also, be aware that schedules can change due to weather, so have a backup plan if your travel is time-sensitive.

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.

Cost:$100 - $200 USD per person for a one-way flight between major hubs like Belize City and San Pedro.
Tip:Book flights well in advance, as seats fill up quickly. Weigh your luggage carefully, as there are strict weight limits. The biggest mistake is underestimating the time it takes to get to the small domestic airport terminals; factor in travel time from your hotel. Consider flying into San Pedro directly if your destination is Ambergris Caye, bypassing the water taxi altogether.

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.

Cost:$50 - $80 USD per day, plus insurance and fuel.
Tip:Only rent a 4x4 if you plan to venture onto unpaved or rough roads (e.g., to Caracol). Most major rental companies operate out of the Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE). Always check your insurance coverage. A common pitfall is assuming you can drive to the coast and catch a ferry to the islands; you cannot. Stick to paved roads unless you are experienced with off-roading in Belize.

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.

Cost:$5 - $10 USD per ride within town limits; longer distances or specific drop-offs might cost more.
Tip:Agree on the fare *before* you get in. Many drivers offer day rates or tours. Don't be afraid to hail one on the street. A common mistake is expecting them to be metered; they are not. For Caye Caulker, walking or biking is often just as efficient and much cheaper.

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.

Cost:$5 - $10 USD per day.
Tip:Most hotels and guesthouses offer bike rentals. Lock your bike securely, even for short stops. The biggest mistake is not wearing a helmet, especially if you're not used to riding on sandy or uneven paths. Enjoy the slow pace – it's part of the charm!

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.

Cost:$2 - $10 USD depending on the distance.
Tip:Buses are often crowded and can be slow, so this is not for those on a tight schedule. They typically depart from designated bus terminals. Keep your valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings. A common traveler oversight is expecting air-conditioning; most local buses do not have it, so dress accordingly and stay hydrated.

💡 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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