The best time to visit Belize is from December through April. The best time for a Belize small ship cruise is November through February. Belize catamaran charter cruises are great year-round with each season offering unique advantages.
Looking for Belize weather in December for a family holiday? Or seeking the best time to snorkel in Belize? Perhaps you are seeking the best month to cruise Belize. Read on for Belize weather by month, season details and our expert tips on the best time to visit Belize.
IN THIS POST – Best Time to Visit Belize:
Belize Dry/Norte Season:
– Dec, Jan, Feb, Mar, Apr, May
Belize Rainy/Hurricane Season:
– Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov
Best Time for:
– Wildlife & Birding
– Cruising & Snorkeling/Diving
– Whale Sharks & Fishing
– Lobster & Conch
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Belize Weather & Climate
Belize has a comfortable subtropical climate that is suitable for travel year-round. The average yearly temperature is about 80 degrees F with humidity hovering about 85%. The coolest winter temperatures can reach the low 60’s. During the hottest parts of summer, it can reach the mid 90’s on the mainland.
Trade winds blow along the coast, cayes (pronounced keys) and reef most of the year, keeping temperatures pleasant. Rainfall is heaviest in the south and in the lowland jungle areas. It is lightest in the north and on the cayes. Climate can be determined by altitude, with evenings at higher elevations pleasantly cool while the lowland jungle is often muggy and humid. Read on for more details and our expert tips on the best time to visit Belize.
Belize has two distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season typically occurs December through May and the wet season June through November. In the tropics, rain can occur any time of year, but during the dry season rain falls in brief bursts. Some locals recognize a third transition season during the winter. Here we take a deeper dive to help travelers understand Belize travel seasons and the best time of year to visit.
Belize Climate Table
Use the Belize climate and temperature table below to determine the average temperatures, rainfall and water temperature. Find the best month to visit Belize. Find more Belize climate tables and annual weather charts.
Averages by Location
Belize City
| Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg. High (F) | 78 | 80 | 82 | 84 | 85 | 84 | 84 | 85 | 85 | 83 | 80 | 79 |
| Avg. Low (F) | 71 | 73 | 74 | 77 | 78 | 78 | 78 | 78 | 77 | 75 | 73 | 72 |
| Avg. Water Temp (F) | 80 | 80 | 80 | 82 | 83 | 84 | 84 | 85 | 86 | 85 | 83 | 81 |
| Avg. Rain |
3.8 | 2.0 | 1.9 | 2.0 | 4.4 | 8.7 | 7.4 | 7.9 | 9.1 | 10 | 7.0 | 4.1 |
Belize Dry Season – High Season for Travel
The Belize dry season occurs from December through May and is high season for travel and cruising. Climate is characterized by warm to hot temperatures, sunny days, cooling trade winds and little rain.
From December through February, strong northerly winds called “nortes” can blow (see norte season below). March and April are idyllic with little rain, pleasant temperatures and calm, clear water. When rain does fall during the dry season, it typically falls in moderate short spurts resulting in a pleasant cooling effect.
During the high season, especially around the Christmas and Easter holidays, prices are higher. Hotels and attractions are more crowded. Belize small ship cruises sell out fast. We recommend booking early if you plan to travel during the dry season in Belize.
Some Belizeans will recognize a third season, when the rainy season transitions to dry. The norte season occurs from November through February and is characterized by occasional strong northerly winds or “nortes” coming from the U.S. and Mexico. Nortes can bring thick clouds and cool nights, causing some of the lowest temperatures of the year in the low 60’s.
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Belize in December
December in Belize usually begins wet and ends drier as the dry season begins. Weather is cooler and winter rains are dissipating. Waters become calm and clear, marking the beginning of the best months for scuba diving and snorkeling. December holidays are the busiest time for travel and should be booked well in advance.
Belize Weather in December
- Coastal temperature in Belize in December: 76-79 degrees
- Inland temperature in Belize in December: 67-81 degrees
- Water temperature in Belize in December: 81 degrees
- Belize average coastal wind in December: NE 9-13 knots
Benefits of Visiting Belize in December
- Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
- Escape cold winter weather in North America and Europe
- Beginning of dry season
- Holiday travel should be booked in advance
Belize Wildlife in December
- Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
- Red-footed boobies begin nesting on Half Moon Caye
- Good time to view sharks, rays and dolphins.
Belize in January
January in Belize is a transition between the wet and dry seasons. As such, it receives varying amounts of rainfall with mild temperatures. Northern “norte” winds can bring clouds and cooler evenings. January is the beginning of high season for Belize active vacations with hotels, tours and boats sold out months in advance.
Belize Weather in January
- Coastal temperature in Belize in January: 75-78 degrees
- Inland temperature in Belize in January: 66-80 degrees
- Water temperature in Belize in January: 80 degrees
- Belize average coastal wind in January: NE 9-13 knots
Benefits of Visiting Belize in January
- High season for travel
- Coolest weather of the year with rains diminishing
- Rainforest wildlife is active prior to dry season
- Fewer crowds right after December holidays
- Escape cold winter weather in North America and Europe
- Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
- Access to outer atolls is possible by catamaran
Belize Wildlife in January
- Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
- Migratory birds such as hummingbirds, tanagers, warblers and terns begin to arrive from the Arctic and North America.
- Scarlet macaws arrive at seasonal feeding grounds near Red Bank
- Good time to view sharks, rays and dolphins.
Belize in February
In February Belize has transitioned into the dry season with considerably less rain. Days are mild and nights are cooler, making February a pleasant time of year. Nortes can occur but less frequently. Many people feel that February is the best month to visit Belize, with warm tropical weather and sunny skies.
Belize Weather in February
- Coastal temperature in Belize in February: 76-79 degrees
- Inland temperature in Belize in February: 68-84 degrees
- Water temperature in Belize in February: 80 degrees
- Belize average coastal wind in February: E 11-15 knots
Benefits of Visiting Belize in February
- High season for travel
- Excellent bird and wildlife watching
- Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
- Access to outer atolls is possible by catamaran
- Escape cold winter weather in North America and Europe
- Fiesta de Carnaval is a weeklong party that includes parades, live music, dancing and more.
- Good time to view sharks, rays and dolphins.
Belize Wildlife in February
- Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
- Large numbers of wading birds flock into lowland lagoons; the jabiru, northern boat-billed heron and snail kite can be found foraging among countless herons, ibis, storks, spoonbills and waterfowl.
- Scarlet macaws seen at seasonal feeding grounds near Red Bank
- Access to outer atolls is possible by catamaran
- Lobster season ends
Belize in March
March is the height of the Belize dry season and a popular month to visit Belize in high season. With the least amount of rain and temperatures starting to rise, things are getting balmy.
Belize Weather in March
- Coastal temperature in Belize in March: 77-79 degrees
- Inland temperature in Belize in March: 69-88 degrees
- Water temperature in Belize in March: 80 degrees
- Belize average coastal wind in March: E 11-15 knots
Benefits of Visiting Belize in March
- High season for travel
- Excellent bird and wildlife watching
- Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
- Access to outer atolls is possible by catamaran
- Cashew harvest begins and continues through June
- Best time to view rainforest wildlife
Belize Wildlife in March
- Good time to view rainforest birds and wildlife
- Large numbers of wading birds flock into lowland lagoons during the height of the dry season
- Red-footed boobies hatching on Half Moon Caye
- Scarlet macaws seen at seasonal feeding grounds near Red Bank
- Whale shark season begins, especially near full moon.
- Best time to view sea turtles including hawksbill, loggerhead and green sea turtles.
- Good time to view sharks, rays and dolphins.
Belize in April
April in Belize brings increasing temperatures and welcome rains, dubbed “iguana rains” by locals. While still mostly dry, brief refreshing showers keep conditions pleasant and humidity down along the coast and inland. Calm seas mark the beginning of the high season for snorkeling, scuba diving and fishing.
Belize Weather in April
- Coastal temperature in Belize in April: 79-81 degrees
- Inland temperature in Belize in April: 72-92 degrees
- Water temperature in Belize in April: 82 degrees
- Belize average coastal wind in April: SE 12-16 knots
Benefits of Visiting Belize in April
- Best visibility for snorkeling and diving
- Best whale shark viewing, especially near full moon.
- Excellent bird and wildlife watching
- April is among the warmest and driest months in Belize
- Access to outer atolls is possible by catamaran
- Good time to view manatee
Belize Wildlife in April
- Good time to view rainforest birds and wildlife
- Large numbers of wading birds flock into lowland lagoons during the height of the dry season
- Scarlet macaws leaving seasonal feeding grounds near Red Bank
- Best whale shark viewing, especially near full moon.
- View sea turtles including hawksbill, loggerhead and green sea turtles.
- Good time to view sharks, rays and dolphins.
Belize in May
In May temperatures remain hot, especially inland. Rain increases, usually falling as light showers in the morning with occasional thunderstorms at night. The end of dry season in Belize can mean fewer travelers and less expensive prices on accommodations and tours.
Belize Weather in May
- Coastal temperature in Belize in May: 80-82 degrees
- Inland temperature in Belize in May: 74-91 degrees
- Water temperature in Belize in May: 82 degrees
- Belize average coastal wind in May: SE 12-15 knots
Benefits of Visiting Belize in May
- Calm waters for catamaran charter cruises, snorkeling and scuba diving.
- Best visibility for snorkeling and diving
- Grand slam fishing season. Permit, bonefish and tarpon are in season.
Belize Wildlife in May
- Great time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
- Large numbers of wading birds flock into lowland lagoons
- Best whale shark viewing, especially near full moon.
- Good time to view hawksbill turtles
- Loggerhead turtle season ends
- Good time to view sharks, rays and dolphins.
Belize Rainy Season – Low Season for Travel
June through November marks the rainy season in Belize. The rainy season, also known as green season or Belize low season, is characterized by warm temperatures and brief but sometimes intense rain. The rainforest and wildlife come to life with trees and flowers in bloom. This in turn makes birds and wildlife more accessible to travelers.
Tropical rainfall occurs in June or early July and is punctuated by a reprieve in late July and August known as the “mauger” or “little dry season.” The wettest months occur in September and October. Unless there is a tropical storm, rain showers typically arrive in showers lasting one to two hours.
The amount of rain can vary considerably by region. For instance, southern Belize can receive more than 150 inches per year while the north rarely receives more than 50 inches per year.
Belize hurricane season formally coincides with the Atlantic hurricane season, which officially runs from June 1 until November 30 each year. Historically, the most active period for tropical storms is the end of August through mid-October. Hurricanes rarely make landfall in Belize but can be serious when they do. If you plan to travel this time of year, keep an eye on weather reports and purchase travel insurance at the time of booking.
Belize in June
June marks the start of the Belize rainy season. Temperatures remain high, but fresh breezes off the Caribbean Sea and more frequent but brief afternoon showers keep things moderate and pleasant. Lobster season begins and is available in restaurants across the country. Atlantic hurricane season begins, but statistically not an active month for tropical storms here.
Belize Weather in June
- Coastal temperature in Belize in June: 80-83 degrees
- Inland temperature in Belize in June: 75-88 degrees
- Water temperature in Belize in June: 84 degrees
- Belize average coastal wind in June: SE 11-14 knots
Benefits of Visiting Belize in June
- Lobsterfest coincides with the opening of lobster season
- Cashew harvest ends
- Grand slam fishing season. Permit, bonefish and tarpon are in season.
- Best visibility for snorkeling and diving
Belize Wildlife in June
- Rainforest wildlife active at the onset of Belize rainy season
- Whale shark season ends
- Best time to view manatee
- Hammerhead shark season begins
- Good time to view hawksbill and green sea turtles
- Lobster fishing season begins
- Good time to view sharks, rays and dolphins.
Belize in July
July is statistically the wettest month of the year in Belize. Storms do occur and can last several days, but most rain occurs in predictable morning showers and frequent thunderstorms overnight. Easterly breezes provide relief from the heat inland.
Belize Weather in July
- Coastal temperature in Belize in July: 80-83 degrees
- Inland temperature in Belize in July: 74-88 degrees
- Water temperature in Belize in July: 84 degrees
- Belize average coastal wind in July: E 9-13 knots
Benefits of Visiting Belize in July
- Grand slam fishing season. Permit, bonefish and tarpon are in season.
- Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
- Lobster season in full swing
Belize Wildlife in July
- Best time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
- Best time to view manatee
- Good time to view hammerhead sharks
- Good time to view hawksbill turtles
- Green sea turtle season begins
- Good time to view sharks, rays and dolphins.
Belize in August
August in Belize offers a brief respite from the rainy season. Known locally as “little dry,” there is slight break from summer rains. Inland winds from the west replace the easterly sea breezes to dry things out a bit. Higher possibility of tropical storms and hurricanes.
Belize Weather in August
- Coastal temperature in Belize in August: 80-84 degrees
- Inland temperature in Belize in August: 74-90 degrees
- Water temperature in Belize in August: 85 degrees
- Belize average coastal wind in August: SE 10-14 knots
Benefits of Visiting Belize in August
- Grand slam fishing season
- Little dry season offers reprieve from Belize rainy season
- Low season rates and discounts offered
- Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
Belize Wildlife in August
- Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
- Best time to view manatee
- Good time to view hammerhead sharks
- Good time to view hawksbill turtles
- Good time to view green sea turtles
- Good time to view sharks, rays and dolphins.
Belize in September
September marks the height of the rainy season and the Belize hurricane season. There is increasing rainfall in the early mornings and overnight. But days are often sunny with warm temperatures. This is the low season for tourism. Many Belize catamaran charter boats are out of the water for yearly maintenance. The annual Carnival celebration takes place so it’s a fun month to visit to experience the best of Belize’s music, costume, dance and culture.
Belize Weather in September
- Coastal temperature in Belize in September: 80-84 degrees
- Inland temperature in Belize in September: 74-88 degrees
- Water temperature in Belize in September: 86 degrees
- Belize average coastal wind in September: SE 9-13 knots
Benefits of Visiting Belize in September
- Low season rates and discounts offered
- Belize Independence Day on September 21. Monthlong celebration with fireworks, parades and music.
- Wet season rains nurture flowers and fruit, attracting birds and wildlife.
- Great temperatures: not too hot, not too cool.
- Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
Belize Wildlife in September
- Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
- Best time to view manatee
- Hammerhead shark season ends
- Good time to view hawksbill turtles
- Good time to view green sea turtles
- Good time to view sharks, rays and dolphins.
Belize in October
In October, rainfall in Belize continues to be heavy with occasional “northers,” two- or three-day storms often centered around the Maya Mountains. Several days of heavy rains might affect wet cave tours, which become unsafe when rivers run too high. Daytime temperatures begin to cool.
Belize Weather in October
- Coastal temperature in Belize in October: 79-82 degrees
- Inland temperature in Belize in October: 72-84 degrees
- Water temperature in Belize in October: 85 degrees
- Belize average coastal wind in October: E 6-10 knots
Benefits of Visiting Belize in October
- Annual Belize Birding Festival
- Low season rates and discounts offered
- Wet season rains nurture flowers and fruit, attracting birds and wildlife.
- Great temperatures: not too hot, not too cool.
- Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
- Small ship cruising season begins
Belize Wildlife in October
- Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
- Grouper mating season brings large numbers of fish
- Hawksbill and green sea turtle season ends
- Good time to view sharks, rays and dolphins.
Belize in November
November in Belize is the beginning of winter for locals. But most travelers will find it quite warm and sunny. November is the coolest month in Belize and can be a great time to travel ahead of the busy holiday season next month.
Belize Weather in November
- Coastal temperature in Belize in November: 77-80 degrees
- Inland temperature in Belize in November: 69-82 degrees
- Water temperature in Belize in November: 83 degrees
- Belize average coastal wind in November: NE 9-13 knots
Benefits of Visiting Belize in November
- Garifuna Settlement Day, November 19. Public holiday with parades, street music and traditional dancing.
- Transition between Belize rainy season and dry season
- Fewer travelers before December holidays. Thanksgiving can be a great time to visit.
- Good visibility for snorkeling and diving
Belize Wildlife in November
- Good time to view rainforest wildlife including monkeys
- Grouper mating season brings large numbers
- Good time to view sharks, rays and dolphins.
Best Time to View Rainforest Wildlife in Belize
Rainforest wildlife can be viewed year-round in Belize. Monkeys, coatimundi, iguanas, scarlet macaws and blue morpho butterflies are just some of the amazing creatures you may encounter. Food is abundant during the wet season, so wildlife can be most active during this time—especially in June and July as the rains arrive and hungry animals gorge on the blooming trees and flowers.
The best time of day to view wildlife in the rainforest is early in the morning. Get up before sunrise to experience the most wildlife activity and perhaps a beautiful dawn. Night walks are also a great time to view wildlife. A good guide will help you find all sorts of critters after dark. Most Belize lodges will offer morning and night wildlife walks.
Best Time for Birding in Belize
Belize is a bird-watching paradise. With over 570 bird species and diverse neotropical landscapes, Belize is a favorite spot among birders and nature travelers. Birding in Belize is excellent year-round.
The best time to travel to Belize for birding is December through April. During the dry season, resident birds are joined by migratory birds from North America. During Belize summer (rainy season), migratory birds arrive from South America. Most organized bird tours operate from January through April.
Best Time to Take a Cruise in Belize
Large cruise ships will call in Belize at any time of year. Belize small ship cruises operate from October through April each year. Belize catamaran charter cruises are available year-round with a short break in September and October.
The best time for sailing in Belize is between June and November. With southeast trade winds averaging 10-13 knots, Belize has great sailing conditions.
Inside the barrier reef, waters are protected from Caribbean Ocean swells but sailing vessels can encounter wind chop. Outside the reef, boats can encounter ocean swells. The best time for sailing and visiting Belize’s outer atolls such as Turneffe Atoll, Lighthouse Reef or Glovers Reef is November through February.
Best Time to Snorkel & Scuba Dive in Belize
Snorkeling and diving are terrific year-round in Belize. Water temperature averages 84 degrees F. Visibility is outstanding and ranges from 60-100 feet. Belize is one of the premiere snorkeling and scuba diving destinations in the world.
The best time to travel to Belize for snorkeling and scuba diving in Belize is between April and June. This time of year, there is increased visibility because winds are calm and the water is clear.
Rains falling July through October do not affect visibility at offshore reef sites, although Caribbean surface conditions can be choppy.
November through April bring marginally cooler temperatures above and below the water’s surface. During this time most divers are comfortable in a shorty wetsuit.
Best Time to See Whale Sharks in Belize
April and May are the best months to view whale sharks in Belize, although they may also be found in March and June. Whale shark viewing can be dependent on lunar cycles with the best time to snorkel or dive with whale sharks being about two days before the full moon through ten days after the full moon.
Best Time to Fish in Belize
Belize offers world-class sport fishing for bonefish, permit and tarpon. The best time to fish in Belize is May through August when all three species are available. This time of year is known as the grand slam fishing season.
Bone fish are available year-round, with no clear season. Permit are also found throughout the year but are best when trade winds are consistent mid-winter through early summer. Tarpon are migratory and best fished in June through August. Fishing is encouraged on all Belize catamaran cruises, which often troll while underway, catching whatever nature provides.
Lobster Season in Belize
The Caribbean spiney lobster is a delicious delicacy. Sometimes referred to locally as crayfish, the scientific name is Panulirus argus. It’s also known as rock lobster or Caribbean lobster.
To preserve the species and maintain a sustainable fishery, the lobster season in Belize is limited to June through February each year. A license is required and there are size limits and restrictions, so check with your guide before going lobster hunting. Exact dates can vary year to year, so check in advance if your plans are hungry for lobster. Catching and eating fresh lobster is a highlight of any Belize charter cruise.
Belize Conch Season
The Belize conch fishing season typically opens in October and runs through June or until the national catch quota is reached. Queen conch (pronounced conk) is a staple seafood in Belize and the Caribbean. Conch is normally marinated in citrus or pounded thin and sautéed to tenderize the meat. Belizean favorites include conch soup or chowder, conch fritters, conch ceviche and conch stew. The beautiful hard shell is used to make souvenirs, decorations and jewelry.
So, When Is the Best Time to Go to Belize?
Belize is an excellent choice any time of year. Our experts conclude that the best time to travel to Belize is December through April. Your best month to visit Belize may depend on a variety of factors, and we are here to help you plan the perfect trip, any time of year.
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Have a question or looking for advice about the best time to visit Belize? Use the comments below and we’ll answer your questions about the best time to travel to Belize. Ready to plan and book your Belize trip with our experts? Contact us.
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what are the attractions and places to visit in Belize city?
Hi Ben,
Our Belize specialists are experts at crafting custom Belize vacation packages with top wilderness lodges and small ship cruises that highlight the best of rainforest and reef. See our Belize travel guide for more planning tips, and for city specific advice see TravelBelize.org.
we’re set to arrive next Monday and will be a 2 week vacation. I now see that the 10 day forecast is rain. we planned on cave tubing, myan ruins, zip lining, and seeing as much as we can. I’m wondering if the rain will hinder our experience
Hi Ken,
Never fear, you have an exciting trip ahead! Belize is one of the world’s premier tropical rainforests so expect some rain, but don’t let it dampen your sense of adventure. February in Belize is a very popular time for travel and cruising as it is during the Belize dry season. February has much less rain than other months and when the rain does fall during the dry season, it’s typically in brief bursts resulting in a pleasant cooling effect to an otherwise warm humid climate. Have a fantastic vacation.
looking for a Dec trip from ca winters
Hi Kareena,
December is a great time to ditch cold winter weather in North America for warm, sunny days and little rain in Belize. If you are interested in holiday travel you’ll want to book in advance. A Belize expert will contact you shortly to compare your options and find the perfect trip.