Looking for tropical beaches, ancient ruins, and world-class diving? Head to Belize! This Central American gem offers a unique blend of Caribbean and Mesoamerican cultures, with vibrant reef systems, lush jungles, and historic Mayan sites. Whether you're snorkeling the Blue Hole or exploring jungle temples, Belize is an unforgettable adventure.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Belize is from late November through April during the dry season. Expect sunny skies, ideal snorkeling and hiking conditions, and vibrant cultural festivals. The green season (May–October) sees occasional rain but fewer crowds and lush scenery.
How to Get There
- By Air: Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport (BZE) in Belize City is the main international gateway with direct flights from major U.S. cities.
- By Land: Border crossings are available from Mexico (Chetumal) and Guatemala (near San Ignacio). Bus and shuttle options connect major destinations.
- By Sea: Water taxis connect Belize City with popular islands like Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker.
Where to Stay
- Victoria House Resort & Spa (Ambergris Caye) – Upscale beachfront resort with elegant rooms and excellent diving access.
- Gaïa Riverlodge (Mountain Pine Ridge) – Eco-luxury jungle retreat near waterfalls, Mayan ruins, and nature trails.
- Colinda Cabanas (Caye Caulker) – Colorful beachfront cabanas with bikes and hammocks in a relaxed island setting.
Top Attractions
1. Wander Ancient Temples at the Altun Ha Ruins
Explore ancient temples and admire Maya architecture on a fascinating historical trip.
The Mayan people were the earliest inhabitants of modern-day Belize. They first populated the area known as Altun Ha around 250 B.C. They left behind traces of a rich and luxurious culture, and a people who studied the heavens and mathematics. Today, the Altun Ha Ruins cover an area of approximately 25 square miles.
Visitors can explore the temples and tombs on-site such as the famous Temple of the Masonry Altars.
The ruins are difficult to reach, and most visitors come by cruise ship. It is recommended that travelers come with an experienced tour guide to help them reach the Altun Ha Ruins.
2. Stroll Through Native Flora at the Belize Botanic Gardens
Belize Botanic Gardens is a showplace for the native plants of Belize. The garden began as a 45-acre former cattle pasture that was purchased and landscaped in 1993. Today, the garden contains over 2,000 species of plants.
Visitors can take a self-guided tour through houses devoted to specific plant species such as the Native Orchid House full of beautiful orchids. The Mayan House contains plants that have been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. The garden is also great place for birdwatchers to catch a glimpse of the birds of the jungle. Phone: 501-834-4800
More ideas: Belize honeymoon
3. Swim and Hike in the Stunning Blue Hole National Park (Inland)
Dive into turquoise waters or hike lush trails during summer.
The Blue Hole in Blue Hole National Park is a natural depression that was created when the roof of an underground cave collapsed. Over time, the depression filled with water. Today, Blue Hole is a popular swimming spot in Belize.
With a snorkel or SCUBA gear, swimmers can take a look at the underground caverns below the water. St. Herman’s Cave is also located on the park property. The cave is full of beautiful limestone features. The park also contains a network of trails that are great for hiking and birdwatching, a visitor’s center, rest area, and picnic benches.
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
4. Explore Hilltop History at the Cahal Pech Mayan Ruins
Cahal Pech was once the palace home of the rulers of the Mayans who lived in this area from approximately 1000 B.C. to 800 B.C. The site covers two acres and contains over 30 structures, including temples, altars, residences, and a sweat-house.
A burial chamber containing many artifacts from the time period has also been found on the site. A museum and visitor center have been constructed nearby and contain information about the Mayan way of life. Tours leave daily from the nearby Cahal Pech Beach Resort. The resort also contains lodging, dining, and tour packages. View Map
5. Uncover Majestic Architecture at the Caracol Mayan Ruins
At 15 square miles, the Caracol Mayan Ruins site is the largest Mayan ruin site in Belize. It once held a population of over 100,000. Today, the ruins are part of the Chiquibul Forest Reserve, a large tract of tropical rain forest on the western edge of Belize.
The park covers an area of 30-square miles. The ruin site contains an observatory, a small on-site museum, a visitor center, and over 35,000 buildings built by the Mayans. The largest is the Caana, which means “sky palace,” a large pyramid that is the tallest building in Belize.
6. Relax, Dive, and Dine on the Island Paradise of Caye Ambergris
Go snorkeling or savor fresh seafood on a laid-back couples getaway.
Caye Ambergris is the largest island off the Belize coast and is a top destination for travelers looking to enjoy the sun and surf. The island boasts beautiful white-sand beaches and clear blue Caribbean waters, which are great for snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, or just relaxing by the water.
The island’s one city, San Pedro Town, has a variety of stores, restaurants, and lodging. Other things to do at Caye Ambergris include wind surfing, parasailing, bicycling, bird-watching, canoeing, kayaking, hiking in the jungle, or visiting Mayan ruins. Map
Must-see if you are a first-time visitor:
- Hol Chan Marine Reserve & Shark Ray Alley – Snorkel alongside vibrant reef fish, stingrays, and nurse sharks near Ambergris Caye.
- Xunantunich – Majestic ancient Mayan ruins near San Ignacio, with panoramic views from the top of El Castillo.
- Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave) – Guided cave tour through underground rivers to see ancient Mayan artifacts and skeletons.
- Caye Caulker – Laid-back island known for its motto “Go Slow,” offering beach bars, water sports, and chill vibes.
Where to Eat
- Elvi’s Kitchen (San Pedro) – Iconic local restaurant serving fresh seafood and Belizean classics under a thatched roof.
- Errolyn’s House of Fry Jacks (Caye Caulker) – Popular spot for hearty Belizean breakfasts and delicious fry jacks.
- Guava Limb Café (San Ignacio) – Garden patio restaurant with farm-to-table meals and great vegetarian options.
If you are interested in local events:
- Placencia Lobster Festival (June) – Celebrate lobster season with fresh seafood, beach games, and live music in Placencia Village.
- September Celebrations – Belize celebrates its independence all month with parades, carnival, and fireworks (including September 10 & 21).
- Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19) – Cultural celebrations in Dangriga and Hopkins with drumming, dancing, and traditional foods.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30–90 Minutes of Belize City:
- Altun Ha – Explore these easily accessible Mayan ruins just an hour from Belize City.
- Baboon Sanctuary – Visit this community-led wildlife reserve to see black howler monkeys in their natural habitat.
- Belmopan & Blue Hole National Park – Discover Belize’s capital, plus swimming and hiking in limestone-rich inland parks.
- Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary – A birdwatcher’s paradise, especially during the dry season when waterfowl gather in huge numbers.
- Ambergris Caye – A short flight or ferry ride brings you to the country’s most popular island, great for diving and nightlife.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Where is Belize located?
- The country of Belize sits in Central America to the south of Mexico and is bordered by the Caribbean Sea to the east.
-
Why is Belize a top tourist destination?
- Beautiful beaches, a variety of ecosystems and wildlife, culture, and friendly people have made Belize a top tourist destination.
-
What languages are spoken in Belize?
- Visitors to this English-speaking country will find many adventures in the jungle and both on and under the ocean waters.
-
What kinds of adventures are available in Belize?
- From Mayan ruins, jungle tours, scuba diving, and cave tubing, there is no shortage of adventures to be had in Belize.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Warm and dry, perfect for beach activities, diving, and exploring Mayan ruins.
Victoria House Resort & Spa (Ambergris Caye) – A luxury beachfront resort with excellent amenities.
Snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve – Explore vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and tropical, great for rainforest adventures and wildlife tours.
Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort (Hopkins) – A unique eco-resort offering diving and jungle excursions.
Visit the Belize Barrier Reef – The second-largest barrier reef in the world, perfect for diving.
Fall (September-November) – Rainy season with fewer tourists, great for budget travelers.
The Lodge at Chaa Creek (San Ignacio) – A luxury jungle retreat offering nature tours and cultural experiences.
Explore the ancient Mayan ruins of Xunantunich – See incredible structures deep in the jungle.
Winter (December-February) – Peak tourist season with perfect weather for island hopping.
Cayo Espanto (Private Island) – An ultra-luxurious private island resort for a secluded getaway.
Relax on Placencia’s beaches – Enjoy white sandy beaches and charming local culture.
Map:
Plan Your Trip