Things to Do in Belize City

About Belize City

Where Caribbean breezes carry stories of ancient Maya civilizations and colonial legacies through bustling streets alive with Creole rhythms, Belize City pulses as the busy heart of this Central American jewel. This weathered port city, where wooden colonial houses stand resilient against tropical storms and time itself, offers an authentic glimpse into Belizean soul. Here, the melodic cadence of Kriol mingles with Spanish and English in crowded markets overflowing with fresh seafood and tropical fruits, while colorful fishing boats bob in the harbor against a backdrop of mangrove-lined coastlines. Beyond its role as gateway to the world's second-largest barrier reef and ancient Maya ruins, Belize City rewards curious travelers with its raw authenticity—street food vendors serving hearty rice and beans, local artists crafting in sun-dappled courtyards, and evening gatherings where stories flow as freely as the Belikin beer, creating memories as enduring as the ancient cecropia trees that shade its historic squares.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Navigate the city using licensed taxis with negotiated fares (expect $5-15 BZD for city trips). Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in south-side areas. For reef and caye excursions, book water taxis from the Marine Terminal—verify departure times as schedules change seasonally.

Money: Belize Dollar (BZD) is pegged 2:1 to USD, which is widely accepted. ATMs are limited and often empty on weekends. Bring small USD bills for street vendors and taxis. Credit cards work at hotels and upscale restaurants but carry cash for local experiences.

Cultural Respect: Greet locals with 'Good morning/afternoon' before starting conversations—it's considered rude not to. Dress modestly when visiting churches or government buildings. Photography of people requires permission, especially in Garifuna or Maya communities. Tipping 10-15% is standard at restaurants.

Food Safety: Stick to busy local spots where food turns over quickly—try rice and beans, stew chicken, or fresh fish. Avoid raw vegetables from street vendors but embrace fresh fruit. Bottled water is recommended. Popular safe bets include Dit's Restaurant and Nerie's for authentic Belizean cuisine.

When to Visit

Belize City's tropical climate offers year-round warmth with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season (November-April) features temperatures of 75-84°F with minimal rainfall (2-4 inches monthly), making it peak tourist season with prices 30-40% higher than off-season. December-February sees the most crowds and highest accommodation rates. The wet season (May-October) brings afternoon thunderstorms, 85-90°F temperatures, and 8-15 inches of monthly rainfall, but offers 25-35% savings on lodging and tours. Hurricane season (June-November) peaks in September-October, though direct hits are relatively rare. Key festivals include September Celebrations (September 10-21) celebrating independence with parades and cultural events, and Garifuna Settlement Day (November 19) featuring traditional music and dance. Budget travelers should visit May-June or November for optimal weather-cost balance. Adventure seekers will find June-August ideal despite rain, as marine life is most active. Avoid September-October unless seeking significant savings, as weather can be unpredictable. Book accommodations well in advance for December-March visits.