Things to Do in Belize City

About Belize City

Belize City is the country's weathered port and its beating heart—a place where wooden colonial houses have survived decades of tropical storms. Caribbean breezes blow through streets where Kriol, Spanish, and English mix in the markets. The boats rock in the harbor. Fresh seafood and tropical fruit pile high on vendor tables while colorful fishing boats bob against mangrove-lined shores. This isn't just a jumping-off point for the barrier reef and Maya ruins. The city rewards travelers who spend time here. Street vendors serve rice and beans from carts. Local artists work in shaded courtyards. By evening, stories flow as freely as the Belikin beer at neighborhood gatherings. The authenticity is raw and real. No polishing. Colonial buildings lean into the salt air, cecropia trees shade the historic squares, and the place hums with actual Belizean life—not a version dressed up for tourists.

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.