Leslie Massey
Belize is a nature lover's paradise, with over 400 islands and cays, vast stretches of protected barrier reef, and diverse wildlife. The best time to visit depends on what you want to do. The dry season, from December to April, is the high season for tourism, with warm temperatures and clear skies. However, August falls within the rainy season, which runs from June to November. While this period sees fewer tourists, there are still plenty of advantages to visiting Belize during this time.
August in Belize is characterised by balmy weather and sunshine, with daytime highs of around 89°F (31°C). The rainy season means you can take advantage of discounted tours and lodging, and there are also fewer crowds, making it a great time to stay in a premium luxury resort.
There is plenty to see and do in Belize in August. You can visit the ancient ATM Cave, used by Mayan priests to conduct human sacrifices, or snorkel in the Hol Chan Marine Reserve, home to sea turtles, sharks, and hundreds of species of fish. You can also explore the Grand Tomb at Xunantunich, one of the largest Maya sites ever discovered in Belize, or attend the Deer Dance Festival or the International Costa Maya Festival.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Season | Middle of the green season; the height of the rainy season |
| Temperature | Daytime highs around 89 F (31 C) and nighttime lows around 78 F (25 C) |
| Rainfall | Overnight showers and brief bouts of morning precipitation |
| Wind | Plenty of refreshing offshore breezes |
| Tourism | Low season; fewer crowds |
| Businesses | Some businesses close during this time |
| Activities | Scuba diving and snorkelling; visiting ancient Mayan temples |
| Lodging | Advantageous discounts on tours and lodging |
What You'll Learn
Weather in August
August is a great time to visit Belize, with balmy weather, lots of sunshine, and fewer crowds. It's the middle of the green season, so expect some overnight showers and brief morning rain, followed by long sunny days. Daytime temperatures can reach highs of 89°F (31°C), and lows of 78°F (25°C) at night. There are also plenty of refreshing offshore breezes.
August is a good time to take advantage of the off-season rates and stay in a premium resort. There are also lots of advantageous discounts on tours and lodging.
The wet season runs from June to November/December, with August being a brief respite from the rainy season. There is a higher possibility of tropical storms and hurricanes, but these rarely make landfall.
Advantages of Visiting Belize in August
- Grand Slam Fishing Season
- Little Dry Season offers a break from the rainy season
- Low-season rates and discounts
- Good visibility for snorkelling and diving
- Good time to view wildlife, including manatees, hammerhead sharks, turtles, and dolphins
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August discounts
August is a great month to visit Belize, with balmy weather, lots of sunshine, and fewer crowds. It's also a fantastic time to take advantage of the many discounts on offer. Here are some details on what you can expect in terms of August discounts when visiting Belize:
Tours and Lodging
During August, you can find advantageous discounts on tours and lodging. With fewer tourists visiting during this period, businesses often offer promotions to attract visitors. This means you can enjoy premium luxury resorts and top Belize jungle resorts at lower rates. Some resorts to consider are Victoria House in Ambergris Caye, Coco Plum Island Resort (offshore from Dangriga), and Chabil Mar on the Placencia Peninsula.
Low Season Rates
August falls within the low season for tourism in Belize, so you can expect low-season rates and discounts across the country. This is a great opportunity to experience premium accommodations and activities at more affordable prices. Take advantage of this period to explore the beaches, caves, and Maya Ruins without the usual crowds.
Scuba Diving and Snorkelling
August is an excellent time for scuba diving and snorkelling in Belize. The country is known for its vast stretches of protected barrier reef, making it a top destination for these activities. With fewer tourists during August, you may find special offers or packages that include accommodation and diving or snorkelling tours. Places like Placencia, Ambergris Caye, and Caye Caulker are great spots to find these deals.
La Costa Maya Festival
In early August, Belize hosts La Costa Maya, the biggest festival in the country. Musicians travel from across the Americas to perform. In Ambergris Caye, there are pageants, music, and dance events to enjoy. This festival is a great opportunity to experience Belizean culture and enjoy some entertainment at a low cost.
Deer Dance Festival
Also in August, you can experience the Deer Dance Festival. This festival is a unique cultural event that you can enjoy while taking advantage of the various discounts available during this month.
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August activities
August is a great month to visit Belize, with balmy weather, lots of sunshine, and fewer crowds. It's also the middle of the green season, so you can expect overnight showers and brief morning rain, followed by sunny days. Here are some activities and things to do during your visit to Belize in August:
- Visit the Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM) Cave System: Take a swim across a crystal-clear pool of spring-fed water to enter the ancient Maya cave. This site was used by Maya priests to conduct human sacrifices during turbulent times in their empire. With artifacts and religious items left untouched for over 1,000 years, it's one of the most important historical sites in Belize.
- Snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve: Located just a few miles offshore from Ambergris Caye, the reserve is home to a diverse range of marine life, including sea turtles, anemones, rays, sharks, and hundreds of species of fish. The natural cut in the Belize Barrier Reef creates an ideal spot for scuba diving and snorkelling.
- Explore the Grand Tomb at Xunantunich: Discover one of the largest Maya sites in Belize, which has been excavated for over 100 years. In 2016, archaeologists uncovered a tomb belonging to a Maya ruler beneath the main temple, making it one of the biggest tombs ever found in the country.
- Stay at a Top Belize Jungle Resort: Take advantage of the off-season rates and enjoy luxurious beachfront villas in premium resorts. Resorts like Victoria House in Ambergris Caye, Chabil Mar on the Placencia Peninsula, and Black Orchid Resort in the Belize District offer modern comforts and breathtaking views.
- International Costa Maya Festival: This festival, usually held in August, is one of the biggest in Belize, attracting musicians from across the Americas. It features pageants, music, and dance events, providing a unique cultural experience.
- Deer Dance Festival: Experience the Deer Dance Festival, a unique cultural event held in August.
- Scuba Diving and Snorkelling: With calm waters and good visibility, August is a great time for underwater activities. Explore the Belize Barrier Reef, or head to Placencia to encounter magnificent whale sharks during their visiting period around the full moon in April and May.
- Fishing: If you're an angler, August is part of the grand slam fishing season, when bonefish, permit, and tarpon are all available.
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August travel challenges
While August is a great month to visit Belize, there are a few challenges to be aware of. Here are some factors to consider when planning your trip during this time:
Weather
Belize experiences the green season or rainy season from June through November, with August falling in the middle of this period. While August offers a slight break from the summer rains, known locally as the "little dry", there is still a higher possibility of tropical storms and hurricanes. The wettest months occur in September and October, so travelling in August may be a better option if you want to avoid the peak of the rainy season. However, even in August, you can expect some overnight showers and brief bouts of morning precipitation, followed by long sunny days. The daytime highs are around 89°F (31°C), and the nighttime lows are approximately 78°F (25°C).
Business Closures
Some businesses may be closed during the rainy season, especially in September, when they perform annual maintenance. This may limit your options for accommodation, dining, and activities. It is always a good idea to check ahead to ensure that the places you want to visit will be open during your trip.
Travel Difficulty
Travel can become more challenging as the rainy season progresses, and there is a low risk of hurricanes. Heavy rainfall can cause flooding, and some roads, especially dirt roads, may become muddy and difficult to traverse. This may hinder your ability to visit remote areas or participate in certain activities, such as cave tubing, which may be closed by authorities during heavy rainfall for safety reasons. However, air transportation is readily available throughout the year, providing an alternative option for getting around.
Peak Lobster Season
August falls within the Caribbean Spiny Lobster season, which runs from mid-June to mid-February. While this can be a great opportunity to try delicious lobster dishes, it is also a popular time for tourists and locals to visit restaurants and sample this delicacy. As a result, you may experience longer wait times or crowds at restaurants serving lobster.
Limited Cruise Options
Large cruise ships visit Belize year-round, but small ship cruises typically operate from October through April. If you are interested in a small ship cruise during your August trip, you may find limited options. However, catamaran charter cruises are available year-round, except for a short break in September and October.
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August wildlife
August is a great month to spot wildlife in Belize. The country's "little dry" season, which occurs in August and September, provides a brief respite from the rainier months, making it perfect for nature hikes and tours around the islands. The weather is generally pleasant, with temperatures peaking at 84°F (28°C) on the coast and 90°F (32°C) inland.
August is the best time to view manatees and witness turtles hatching along the coast and islands. The rainforest and wildlife are lush and verdant, and you'll have a good chance of spotting monkeys in the fruiting trees. You can also spot iguanas, toucans, aracari, and even crocodiles on a boat ride down the New River in northern Belize.
At sea, the marine reserves are home to dolphins, sharks, rays, and green sea turtles. Fishing is a popular activity during this time, with nice conditions at sea and great catches like bonefish, permit, and tarpon.
If you're interested in birdwatching, Belize boasts nearly 600 species of birds. In August, you can spot toucans, hummingbirds, and parrots in parks like the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary. Along the sea and coastal marshes, you'll find wading birds such as jabiru storks, roseate spoonbills, and pelicans.
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Frequently asked questions
August is a great time to visit Belize if you want to avoid the crowds and take advantage of the off-season rates. It's also a good month to go if you want to go snorkelling or scuba diving, as the underwater visibility is good at this time of year. However, it is the middle of the rainy season, so there will be lots of rainfall.
August in Belize is balmy, with lots of sunshine and daytime highs of around 89°F (31°C). There are usually overnight showers and brief bouts of morning precipitation, followed by sunny days.
In August, you can visit the ATM Cave, snorkel at Hol Chan Marine Reserve, and visit the Grand Tomb at Xunantunich. You can also stay at a top Belize Jungle Resort, such as Victoria House in Ambergris Caye, or Chabil Mar on the Placencia Peninsula.
The best month to visit Belize depends on what you want to do. The dry season, between January and May, is the most popular time to visit Belize, as it coincides with the cool and dry seasons. However, if you want to avoid the crowds, the rainy season from June to November might be a better option.
Belize is a nature lover's paradise, with over 400 islands and cays, including Caye Caulker and Ambergris Caye. It's also home to the largest barrier reef system in the Northern Hemisphere, making it a great place for scuba diving and snorkelling. Belize also has a number of Mayan ruins, which offer a fascinating look into the area's ancient history.
