December marks the start of Belize’s dry season and the high tourist season, drawing many North Americans escaping winter. The weather is perfect for reef and jungle adventures, and with the holidays in full swing, December is one of the most festive months to visit Belize.
Weather in December
December in Belize brings warm, pleasant days with average highs of 82°F (28°C) and cooler nights around 70°F (21°C). Humidity is moderate and the breeze off the sea keeps things comfortable.
Rainfall decreases significantly this month as the dry season sets in, lasting until May. While short showers may still happen, they are rare and pass quickly. Skies are usually clear, making it one of the best months for outdoor activities and beach trips.
Things to Do in December
December is one of the best months to enjoy Belize’s natural attractions. Calm seas make for excellent snorkeling, diving, and fishing conditions, while the dry weather makes exploring Maya ruins and rainforest reserves easier. Whether it’s a day trip to the reef, a cave tour, or birdwatching in the jungle, outdoor adventures are at their best this time of year.
Coastal and Marine Activities
Warm, clear seas provide ideal conditions for snorkeling, diving, boating, and fishing. In December, top experiences include:
- Snorkeling at marine reserves such as Hol Chan and South Water Caye Marine Reserve
- Seeing the Great Blue Hole from a flyover tour
- Sailing trips around the beautiful islands of Belize such as Ambergris Caye and Glover’s Reef
- Fishing excursions for barracuda, grouper, or snapper
- Relaxing on the beaches of Hopkins and Placencia, perfect for swimming and sunbathing
Maya Sites and Jungle Tours
Dry season conditions also make it easier to access inland attractions. Some of the best options are:
- Touring ancient Maya ruins such as Xunantunich, Caracol, or Lamanai
- Exploring sacred caves like Actun Tunichil Muknal (ATM Cave) or Nohoch Che’en
- Staying at an eco-lodge to experience Belize’s wildlife and culture in a more immersive way
- Birdwatching in hotspots like the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary
- Visiting nature reserves such as Mountain Pine Ridge and Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary
Holiday Events in Belize
Along with great weather for tours, December also brings a lineup of annual holiday traditions. From festive parades in San Pedro to horse races in Burrell Boom, these events highlight how Belizeans celebrate the season and give travelers a chance to experience the country’s culture in a unique way.
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
In San Pedro, boats decorated with Christmas lights sail from Boca del Rio to Coconuts Hotel. Watching them from the beach under the night sky has become one of Ambergris Caye’s most popular December traditions.
Love FM Christmas Parade
Also in San Pedro, Love FM hosts an annual Christmas Parade featuring floats from schools, businesses, and community groups. The parade starts at Boca del Rio and winds through town before ending at Central Park, with candy and gifts shared along the way.
Christmas Eve
Christmas Eve is lively everywhere in Belize. Town centers are busy with last-minute shoppers, homes and shops blast holiday music, and fireworks and firecrackers go off late into the night.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day is a national holiday. Most businesses close, with the exception of hotels and a few restaurants. Families gather for traditional Belizean meals and backyard celebrations, while many young people head out to bars and clubs at night.
Boxing Day Horse Race
On December 26, many Belizeans go to horse races. The largest is in Burrell Boom near Belize City, while smaller races take place in San Ignacio and Santa Elena. The atmosphere is festive, with lots of cheering and socializing.
New Year’s Eve
Unlike Christmas, which is family-oriented, New Year’s Eve is when Belizeans go out with friends to parties, bars, and clubs. Major celebrations happen across the country, with San Pedro and Belize City being particularly lively spots to ring in the new year.
For Belize events and activities available throughout the year, click here.
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