Things to do in Belize: Your Next Favorite Getaway
One day I looked at my schedule and saw that I had five random days off in a row at the beginning of December. So, of course, I called my reliable travel buddy and asked her if she wanted to go on a Belize vacation. Fast forward to December, and Belize turns into one of my favorite vacation spots.
There are so many things to do in Belize to make for a wonderful trip and create excellent memories!
Why Visit Belize
Aside from excellent weather and access to the Caribbean ocean, here are other reasons to consider when deciding on it as a vacation destination.
It’s Easy to Get There
I live in southern California. For me, flights to Belize, round trip, were around $400 via Southwest with only one layover. In other words, it was cheaper for me to go to Belize than to go home and see my parents.
Overall, given the access through Southwest, you are likely to find a flight from almost anywhere that takes you to Belize.
It’s Budget-Friendly
For anyone looking to get away but still wanting to stick to a travel budget, then Belize fits the bill. Hotels are inexpensive, and activities and experiences in Belize are affordable. Eating out also does not put a dent in your wallet.
It’s Perfect for a Long Weekend
Sometimes you need a short getaway with just enough to do to keep you busy, yet not so much going on that spending only a long weekend makes you feel like you’re missing out on anything. Belize fills all of those requirements. The caveat is that this requires you stay in one area.
My trip was to Ambergris Caye, and in the five nights trip, I saw that whole area of Belize. There was no time for San Pedro. So, to see the entire country, you would need more time. However, Belize is still worth a visit for a long weekend as any one area will have plenty to do to make for a fulfilling trip.
It’s Safe
Safety while on vacation is important to consider whether you’re traveling alone or in a group. As with any trip, you should always take precautions, but Belize is very tourist friendly and easy to navigate.
There are Fun Things to do in Belize for Everyone
Check out these amazing things to do in Belize and add them all to your bucket list.
Water Activities
Go Scuba Diving
Scuba diving is one of the best things to do in Belize as it’s home to the second-largest coral reef after the Great Barrier Reef. If for no other reason, add Belize to your to-do list just for this.
The reef was named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1996 and is very much worth a visit. You can start your scuba training in the United States and then finish your training there if you like! Their instructors have been scuba diving most of their lives, are very comfortable in the water and are knowledgeable about the craft.
Some feedback from the seasoned divers we met there: Belize was some of the best scuba diving they had seen compared to their adventures around the world.
What’s there to see on a scuba diving session in Belize? Consider sharks, turtles, and stingrays; lobster, crab, fish galore, and beautiful coral. Plus, the water is so warm you don’t need wet suits (even in December!).
Snorkeling
If you’re not a diver, then snorkeling is still great. There are a lot of shallow spots for your swimming and viewing pleasures.
Go Cave Tubing
You can go tubing through bat caves! The group tour will provide you with all of the equipment you need. Just be sure to pack lots of bug spray and sunscreen, you’ll need it!
Blue Hole National Park
The Blue Hole is an iconic part of Belize. Visiting this area of the ocean requires an entire day out of your trip, so plan for this accordingly. You can get there easily by booking a tour or boat ride for this. You can also view the Blue Hole from a helicopter.
Regarding activities at the Blue Hole, it is difficult to dive and therefore recommended to snorkel. If you dive the Blue Hole, you have to go very deep to see any marine life, and because you are so deep, you can’t stay there long. Instead, with snorkeling, you can see the upper marine life and the underwater rock formations.
Things To Do In Belize Outside Of The Ocean
Beach days, sunbathing in hammocks, zip lining, and day trips to visit some Mayan ruins are just a few of the options available during a visit to Belize. You can also find places to go horseback riding or spend time at some of the resort spas in your area.
The Cultural Experience
Outside of the activities and sites to see, there are things to do in Belize that involve the culture and local lifestyle that add to the whole experience of being there.
The Chocolate
This deserves its own category. Belizian chocolate is amazing. Who even knew they had their own? I certainly didn’t until I went there and tried some. I can’t even describe how good it is, but it certainly puts our milk chocolate here to shame.
The Golf Carts
We stayed in the Ambergris Caye area of Belize (northern island). The easiest way to get around there, should you decide to venture further out from your hotels, is by renting golf carts. This was probably one of my favorite activities, and that day of our trip was one of the most hilarious times I’ve had while traveling, period.
The People
Everyone there is super nice and helpful. We never felt unsafe or unwelcome.
The Views
After you land in Belize City, you must take a small propeller plane to Ambergris Caye. Don’t worry, it’s actually very safe and not scary as it may sound. The views from there are incredible.
If you’re lucky, as my friend was, the pilot will invite you to sit up front and be his co-pilot!
Alternatively, if you aren’t comfortable with smaller planes, you can take a water taxi from Belize City to Ambergris Caye or wherever your final destination is. While it takes longer, you still get gorgeous water views!
The Food
Seafood is everywhere in Belize. Whether or not you’re a fan, you’ll get to experience fresh fish caught the same day.
In Summary
If you need a long weekend getaway, Belize is a great option. With unique local culture and plenty to see, it is worth the experience.
