Get ready for Belize's "little dry" season, which occurs in August and September. During this brief respite from the rainier months, the sun is out and it's the perfect time for nature hikes and tours around the islands. The best part is this is still considered the low season, so expect budget prices without the drizzly weather.

Weather

August in Belize is such a uniquely consistent experience that it's become its own mini-season, which locals have named "little dry." The sun is often out during this month and the coast retains its pleasant weather, with temperatures peaking around 84°F (28°C). Plus, offshore trade winds contribute to keeping the temps around the islands and coast bearable. Inland is a bit different, as more sun means hotter weather, with temperatures peaking around 90°F (32°C).

And although the weather is generally pleasant in August, there is a trade-off. Visitors should know that there's a greater risk of hurricanes and tropical storms during this month when compared to the dry season. For many travelers, however, the benefits far outweigh these risks.

Crowds & Costs

Think of Belize's mini dry season as a kind of shoulder season in which to travel. During this month, which is still technically part of the low season, hotels are less expensive and tours aren't so packed. It's easier to move around Belize's islands, mainland, and coast without the massive crowds; even better that you don't have to make your travel arrangements so far in advance. Overall, traveling in August is a great time to enjoy Belize, as it's a bit of an insider secret.  

Where to Go

While the sun is out, take advantage of Belize's outdoor activities. One can't-miss excursion is a visit to the many Maya archeological sites. One great option is Lamanai, the oldest such site in Belize (it dates to the Maya Pre Classic Period, around 1500 BCE). It's also the second-largest ruin, covering 860 acres. Within the site are all manner of temples, pyramids, and even a ball court. The highlight is a large limestone mask flanking the entrance to the temple and which depicts a Maya ruler.

Visitors will undoubtedly want to visit the Belize Barrier Reef, as it's the largest in the northern hemisphere and home to vast marine ecosystems. One of the best places to get a well-rounded experience is Lighthouse Reef Atoll. Located on the eastern part of the reef, it's home to secluded islands, mangrove forests, unspoiled dive sites, and the famous Blue Hole, a circular marine sinkhole that Jacques Cousteau himself christened one of the top 10 dive sites in the entire world.

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What to Do

It wouldn't be a trip to Belize without wildlife spotting and diving/snorkeling. And August is a great month to do both. Whether it's unique marine life or exotic land animals, you can see it all. A great tour to maximize this experience is a trip down the New River. Located in northern Belize, it's near the Lamanai ruins, and in fact, both can be visited on a day trip. A boat ride down this waterway reveals plenty of wildlife in the surrounding rainforest, including iguanas, toucans, aracari, and even crocodiles. 

At sea, the marine reserves are home to some popular aquatic specimens. The aforementioned Lighthouse Reef Atoll is a great place to go diving and snorkeling. Make the island of Half Moon Caye your base and you can explore all around the reef. The Aquarium, located on the western end of Lighthouse Reef, is one of the best dive sites anywhere in the country. It's home to parrotfish, grouper, and other tropical fish that feed around an impressive 50-foot coral wall. Other animals you can expect to see in August are dolphins, sharks, rays, and green sea turtles.

Fishing is also a great activity throughout the low season, particularly in August. Conditions are often nice at sea, and great catches like bonefish, permit, and tarpon, abound in the waters. 

Events in August

Costa Maya Festival (Mid-August). One of the largest festivals in Belize takes place in San Pedro, on Ambergris Caye. Over three lively days, it celebrates Maya culture with folkloric dances, beauty pageants, live music, and other cultural performances.

Tres Pescados Slam Tournament. This competition for anglers involves the community around Ambergris Caye and takes advantage of the great fishing conditions during this month.

Traveling to Belize in August? Check out these great itineraries.

Belize Lighthouse Reef Adventure - 7 Days. A week is all you need to experience the highlights of Belize, from birding to snorkeling around the barrier reef. Specifically, you'll explore the reef systems around Half Moon Caye, an island whose surrounding waters are famous for being crystal clear. 

Belize Wildlife, Mayan Ruins, & Reef Tour - 9 Days. Make the most out of this mini dry season by enjoying the greatest hits of Belize. Go birding at Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary, travel up the New River, and marvel at the Maya ruins of Lamanai and Altun Ha. At sea, you'll not only visit the unspoiled waters of Lighthouse Reef, but you can also enjoy a snorkeling trip around the famous Blue Hole.

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