Belize is a dream destination for anyone who loves the ocean, and it’s no surprise why. Home to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef—the second-largest reef system in the world—this country is teeming with marine life, vibrant coral gardens, and clear turquoise waters that beckon snorkelers and divers alike. But while Belize is a year-round destination, certain months offer even better conditions beneath the surface. Whether you’re a first-timer or an experienced diver, knowing when to visit can take your underwater experience from great to unforgettable.
And if you’re staying at a private island resort like Ray Caye, where the reef is just a short boat ride away, you’ll have even more opportunities to dive in—literally.
Dry Season (December to May): Calm Waters and Maximum Visibility
The dry season is often considered the best time of year to snorkel and dive in Belize. Running from December through May, this stretch of the year brings calm seas, excellent visibility, and very little rain. These months are perfect for seeing everything from colorful reef fish and coral formations to nurse sharks, eagle rays, and sea turtles.
During the dry season, water clarity can reach up to 100 feet (30 meters), especially near the outer reef and around smaller cayes like Ray Caye. That means you’ll be able to see marine life in stunning detail—an underwater world that feels almost otherworldly.
This time of year is also great for travelers who like to plan ahead. Dive sites are at their most accessible, and weather-related cancellations are rare. Whether you’re taking your first snorkel tour or planning a multi-day dive itinerary, the dry season sets the stage for perfect conditions.
March to June: Whale Shark Season
If you’re visiting Belize for a bucket-list experience, plan your trip between March and June, when whale sharks migrate along the coast. These gentle giants, which can grow up to 40 feet long, are best spotted near the Gladden Spit area, located off the coast of Placencia—just a short distance from Ray Caye Island Resort.
Although sightings aren’t guaranteed (it is nature, after all), your chances are highest during the full moon when snapper are spawning. Whale sharks are drawn to this feeding frenzy, making it one of the few places in the world where you can snorkel or dive with these massive creatures in their natural habitat.
At Ray Caye, guests can take guided tours during this special window, offering one of the most awe-inspiring encounters the ocean has to offer.
Green Season (June to November): Fewer Crowds and Lush Beauty
Belize’s green season runs from June through November, bringing occasional rain showers and fewer tourists. While conditions can be a bit less predictable during this time, many snorkelers and divers still enjoy excellent underwater visibility, especially in the mornings before any afternoon showers roll in.
The biggest advantage of visiting during the green season? Peace, quiet, and uncrowded dive sites. You’re likely to have the reef all to yourself, and the marine life doesn’t take a vacation. Plus, if you’re staying at Ray Caye, the island’s close proximity to the reef means you can take advantage of perfect weather windows whenever they pop up. Check out this package from our travel agent partners.
This season also delivers warmer water temperatures, hovering around 84°F to 86°F (29°C to 30°C), which means longer, more comfortable snorkeling and diving sessions.
Whether you’re chasing whale sharks, exploring coral gardens, or just hoping to drift in turquoise water while watching fish go about their day, Belize offers something unforgettable in every season. Book your stay at Ray Caye Island Resort and enjoy direct access to world-class snorkeling and diving all year round—because paradise doesn’t follow a schedule, but it sure helps to know when to dive in.
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