The Best Time of Year to Dive in Belize

Belize, home of the famous Blue Hole, was one of Jacques Cousteau’s favorite dive spots. There really isn’t a bad time to dive Belize, but if you want to visit when there are fewer tourists and more whale sharks, the best time of year to dive Belize is probably April through June.

Diving in Belize: June Through November

The rainy season in Belize begins in late June and runs through November. That said, you can still expect 12-24m /40-80 ft visibility at off-shore dive sites. If you don’t mind a bumpy boat ride, you can enjoy the best of Belize with fewer tourists. 

The water temperature in Belize doesn’t fluctuate much, but it’s the warmest from June to November (26-29°C/79-84°F). Expect similar temps topside.

Starting in October, you may have the opportunity to experience Nassau grouper mating season in Belize. Thousands of these fish descend on the cayes to mate and give birth to their young from October through December.

Diving in Belize: December to April

By early December, the rain tapers off and water temperatures drop slightly (just a few degrees). Expect water temperatures in the mid 20’s (Celcius)/upper 70s (Fahrenheit). Air temps are slightly cooler as well.

The dry season is also peak tourist season. When temperatures drop in the northern hemisphere, the sunny beaches of Belize are a popular place to warm up.

Belize Whale Shark Season: April, May and June

What’s the best time of year to dive in Belize? We recommend visiting in April, May or June. 

Crowds die down starting in April Visibility is at its peak April, May and June are the best months to see whale sharks

Truly, the diving in Belize is great any time of year. The water is warm and visibility is reliably 12-24m /40-80 ft or better. You can also trek to Mayan temples, go bird watching and explore caves year-round. 

For more information about scuba diving in Belize, check out our travel guide. It includes:

Common Marine Life Sightings by Month Average Monthly Temperatures and Rainfall by Month How to Get to Belize

Ready to plan a trip to Belize? Contact your local PADI Dive Shop or one of the dive travel experts at PADI Travel®.

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