A honeymoon in Belize lets newlyweds travel conveniently while enjoying Caribbean charm. The country, bordered to the north by Mexico and Guatemala to the south, boasts pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, lush landscapes, and much more.
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Is Belize a Good Place for a Honeymoon?
Belize has an alluring but often-underrated beauty, which appeals especially to couples who want a post-wedding holiday without the inconveniences of a touristy crowd. It’s a tiny yet utterly interesting tourist destination nestled on the northeastern coast of Central America. While it’s usually overshadowed by other Central American destinations, such as Costa Rica, the country has much to offer to honeymooners.
Belize has some of the most idyllic beaches in this part of the globe. This country will let you savor newlywed bliss in a laid-back atmosphere. It has several honeymoon resorts that can serve as your base — places you’ll look forward to returning to after exploring the various natural and cultural wonders.
One major perk of choosing Belize as your honeymoon destination is that their official language is English.
What Activities Can You Do on a Honeymoon in Belize?
- Enjoy close encounters with its marine life. Belize Barrier Reef is the second-biggest reef system on Earth after the Great Barrier Reef. Go snorkeling or scuba diving into some of its most popular protected areas, including the Hol Chan Marine Reserve and the Blue Hole Natural Monument.
- Experience a boat ride. Belize has plenty of bodies of water where you can try watersports such as canoeing and paddle boarding. Towns like San Pedro in Ambergris Caye, San Ignacio (which lies along the Belize River), and Placencia offer boating and catamaran tours perfect for honeymooners who want to enjoy azure views of the Caribbean Sea.
- Head to Mayan ruins. Be transported to the world of ancient Maya people when you visit Xunantunich and explore these world-renowned ruins.
- Go canopy ziplining and cave tubing. Mayflower Bocawina National Park, Nohoch Che’en Caves Branch, and Calico Jacks Village are three of the best areas in Belize where you can uniquely get closer to nature by ziplining or tubing. Most excursions also include horseback riding and biking tours.
- Chase Belize’s majestic waterfalls. Hike and reward yourselves with jaw-dropping views of the country’s most beautiful waterfalls, including Big Rock Falls in the Mountain Pine Ridge Forest Reserve.
- Meander through tropical gardens. Stroll through gorgeous tropical gardens rich with colorful flora and wildlife and enjoy a peaceful environment by visiting the Belize Botanic Gardens in San Ignacio.
- Visit the world’s only jaguar preserve. Belize Jaguar Reserve, situated in Cockscomb Basin, is home to jaguars and other animals, such as toucans and black howler monkeys.
What Is the Best Month to Visit Belize?
December to April marks the dry season in Belize, and it’s the best time to visit the country if you want to enjoy pleasant weather for outdoor and beach activities. You can always visit around June or November to take advantage of the shoulder season’s generally lower rates and fewer tourists.
Is a Honeymoon in Belize Expensive?
A one-week getaway in Belize, including hotel, activities, food, and transportation, will cost between $2,500 and $4,000 for two people.
How To Plan a Budget Honeymoon in Belize
- Travel during the off-season. Hurricane season in Belize isn’t as travel-disrupting as other destinations. Rain showers may sometimes be intense, but they’re usually brief.
- Look for and prioritize the must-see locations and activities within your price range, such as touring Mayan ruins or snorkeling in the Belize Barrier Reef.
- When planning your itinerary, take into account the transportation options. Opt for public transportation if you want to bring down honeymoon expenses.
- Consider getting a honeymoon package from an all-inclusive resort. Search deals that combine lodging, food, activities, and transportation into one price.
- Dine like a local and explore restaurants and street food eateries that offer traditional Belizean cuisine for lower prices.
6 Best Cities to Stay In Belize
Belize City
Belize City is the largest city and commercial hub of the country. It’s the city where you’ll land if you travel to Belize by air and it has plenty of attractions. You can visit the Belize Museum and the Baron Bliss Lighthouse. You can also explore the Mayan ruins of Altun Ha or enjoy the tranquil environment of the Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.
While this port city lacks the sandy beaches you’re looking for in a Caribbean getaway, it offers historical landmarks, colonial architecture, and vibrant markets to satisfy your touristy craving.
Where to stay: Downtown/Commercial District
San Ignacio
Situated in the Cayo District, you’ll be whisked away into a world where the old meets the new when you head to San Ignacio. It’s a charming town where you can discover archeological wonders such as Cahal Pech and the Mayan ruins in Xunantunich.
You can take a boat ride to cruise along the Belize River or enjoy your time navigating mysterious cave systems. It’s also where the Belize Botanical Gardens, Green Hills Butterfly Ranch, and Medicinal Jungle Trail are located. If you want more adventures, take a cave tubing tour at Jaguar Paw.
Where to stay: Downtown or town center
San Pedro, Ambergris Caye
If white sand beaches are the main agenda in your Belize honeymoon, San Pedro — the main city on the biggest island in the country, Ambergris Caye — is the place to be. Swaying palm trees and azure waters await.
Enjoy diving at the Belize Barrier Reef or strolling around the city and exploring its wealth of shops, galleries, and eateries. At nighttime, the city comes even further alive, letting you enjoy the best nightlife in the country.
Where to stay: Town center or at a beachfront property
Caye Caulker
A one-hour ferry ride from Ambergris Caye, Caye Caulker is another hot destination in Belize. Think of the island as the more laid-back and inexpensive sister of Ambergris Caye.
Hit the waters at Shark Ray Alley and swim with sharks and stingrays. Head to The Split, a narrow channel splitting the island, for more swimming and oceanfront cocktails.
Where to stay: At a beachfront property
Placencia
Situated on a slender and stunning peninsula in the southern part of Belize, Placencia boasts 16 miles of pristine beaches. You can sail boats, kayak, snorkel, dive, or simply lounge by the beach. Take a trip to the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary to see elusive jaguars and other exotic species — or get active on one of the many hiking trails.
Stroll along the Placencia Sidewalk and explore shops around the area. If you want an activity steeped in culture and history, visit the Mayan ruins of Nim Li Punit and the Lubaantun settlement. You can also meet indigenous people and immerse yourselves in the Garifuna culture.
Where to stay: Riverside or Placencia Village
Hopkins
If you want something less touristy than Placencia but with the same vibe, you can head to Hopkins. It’s rich in culture, courtesy of the large concentration of the Garifuna people that it shelters. Apart from enjoying the beautiful beaches, you can also venture into neighboring nature reserves, such as the Mayflower Bocawina, where you can go hiking or birdwatching.
This seaside village on the coast of Stann Creek is an eco-cultural hub, but you can also enjoy exploring restaurants and cafés. Moreover, you can make a day trip to Dangriga, a beach town that is also home to the Garifuna people.
Where to stay: Baila/Northside
What Is the Best Way to Travel to Belize?
Book a flight to Philip S. W. Goldson International in Belize City. If you’re okay with a short trip, you could also consider taking a cruise that ports in Belize.
Traveling Within Belize
Once in Belize, you may travel across the country via domestic flight, ferry, bus, or car rentals. If you are staying at a certain resort, you may also leverage their shuttle services for a more convenient journey from the airport to your hotel and other places.
What Types of Accommodations Are Available in Belize?
Belize prides itself on its accommodations catering to just about any honeymooner. Whether you’re looking for a private island resort, a dive resort, or lodging tucked in a jungle, you’ll find something here.
Victoria House Resort & Spa is a stellar beachfront property with fine dining options, kayaks, and golf cart facilities for a thoroughly enjoyable stay. Las Terrazas has a private beach and an infinity pool to boot. On the other hand, Matachia Resort is a top-rated adults-only property that offers an inclusive package (which includes a couples massage) and seafront casitas.
If you’re looking for a beach resort alternative, The Lodge at Chaa Creek provides a sweet escape to the forest and modern amenities such as a jacuzzi and a plunge pool.
For a charming and rustic experience, you should book your stay in a traditional cabana or any of the bungalows for rent you can find on platforms like Airbnb.
What Type of Food Should You Try in Belize?
- Rice and beans. Often considered Belize’s national dish, it features rice and beans cooked in coconut milk. This sumptuous and creamy culinary piece is usually served with stewed chicken, salad, and fried plantains.
- Fry jacks. This is a staple in Belizian breakfast, and it refers to deep-fried, triangular flour dough paired with refried beans, eggs, and sausages.
- Tamales. This culinary heritage comes from the ancient Mayan civilization, featuring corn dough filled with seasoned meat. It’s then steamed in plantain or banana leaves.
- Ceviche. Serving as an appetizer or a light meal, ceviche is made with diced seafood marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions, tomatoes, and spices like cilantro and habanero peppers.
Are There Any Cultural Experiences to Include in a Belize Honeymoon?
Take your honeymoon in Belize to a higher notch by adding cultural experiences to your itinerary. Apart from exploring Mayan ruins, you can take part in cultural tours of Mayans and the Garifuna people and learn more about their traditions and way of life.
Moreover, you can take classes to try punta dancing or make traditional crafts and artwork like wood carvings. You and your loved one can also embark on a chocolate tour and appreciate the country’s long and rich history of cacao cultivation.
What to Pack For a Honeymoon in Belize
When packing for your romantic getaway in Belize, remember the tropical climate and the kind of activities you’ll do. Packing lightweight and breathable clothing (such as shorts, shirts, sundresses, and swimwear), sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect you from the sun is essential.
You must also bring comfortable walking shoes, sandals, water shoes, and hiking boots. Bring insect repellent to keep mosquitoes and bugs at bay. Additionally, if you intend to attend romantic meals or special gatherings, bring some more formal attire.
Is Belize Safe to Visit?
Belize is generally considered a safe destination for newlyweds. Protect your safety by following these tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying extravagant or luxurious items.
- Avoid walking or driving after sundown.
- Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, so keep an eye on your belongings. Always use hotel safes for valuable items.
- Never resist robbery attempts.
- Check news updates and avoid going to areas where protests, demonstrations, and riots have occurred.
- Always follow signs and your tour guide when swimming, hiking, or any other outdoor activity.
Do You Need a Visa to Visit Belize?
For US citizens visiting Belize for up to 30 days, tourist visas are not required. However, remember that you must present proof of plan to leave the country (in the form of onward or return flight tickets). Additionally, you must prove that you have adequate funds to pay for your stay.
Bonus Tips For a Belize Honeymoon
- Drinking tap water is fine, but you can always drink bottled water to avoid stomach issues.
- Though not customary, tipping is always welcome. You can give 10 to 15% of the total bill as a sign of gratitude.
- English is the country’s official language.
- US dollars are accepted in Belize. However, bringing Belize dollars when making smaller transactions or shopping at local markets is wise. As of writing, $1 is about BZ$2.03.