If you’ve been waiting for the summer craze to dwindle, taking your vacation in August is just as fun. Especially in the tropics. While the earlier summer months buzz with activity, Belize in August is just as inviting. With its blend of lush greenery, warm temperatures, and thrilling adventures, Belize is a fantastic destination even during the rainy season. While the showers bring occasional respite from the heat, they also enhance the natural beauty, making the landscapes more vivid and the wildlife more active. Despite the occasional rain, there’s no shortage of adventures and unique experiences in Belize this month. Here are five must-do activities to make the most of your August visit.
1. Manatee Watching
August is a prime time for manatee watching in Belize. These gentle giants, also known as sea cows, can often be spotted in warm coastal waters and at river mouths. One of the best places to see them is at the Swallow Caye Wildlife Sanctuary near Belize City. A boat tour will take you through the mangroves, where you can observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
2. Indulging in Lobster Season
Photo Credit: Caye Caulker Lobster Fest on Facebook
Lobster season in Belize runs from June to February, and August is the perfect time to savor this delectable seafood. While the Lobster Festivals in Placencia, Caye Caulker, and San Pedro take place in July, local restaurants and seaside eateries still serve up fresh lobster dishes daily. This is perfect for those who do not particularly enjoy loud festivities but still want to taste the amazing food! From grilled lobster tails to lobster ceviche, you’ll find a variety of mouth-watering options to indulge in. Don’t miss out on this culinary delight, as Belizean lobster is renowned for its flavor and freshness.
3. Experiencing Turtle Nesting Season
Photo by Ranguana Caye
August is also part of the turtle nesting season in Belize! Beaches along the coastline, especially in the south, become the stage for an incredible natural spectacle as baby turtles emerge from their nests and make their way to the sea. This not only offers a unique wildlife experience but an opportunity to join in on turtle conservation efforts. Watching these tiny turtles embark on their journey to the ocean is both heartwarming and inspiring.
4. August Birdwatching
Kayaking the Sittee River with Hamanasi. Photos courtesy of Property
Belize is a birdwatcher’s paradise year-round, but August offers particularly impressive scenery and active birdlife due to the rainy season. The country is home to over 500 bird species, including toucans, parrots, and the rare lovely cotinga. Places like Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary and the Cockscomb Basin Wildlife Sanctuary are ideal for birding tours. Armed with binoculars and a sense of adventure, you can explore these rich habitats and catch sight of colorful birds flitting through the canopy and along riverbanks. See if you can spot Belize’s national bird!
5. Enjoying Cultural Experiences
Courtesy of Government of Belize Press Office
Head to the southern part of Belize to witness the Maya Deer Dance, a traditional cultural celebration performed by the Maya community. This ancient dance, held in villages like San Antonio, is a vibrant expression of Maya heritage, featuring elaborate costumes, music, and storytelling. The Deer Dance showcases the relationship between the Mayas and their strong link to nature. The costumes are bright and attention-grabbing, with many signifying different animals that live in the forest. This dance tells the story of Europeans, the Maya, and animals interacting ages ago. All done, of course, to the beautiful tune of the marimba. Its wordless narrative recounts events in a way that leaves its audience on the edge of their seats. It is definitely a must-do when in Belize!
Where to Stay: Hamanasi Adventure Dive & Resort
Photo courtesy of property
Enjoy your August vacation in Belize with Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort. Located in Hopkins, Hamanasi is the ideal base for exploring the best that Belize has to offer. The resort is perfectly situated between the coastal forest and the pristine Caribbean Sea. Hamanasi makes planning your activities a breeze. Whether it’s organizing a manatee-watching tour, a birding expedition, or a cultural visit to see the Deer Dance, their knowledgeable staff can tailor experiences to suit your interests.
Kayaking the Sittee River with Hamanasi. Photos courtesy of Property
Plus, the resort boasts elegant beachfront rooms, private treehouses, and spacious suites that blend comfort with eco-friendly practices. Each accommodation is designed to provide stunning views and a tranquil retreat after a day of adventure.
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- Photo by Charles Slessar / Hamanasi
Belize in August is a blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and exciting experiences. Despite the occasional rain, there’s an abundance of activities that showcase the country’s diverse offerings. From manatee watching and savoring fresh lobster to witnessing turtle hatching and experiencing the Maya Deer Dance, Belize promises an unforgettable journey. And with a stay at Hamanasi Adventure & Dive Resort, you’ll have the perfect home base to explore and enjoy the best of Belize in August!
Featured Photo courtesy of Hamanasi Resort
