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Things to Do in Belize City

Things to Do in Belize City

Belize City Belize Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Most outdoor adventures depart from Belize City for areas away from the coast or nearby cayes.

Water & Land Adventures

Boat Tours & Fishing

The main water activity from Belize City comprises boat tours to nearby cayes (Caye Caulker, Ambergris Caye) and the Belize Barrier Reef. Tours leaving from the Marine Terminal offer snorkeling, diving, and fishing. Deep-sea or reef fishing charters are available.

Kayaking/Paddleboarding

These activities are available for rent on the cayes, where the seas are calmer. Not typically practiced within A Caribbean port city due to boat traffic.

Hiking & Mountain Biking

No significant hiking or trekking routes within Belize City. These activities occur in inland areas like the Cayo District or national parks. Safe cycling routes within Belize City are limited.

Adrenaline & Wildlife Encounters

  • Cave Tubing: Float via ancient cave systems on inner tubes, exploring underground rivers and Mayan ceremonial sites (e.g., Jaguar Paw).
  • Zip-lining: Experience the jungle canopy from above. Frequently paired with cave tubing tours.
  • Rappelling: Some tours offer chances for rappelling down waterfalls or into cave entrances.
  • Belize Zoo: About one hour west of Belize City. See native animals like jaguars, tapirs, and monkeys in natural enclosures. Highly recommended day trip. Book tours to Belize Zoo on GetYourGuide.

Birdwatching

  • Day trips to Crooked Tree Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • North of the city, an internationally recognized Ramsar site.
  • Known for extensive birdlife, especially when it's not rainy.

Manatee Tours

  • Some boat tours from A Caribbean port city offer encounters.
  • Chance to spot manatees in coastal areas or lagoons.
  • A soft wildlife interaction.

Diving & Snorkeling

  • World-class experiences on the Belize Barrier Reef.
  • Tours start from Marine Terminal.
  • Explore marine life.
  • Suitable for various skill levels.

Important Note for Outdoor Activities

Most significant outdoor adventures like hiking, caving, or extensive water sports are outside Belize City proper and generally require day trips that are organized or longer excursions.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Belizean its culture through a range of experiences and events.

Workshops & Performances

  • Workshops & Classes (Art, Craft, Music, Dance): Formal tourist-oriented workshops are limited in Belize City (more so in Hopkins for Garifuna drumming).
  • Cultural Performances & Traditional Ceremonies: Bliss Center for the Live Performance hosts traditional dance or music performances.
  • Local Events: Watch for church events, community gatherings, or national holiday celebrations that feature traditional elements.
  • Community-Based Tourism: More prevalent in rural villages than Belize City itself (e.g., Community Baboon Sanctuary).

Language & Festivals

Language Learning

English is the official language. Belizean Kriol and The spanish language are also spoken. Formal language schools for short-term guests are rcan be found in the city.

Cultural Festivals & Events

September Celebrations: The entire month of September is dedicated to celebrations leading up to St. George's Caye Day (Sept 10) and National Day of independence (Sept 21).

Local Celebrations

The Old capital of belize hosts parades, concerts, and cultural events during September. Other federal holidays will also have smaller area festivities.

Language Dive

Although English is official, learning a few phrases in Kriol or Spanish improves interactions.

National Pride

Taking part during The month of september Celebrations displays the national spirit.

Supporting Communities

Engage with community tourism initiatives outside the metropolis for direct the impact on the local area.

Relaxation & Wellness

Relaxation and health and wellness choices in The Gateway to the cayes are mainly limited to hotel facilities.

Spa & Natural Options

  • Spa & Wellness Centers: Options are limited compared to dedicated resort towns. Some larger hotels like Radisson Fort George may offer basic spa services.
  • Hot Springs & Natural Therapy: No prominent hot springs directly in Belize City. Natural geothermal springs are in more remote, interior regions.
  • Yoga & Meditation Retreats: Not typically found in Belize City. More common in secluded jungle resorts or on calmer cayes.
  • Traditional Healing Practices: These are frequently private practices rooted in local traditions.

Beach & Pool Access

City Beaches

Belize City has no open-access shores or prominent beach clubs for tourists. Its coastline is primarily a functioning port.

Hotel Pools

Some hotels have pools for their guests, offering a place to relax and cool off.

Cayes for Beaches

For the best beach and pool club experiences, visit nearby islands like A Small limestone coral island off the coast of belize or Ambergris Caye.

Maximizing Your Relaxation

Hotel Amenities

Check if your hotel offers a pool or any spa services for on-site relaxation.

Island Escape

Plan a day trip or overnight stay on a Caye for pristine beaches and smoother seas.

Inland Retreats

Consider jungle lodges for yoga and meditation experiences in a natural setting.

Entertainment & Nightlife

The Old capital of belize has a modest evening entertainment, mainly centered around a few venues.

Live Music & Performances

  • Live Music Venues: Riverside Tavern sometimes hosts local bands, especially on weekends. Princess Casino frequently has live music. Bird's Isle may also have live music on weekends.
  • Stages AND Auditoriums: Bliss Hub for the Live Performance is the main venue for theater, dance, and musical performances. Check their schedule for local and international acts.
  • Check local listings for specific schedules of events during your visit.
  • Consider experiencing Belizean artistic expression at the Bliss Centre.

Nightclubs & Late-Night Options

Nightclubs & Dancing

Princess Casino has a nightclub that draws a crowd, notably on weekends. Smaller local bars and nightspots exist, but wariness is advisable outside main tourist areas.

Bar Districts

The Old capital of belize does not have a defined "bar district" for tourists. Bars are spread out. Organized pub crawls are not a common visitor activity.

Late-Night Entertainment

Limited options, mainly Princess Casino and some local bars. Most other businesses close by late evening. Use licensed taxis for transportation late at night.

Hotel Entertainment

Certain large hotels provide on-site entertainment for guests.

Street Vibrancy

During public holidays, the city gets busy with parades and public events.

Safe Transport

Always use licensed taxis for safe transport after dark.

Planning Your Evening

Evening Activity
  • Consider a casual evening at Riverside Tavern for the riverside views and possible live music.
  • Explore the entertainment options at Princess Casino, including its nightclub.
  • Check the Bliss Centre for stage arts schedule for heritage performances.
Safety Awareness
  • Exercise caution when exploring local bars, especially outside tourist areas.
  • Always choose licensed taxis for late-night transportation.
  • Inquire with your accommodation for recommendations on reputable establishments.

Enjoying Your Evenings

Belize City's nightlife, though modest, has a selection of venues for an enjoyable evening. Prioritize safety and local recommendations for a pleasant experience.

Shopping & Markets

Market & Craft Finds

  • Traditional Markets: Belize City Market near Haulover Creek. A bustling, authentic experience for fresh produce, meats, household goods.
  • Craft Goods markets: Small stalls, especially near Fort Street Tourism Village, sell local crafts, souvenirs, and handmade items.
  • Artisan Workshops: Local artisans produce wood carvings, textiles, natural material jewelry, and pottery.
  • Luxury Shopping: Very limited. Shopping primarily serves utilitarian purposes or focuses on souvenirs and local goods.

Souvenirs & Ethical Guidelines

  • Souvenir Recommendations: Wood Carvings (local hardwoods), Marie Sharp's Hot Sauce (internationally famous), Local Rum, Chocolate (from cacao-producing country).
  • Ethical Shopping Guidelines: Support local artisans directly. Choose sustainable materials. Avoid illegal items (endangered species, protected resources).
  • Reasonable Prices: Pay the asking price, especially from artisans. Aggressive haggling is not customary.
  • Shipping & Customs: Verify your country of origin's customs regulations. International shipping services are obtainable but can be expensive. For smaller items, carrying in luggage is simpler.