Why Belize in the off-season is the best-kept secret in the Caribbean

Getting to Belize with Alaska Airlines and Atmos™ Rewards

I've been visiting Belize several times a year for a decade. I've written two guidebooks to the small country, penned countless travel articles; in that time, I have traveled to Belize through just about every route and medium possible - including an overnight bus from Guatemala City.

But flying to Belize from Los Angeles on Alaska Airlines is far and away my favorite route, which is why I chose this option for my most recent off-season visit. The more direct approach from California helped, but the seamless experiences I got through my Atmos Gold status sealed the deal: the relaxing lounge at Los Angeles International Airport, an upgraded seat and easy onboarding using the Alaska Hawaiian mobile app. Plus, it was nice to spread out as I enjoyed a chicken and noodle dish that tasted as if I had been dining in a restaurant. By the time we touched down, I felt genuinely rested.

Flying Alaska Airlines with Atmos Rewards status is the ideal way to kick off any vacation, but especially a destination where the unique confluence of Caribbean and Central American culture invites visitors to "go slow."

The case for going to Belize in the off-season

It's true that Belize's off-season (roughly May through November) is technically the rainy season; it is also warmer on average. But here's the thing - Belize is a subtropical country, which means the weather is gloriously unpredictable, regardless of the time of year. Storms roll in and move on. Rain comes in bursts, as does the sun.

What you gain in exchange for a little weather uncertainty is significant. Rates at hotels and resorts drop considerably, and the most popular spots, which can feel overrun in January, offer more breathing room.

Certain experiences only exist in the off-season. For example, I've planned trips around summer-ripened mangos alone. In July, the Belize Lobster Fest has become a countrywide phenomenon as lobster is finally allowed to be caught and eaten. In September, Belize puts on huge celebrations for its independence, the Battle of St. George's Caye, and Carnival.

There's something in Belize for every traveler

Belize stands out as a destination for its world-class diving and Caribbean experiences, lush jungles brimming with wildlife and ancient Maya ruins, and the many cultures that call the country of 430,000 home. Because Belize is small, travelers can make the most of what's on offer even when time is limited.

For this trip, I booked my entire package via Atmos Rewards and Alaska Vacations: I rented a car at the airport with Avis to drive down the new Coastal Highway and stayed at the beachfront Itz'Ana Resort on the Placencia peninsula. The ease of flying to Belize with Alaska persisted off the plane: I've never spent less time in a car rental office.

(Editor's note: Atmos Rewards members booking with Alaska Vacations earn one point per $1 when booking qualifying prepaid stays and vacation packages. Even better, members earn three points per $1 spent when using an eligible Atmos™ Rewards Visa^® card or Hawaiian Airlines^® World Elite Mastercard^®. Members also enjoy exclusive discounts and premium perks. For example, Atmos Gold, Platinum and Titanium perks include free breakfast or complimentary parking, plus room upgrades, early check-in and late check-out when available at participating locations.)

My lessons learned from 10 years of Belize travel

I recommend the same approach for first-time travelers and repeat guests: spend time on the coast and in the jungle, and wherever you go, lean into the local culture, which lends itself to warm, helpful, and playful hospitality. Part of Belize's beauty is in the ability to connect directly with the people who live there.

First-timers tend towards the coast, usually Ambergris Caye, but I prefer Placencia. It offers easy access to both ocean and jungle, with a local atmosphere that rewards wandering, and a pastel shack-lined boardwalk that feels like a movie set.

If you have the time (at least a week), arrange to split it between there and San Ignacio. Many hotels have sister properties: Placencia's Itz'Ana has Ka'Ana in San Ignacio. Francis Ford Coppola's Turtle Inn has Blancaneaux in the Mountain Pine Ridge. They will help arrange your travel between both places.

For seasoned travelers, pause in the in-between places. Stay at Sleeping Giant Lodge on the Hummingbird Highway to ride horses and take a traditional Maya cooking class. Immerse yourself in Garifuna culture by visiting Hopkins, where bioluminescent lagoon tours and drums that sound like the heartbeat of Belize await.