To Belize in the off-season with Alaska Airlines

International

Why this is the best choice explains Ali Wunderman

There’s a version of Belize that most travellers never see simply because they’ve been told to wait. Wait for the so-called “dry season.” Wait for peak travel windows. But if you wait, you might miss something special: Belize stripped of its crowds, softened by afternoon rain showers, and even more alive with festivals and cultural events.

After all, there’s a reason why Alaska Airlines continues flying during what Belize calls its “green season” — because if you’re willing to put up with the occasional rain shower, you’ll get to experience facets of the jewel in the crown of Central America in a whole new light.

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 travelled 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 favourite 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.”

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.

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, travellers 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 can earn points on qualifying Alaska Vacations bookings and unlock exclusive savings and travel perks. Book now to start earning more on your next trip.)

Picture Credit: 2026 Alaska Airlines, Inc