Christmas in San Pedro: A Full-Day Holiday Itinerary

Spending Christmas in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye is nothing like a traditional cold-weather holiday—and that’s exactly what makes it special. Think warm turquoise water, palm trees decorated with lights, festive music drifting through town, and locals celebrating Christmas with a laid-back Caribbean spirit. If you’re planning a Belize holiday weekend in December, San Pedro offers the perfect mix of adventure, culture, relaxation, and holiday cheer.

This San Pedro Christmas itinerary walks you through a full Christmas Day—from a tropical morning on the water to a festive midday celebration and a memorable evening dinner—along with practical tips on where to stay and how to get around.

What Christmas Is Like in San Pedro, Belize

December is one of the best months to visit San Pedro. The weather is warm, dry, and sunny, with daytime temperatures hovering around the mid-80s°F (high-20s°C). The island is lively but not overwhelming, making San Pedro travel in December ideal for couples, families, and solo travelers alike.

Christmas in San Pedro blends traditional Belizean customs with island culture. Expect:

• Local music and church celebrations
• Community parades and street festivities
• Restaurants offering special Christmas menus
• Shops and hotels decorated with tropical holiday flair

Most tours and restaurants remain open on Christmas Day, though with reduced hours—so planning ahead is key.

Morning: Start Christmas Day on the Water

Early Morning Snorkeling Tour (8:00 AM – 11:30 AM)

There’s no better way to start Christmas morning than out on the Caribbean Sea. Many tour operators in San Pedro run Christmas morning snorkeling tours, especially to iconic sites like:

• Hol Chan Marine Reserve
• Shark Ray Alley

December offers excellent water visibility, calm seas, and comfortable temperatures. You’ll snorkel among colorful coral, tropical fish, rays, and nurse sharks—an unforgettable way to celebrate Christmas in Belize.

Why snorkel on Christmas?

• Smaller tour groups
• Calm, uncrowded waters
• Festive but relaxed atmosphere

👉 Tip: Book your tour at least a week in advance, as Christmas week is high season.

Alternative: Lagoon or Mangrove Wildlife Tour

If you prefer something slower-paced, a lagoon or mangrove tour is a wonderful alternative. These eco-friendly excursions focus on wildlife spotting—birds, rays, and sometimes manatees—while cruising through calm backwaters.

This option is especially popular for:

• Families with young kids
• Nature lovers
• Travelers seeking a peaceful Christmas morning

Late Morning: Beach Time & Christmas Brunch

Beach Relaxation (11:45 AM – 1:00 PM)

After your tour, take some time to unwind. Head to:

• Central San Pedro Beach for convenience
• Secret Beach if you want shallow water, loungers, and a lively daytime vibe

Christmas Day in San Pedro feels festive but unhurried—perfect for sunbathing or swimming before midday events.

Christmas Brunch by the Sea

Several cafés and beachfront restaurants stay open for brunch on December 25. Expect:

• Fresh fruit
• Belizean breakfast favorites
• Seafood dishes
• Holiday drink specials

Because hours may be limited, it’s best to check ahead or make reservations.

Midday: Christmas Parade & Local Markets

San Pedro Christmas Parade & Community Festivities (1:30 PM – 3:30 PM)

One of the highlights of any San Pedro Christmas itinerary is the local Christmas parade. While smaller than city parades, it’s full of charm and community spirit.

What you’ll see:

• Decorated vehicles and floats
• School groups and dancers
• Local musicians
• Families lining the streets

Following the parade, you’ll often find pop-up stalls, food vendors, and small Christmas markets selling:

• Handmade crafts
• Local snacks
• Holiday treats

This is a great chance to interact with locals and experience Christmas in Belize from a cultural perspective.

Lunch: Christmas Day Dining in San Pedro

Where to Eat Lunch (3:30 PM – 4:30 PM)

Many restaurants in San Pedro offer special Christmas lunch menus, blending Belizean and international flavors. Common dishes include:

• Stewed chicken or turkey
• Rice and beans
• Fresh seafood
• Coconut-based sides

Expect a relaxed dining experience—Christmas in San Pedro isn’t rushed, and meals are meant to be enjoyed slowly.

👉 Tip: Reservations are strongly recommended for Christmas Day dining.

Afternoon: Relax, Explore, or Cruise into Sunset

Easy Afternoon Exploration (4:30 PM – 6:00 PM)

After lunch, keep things light:

• Walk through town to see Christmas decorations
• Browse local souvenir shops
• Enjoy a cold drink at a beach bar

Alternatively, consider a Christmas sunset cruise. These short boat trips offer:

• Scenic views of Ambergris Caye
• Holiday drinks
• Calm waters and stunning colors

Sunsets in December are particularly beautiful, making this a memorable pre-dinner experience.

Evening: Christmas Dinner in San Pedro

Festive Christmas Dinner (7:00 PM – 9:00 PM)

Christmas dinner is the grand finale of your day. San Pedro offers everything from casual beachfront dining to elegant holiday feasts.

Popular options include:

• Beachfront restaurants with candlelit tables
• Boutique hotels offering prix-fixe Christmas menus
• Fine-dining spots with seafood and holiday specials

You’ll often find a mix of:

• Belizean Christmas flavors
• Caribbean seafood
• International holiday classics

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or group, San Pedro has dining options to match the mood.

Where to Stay for Christmas in San Pedro

December is peak season, so accommodations fill quickly. Options include:

• Beachfront Resorts – Perfect for travelers wanting holiday comfort, ocean views, and on-site dining
• Boutique Hotels in Town – Ideal for walkability and easy access to parades, shops, and restaurants
• Vacation Rentals – Great for families or longer stays, offering kitchens and extra space

👉 Tip: Book accommodations at least 2–3 months in advance for Christmas travel.

Getting Around San Pedro During the Holidays

Getting around San Pedro is simple—even on Christmas Day.

• Golf carts are the most popular option
• Walking works well in central San Pedro
• Water taxis operate on limited schedules

Golf carts should be reserved early during the Christmas season.

Practical Tips for Christmas Travel in San Pedro

• Pack light clothing, swimwear, and reef-safe sunscreen
• Bring a light cover-up for evenings
• Carry some cash for small vendors
• Expect slightly higher prices during Christmas week
• Respect local traditions and church services

Final Thoughts

Absolutely. If you want a warm, festive, and unforgettable holiday, Christmas in San Pedro delivers. From snorkeling on Christmas morning to parades, local culture, and beachfront dinners, this Belize holiday weekend offers something truly special.

Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, celebrating Christmas island-style in San Pedro is an experience you’ll never forget.