Events, Season Closure and February Weather on Ambergris Caye

For all you travelers who are ready to descend on Ambergris Caye, Belize in the month of February the
daily temperature is about 28°C or 82°F with evening lows of 20°C or 68°F

While the humidity is close to 70%, February temperatures are still subject to northern cold fronts – as was the case for late January 2018 when temps got as low as 14°C (57°F) one night. Many on the island were bundled up in socks, sweaters and hats.

Wet weather is in the forecast and even though it may look like you are going to get rained out on your Belize vacation, hopefully, it will ease up a bit on waterworks. All day downpours are generally rare however, we were faced with a few in January. I saw lots of golf cart raincoats this past week. For the most part, we get our rain during the night, early morning or sometimes a quick afternoon shower.

Now for the most important question, many of you who are coming from the cold want to know. Are water activities are still an option? During the month of February, the water temperature is around 26°C or 79°F but can feel chillier because of cool air especially with north winds.

Personally, I find it too cold to swim this time of year. When I came on my one vacation before moving here, it was a different story. I was all too happy to have bailed on Canadian winter, to be floating in the sea and dock snorkeling at Ramon’s pier. I do have friends with dogs and kids that are acclimatized and still swim at this time of year.

A last-minute add-on for January

I found a full moon party on Facebook this morning and thought it warranted getting mentioned. Although the total lunar eclipse (when the Moon passes through earth’s shadow) and the Super Moon (time it is the closest to earth in it’s orbit and therefore looks bigger) happened this morning at around 7:30, there is another notable lunar phenomenon happening tonight as well. It will a Blue Moon, which is the second full Moon of a month – the first one was on January 1st. This astronomical trifecta is worth celebrating at the beach. Heres hoping we have clear skies and a gorgeous moon rise.

January 31 – Amber Beach Bar & Grill is hosting a Super Moon Karaoke Competition on the beach. The fun will start at 9:00 PM. There will be prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place vocal talent and free drinks for those participating in case you need a shot of courage 😉 If the rain holds off,  there will be a bonfire. Enjoying a full moon on the beach is always a great experience.

February Events

A main annual February event is the coming of 2018 lobster season closure so that the ocean can replenish itself naturally. In Belize, lobster season closes annually as of 12:00 AM February 14th and re-opens at 12:01 AM on June 15th. The kick-off of San Pedro Lobster Festival usually beginning the evening of June 15th.

A few upscale places have been granted special permits to sell lobster off-season but it has to be freshly frozen.

If you happen to be out with a fishing guide and they are catching lobster off-season (it happens sometimes) please ask questions and speak up it is important for the environment to give the lobsters a chance to breed and grow. Some people do not fully understand that a short-term gain in this respect can be a long-term loss for everyone – that is how species become endangered.

For more information on Belize marine seasons, click through to Seafood Guide for Fishing in Belize.

Aside from gorging on lobster if you make it to the island in the first half of the month, there is no shortage of fun in February.

February 2nd – Annual Groundhog Day Boat Bar Crawl
This already sold-out adventure starts at Palapa Bar and Grill – be there by 11:15 AM, the boat departs at 11:30 AM. First stop is Portofino Beach Resort, then Mama Caribe Bar at Captain Morgan’s Retreat, followed by Dive Bar, and finishes Palapa.

NOTE: Even though butts went in seats fast, you may still score one – my friend Aimee did because my other friend Jack had to drop out. To get on waiting list message Jodie through Palapa Bar Belize Facebook page. If you are looking to get on last minute it could not hurt to stop by that morning at arrival time and see if you get lucky enough to be a last minute seat fiiller. 😀

February 2nd – Girls Night
Science and Soul Wellness at Mahogany Bay; 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Join Christine Sheffield, renowned bridal makeup artist and beauty instructor will share her incredible tips and experience. Giving you a style makeover by reshaping your make-up skills and confidence. Cost is $80 BZD and you can register on-line at the Balance Spa Belize. Proceeds to be donated to SAGA Humane Society.

February 8th – Rocky Horror Picture Show and Contest
Amber Beach Bar & Grill at Caribbean Villas Hotel will be host to this unusual island event. Enjoy the classic musical comedy horror film – on the beach. There will be prizes for the best costumes and a special “horror” drink. The fun begins at 9:00 PM and goes right until closing at midnight. If you decide to enter, don’t forget to bring toast 😀

Regular Weekly Events

In addition to the list above here are a few fun ongoing weekly events to help you round out your vacation. Bold blue links go to their Facebook pages. They all have several events on different days of the week but here are some favorites for both locals and travelers.

Crazy Canucks Hermit Crab Races – Tuesday nights from 6:30 PM; Live music with Daryl as well.

Truck Stop Movie Night – Movies are usually posted about a week in advance.
Wednesday’s at 7:00 PM and Friday’s at 6:30 PM

Palapa Bar Live Music – Tuesday; Tres Amigos 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM. This one starts right in the middle of happy hour; 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM. Thursday Nights; 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM and Saturday afternoon 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM with Dennis, Derrick and William.

Legends Road House – Tuesday night Jam, every Tuesday at 7:00 PM. Cold beer, tasty food and great music by Jane & Bruce with David on drums. Many other great island musicians join in weekly. It’s a great place to let loose on the dance floor.

Mainland Events

Even though I live on Ambergris Caye, I still like to promote mainland events occasionally. Here are a couple of great ones coming up in February.

February 14th – Love Your Wetlands Presentation
Join Dr. Ed Boles will talk on the Crooked Tree Wetlands. This event is hosted in partnership with Belize Audubon Society and the University of Belize Natural Resource Management Program.

February 17th & 18th – Chiquibul Challenge Marathon – CCM 2018
Run or walk a half marathon (21km) or go for the full distance (42km) in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.