Why Belize Doesn’t Have Lemons — But Plenty of Limes
- Craig Densham
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Planning a trip to Belize and wondering why every cocktail, ceviche, or marinade comes with limes instead of lemons? You’re not imagining it — Belize has no real lemons, but it has limes everywhere. From beach bars in Placencia to local fruit stands, limes are the go-to citrus in Belizean cooking and culture.
Here’s why.
1. Lemons Don’t Grow Well in Belize’s Climate
Belize’s tropical climate is hot, humid, and rain-heavy, which is perfect for limes — but not so great for lemons.
Lemon trees prefer:
• Cooler subtropical climates
• Dry periods
• Lower humidity
• More temperature variation
Belize simply stays too warm and too humid year-round, making it difficult for lemons to thrive. Even when people try to grow them, the trees tend to struggle, produce poorly, or die off early.
2. Limes Love Belize’s Weather
On the other hand, lime trees are tough, heat-loving, and humidity-friendly, which makes them perfect for Belize.
Limes grow well because:
• They thrive in tropical heat
• They resist pests common to Central America
• They produce fruit almost year-round
• They adapt well to Belizean soil
This means local farmers and households plant limes everywhere, and they flourish naturally.
3. Belizean Cuisine Relies on Limes
Even if lemons grew easily here, Belizeans would still prefer limes. A few Belizean favorites where lime is essential:
• Fresh ceviche
• Rum cocktails
• Grilled seafood
• Stewed chicken
• Salsa and garnishes
• Street fruit vendors
Lime’s bright, sharp acidity pairs perfectly with Caribbean flavors, seafood, and spicy dishes. It’s simply part of the culinary culture.
4. Lemons Are Rarely Imported
You may occasionally find lemons in larger grocery stores — but it’s hit or miss.
Why? Because lemons are:
• More expensive to import
• Less in demand
• Easily replaced by limes
Most locals and restaurants don’t bother ordering lemons when fresh limes are abundant and cheaper.
5. Belizeans Call Green Citrus “Lemon”… Even When They’re Limes
A fun Belize fact: Ask for a “lemon,” and you might still get a lime. In Belizean Kriol, the word “lemon” is often used to describe limes, simply because lemons don’t exist here. So even the terminology confuses visitors!
6. Enjoy Fresh Belizean Limes at Ocean Breeze
At Ocean Breeze Beach Resort in Placencia, we use locally grown limes in:
Tropical cocktails at Toucan Jacks
Fresh ceviche
Fresh Salsa
Welcome drinks
So while Belize may not have lemons, you’ll enjoy some of the freshest, most flavorful limes in the Caribbean during your stay.
Conclusion
Belize doesn’t grow lemons because the climate is too warm and humid — but limes thrive effortlessly and are woven into the country’s cuisine, culture, and daily life. Whether you’re sipping a rum punch or enjoying fresh seafood by the beach, limes are simply part of the Belize experience.
And at Ocean Breeze, we’ll make sure you taste the very best of them.
About the Author
Craig Densham is the owner of Ocean Breeze Beach Resort, a boutique seaside resort in Placencia, Belize. With years of local experience and a passion for hospitality, Craig loves helping guests discover the best of Belize — from hidden beaches to authentic local cuisine. Follow Ocean Breeze Beach Resort on Facebook and Instagram for travel inspiration.
