About St. George’s Caye
When the area known as Belize was first settled, the early inhabitants chose St. George’s Caye as its capital in the 1700’s. St. George’s Caye played a crucial role in the early settlement of modern day Belize. A national holiday is celebrated each year in remembrance of the Battle of St. George’s Caye which occurred on September 10th, 1798. You can find a canon monument that still remains on the island in honor of this battle. This was a turning point for the early settlement that became Belize and the reason why English is the official language. In 2009, the island and its surroundings was designated a National Historical Landmark.
Over the years, St. George’s Caye has kept its authenticity and charm of what’s considered true island living. The island consists mostly of private homes whose owners make the island the weekend escape. Minimalist, but providing everything a dream vacation needs. Located 9 miles from Belize, a short 20-minute boat ride from Belize City getting to the island is easier than ever. Traveling by boat is the only way to get to the island.
It’s a special place where time seemingly stands still. Daily living is basic, relaxing and very rewarding. Sleep late, go fishing or diving or snorkeling or kayaking, or read a book in your balcony’s hammock. Fry up some fish or lobster or conch, then take a nap. In the afternoon go for a walk or swim, or visit the Sand Bar, St. George’s Caye’s swimming pool in the Caribbean Sea.
This island is very different than Caye Caulker or San Pedro – we are on a much slower pace. There are no restaurants, no grocery shops and only one resort on the entire island. Good cell phone service requires you to find the right spot on the highest veranda or back pier, but internet is available via wifi if you chose to work in paradise!
This island is an off the beaten path in the middle of paradise and if these are things you seek on your next vacation, then you should visit St. George’s Caye.
The island is classified as a village and is governed by St. George’s Caye Village Council which seeks to preserve this special place for generations to come and keeps St. George’s Caye a relic from Belize’s historical past.
Getting There
One of the best things about St. George’s Caye is how easy and quick it is to get to. It’s close proximity to Belize City, home of Belize’s International airport means once you leave the airport, you are a 20-minute car ride to the departure dock and a short ride to island paradise. Casa Al Mar will provide both airport pick-up, transfer you to the departure dock and your private boat will be waiting to take you a short ride to the island. There is no airstrip or helipads on the island, so the only way to get there is by boat.