St. George's Caye Travel Guide

Plan your trip to St. George's Caye in Belize with this comprehensive travel guide featuring must-visit attractions, best time to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and more.


Introduction to St. George’s Caye

St. George’s Caye, located in Belize District, Belize, is a small island that played a significant role in the country’s history. It was here that the Battle of St. George’s Caye took place in 1798, where a small group of British settlers successfully defended Belize against a Spanish invasion.

Today, St. George’s Caye is a popular tourist destination thanks to its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich history. It’s the perfect place for travelers looking to relax and soak up the sun, as well as for history buffs interested in learning more about Belize’s past.

List of Places to Visit in St. George’s Caye

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The St. George’s Caye Museum and Welcome Center is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the island’s history.
  • The Old Governor’s House is another popular attraction. Built in the early 1800s, it was used by the British government during their control of Belize.

Natural Attractions of St. George’s Caye: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The Great Barrier Reef is just a short boat ride away from St. George’s Caye, and snorkeling and diving trips are available for those looking to explore its vibrant marine life.
  • Fishing is also a popular activity on the island, with a variety of fish species available to catch.
  • For those looking to relax on the beach, the island has several pristine beaches to choose from, including Waterfoot Beach and Southwest Caye Beach.

Hiking/Biking Routes of St. George’s Caye

  • The island is small, and there are no designated hiking or biking trails. Visitors can explore the island on foot or bike and take in the scenic views.

Best Things to Do in St. George’s Caye: Activities and Tours

  • Snorkeling and diving tours to the Great Barrier Reef
  • Fishing trips
  • Beach hopping and lounge on the pristine beaches

Week-Long Itinerary for St. George’s Caye

Day Activity
1 Arrival and check-in
2 Historical Tour of the island including the St. George’s Caye Museum and The Old Governor’s House
3 Snorkeling or diving trip to the Great Barrier Reef
4 Relax on the beach
5 Fishing trip
6 Beach hopping and lounge on the pristine beaches
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of St. George’s Caye

Must-Try Dishes

  • Rice and beans with stewed chicken or fish
  • Conch fritters
  • Lobster tail served with garlic butter sauce

Local Beverages

  • Belikin Beer
  • Rum punch
  • Coconut water

Where to Stay in St. George’s Caye: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • St. George’s Caye Resort
  • Blue Marlin Beach Resort
  • St. George’s Lodge
  • The Club at St. George’s Caye

What to Buy in St. George’s Caye: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Local artwork
  • Handmade jewelry
  • Belizean hot sauce

Local Culture and Customs of St. George’s Caye

  • English is the official language of Belize, and it is widely spoken on the island.
  • The island’s population is primarily Creole, a mix of African, European, and Indigenous heritage.
  • Belizeans are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors.

Best Time to Visit St. George’s Caye

The best time to visit St. George’s Caye is from December to April when the weather is dry and sunny. However, if you’re looking to avoid the crowds, visiting during the offseason months of May to November may be a better option.

Do’s and Don’ts of St. George’s Caye

Do:

  • Respect the locals and their customs.
  • Wear sunscreen and mosquito repellent.
  • Carry cash as some places may not accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Leave valuables unattended on the beach.
  • Litter or damage the natural environment.
  • Insult or mock local customs or traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in St. George’s Caye

St. George’s Caye is a safe destination for travelers, but it’s always wise to take the necessary precautions to avoid any risks or inconvenience. Visitors should keep their valuables safe and avoid walking alone or in unfamiliar areas at night.

Health in St. George’s Caye

  • Malaria and dengue fever are present in Belize, so visitors should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.
  • The tap water on the island is not potable, and it’s recommended to drink bottled water instead.

Getting to St. George’s Caye: Transportation Options and Logistics

  • The Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City is the nearest airport to St. George’s Caye, and it’s approximately a 35-minute boat ride from the airport.
  • Private charter flights are also available from Belize City’s municipal airport.
  • Water taxis are available for visitors staying on the island or in Belize City.

Airports Near St. George’s Caye

  • The Philip S.W. Goldson International Airport in Belize City

Bus Stations Near St. George’s Caye

  • There are no bus stations on the island

Other Options

  • Private charters

How to Get Around in St. George’s Caye

The island is small and walkable. Visitors can also rent bikes to explore the island at their own pace.

Where to Go Next from St. George’s Caye: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Belize City
  • San Ignacio
  • Placencia

Conclusion

St. George’s Caye offers a perfect combination of rich history, scenic views, and outdoor adventures, making it an ideal destination for travelers looking for an authentic Belizean vacation.