St. George's Caye

Island Small cay off Belize coast, site of colonial history

St. George’s Caye, a small Belizean island, marks the site of the 1798 battle anniversary; tourists take day trips from Belize City for snorkeling, fishing and a brief dose of colonial-era history.

St. George’s Caye is a small cay in Belize District, located off the northeast coast of Belize and notable as the site of the 1798 Battle of St. George’s Caye.

The cay is a low-lying island used primarily for day trips and short-stay tourism. Operators bring visitors for snorkeling and sport fishing on the surrounding shallow reefs, and a small number of private and tourist accommodations operate on the island.

The Battle of St. George’s Caye took place on 10 September 1798, when local British settlers and their allies defeated a Spanish expedition; the event is commemorated annually in Belize.

The cay sits in the Caribbean Sea roughly 15 km (9 miles) northeast of Belize City and is reached by a short boat trip from the mainland.

St. George's Caye Day: 10 September is observed as a national commemorative day marking the 1798 battle fought near the cay.
Access and activities: Most visitors reach the cay by boat from Belize City; day trips commonly include snorkeling and light sport fishing around nearby reefs.

How to Get to St. George's Caye #

Most visitors leave from Belize City’s marinas (the Water Taxi Terminal at Haulover Creek or nearby private operators). Boats take roughly 20-40 minutes depending on vessel and sea state. Private charters and dive operators run day trips that combine transit with snorkeling along the reef.

Tips for Visiting St. George's Caye #

Book a berth on a reputable boat from Belize City (Marina or Water Taxi docks) rather than trusting random launches-crossings take ~20-40 minutes depending on sea conditions.
If visiting on September 10, expect loud music, re-enactments and crowds for St. George's Caye Day; arrive early and bring shade.
Snorkel off the leeward side where the reef comes closest; wear reef-safe sunscreen and a swim shirt-the coral beds are shallow and fragile.
There are no full-service shops on the cay; bring snacks, water, and cash for small vendors or tours.