Every year on September 10th, Belizeans proudly celebrate the Battle of St. George’s Caye—a pivotal event that helped shape the nation’s history. For Casa Al Mar guests, the story holds special significance, as the battle unfolded just steps from the shores of our island home. Here’s a look back at the history of St. George’s Caye and why this date continues to hold meaning today.
St. George’s Caye: Belize’s First Capital
Before Belize City rose to prominence, St. George’s Caye was the country’s very first capital and the main settlement for the Baymen—European settlers who logged mahogany and lived along the coast. The island, located just a short boat ride from modern-day Belize City, was both a thriving community and a strategic outpost for trade and defense. By the late 1700s, however, tensions between the Baymen and the Spanish Crown began escalating. Spain claimed sovereignty over the territory (then called British Honduras), but they had made little effort to settle the land permanently. Instead, they periodically attempted to dislodge the Baymen from their settlements, leading to a series of skirmishes.
The Battle of St. George’s Caye
The most decisive conflict came in September 1798, when Spanish forces launched an attack to drive the settlers from the region once and for all. The Baymen stood their ground. The battle reached its peak between September 3rd and September 10th, 1798. The Spanish fleet engaged with the Baymen’s small group of settlers just off the coast of St. George’s Caye. Despite being outnumbered and facing a well-armed opponent, the Baymen and their supporters successfully repelled the Spanish.
The final confrontation on September 10th marked the end of Spain’s attempts to control Belize. From that day forward, the Baymen remained in the settlement, paving the way for Belize’s future as a British colony—and ultimately, an independent nation.
Today, St. George’s Caye Day is celebrated across Belize with parades, cultural events, and flag-raising ceremonies. For Belizeans, it’s a reminder of the importance of sovereignty, community, and shared identity.
Experiencing History at Casa Al Mar
When you stay at Casa Al Mar, you’re enjoying a private island retreat, but you’re also surrounded by history. St. George’s Caye is the birthplace of modern Belize. Guests can stand on the same shores where this decisive battle once took place, connect with the island’s legacy, and reflect on the story of resilience that continues to inspire Belize today.
This September, celebrate Belize’s history where it all began. Book your stay at Casa Al Mar and experience the beauty, culture, and legacy of St. George’s Caye firsthand.
