Gales Point Village in the Belize District

April 13, 2024
by Belize Hub +

Easily visible on a map as a long finger stretching out from the mainland, Gales Point Village is one of the most beautiful spots in Belize. The local Creole villagers in Gales Point are the guardians for the protected feeding and nesting grounds of two of Belize’s most endangered animals: the Caribbean Manatee and the Hawksbill Turtle.

Why You Have to Visit Gales Point Village On Your Vacation

Originally an outpost for hardwood loggers during the colonial era, today the village is home to fishermen who make their living from the nearby lagoons that are home to an astonishingly vibrant ecosystem. Many villagers are focused on protecting the lagoons and their playful inhabitants, the Indian or Caribbean manatee as well as the sandy beaches where the large sea turtles lay their eggs.

Visitors to Gales Point can stay in eco-friendly lodges and take guided tours to the surrounding waterways to catch a glimpse of manatees at play or crocodiles basking in the sun. Another popular attraction is Ben Loman’s Cave on the northwest part of the Southern Lagoon where amateur spelunkers can enjoy exploring curiously-shaped stalagmites and stalactites.

Gales Point Manatee or Malanti is the local name for the village

Where in Belize Is Gales Point Village Located?

Gales Point is in Belize District just a short drive from Belize City. The village itself is located on a long, narrow peninsula that extends two miles into the Southern Lagoon.

When Is the Best Time to Visit Gales Point Village Belize

As long as the weather makes getting in and out of the village passable, almost any time of year is a good time to visit Gales Point. The highlight of the year is when large sea turtles use protected beaches to lay their eggs. Guided tours to see the wildlife in the area, including crocodiles and manatees, can be taken at just about any time of year.

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Best Way to Get to Gales Point Village Belize

The easiest way to get to Gales Point is by private boat taxi from Belize City.

A road connects the Coastal Road with the village of Gales Point but it is often in a poor state of repair so only a well-equipped off-road vehicle is recommended.

Best Way to Experience Gales Point Village Belize

Manatee and turtle watching are the primary reasons that most visitors go to Gales Point. Manatees can usually be spotted year-round as they play and frolic in the waters near the village. Enormous numbers of Hawksbill and Loggerhead turtles lay their eggs at nesting beaches near the village once a year. Once you’ve explored nature’s offerings, relax with a drink at the village’s only bar and then sign up for a course at the Creole Drumming School.