Things to Do at Baron Bliss Lighthouse

Complete Guide to Baron Bliss Lighthouse in Belize City

About Baron Bliss Lighthouse

Baron Bliss Lighthouse stands as one of Belize City's most iconic landmarks, perched at the entrance of Belize Harbor on Fort George Point. Built in 1885, this historic lighthouse was named after Baron Henry Edward Ernest Victor Bliss, a British nobleman who became Belize's greatest benefactor despite never setting foot on land. The Baron fell in love with Belize and its people while anchored in the harbor aboard his yacht, and upon his death in 1926, he left the majority of his estate to the country. The lighthouse serves both as a navigational aid for vessels entering the harbor and as a monument to Baron Bliss's extraordinary generosity. His tomb lies at the base of the lighthouse, marked by a granite tombstone, making this site both a functional maritime structure and a revered memorial. The area around the lighthouse has been developed into a small park where locals and visitors gather, especially during the annual Baron Bliss Day celebrations on March 9th.

What to See & Do

Historic Lighthouse Structure

Admire the classic white lighthouse architecture and learn about its maritime significance since 1885

Baron Bliss Tomb

Pay respects at the granite tomb of Belize's greatest benefactor located at the lighthouse base

Harbor Views

Enjoy panoramic views of Belize Harbor, the Caribbean Sea, and incoming boats and ships

Fort George Point

Explore the historic point where the lighthouse stands, offering scenic waterfront walks

Memorial Plaques

Read historical information about Baron Bliss and his contributions to Belize's development

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Open 24/7 for exterior viewing; interior access may be limited

Tickets & Pricing

Free admission to the grounds and exterior viewing areas

Best Time to Visit

Early morning or late afternoon for best lighting and cooler temperatures; March 9th for Baron Bliss Day celebrations

Suggested Duration

30-45 minutes for a leisurely visit

Getting There

Baron Bliss Lighthouse is located on Fort George Point in Belize City, easily accessible by taxi, rental car, or on foot if staying in the Fort George area. From downtown Belize City, it's about a 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk along Marine Parade Boulevard. The lighthouse is well-signposted and visible from various points around the harbor. Public buses and water taxis also provide access to the general Fort George area.

Things to Do Nearby

Museum of Belize
Former colonial prison turned museum showcasing Belizean history and Maya artifacts
Belize City Swing Bridge
Historic manually operated swing bridge and bustling center of local commerce
St. John's Cathedral
Oldest Anglican cathedral in Central America, built with ballast bricks from British ships
Fort George Lighthouse
Another historic lighthouse offering additional harbor views and maritime history
Marine Terminal
Departure point for water taxis to the cayes and islands

Tips & Advice

Visit during Baron Bliss Day (March 9th) for special celebrations and cultural events
Bring a camera for stunning harbor and sea views, especially during golden hour
Combine your visit with a walk along Marine Parade Boulevard for additional sightseeing
Be respectful when visiting the tomb area as it's considered a sacred memorial site

Tours & Activities at Baron Bliss Lighthouse