Tobacco Caye Marine Station

Tobacco Caye Marine Station is a research facility on Tobacco Caye in Belize, equipped with laboratories, underwater gear, and specialized instruments for studying coral reef ecosystems. The installation provides extensive work areas and technical resources that allow researchers to investigate marine life directly in its natural setting.

The station was established in September 2008 and has since hosted thousands of international students while conducting extensive research programs. Since its opening, it has grown into a significant center for marine research in the region.

The station serves as a gathering place where students from Belize and around the world work together to study coral reefs and learn practical conservation methods. Visitors can observe how local and international teams collaborate daily to understand and protect the marine ecosystem.

The facility is best visited during daytime hours on weekdays when research activities are underway and visitors can observe ongoing work. Since the station sits on a small island, plan to arrive by water and consider tides and weather conditions for the journey.

Researchers monitor coral health through collaboration with the University of Queensland's Coral Watch Project while also documenting lionfish populations in the area. These combined monitoring programs offer rare insights into how reefs are changing and how invasive species affect the ecosystem.

Location: Stann Creek District

Address: Tobacco Caye Paradise, Dangriga, Belize

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 09:00-17:00; Saturday-Sunday 10:00-14:00

Phone: +5016209116

Email: info@tcmsbelize.org

Website: https://tcmsbelize.org

GPS coordinates: 16.89873,-88.06140

Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:09