roatan honduras tourist guide

Roatán Travel Guide: Best Things to Do, Where to Stay, Eat, Drink

At least one island vacation is on everybody’s before I die bucket list . It’s the go-to destination for unwinding, soaking in the sun rays and reclaiming “me time”. The curving 50km long and only 4km wide, Roatán is a diving, snorkeling, and fishing utopia. Fringed by an exceptionally diverse coral reef brimming with an abundance of tropical creatures, Roatán is the island destination of a lifetime.

On land, it’s equally intoxicating with mountainous geography full of pine-forested hills, powder white sands, and the undisturbed natural countryside of the East End. As the largest of the Bay Islands of Honduras, wedged in between the Utila and Guanaja Islands, Roatan is the ideal location for quiet mornings, jam-packed afternoons, and romantic evening strolls along the beachfronts.

We have put together the ultimate Roatan travel guide filled with everything you must know for your bucket list getaway.

Ultimate Roatan Honduras Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

The Best Time To Travel To Roatán

Our Roatan travel guide starts off with the practicals. Roatán is visited all-year round by sun worshippers, but the rainy season lasts roughly between October and December. For the ideal weather – of warm temperatures and next to no rain – the months of February to March offer days with temperature in the 80s. These are the months to visit for consistently fair weather across the whole country. The trails and roads will be dry while the air is fresh, and the trees and underbrush will still be vibrantly green and lush . These are perfect conditions to explore this enchanting island.

Getting to and Around on Roatán Island

There are two viable options for getting to Roatán– boat or plane. The airlines servicing the island include Sun Country Air, United and American Airlines along with others. For weekly direct flights, travelers should take off from Miami, Minneapolis or Houston. For those traveling from Europe, there are occasionally charter flights to the island. 

For those looking to take to the seas, catch a bus, plane or car to La Ceiba – a port city on the north coast of Honduras. From here, a daily boat will transport you to Roatán Island, allowing you to feel the wind rustling through your hair while the subtle hints of coconut and banana welcome you to paradise. 

Once on island, the roads a decent so consider renting a car to be able to truly explore everything Roatan has to offer. There are also taxis and shared shuttles available. Those staying on the water can get around by water taxi.

The Guide on The Best Places to Stay on Roatan

There are a variety of lodging options on Roatan that offer something for everyone. From all inclusives, to luxury resorts to backpacker hostels, there is something for every budget.

Where to Stay in Roatan on a Budget

One of the best cheap hotels in Roatán is Hotel Chillies . Considered to be the ‘best budget hotel on Roatán’, Hotel Chillies’ cabins each have a wonderful porch with a hammock that gives you the opportunity to glimpse hummingbirds as they buzz by. There’s an excellent dive shop here called Native Sons . 

Alternatively, book a night in at the Roatan Backpackers hostel . This highly rated hostel is centrally located in Sandy Bay, near many of the dive shops and attractions on the island.

Land’s End , located in Roatan’s famous West End is another option for the budget traveler who wants to be in the center of it all. Located just steps from popular bars and restaurants, this is a great hotel to consider just a 6 minute walk from the beach.

Mid-level Budget Lodging on Roatan Island

For those that want to have a higher end experience but can’t spring for the luxury accommodations that Roatan has to offer, there are a number of choice hotels for you to choose from.

The restaurant at Blue Bahia Resort was one of our favorites on the island. Nightly specials and located right on the beach, this is a fun place to hang out in the evening especially if you are there during a night that they have live music. The hotel is comfortable, has a dive shop on site and you can choose between dipping in the swimming pool or enjoying the beach.

Another great mid budget option for lodging in Roatan is West Bay Lodge and Spa . With multiple types of villa accommodations to choose from, this is a good option for those traveling with a group. There is also a spa on site where you can enjoy massages and other treatments.

Best Luxury Hotels and Lodging on Roatan Island

Travelers that truly want to experience the best that Roatan has to offer are in for a treat as there are a number of incredible hotels and luxury lodging options to explore and this Roatan travel guide has made sure to include the best ones for you to drool over.

One of the best hotels on Roatan, Ibagari Boutique Hotel is recommended for those looking to relax and for the beach lifestyle. This is by far the most beautifully designed hotel on the island and should also get a note in our Roatan travel guide as a great place to eat and drink. In fact, their cocktails are some of the best we have tried anywhere in the world. The five-star resort has everything you could need, including a private garden and beach area, perfectly situated between West Bay Beach and West End. 

Puerta Azul is another fantastic option for those that want to be away from the hustle and bustle of the West End and Sandy Bay. Several luxury cottages nestled right on the beach with a delicious breakfast and a famous blue door that leads you to a long dock and hammocks overlooking the water.

Finally, one would be remiss not to include Grand Roatan Resort in a Roatan Travel Guide. Located at the tip of West Bay, right in front of some of the best snorkeling off Roatan Island, this five star resort is a place you could just stay at the whole week. Offering delicious food, a lively bar and beach front living, there is little to be missed at this large property.

Roatan Travel Guide of What to Eat in Roatán Island

As foodies, when creating our Roatan travel guide, we wanted to leave no stones unturned for the best local meals. From traditional island cooking to fine dining, Roatán offers a great selection of places to satisfy any taste buds and budget. 

Local Produce & Street Food Stalls 

According to locals, travelers should not miss the opportunity of tasting baleadas while in Roatán Honduras . Baleadas comprises of homemade tortillas filled with cheese, beans, cream and any additional fillings like avocado, chicken, egg or steak. Throughout the day and into the night, a group of ladies on the beach at Half Moon Bay, across from the Cocoloco gift shop, serve this wonderful local street food . And apparently, everyone who visits Roatán Honduras meets the Banana Donut Guy who does the best doughnuts in the region, selling them out of a large container in West Bay. 

Another gem in the West End is Sandy Buns Bakery. Bread is baked fresh daily, and if you want something specific that isn’t there you can put in an order and it will be ready for you the next day. The cinnamon roll at this bakery is to-die-for so make sure to give it a try if you have a sweet tooth (and even if you don’t).

Restaurants in Roatán Honduras

There are numerous restaurants in Roatan to spend your evenings in, but we’ve done the work and found the best for you! 

Fine Dining

Silversides is the best restaurant in Roatán for fine dining. They serve a selection of freshly made contemporary cuisine from around the world using local ingredients. All this on Barefoot Cay, a tiny island located off of Roatan. To get there a complimentary shuttle picks you up.

For something a little different, get in a car and drive to La Sirena de Camp Bay . This restaurant is positioned on a dock over Camp Bay’s glistening ocean and overlooks the island’s longest beach. Their speciality is serving fresh local seafood, such as lionfish and coconut shrimp. But be sure to sample their exquisite rum punch, too. 

Budget-friendly Restaurant 

Anthony’s Chicken is another favorite restaurant in Roatán Island, serving delicious chicken baleadas and many other classic Caribbean dishes. The jerk chicken is the dish to try here, and wonderfully most meals cost just over $5.

The Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner Restaurant 

For a blend of fine dining and grill cuisine, head on over to The Beach Grill located at the Blue Bahia Resort for a broad menu of savory dishes at any time of the day. It’s more than a dining experience here, as the alfresco dining area sits next door to the pool and ocean, and in the evenings on Thursday, live music further sets the serene scene.

The Best Bar in Roatan Honduras

Are you looking for a fun bar to drink the day (and night) away? Head to Beacher’s Bar and Grill located in the heart of West Bay. A beach front bar and grill, you can enjoy laying on their complimentary beach chairs while sipping on Mojitos admiring the most famous beach in Roatan.

There’s an electric atmosphere here with live entertainment, and the delectable food and talented mixologists behind the bar continue this social scene way past the sunset on the beach. Depending on when you go, you might be in for a special surprise – some of the best local bands perform here to keep people dancing.

The Best Things to Do in Roatan , Honduras

No Roatan travel guide is complete without a detailed list of the best things to do and Roatan has plenty to keep anyone occupied.

Go Snorkeling in Roatán Honduras

With its pristine waters and vibrant marine life, snorkeling in Roatán is among the best things to do on this island. There are over 100 snorkeling spots in Roatan. But snorkeling in Roatán’s West Bay is considered the best. Not only is it easy access from shore to explore the reef but the reef here is truly incredible.

Picture snorkeling through canyons of beautiful coral with hundreds of fish around you. This is what you can experience when snorkeling in Roatan’s West Bay. You can reach the reef by swimming out via the rock wall at the beach’s southwestern edge right in front of Grand Roatan Resort, and you can rent snorkeling equipment from the beach.

Check out these snorkeling tours you can book in Roatan to be able to visit the best snorkeling spots.

Another fantastic location for snorkeling is off the coast of the West End. The easiest, safest, and the local’s favorite way to reach the reef is to take a water taxi from the West End pier. The Half Moon Bay and the Blue Channel are other excellent spots for snorkeling at the West End. 

Go Diving in Roatán

Scuba diving put Roatan on the travel map, and one of the best locations to go diving in Roatán is in the seamount of the Roatán Banks just before Cayos. Here you’ll find everything from giant barrel sponges, crabs hiding in the reef crevices and green morays. It’s an excursion you do not want to miss, so make sure to book one of the day trips.

People come from all over the world to dive in Roatan. The island sits on the second largest reef system in the world and reef here is protected by the local government. Diving in Roatan is all about the beautiful coral. There are many exquisite diving spots in Roatán, including many dive shops in the West End and throughout the rest of the island.

There are many dive tours and dive shops to choose from. In fact, we could write an entire Roatan travel guide focused solely on diving.

You can find various dive tours to book on Roatan here .

Try Some Water Sports 

On the East End of Roatán Island, Subway Watersports offers everything you could need – diving, diving training, island tours and excursions, kayaking, fishing, Whale Shark Safaris, pigeon cay and snorkeling. They are situated at the beautiful Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort and are easy to get to.

But if your hotel/accommodation happens to have a dock, they’ll also come and personally pick you up for your day in the water. Even if you don’t go with Subway Watersports, there are so many fishing trips, glass-bottomed-boat tours, kayaking and water-skiing opportunities on the island . Your hotel will be able to point you to those nearest to you.

Explore The Beaches on Roatan

The beaches on Roatán are havens of tranquillity and scenic beauty. West End beach is a hotspot for cruise ships, so make sure to visit this underrated beach before noon. The West End is the destination to go to if you’re looking for restaurants, beaches, shops to explore on foot during those few minutes you’re taking a break from sunbathing or swimming. There are also many Roatan vacation rentals, holiday rental homes, boutique hotels and apartments to rent next to this beach. 

Similarly, West Bay beach is a popular area for resorts, but has more of a touristy atmosphere than the West End’s laid-back vibe. There are plenty of sports activities to enjoy here, but the beach does get crowded especially on cruise days. Still, it is considered the most beautiful white sand beach on the island and is home to the best snorkeling on Roatan. 

Explore the Wild East End

A top recommendation in our Roatan travel guides for those staying longer in Roatan is to explore the East End. Unlike the rest of the island, the East End of Roatán is undeveloped and feels much more in keeping with traditional country island living. At this end of the island, travelers can find a variety of birds, armadillos, iguanas, butterflies and watusi (island rabbit) and the original forest growth make for a beautiful jungle hike. Also, cattle, horse and island farmers are often seen selling melons and bananas to anyone who passes by.  

One of the East End’s main highlights is the quaint fishing village of Oak Ridge, which looks like Roatán’s equivalent of Venice. Here, narrow streets, waterways and canals are adorned with wooden houses, while nearby communities can be reached by boat, such as Jonesville Point Marina. Here, The Hole in the Wall Bar is open for lunch and dinner, serving lobster and shrimp – a local speciality. 

A short distance from here is Camp Bay, a beautiful stretch of white-sand beach where travellers can experience lunch on a floating palapa bar. It should be noted that locals living on Roatan spend their vacations on the East End’s Camp Bay beach. From here, there’s a fantastic water taxi expedition to see the mangroves. Depending on who you tour with, you’ll see a half-sunken shipwreck called “Twitter’ and hear stories about the 16 th Century pirates. 

Visit the Carambola Botanical Gardens

With 40 acres of natural wonders, the Carambola Botanical Gardens promises ‘a walk on the wild side”. Here, travelers can explore their many jungle trails that offer excellent wildlife photography, bird watching and the Monkey La-La can be seen playing here. There are hundreds of plant species, orchids, exotic flowers, medicinal plants, fruit and nut trees, the “Chocolate Tree” and the famous Honduran mahogany tree that’ll capture the hearts of any plant lover. While here, make sure not to miss the chance to hike your way to the summit of Carambola Mountain, as there’s a cliff opening to some magnificent views. 

Visit the Local Roatan Villages & Harbors

There are many towns and harbors on Roatán Island, and the most commercial of them is Coxen Hole. Otherwise known as Roatan Town, this is where all the main shops and bus stops are. 

From Coxen Hole, the road leads to the small French Harbour , the islands second-largest town and busy fishing port. The French Harbour offers guests the chance to interact with rescue Sloths and Monkeys at Daniel Johnson’s Monkey and Sloth Hang Out .  

Also, French Harbour holds the only Mall on Roatán, so if you’re looking for a day of shopping, this is the place to go before chilling in one of its many down-to-earth coffee shops and restaurants. 

Visit Local Communities  

If you’re into history and culture, then visiting some local communities on the island will tick all your boxes. Just 5km from Oak Ridge is Punta Gorda, the oldest Garífuna community in Honduras, keeping many of its ancient traditions alive. The best time to visit is on a Sunday. Every Sunday, the community celebrates with traditional food, dancing and music. Alternatively, on the 12 th of April, the community celebrates the anniversary of their settlement’s founding, and all are welcome to join in! 

Another unassuming community lives in Sandy Bay. There’s the Institute for Marine Sciences here, with exhibitions on marine life and the island’s geology. There’s also a museum narrating the local history and archaeology. Sandy Bay is a history lover’s paradise!

Go Kiteboarding in Roatan, Honduras

Located on the East End at Camp Bay Lodge, Kitesurf Roatan is a great place to learn to kite surf or kiteboard whether you are starting from scratch or already getting up on the board. Steady wind and flat water makes this an ideal location for beginners who have never tried kiteboarding before to give it a go. Stay at Camp Bay Lodge and experience everything the east end has to offer while learning to kite board in Roatan.

Take a Weekend Trip to Utila

Staying in Roatan for at least a week? Why not hop on the ferry and head over to Utila. This can be done as an overnight trip or a weekend getaway. Utila is a small island (much smaller than Roatan) so you can explore it in only a couple of days. If you’re a diver, diving in Utila is very different than Roatan.

Although they are on the same large reef system, the reef in Roatan is actually different than what you see in Utila. It is also a very healthy, beautiful reef. There is an opportunity to swim with whale sharks or swim with Dolphins in Utila in between dives. This makes a dive trip a whole day trip experience.

Hopefully our Roatan travel guide has managed to convince you that Roatán Honduras is the perfect location for an island vacation . Its culture and history will surprise you, and its natural beauty will leave you speechless! Discover it for yourself before it becomes a tourist hotspot!

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How to Visit Roatán Island in the Caribbean

 Chris VR / TripSavvy

In terms of sheer distance, Roatán, Honduras is one of the closest  Caribbean islands to the United States—but when it comes to culture, value, and even good looks, Roatán is worlds away.

Part of Honduras' Bay Islands (which also include Utila and Guanaja), this 40-mile-long island has endured centuries of shuffling under British, American, and Spanish influences. Add the island's Indigenous tribes and afro-Carib settlers, and it's no wonder Roatán's people are some of the most diverse in Central America.

Most visitors to Roatán are united by a passion for scuba diving—the island is bordered by the second-largest barrier reef in the world. However, you don't need to even know how to dive to enjoy the island: Roatán attracts every type of traveler. Whether you're a luxury cruiser or a budget backpacker, here's how to visit Roatán, Honduras.

Best Places on Roatán Island

Because Roatán, Honduras is so long and skinny, most of its resorts and luxury hotels are located on private beaches outside of the island's towns. But that's where the island's life and flavor are found! Roatáns principal communities include:

• Coxen Hole: The capital of the Bay Islands is Coxen Hole, Roatán's largest city and the first place you'll see—both the boat dock and the airstrip are located in Coxen Hole. Though travelers don't tend to remain in the city, it's the island's center for politics and commerce.
• Sandy Bay: Most of Roatán's cultural attractions are located in Sandy Bay, such as the Institute of Marine Sciences and the Carambola Gardens and Marine Reserve. Sandy Bay is just across the narrow width of the island from Coxen Hole.
• French Harbour: Lively French Harbour is the core of Roatán's fishing trade. Several of Roatán's most exclusive hotels are located here, as well as the island's only Iguana conservatory.
• Punta Gorda: The only Garifuna settlement on Roatán, Punta Gorda boasts a dynamic culture that has remained largely unchanged since the late 1700s. Travelers are welcome. Many of Roatán's other local villages are found on this part of the island, like Jonesville, Oak Ridge, Port Royal, and Camp Bay.

Things to Do on Roatán Island

Luckily, there's no end to Roatán's diversions, but many of the island's best activities center around its beautiful waters.

• Snorkel or Dive the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef System: Roatán claims more than 100 named dive sites, so no matter your skill level, you'll find something that suits you. Some of the best places to dive off the island include El Aguila ("The Eagle"), a 230-foot-long cargo ship sunk 110 feet deep near Sandy Bay; Mandy's Eel Garden, a beginner-friendly wall that houses not only garden eels but also sea turtles, stingrays, and barracuda; and Cara a Cara ("Face to Face"), where you can spot more than a dozen reef sharks.
• Go on a Glass-Bottom Boat Tour: If you'd rather stay above water but still want a glimpse of Roatán's marine ecosystem, there are several tour operators in the area—including Hyde Tours —that will take you on a safe yet memorable ride.
• Zip Line Through the Roatán Jungle: For some different scenery, embark on a canopy tour of the island. Bodden Tours ' zipline excursions bring adventure-seekers to a monkey and sloth sanctuary, while JungleTop Zipline Tours offers 16 courses that you can race along.
• Visit the Carambola Botanical Gardens: Located in Sandy Bay, this 40-acre arboretum welcomes a variety of birds like Smooth-billed ani and Golden-fronted woodpeckers, plus monkeys and Anole lizards. Hike several jungle trails, including a steep climb up to the peak of Carambola Mountain, and keep your eyes peeled for orchids, medicinal plants, and fruit trees.
• Indulge in Local Seafood: Dinnertime on Roatán is always an adventure. While fresh fish and lobster are the most obvious choices, don't shy away from local Caribbean cuisine , like conch fritters and coconut bread.
• Take a Day Trip to Other Honduran Islands: Book a boat out to other Honduran islands, like the pristine Cayos Cochinos, or a plane to the Copan ruins in western Honduras.

Best Time to Visit Roatán Island

Roatán's temperatures consistently remain in the 80s year-round. The rainy season begins in October and lasts until January or February, with November and December seeing the most precipitation. Despite it being called "the rainy season," the island still sees the sun this time of year, and tourists flock to Roatán in an effort to escape chilly temps further north. July and August can also be quite rainy.

The dry season runs from February to June, and it is a great time to visit Roatán if you want to spend your days in and around the island's beaches. March and early fall are some of the best times to visit Roatán, as the occasional rainfall can help you cool down.

How to Get to (and Around) Roatán Island

A number of airlines serve Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport in Coxen Hole—including United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Air Lines—with flights operating out of major U.S. cities such as Houston, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Atlanta, and New Orleans. Overland travelers should head to the port city of La Ceiba, where they can book a ferry out to the island; ferries depart twice a day, at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 a.m. Once you're on the island, take a bus or a taxi. Or if you prefer to navigate yourself, Roatán has several car rental companies.

Tips and Practicalities

• It pays (literally) to exchange your money for Honduran currency, the lempira, at a bank in French Harbour or Coxen Hole. Prices in U.S. dollars are usually hiked a bit.
• When Columbus landed on Guanaja, Roatán's   sister island just 10 miles to the east, in the early 1500s, he wrote: "I have never tasted sweeter water of better quality." As much as we'd like to believe him, we always recommend drinking bottled water in Central America.

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Explore Roatan

Plan your trip to roatan: best of roatan tourism.

Essential Roatan

Where to stay

Where to eat

Roatan in one day: a cruise guide

Dig Into Roatan

Browse collections

Whale-watching 101.

Do a deep dive

Furry (and scaly) friends

Drinks with a view

Beyond the beach

Feeling fancy

Roatan on a dime

All about beaches

More Latin American sunshine

• Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort
• Camp Bay Lodge
• The Resort at Marble Hill
• Paya Bay Resort
• Reef House Resort
• Argentinian Grill
• Silversides Restaurant & Bar
• Happy Harry's Hideaway
• La Sirena de Camp Bay
• Hole in the Wall
• Little French Key
• Gumbalimba Park
• Mahogany Bay Cruise Center
• AJ's Monkeys and Sloths
• Customizable Best Of Roatan Island Tour in Honduras
• Roatan Wildlife plus ATV Adventure
• Roatan Monkey & sloth tour with chocolate, Rum testing and Beach
• Boat and Snorkeling in West End (Blue Channel, The Aquarium, Turtle Crossing)
• Monkeys & sloth hangout,Chocolate Factory,Rum Factory, island tour/Beach

Getty Images/Gallo Images

Roatán is the largest and most developed of the Bay Islands. Long and thin (31 miles (50km) long, but only 1.2 miles (2km) to 2.5 miles (4km) wide), the island is (like neighboring Utila) a diving and snorkeling paradise – virtually its entire coastline is fringed by an astonishingly diverse coral reef teeming with tropical fish. On land, exquisite white-sand beaches like West Bay, a mountainous interior of pine-forested hills and the remote wild east of the island (once a pirate hangout) beg to be explored.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Roatán Marine Park

Originally set up in 2005 with the aim of protecting the reef system around the West End and Sandy Bay, the Roatán Marine Park now covers the whole island…

Carambola Botanical Gardens

These wonderful botanical gardens have well-maintained trails through 40 acres of protected forest, extending up a hillside known as Carambola Mountain…

Arch’s Iguana Farm

The impressive Arch’s Iguana Farm in French Cay is just outside of town. Less a farm than the house of a serious iguana lover, it has iguanas pretty much…

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Wildlife & Nature

Oct 10, 2012 • 3 min read

Plenty of Caribbean islands have been labeled with the daydream-inducing word: paradise. If your definition of paradise includes empty beaches, no crowds,…

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The Only Roatan Destination Guide Your Family Will Ever Need

January 18, 2023.

Roatan, Honduras: Get excited, because this small island packs a punch! And this  comprehensive Roatan destination guide will help you make the most of your family trip.  

A snorkeling and diving paradise and a tropical jungle in one, Roatan offers all you need to relax and have fun with your kids. You’re in for a great adventure.   But first, if need a little extra help deciding whether to take the kids, start with our article about why  Roatan, Honduras is a great choice for families . 

Table of Contents

Roatan family travel resources.

Before we dive in, let’s be sure you have our best Roatan resources at your fingertips. 

Did you know we have a whole collection of recommended family hotels in the Caribbean – including in Roatan? I’ll let you in on a secret, it’s sort of our pride and joy. 

We’ve made it easier for busy parents like you to find the right Caribbean hotel for your family, with space for everyone. But don’t take our word for it: Explore our collection using search filters (like room size) that we designed just for parents. 

Wishing someone else would just handle the logistics for a change? We’re here for that too. We offer bespoke Caribbean family t ravel planning services.  Our specialty? Helping parents narrow down the choices to identify the best Caribbean island and hotel for a top-notch family trip. 

And finally, want more Caribbean travel inspiration in your life? Sign up for our weekly newsletter, where we feature a Caribbean destination each month and highlight our favorite hotels and family travel tips. We also share our best Caribbean destination guides for families . 

Now, pour yourself a Monkey Lala and start planning your Roatan adventure…

Roatan Destination Guide Basics: Location and Geography

Roatan is one of the three Bay Islands off the coast of Honduras. (It attracts the most tourists of the three. If you’re looking for more of an untouched vibe, and are traveling with kids old enough to snorkel, consider a  daytrip to Utila !) Roatan sits on the second largest barrier reef in the world (hence, the phenomenal snorkeling and diving). The interior is covered by lush rainforest teeming with life. Together, the rainforest and reef provide for endless land and water-based activities for kids and parents to enjoy together.  

Roatan is long and thin – about 5 by 40 miles.  About 115,000 people call it home.  It takes roughly 2 hours to drive from end to end. A single paved road runs the length of the island, with unpaved, windy off-shoots leading down to the shoreline.  

Best Time to Visit Roatan

Roatan’s rainy season differs from other Caribbean islands. It runs roughly from October to December, with high season running from April to July. This offers a major upside for the U.S.-based travelers among us: When other Caribbean destinations are overflowing with tourists in February, deals can still be found in Roatan.    

Cost: Is Roatan Expensive?

No. It’s not a built-up, luxury destination. Most restaurants are beach shacks, and most (but not all) accommodations are rustic. Hotels, food, and activities are all very affordable (though the flight may be pricey). You’ve finally found a Caribbean destination that still offers $3 beers!  

How to Get to Roatan

As of right now, Americans can fly direct to Roatan from Dallas, Miami, Houston, or Atlanta. Canadians can get a direct flight from Toronto on Canadian airline West Jet.  (I met lots of friendly Canadians on my last trip who were excited to learn I was from Ottawa, much to my delight.)

Getting the Lay of the Land

It’s helpful to have an island map in your head—or better yet, in front of you – when digesting this Roatan destination guide and deciding where to stay. Start at the island’s western tip and drive east along its only road. Here’s what you’ll see along the way –

West Bay Beach

Roatan’s crown-jewel beach sits at its westernmost end.  West Bay is probably the most kid-friendly place on the island. This two-mile stretch of powdery white sand gently slopes into the sea.  The reef sits just offshore, placing world-class snorkeling at your fingertips. Kids splash around all hours of the day.  In the afternoon, they are joined by done-for-the-day divers floating in the shallow waters, beer in hand, enjoying their version of an après-scene.  The shoreline is packed with hotels and beach bars, making for a lively vibe. 

No Roatan destination guide would be complete without mentioning Roatan’s bohemian and dive-focused town.  West End sits 10 minutes east of West Bay (but skip the drive—take a water taxi).  Dive shops, bars, and casual restaurants line West End’s dusty road, which runs along Half Moon Bay – another beach known for its near-shore snorkeling.

Enjoy the beach and town during the day with your kids, as West End loses its family-friendly vibe when the sun goes down and the divers come out to play. 

Things get quieter when you leave West End.  Sandy Bay Beach is a tranquil snorkeling spot – the opposite, in many ways, to the upbeat energy of West Bay.  Smaller Eco-resorts and dive shops dot its shore.   

Coxen Hole and Mahagony Beach

Cruise ships dock at these ports on the island’s south-western shore. Generally best avoided if you’re looking for an authentic Roatan experience, at least on cruise ship days.

French Harbour

French Harbour—the middle of the island—is a good place to stay if you want to spend some time on West Bay beach, but also want to explore the hidden gems of Roatan’s east end.  Home to a handful of peaceful hotels.

Finally, you hit the lesser explored end of the Roatan, dotted with sleepy coastal towns and small communities – Oakridge, Jonesville, Calabash Bight, Punta Gorda, and Camp Bay.  These towns may get left off the average Roatan destination guide.  But head east for a taste of untouched, authentic Caribbean charm.

Getting Around Roatan: Rental Cars and Water Taxis

The best way to explore Roatan is to rent a car. It’s easy and affordable, and you can explore the island at your own pace with kids. Taxis and private drivers, on the other hand, can get very expensive. Most hotels have free parking, so having a car won’t feel like a burden.

Are you imagining bumpy and windy island roads? Don’t be discouraged – driving is much easier here than many other Caribbean destinations.  It’s nearly impossible to get lost on an island, given it has one paved road. Sure, you may pick the wrong off-shoot down to the shore—but hey, that may be how you find your new favorite beach bar! 

With or without a rental car, make time for the water taxi between West End and West Bay. It costs about $3 USD and offers a remarkable view of the island’s most popular coastline. Think of it more as an activity than a means of transportation.

Where to Stay in Roatan

An online search for accommodations in Roatan can be overwhelming, even for seasoned travel planners. It feels like there are a million hotels, and it’s hard to tell which ones will fit your family’s needs. Many hotels target divers, offering the most basic accommodations. So where do you stay with kids?  We have two favorites: 

Xbalanque Resort

For a sleek, comfortable hotel near the action—but just far enough away to feel peaceful—choose  Xbalanque Resort .  It sits between West Bay and West End – a 5-minute water taxi ride from each.  Take a deep breath and relax here.  Families will have plenty of space in the well-designed one- and two-bedroom suites with kitchens.  Although Xbalanque does not cater to kids, the staff welcomes them, and will ensure the whole family has a great trip.

Las Verandas

You can feel the quiet settle over you at boutique hotel  Las Verandas . (I’ve been longing for the great sleep I had here since I left).  Go for the huge comfortable suites and villas, and the best pool I saw in Roatan.  The vibe is tranquil but not stiff.  Located mid-island near French Harbour, this is a great home base to explore the entire island.

Other Hotel Options

West bay resorts.

XBalanque and Las Verandas are our top choices for a Roatan family trip. But if those aren’t your speed, there are a number of other options.  A few all-inclusive resorts — Mayan Princess, Infinity Bay, and Grand Roatan – sit side by side on West Bay beach. Many families will choose to stay here, and these hotels offer spacious rooms and lots of amenities.  There will be crowds, though, and many rooms and facilities need updating.

A note about Grand Roatan Resort: I wanted to love it. It has the best location on West Bay beach and wonderful staff.  But its website fails to mention that it’s a construction site.   Kimpton is taking over the resort and expanding its footprint. It may be a great choice for families when construction is complete but, for now, stay elsewhere.

For a budget option with a lively atmosphere, many traveling families enjoy Bananarama Resort . It has very basic but affordable family cottages in its garden off West Bay beach, and a family-focused vibe.

West Bay Village is another great find if you lean towards a self-catering option rather than a hotel.  These apartments are wedged between Grand Roatan and Infinity Bay resorts – sharing the same beach access, and in walking distance from bars and restaurants.

Anthony’s key

Anthony’s Key – near Sandy Bay – is one of Roatan’s most known resorts because of its dolphin program. It’s a rustic dive-resort sitting on its own private key, with waterside bungalows. It offers all the watersports you could want on-site – diving, snorkeling, paddleboards, kayaks, etc. But it does not have suites to fit families, or its own beach.   

Interested in booking one of these fantastic Roatan hotels? Reach out and we’ll get you booked, at no cost to you. 

Guide to the Best Places to Eat in Roatan

West bay restaurants.

Stroll down the beach in West Bay and pick the place the strikes your fancy. Kids can frolic on the beach within eyesight while you enjoy a beer (remember – $3!). Top choices include 

• Thirsty Turtle Beach Bar & Pizzarama (inside Bananarama Dive & Beach Resort).
• Argentine Grill (steak and seafood)  
• Beacher’s (island fare)  

West End Restaurants

• Roatan Oasis .  For a night out in West End, locals and tourists alike head to Roatan Oasis for a rotating menu of local fare and creative cocktails.  It’s small and popular so book ahead.  (Or, if you forgot – like I did – grab a seat at the bar and you might get lucky enough to chat with owner Loren Welbourn, who keeps the show running.)  
• Luna Meza.  The restaurant inside adult-only Ibagari Boutique Hotel is stunning and worth a night out if you can secure a babysitter. (Here’s a babysitting service to consider.)  Another reason I loved Xbalanaque Resort – this restaurant is right next door. Lotus Restaurant at Xbalanque Resort is fantastic too.   

Other solid choices in West End –

• Blue Elephant (thai food in a modern space)  
• Sandy Buns Bakery (fresh baked bread and treats, coffee, and smoothies)  
• Sundowners (burgers, live music, and sunset views – after 6pm becomes a divers’ bar)

French Harbour Restaurants

• Gios is your spot for seafood.  Its claim to fame is the Spiny Caribbean King Crab, indigenous to Roatan’s reef system.
• Silversides . If you’re driving up the island, make a point to stop at Silversides with your kids. You could spend the whole afternoon at this pool-side restaurant, a hidden gem inside Barefoot Cay dive resort.  Dessert is featured on the first page of the lunch menu.  Owner Scotty C makes his own hot sauce, which you can find behind the bar (and also plays guitar some nights at Sundowners).

Street Food

Roatan’s culinary claim to fame are Baleadas. Don’t leave without trying one.  Homemade tortillas stuffed with cheese, beans, cream, and sometimes meat and avocado, these will fill you up for your day of adventures. You’ll find them at local street food stalls throughout West End.  

What To Do In Roatan 

There’s so much to say about this island that we had to break our Roatan destination guide into two separate posts.  Now you know where to stay and eat with kids in Roatan.  And head over to Part II to learn about the best kid-friendly activities in Roatan ! 

Seen enough already? Ready to go, but wishing someone would just hand you a customized itinerary for your next family trip to Roatan? Now you’re speaking our language.  

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Roatan Honduras Travel Guide : Top 5 Reasons to Visit

Found off the north coast of Honduras in the beautiful surroundings of the Caribbean Sea, Roatan is the tropical island of dreams.

Surrounded by one of the world’s most bio-diverse coral reefs, the island has long been a favorite amongst divers and snorkelers looking to explore the unbelievably large array of marine life that live off the coast.

Away from the stunning beaches and picturesque coastline, Roatan has a beautiful, green and mountainous interior that is becoming an eco-tourism hotspot, with adventurous opportunities awaiting those looking to explore.

From high-end hotels to basic, beachside accommodation, a trip to Roatan can be for everyone. Get ready to explore the water, the jungle and the intriguing, multicultural history of this Honduran Island. To help you plan your trip, here’s our ultimate guide to visiting Roatan Honduras.

5 Best Things to do in Roatan Honduras

Table of Contents

From beautiful reefs and endless diving and snorkeling opportunities to relaxed beach days, sunset cocktails or even an intense jungle, zip-lining experience. There’s a lot to do in Roatan Honduras, and here is the best of it all.

1. Snorkeling and Diving

The snorkeling and diving opportunities are perhaps the main reason to visit Roatan. Being surrounded by the second largest barrier reef in the world means that underwater life is some of the most diverse in the world.

There are several excellent companies that can arrange trips out to the reef and that offer diving courses too. Most are located on the west side of the island, to cater to the tourists that stay here.

There are hundreds of potential dives sites, because of the sheer size of the reef!

2. Glass Bottom Boat Tours

If diving or snorkeling isn’t for you, but you’d still love to experience the majesty of the reef, then the best option is to join a glass-bottom boat tour.

These travel out to the best spots in the surrounding area and allow you to really see the best marine life without having to ever get into the water.

3. Hit Up the Beaches in Roatan

Roatan really is a tropical paradise and some of the Caribbean’s best beaches can be found around the island. The most popular ones are found in the west.

Visit West Bay Beach to enjoy the whitest sands and most tropical outlook on Roatan. If you are after a bit more seclusion though, travel to the east end, and visit Camp Bay Beach.

It’s much more isolated and remote, but the effort involved getting there will see that you might be the only person on the beach.

4.  Try a Jungle Canopy Tour

Beaches aside, Roatan has a large area of dense jungle to be explored in the island’s interior. There are several eco-adventure tours that take visitors through the canopy of the jungle , exploring the wildlife and flora of the island while experiencing the thrill of zip-lining between trees.

5. Bars and Nightlife

Roatan has a legendary nightlife scene in Honduras. Because of the number of tourists visiting, in high season, the parties can go on long into the night.

There are many great beach bars, most of them to be found in the popular West End, as well as more relaxed restaurants on the beach fronts, where it’s easy to relax the day away and watch the sunset with a cocktail in hand.

Some great places to check out on your visit to Roatan, Honduras are: Booty Bar & Caribbean Restaurant, The Reef Rider, and Larry and Luey’s Fly High Bar

Roatan Honduras Travel Tips

Where is Roatan, Honduras?

Roatan Honduras is a just a small, narrow island, being just under 40 miles long and only 5 miles wide at its longest stretch.

It’s small, but it’s perfectly situated in the middle of the beautiful Meso-American Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef in the world – after the Great Barrier Reef in Australia of course.

The island is found 40 miles off the northern coastline of Honduras, and it is the largest of the seven Bay Islands, and largest settlement in the region.

How to Travel to Roatan, Honduras

Being a popular diving and holiday destination, Roatan is well connected and relatively easy to travel to. Several major airlines offer direct flights from the US, from transport hubs such as Miami and New York, however, these tend to be only seasonal in keeping with demand.

Roatan is well connected to the large Honduran city, San Pedro Sula. There are daily flights from the city to the island, and San Pedro Sula is itself well connected internationally, especially to the US and surrounding central and southern American nations.

The more adventurous traveler can even take a ferry from the Honduran mainland to Roatan. The island is just a short ride away from the coastal city of La Ceiba and a fast, modern catamaran makes the journey twice a day, in the morning and again in the afternoon, connecting Roatan to Honduras in 70 minutes.

Many cruise ships also visit the island during the Caribbean cruising season, and this can be a great way to see the highlights of Roatan on a whistle-stop tour. It can get busy though when the ships are docked.

Getting around Roatan is easy, considering the island’s small size. The airport and ferry terminal are located in Coxen’s Hole, which serves as the main transport hub of the island, and the best spot to find amenities and shops.

From here, buses run the length of the island at regular intervals. There are many taxi drivers on the island looking for fares too, just ensure you barter before accepting a lift.

Scooters can be rented daily and are an efficient way to travel around Roatan, but can be potentially dangerous for those unused to riding them or unused to the roads.

Make sure to check out   Fodor’s Caribbean Cruise Ports of Call   if arriving by cruise ship.

Best Time to Visit Roatan, Honduras

Roatan experiences very consistent temperatures throughout the year, with hot, warm weather all year around. The tropical weather though means that the island does experience distinct wet and dry seasons.

The dry season runs from July to January while the wet season runs from February to June. The area does, however, experience the odd shower even in the supposed dry season, so be prepared for this.

The best time to visit is, of course, the dry season, especially if you are visiting Roatan to snorkel or dive. The water is clearest at the end of the dry season when the runoff from the rainy season has dissipated, and the surrounding coral looks at its best.

The dry season, of course, is also when the cruise ships tend to visit and prices may be significantly higher than in the offseason.

Where to Stay in Roatan Honduras

The vast majority of the accommodation in Roatan can be found located in the west of the island. Coxen Hole may be the transport hub, however, most tourists will choose to stay elsewhere, along the more scenic stretches of coastline.

West Bay and West End are not far from Coxen Hole and are favorites for those on holiday. There’s quite a range of standards and prices available across the island, from high-end luxury hotels like Xbalanque Resort to more modest hotels for the budget traveler like Reef House Resort , you will be sure to find accommodation for all travel styles and budgets.

Read reviews and check prices with our Hotel Search Engine , that gives you the best hotel deals found on the web. Our search engine pulls results from all of the major booking places, including Expedia, Hotels, Booking and more. All the options, all the deals, all in one place and just for you.

Language and Currency in Roatan

Roatan is part of Honduras, which is a majority Spanish speaking nation, however, due to its complicated colonial history, the primary language – unlike the rest of the mainland – is in fact English.

This is reflected in the place names and the names of the locals and you will find that English is the number one language to use.

US Dollars are widely accepted on the island, however, you will find that paying in US Dollars will cost a premium, so it’s best to change up your money on arrival in Coxen Hole at the many currency exchanges, for the best rates on the island. The local currency is the Honduran Lempira.

Is Roatan, Honduras Safe? 

Mainland Honduras has an infamous reputation for violent, gang-related crime and many of the cities are not that safe for tourists to visit. Don’t let that put you off traveling to Roatan however, because the island is a very separate entity to the rest of the country.

The violent crime of the mainland is rarely found on the island and with the local economy reliant on tourism, they go out of their way to ensure visitors feel safe. Petty theft may occur, as it does anywhere in the world, but Roatan is a safe destination for a vacation.

Don’t leave home without: Lonely Planet Honduras & the Bay Islands (Travel Guide)

More on Central America:

• 9 UNREAL Things to do in Caye Caulker, Belize
• Uncover Paradise on this Dreamy Panama Cruise
• The Only Costa Rica Cruise You Should Ever Take

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Travel planning resources, about lina stock.

Lina is an award-winning photographer and writer that has been exploring the world since 2001. She has traveled to 100 countries on all 7 continents. Member: SATW, NATJA, ATTA, ITWA

2 thoughts on “Roatan Honduras Travel Guide : Top 5 Reasons to Visit”

Roatan is my favorite spot in the western Caribbean! I must have visited 12-13 times in the last 8 years. People are friendly, English and US currency is used widely, and you get a lot more than the eastern Caribbean for your money.

I appreciate you helping me learn more about Roatan. I like how you said that the main language is English. My husband and I are thinking of going somewhere foreign that has beaches but has English speakers as well. We should look at Roatan.

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What to Do in Roatan Honduras in One Day: Guide & Itinerary

Roatan is a popular cruise port and vacation destination in Honduras. If you are wondering what to do in Roatan or how to plan a day in Roatan, this guide is for you.

I visited Roatan twice in 2022, on two different 7-night Royal Caribbean western Caribbean cruises . In fact, Roatan was my favorite port! After the first trip, I knew I had to go back which led to me booking the same itinerary for later in the year.

On the first trip, we spent the day on an ATV island tour that had stops at some of the best attractions on the island. On the following trip, we visited an eco reserve and beach club. Both visits were amazing and gave me a great idea of the top things to do in Roatan.

If you are visiting Roatan as a cruise port or a standalone vacation, this guide will explain what to do during your time, where to stay, and other travel tips to make your planning easier.

Some links on this blog are affiliate links, meaning I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through them. All opinions are my own, and I only recommend products and services I personally use and believe in. Thanks for your support!

11 Top Things to do in Roatan Honduras

With only one day in Roatan, it’s important to prioritize what you want to do. This list of the best things to do in Roatan will help you prioritize what to see and help you practically fit a ton of activities into your port day.

If you are visiting Roatan on a cruise, you need to decide whether to take a cruise-line excursion, a private excursion, or spend the day on your own. This list of what to do in Roatan will help you decide what you want to do, and if it’s easier alone or with a tour.

When deciding between a cruise excursion or local tour, compare price, flexibility, and offerings to decide what works best for you. In the following section, I share my favorite local tours, including the one I took during my day in Roatan.

Customizable Private Island Tour

✅ Local guide

✅ Flexible & customizable

✅ Pickup & drop off from cruise port

ATV Island Tour

✅ 4 activities in 1

✅ Small group

✅ Adventure + relaxation

Snorkeling the Mesoamerican Reef

✅ 3 snorkeling spots

✅ Roundtrip transportation

✅ Light refreshments

1. Customizable Private Island Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.8/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  6 hours | ✅  Book it!

This tour is a great way to do a lot of the top things to do in Roatan in one day with the help of a local guide. The tour includes a visit to a local community with time to shop and explore.

After this, you can customize your tour to do any 3 of the following activities: zipline, animal sanctuary, horseback riding, glass-bottom boat, snorkeling, parasailing, botanical garden.

While you can do most of these activities on your own, doing them through a customizable tour will make it easier to get between activities and learn about the island from your local guide.

“Very nice tour! Mary told us a lot of interesting things about the island! I can only recommend!” -Thorsten from Germany ( Read more reviews )

Check Prices and Availability

2. ATV Island Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.3/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   5 hours | ✅  Book it!

One of the best ways to tour the island is on an ATV. The roads around the island circle the coast and wind through the mountainous jungles. On an ATV, you can visit local sites, see local neighborhoods, and check out the amazing views.

This combo ATV tour is what I did during my day in Roatan, and I highly recommend it. This tour includes an ATV tour of the island with stops at an animal sanctuary, ziplining, a run and chocolate factory, and a beach club to round out your day. I love this tour because it allows you to see nearly every highlight of the island in only one day.

“We were super excited to see the animals and hold a sloth !! Wow…. We were all blown away.” -Courtney from USA ( Read more reviews )

3. Snorkeling the Mesoamerican Reef

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   3 hours | ✅  Book it!

The Roatan Barrier Reef is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest reef in the world. Because of this, Roatan is a fantastic destination for snorkeling.

This snorkeling tour visits three spots – natural starfish habitat, a blue channel coral reef, and a shipwreck. Between these three locations, you will witness the best of Roatan’s reef.

The tour includes roundtrip transportation from the port or your hotel, the boat ride, snorkeling equipment, and a light snack.

If you plan to snorkel, be sure to utilize reef-safe sunscreen .  

“This was our favorite excursion. Our driver Desmond took good care of us. Instructions for meeting point was clear. The snorkeling was very nice with beautifully clear water.” -Cris ( Read more reviews )

4. Beach Horseback Riding Tour

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   1 hour | ✅  Book it!

I’m a self-proclaimed horse girl. I grew up with my own horse and rode all the time. I love whenever there is an opportunity to ride on vacation. This Mahogany Bay horseback riding tour is hard to beat.

If you want a shorter tour during your day in Roatan, this is a great option. It can be combined with a beach day or just extra time on your cruise ship.

This horseback riding tour is 60 minutes and includes a beach and jungle ride with roundtrip transportation from the port.

“By the end of the ride our son was asking to go again. The staff was also friendly enough to include a free ride from the boat and back to it. I highly recommend this place.” -John ( Read more reviews )

5. Local Cuisine & Island Tour

⭐️  RATING:  4.5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   4-6 hours | ✅  Book it!

This tour is a great way to get a “taste” of the island. It combines stops at local eateries to sample local cuisine with a traditional island tour.

The tour starts with a visit to the city, rum factory, and chocolate factory to taste local delicacies. Then, you will head to a beach bar for lunch and relaxation time.

I love that this tour includes sightseeing with relaxation.

“Hayman Webster was our tour guide and our new friend. He was so knowledgeable, accommodating and fun. We enjoyed seeing the island, the culture and meeting the locals.” -Mary ( Read more reviews )

6. Cooking Class from a Local

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   2 hours | ✅  Book it!

This cooking class is the perfect way to experience local culture. Learn from a local chef how to make popular Honduran dishes such as Stewed chicken in coconut milk, rice and beans, chimol and fried green plantains.

The chef will teach you how to prepare a three course meal, then you will be able to enjoy your feast. There’s even an option to help shop for the groceries at a local market.

Note that this tour takes place in your own condo or hotel, so may not be the best option for a cruise passenger. Reach out to the host for more details.

“Carrie was super friendly and happy cooking, explaining the recipes, and sharing about local life in Roatan. Definitely glad we did this experience!!! “-Dawny ( Read more reviews )

7. Scuba dive Tour with 2 stops

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   4 hours | ✅  Book it!

If you are scuba certified, this tour cannot be missed. As I mentioned above, the Roatan Reef is one of the highlights of the island.

While snorkeling is great, scuba allows you to get even closer to the amazing wildlife. This tour is for certified divers only, and visits two amazing locations.

The tour includes all of the scuba equipment, the boat ride, and roundtrip transportation from the cruise port or your hotel.

“May and the team provided the best dive experience we ever had. The equipment is very nice and well maintained and having May as a guide really gave our family the best of the best dive experience we’ve had so far!” -Jonathan ( Read more reviews )

8. Spend the day at one of the best beaches in Roatan

A relaxing beach day is one of the best ways to spend your time in Roatan. The aqua blue Caribbean waters and fine, white sand make it a true tropical oasis.

I recommend taking a taxi to one of the below beaches, renting a beach chair, and spending the day with a drink in hand. You can also spend a half day at the beach and half your day doing another activity on this list.

Some of the best beaches in Roatan are:

• Little French Key
• West Bay Beach

We spent a half day at Tabyana beach club at West Bay Beach. The beach club offers great service at your beach chair and a restaurant with good food. In addition, it has some of the best snorkeling on the island.

In fact, some fellow cruisers shared that they take this same cruise itinerary multiple times a year solely to visit this specific beach club for snorkeling. Snorkels can be rented from a vendor at the beach club at an hourly or daily rate.

9. Sloth and Monkey Sanctuary

The Sloth and Monkey sanctuary near the port is on almost every tour itinerary. The sanctuary allows you to interact with rescued animals and learn all about them.

I am always tentative to recommend animal experiences because it is hard to know if the animals are treated well and if they should be in captivity.

Based on my experience, the animals are cared for, have thoughtful enclosures, and are at the sanctuary due to medical conditions that aren’t compatible with the wild. However, you should do your own research before visiting this location.

10. Chocolate Factory Tour

While chocolate isn’t produced in Roatan, it is very popular in mainland Honduras. There are a few chocolate factories on the island that have tours that explain how chocolate is produced and provide tasting. While many tours include a stop at a chocolate factory, you can easily do this on your own.

The best chocolate factories on the island are :

• The Roatan Chocolate Factory
• Mayak Chocolates

11. Chocolate Making Class

⭐️  RATING:  5/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:   2-3 hours | ✅  Book it!

If you’re a chocolate lover, go one step past visiting a chocolate factory and take this chocolate making class . In this tour, you will learn all about the history of choclate, learn how to make it, and have a chocolate tasting experience.

Following the tour, you will be able to take your homemade chocolate bar home as a super tasty and unique souvenir.

This tour also includes roundtrip transportation from the cruise port.

“We had a WONDERFUL time with Dani in the Chocolate Making class. He is a wealth of knowledge and shared so much with us” – Tracy ( Read more reviews )

Where to Stay in Roatan

If you aren’t visiting Roatan on a cruise, the below resorts are amazing options of where to stay on the island. Both have great beachfront access and pools which are my two priorities when choosing where to stay in a tropical destination.

Grand Roatan Caribbean Resort – The Grand Roatan Caribbean Reso rt is a smaller, boutique hotel with the pool area of a mega-resort. The resort in on one of the whitest sand beaches I’ve ever seen, and they offer snorkeling and other ocean activities on-site. Each room is apartment style with a separate bedroom and kitchen area, making it feel like a home away from home.

Barefoot Cay Resort – The Barefoot Cay Resort is another great hotel in Roatan. The grounds are bright, white, and tranquil. The resort has traditional hotel rooms and oceanfront Villas. The Villas would be the perfect place to stay for a special occasion such as a honeymoon.

How to Get to Roatan

In addition to arriving on a cruise ship, there are two main ways to get to Roatan. The first is flying into the international airport. There are domestic flights from mainland Honduras and even some direct flights from the United States.

If you are visiting Roatan from mainland Honduras, you can opt to take the Galaxy Wave ferry with two daily trips between La Cieba and Roatan. The ferry ride is just over an hour long and costs around $20-$30 per person.

Transportation around the Island

The best way to get around Roatan is by taxi. They are easy to find, safe, and reliable. Before you begin a trip, be sure to agree on a fare or ensure the meter is running.

If you are visiting for more than one day, you can choose to rent a car. However, drivers in Roatan are very aggressive and I would not personally feel safe driving. If you decide to drive, keep an eye out for oncoming traffic passing in your lane.

Quick Facts about Roatan

When to Visit – Roatan has consent temperatures of around 80 degrees all year. Outside of hurricane season, from August to November, Honduras is a great year-round destination.

How Long to Visit – One day in Roatan is enough time to get a taste of the island, but I recommend visiting for a long weekend to allow yourself time to explore. If you aren’t visiting a cruise, you will likely want to spend at least 3full days to make your transit to and from the island worth your time.

Currency – The official currency in Roatan is the Honduras Lempira which is valued at 1 USD = 25 Lempira. However, US dollars are widely accepted.

Language – The official language in Roatan is Spanish, but English is spoked in every tourist site, on tours, and in most stores.

Safety – Roatan is a generally safe destination. As with any foreign country, keep minimal valuables on you, be aware of your surroundings, and avoid going out alone after dark.

Summary of What to Do in Roatan in One Day

Overall, if you are wondering what to do in Roatan, the focus should be on seeing the island, exploring the water and jungle, and getting to know the local culture.

If you only have one day in Roatan, I highly recommend the above ATV combo tour to achieve this. Your day will be busy, informative, and adventurous. You will leave the island with a good understanding of what it has to offer.

If you are staying in Roatan for a weekend or longer, I highly recommend hitting all the above activities. Roatan is a beautiful, tropical, destination with so much to explore and discover.

For more information on cruising and other nearby ports, check out my complete guide to a Western Caribbean cruise .

FAQ- The Top Things to Do in Roatan Honduras

Roatan is an island located just off the coast of Honduras in Central America. It’s known among tourists for its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and vibrant coral reefs. The island’s crystal-clear waters are home to a variety of marine life, making it a popular destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Roatan also offers adventurous activities like zip lines and kayaking tours through its mangroves.

Roatan Honduras is an island that offers the perfect escape for travelers who want to experience a relaxing yet exciting vacation. With pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and plenty of activities, Roatan is a great cruise port or vacation destination.

Roatan, located off the coast of Honduras, is considered one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. The cost of living on the island is quite high, and that’s reflected in everything from accommodation costs to food prices. This is because Roatan is an island and everything must be imported, which adds additional costs.

Roatan is a great Caribbean island destination, and one of the best places to stay on the island is West Bay Beach. This area offers stunning views of the pristine white sand beaches along with an abundance of activities including snorkeling, jet skiing, and parasailing. The resorts here are top-notch, offering luxurious amenities like outdoor pools and beachside bars. The nightlife scene in West Bay Beach is lively as well, with plenty of restaurants and bars to choose from.

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Lauren is the creator of The Traveling Moore blog. She's travel obsessed, having been to nearly 50 countries and all 7 continents. She has a full time corporate job, and loves showing others that it's still possible to travel the world with limited PTO hours. Lauren is also travel hacking obsessed, finding every way to travel more often and more luxuriously.

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The Comprehensive Guide to Roatan Island in Honduras

Welcome to Roatan island in Honduras! The largest of the Bay Islands, Roatan is about 40 miles off the northern shore of Honduras in Central America. Roatan has long been known as a scuba diver’s paradise. The world’s second-largest barrier reef ends at the Bay Islands, fringing just off-shore and teeming with life! In this comprehensive guide to Roatan island, we’ll cover the popular parts of the island, some insight into the tourism industry and general economy here on the island, and also the history, culture, and climate of Roatan.

There’s so much to explore, so let’s dive right in!

Roatan Life is the most respected real estate agency here in Roatan. We aim to offer helpful information about the island of Roatan, whether or not you’re ready to invest in your own island home. If you are considering real estate, get in touch so we can help answer your questions and guide you. We’re always happy to help!

An Introduction to Roatan Island in Honduras

First of all, let’s set the scene. The island of Roatan is part of the country of Honduras. Honduras is centrally-located within Central America, bordering El Salvador, Nicaragua, and Guatemala. Honduras benefits from both the Caribbean coastline and the Pacific coastline on its western shore.

On the Caribbean side, a series of islands called the Bay Islands rest off the northern coast of Honduras.

Think of the Bay Islands of Honduras as the Hawaii of the USA!

As the largest of the Bay Islands, Roatan has several neighboring islands that complete the archipelago. Those other islands include Utila, Guanaja, and several other small islands. The most popular are Cayos Cochinos (the Hog Islands), which make for a great day trip from Roatan for tourists.

Roatan is approximately 40 miles from the mainland. That means it’s very easy to access the larger cities, amenities, and various international airports there.

However, Roatan itself has an international airport and every amenity locals could need!

As a Caribbean island, Roatan is not as highly-developed as some more popular eastern Caribbean islands (for example, Aruba). It’s also not as remote or underdeveloped as some small but popular islands (for example, St John of the USVI).

In fact, Roatan is often called the Gem of the Caribbean.

This is because of its stunning natural beauty and its under-the-radar status. Thus far, Roatan has retained its traditional Caribbean charm while sustainably growing and adding amenities and infrastructure.

So, while we may be biased, we have to agree that the island of Roatan is, in fact, paradise.

Roatan Island Map + Communities

To help you learn more about Roatan island in Honduras, we have multiple maps available. They show the various areas of the island where you might want to look at real estate. These are also popular areas for property rentals, if you’re just visiting.

Keep checking back as we add more articles about each specific community on the island!

Roatan Island Government

Roatan is broken up into two municipalities: Roatan and Santos Guardiola. The Roatan municipality is the western half of the island. It is more developed and attracts more tourists and expats to its popular neighborhoods.

The Santos Guardiola municipality encompasses the eastern half of the island. Collectively, this part of Roatan is referred to as the East End. Within the East End, there are a variety of popular locations for expats. There’s also a growing tourism market, though it is decidedly less built-up overall.

Roatan Island Population

The population of Roatan island is currently estimated to be around 110,000 but there has not been an official census since 2000, so this is an estimation. There is also plenty of fluctuation in population numbers. The tourism industry and the number of temporary residents, especially during the winter season, affect the overall population.

Whatever the actual population, you’ll quickly see as you fly into the island that Roatan remains a natural paradise.

From a distance, the island looks nearly uninhabited with its lush, jungle-covered hills running the length of the 35 miles of Roatan. Along the shore, as you approach, you’ll start to see buildings and sandy stretches. 

What you won’t see anywhere are high-rises or densely-concentrated cityscapes. Roatan has restrictions on the height of buildings in order to protect these beautiful views and vistas for everyone.

And, once you’re on the ground and exploring Roatan island, you’ll quickly realize just how precious those views are, no matter where you go on the island.

Where do expats live in Roatan?

There are many popular areas for expats living in Roatan. While plenty of homeowners don’t move to Roatan full-time, their vacation homes tend to be in the same areas of Roatan island as the full-time resident expats.

Expat communities thrive in Roatan. And it’s no wonder when you see how beautiful and welcoming this island is for foreigners! It’s easy enough to gain residency, and foreigners can purchase real estate even without getting residency first.

The primary language on the island is English, even though the official national language of Honduras is Spanish. That’s because of the history of the island, which we’ll go into more later.

If you’re seeking the popular neighborhoods on the island of Roatan, we’ll share them with brief insights below.

Perhaps the most popular destination for expats and for tourists, West Bay is the western tip of Roatan island. West Bay Beach regularly features as a world-class beach and there are multiple resorts along there to welcome visitors.

There are several popular neighborhoods around West Bay for expats. These include Turtle Crossing, Lighthouse Estates, Keyhole Bay, Tamarind Drive, and more.

Read all about West Bay here.

Another highly popular area for tourists and expats, West End is a traditional beachfront village spanning about a mile along the shore.

Dive shops, beach bars, boutique hotels, and plenty of shops line this stretch. West End is a fun and vibrant neighborhood to enjoy.

Read all about West End here.

Pristine Bay

Located centrally on Roatan island, Pristine Bay houses the island’s only 18-hole championship golf course: Black Pearl. The legendary Pete Dye designed the course.

The gated community here offers golf course villas as well as townhouse-style condominiums. This is a prestigious neighborhood in a highly convenient location.

While not a popular part of the island for expats to live in nor for tourists to visit, Coxen Hole is nonetheless an important part of Roatan Island.

Coxen Hole is the capital of Roatan municipality and the location of the Roatan international airport. It’s also the administrative center and houses large grocery stores and government offices, plus medical facilities. Also in Coxen Hole, you’ll find the Port of Roatan cruise ship dock.

Learn all about Coxen Hole here

The extensive stretch of northern coastline between Coxen Hole and West End is, generally, called Sandy Bay. Within Sandy Bay there are many neighborhoods and developments, all of which are popular with expats. Many of these areas offer a more local taste of life on Roatan island.

This is also a popular area for tourists, so there are several small hotels, plenty of dining options, and lots of dive shops and other activity providers.

Read all about Sandy Bay here.

French Harbour

French Harbour is centrally-located on the island, at the far edge of the Roatan municipality and bordering Santos Guardiola.

Within French Harbour, you’ll find the brand new CEMESA Hospital and the largest shopping plaza on Roatan island. Additionally, there are many other amenities and offices, as well as several popular communities where expats live. 

Read all about French Harbour here.

Palmetto Bay

Situated along the north shore of Roatan, Palmetto Bay has long been a popular neighborhood for expats.

Its quiet location offers a similar tranquility and traditional charm that the East End provides. But Palmetto Bay is accessible from French Harbour or Sandy Bay, making it more convenient to all the amenities and activities of the western side of the island.

Turtling Bay

Located near Palmetto Bay, Turtling Bay has also been a popular expat neighborhood for quite some time. Still quiet and connected to the local community, Turtling Bay is ideal for retirees or a vacation home away from the crowds.

The East End of Roatan Island is a broad swath encompassing a variety of neighborhoods and communities. Largely speaking, the East End is less built-up and offers a quiet, more traditional Caribbean charm than the western half of the island.

Fewer tourists visit here, although they are certainly starting to head that way for true getaways and classic vacation options!

The East End neighborhoods most popular with expats and tourists include:

Punta Blanca

A quiet community near Punta Gorda, Punta Blanca is on the north shore.

First Bight & Second Bight

Located along the south shore, including the Parrot Tree Plantation community.

At the far eastern edge of Roatan island, Camp Bay Beach is a beautiful stretch. It’s a popular destination for this quiet side of the island

A thriving community on the south shore, Oak Ridge is one of the oldest neighborhoods on the island. It’s a popular meeting point for expats on the East End.

Read all about the East End here.

Roatan Economy & Tourism

Roatan’s economy has greatly diversified in recent decades, with an increasing population requiring a wider range of services and products. Within that, tourism continues to be a central focus for the island.

Roatan now has two cruise ship ports: Port of Roatan in Coxen Hole and Mahogany Bay, which is owned by Carnival Cruise Lines. Approximately 1 million visitors pass through those ports each year.

Beyond those day visitors, Roatan’s scuba diving and watersports industries have attracted many millions more to visit for longer periods of time. With so many fun activities and so much natural beauty to enjoy, Roatan welcomes all types of travelers.

A prominent part of this booming tourism industry is the vacation rental market. In fact, many of our real estate clients end up renting their homes while they’re back at home.

Whether you intend to retire in Roatan eventually or just want a vacation home in paradise, opting to rent your home while you’re off-island ensures it doesn’t stay empty or uncared for while you’re away.

Our sister company, Roatan Vacation Rentals , can help you with all of your property management needs.

Roatan Island History & Culture

Roatan today is a microcosm of the world, with people from various countries all calling this tiny island home. As it is today, Roatan has always been a landing point for diverse peoples. The history of this island spans centuries of arrivals and departures. They have all combined to create the eclectic community of Roatan today.

For a brief history, we can start with the Paya, who were the indigenous people living on Roatan as early as historic records can go.

The Paya were a nomadic group of hunter-gathers and fisherman. They traveled by canoe between the islands and the mainland for trade. Today, you can still canoe through the mangroves on the East End, which the Paya carved centuries ago.

In 1502, on his 4th voyage, Christopher Columbus came upon the Bay Islands and claimed them on behalf of Spain. For the next few hundred years, the Bay Islands flip-flopped under Spanish or English rule.

On April 15, 1797, several thousand Black Carib landed on Roatan after being deported from St Vincent and the Grenadines by the British colonizers.

This group, which partly settled in Roatan and partly carried on to the mainland, is today known as the Garifuna. You can visit the Flamingo Cultural Center in Punta Gorda on the East End to learn their incredible history and to see how their culture has influenced Roatan until today.

Many languages and cultures fill Roatan today. You’ll find food from all around the world, despite the island’s small size and relatively low profile on the international tourism stage.

While you don’t need to speak Spanish on Roatan, it can be helpful since the island is part of Honduras. English is the primary language of the island, so you’ll get by just fine with that.

Learning about the many layers of history on this small island, you can see where today’s fantastic blend of cultures and people comes from.

Climate on Roatan Island in Honduras

The climate of Roatan island in Honduras is tropical, with average temperatures around 80* Fahrenheit year-round. There are refreshing trade winds keeping the island feeling fresh and cool, however, so don’t let the high temperatures alarm you! Plus, any time we feel too warm, there’s that stunning, inviting Caribbean Sea to cool us down.

The rainy season in Roatan is heaviest from December to February, although there are rainy period throughout the year. This keeps the island lush and green, which we all appreciate!

Rainy season isn’t like monsoon season elsewhere. While we do get heavy rainfall, we also get plenty of sunshine even during the rainy season. Short, passing storms are very common, leaving a beautiful sunset in their wake!

If you’re thinking of living in Roatan year-round, you’ll quickly get used to the tropical climate. If you’re just visiting, you’ll probably want a vacation rental with air conditioning if you’re not accustomed to the heat. With that said, any rental on the hillside should capture beautiful breezes and any rental on the beach means you’ll be in the water every day!

Hurricane Season in Roatan

As far as hurricanes go, Roatan is very lucky to be fairly well-protected with its Western Caribbean location. While the Eastern Caribbean islands frequently suffer from direct hits, Roatan enjoys relative safety far from that typical hurricane path.

That doesn’t mean we don’t get the outskirts of big storms, which we can do if they take a more southwestern path. In 2020, there were two back-to-back hurricanes that hit the mainland of Central America. Again, Roatan was lucky to not be in that path and we just got some typical wind and rain.

Statistically, Roatan only experiences a bad hurricane once every 26 years, so it’s not an annual worry for homeowners or visitors.

While we have plenty more we could say about Roatan island, we think we’ve covered all the important bases here in this comprehensive guide. Feel free to peruse our other articles for more insights into Roatan, or contact us any time if you have questions that we can help answer.

We love talking about our beautiful island home and welcoming new homeowners to the community is always fun for us! Reach out any time. For now, we’ll leave you with some links that could be helpful resources for you…

Helpful Links for Roatan Island Resources

Vacation rentals or property management:.

• Roatan Vacation Rentals

Governmental Information:

• Embassy of Honduras in Washington
• Embassy of the USA in Honduras
• Central Bank of Honduras
• Banco Atlantida

Roatan News and Information:

• Paya Magazine
• La Prensa – Spanish Newspaper

Roatan Facebook Pages:

• Expats Living on Roatan
• Ask Anything Roatan
• Coxen Hole ,
• Expat Life ,
• French Harbour ,
• Real Estate ,
• Roatan map ,
• Sandy Bay ,
• Travel Tips ,

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Roatan Travel Guide: Non-Diver’s Guide for Where to Stay, What to Do + Where to Eat on Roatan Island

Pin it for Later! Roatan Travel Guide

The second biggest barrier reef in the world - the MesoAmerican reef - runs from the Caribbean coast of Mexico down the coast of Belize and Guatemala, and ends off the coast of Honduras. This reef happens to be very healthy, especially the reef in Honduras. In fact, it’s the only country in the world that has a reef is actually getting healthier year by year. The country protects it’s reef carefully, so this is an amazing place to explore the underwater marine world.

But if you’re not a diver, there are still plenty of other ways to enjoy this reef and this gorgeous island. Other Roatan travel activities range from incredible snorkeling, sailing, beach lounging, hiking, horseback riding, and lots of other activities.

Before I went to Roatan, I expected to enjoy the pretty beaches and nature and have a relaxing vacation. However, my Roatan travel was much more than I expected - the island has really interesting culture, gorgeous jungle as well as beach & ocean, and warm people. I am so enthusiastic about Roatan travel and want to share this gem with others!

Read on to find out everything you need to know in my Roatan travel guide. From where to stay, what to do as a non-diver, and where to eat. I spent 10 days getting to know this island, and I want you to enjoy it as much as I did!

Search Roatan Hotels and Airbnbs:

Where to stay: roatan travel guide.

I stayed in 4 places all around the island of Roatan during my 10 days of Roatan travel. I would recommend 3 of those places - they were all amazing in totally different ways. Each would appeal to a different type of traveler. Or if you’re like me and like a variety of experiences, you might want to try to combine a couple of them for some different perspectives on Roatan travel.

West Bay: Ibagari -

For the design conscious & luxurious traveler.

Ibagari Boutique Hotel is hands down one of the most gorgeous hotels I’ve ever stayed in. Every corner, every piece of furniture or artwork is carefully thought out and curated. The rooms are beautiful, large and comfy. I legitimately didn’t want to get out of bed, even though there was a picturesque beach right outside.

 The staff is very attentive and ready to help you with anything you need. The common areas and pool are super beautiful and very comfortable and inviting. And the restaurant is one of the very best places to eat on the island ( see below in the What to Eat section ). Even if you don’t stay at Ibagari, you should definitely make time to visit this restaurant during your Roatan travel.

This is absolutely the best West Bay Roatan hotel . If you want quick access to the famous and beautiful nearby West Bay Beach, but prefer a more private and luxurious hotel, Ibagari is a perfect fit.

Hotel: Ibagari Boutique Hotel

Best For: The luxury and design conscious traveler

Price : Varies depending on room & season.

Includes : Air conditioning, wifi, ocean view, pool.

Location : Tamarind Drive, West Bay Roatan

Book Here : Reservations

Find Roatan Travel Flight Deals:

Sandy Bay/West End: Puerta Azul -

The best of both worlds - quiet + convenient location.

I stayed in West End for one night during my Roatan travel, and I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it. West End is fun to visit for dinner or an morning beach visit ( see below in the What to Do section ), but it’s quite touristy so probably not the best place to spend your Roatan vacation. Instead, I’d recommend staying in the nearby little community of Sandy Bay. This area is only 10-15 minutes from West End by car, but feels worlds away.

The grounds at Roatan hotel, Puerta Azul , are right off the main road, but feel tucked miles into the jungle. The space is full of waving palms and pretty tropical plants. And the wooden bungalows blend right into the natural environment, while offering a comfy and chic place to relax.

Puerta Azul has an incredible 200 foot pier with a deck at the end that is perfect for lounging, watching the sunset, or jumping into the clear aqua water.

So you have a quiet relaxing vacation spot within a few minutes of all the amenities of West End. And if you don’t have your own car, you can easily and safely hail one of the shared taxis that passes by the main road often. These only cost a couple of dollars per person, and offer a quick and easy way to get around during your Roatan travel.

Hotel: Puerta Azul Boutique Hotel

Best For: The discerning traveler who wants a quiet and restful vacation within minutes of the action.

Includes : Breakfast, air conditioning, wifi, unlimited drinking water, free use of ocean toys/snorkeling gear.

Location : Located across the street from the Sandy Bay JAS carwash, near Lawson Rock

East End: Camp Bay Lodge -

For the adventurous traveler.

Camp Bay Lodge is one of the most unique places I’ve stayed and is perfect for an adventurous traveler who likes to get off the beaten path. If you want a special Roatan vacation, Camp Bay is the place for you.

Camp Bay Lodge is located on the remote and undeveloped East End of Roatan. This means that you are surrounded by wild and beautiful nature - jungle and long stretches of white sand with no one else around (except a few other hotel guests).

Read my full review of Camp Bay Lodge here.

The lodge is also known for its kite surfing. This part of the island gets some strong offshore winds, so it’s a great spot to practice this sport. The hotel can set up classes or rent out equipment for this ( See below in the What to Do section ).

This is also a great place to really get to know the original Roatan culture- the Garifuna people. The small community of Camp Bay nearby (with only about 150 people) is a Garifuna community, and the further away town of Punta Gorda is known for their traditional Sunday celebrations ( See below in the What to Do section ). These events are open to all, but are for the local people to play music, dance, eat, and enjoy the end of their week. I didn’t know about this celebration before my Roatan travel, so wasn’t able to adjust my schedule to be able to attend. But I’d urge anyone else traveling to the East End to fit this in!

You can definitely do other activities from your base in Camp Bay if you’re willing to do some driving/traveling around the island. But Camp Bay Lodge is best used as a place to escape it all, enjoy nature, do some kite surfing, and swing in a hammock with a good book.

Room rates are very reasonable, and there is an onsite restaurant where you can get all your tasty meals.

Hotel: Camp Bay Lodge

Best For: The adventurous traveler who likes to get off-the-beaten path

Price : $60-150/night based on the room, number of guests, and season.

Includes : Air conditioning, wifi, unlimited drinking water.

Location : Main Highway, East End, Camp Bay

Or Find Other Roatan Travel Hotels + Airbnbs Below:

What to do: roatan travel guide, go snorkeling.

If you’re not a diver, arranging a snorkel trip is a must during your Roatan travel time. It’s not necessary to dive below the surface to see the incredible and vibrant marine life that makes this barrier reef so special. There are over 100 snorkel spots around the island of Roatan!

Snorkeling Roatan - Day Tour to Cayos Cochinos or Snorkel Tours by Boat from Roatan

While it’s possible to snorkel by swimming from the shore in several spots on the island, be sure to book at least one tour to some of the most amazing places around Roatan to see marine life. I took a Cayos Cochinos from Roatan tour with Zeppelin Tours and it was my favorite day during my Roatan travel.

Note : Zeppelin Tours no longer operates in Roatan. However, Ruthless Roatan Charters offers a very similar day tour to the Cayos Cochinos islands , and has excellent reviews on Tripadvisor. Or for snorkel tours to other destinations, Amavi Charters is another recommended company.

The Cayos Cochinos are a little known and protected island chain closer to the Honduran mainland. The reef and the islands here are basically untouched. You will see some of the most vibrant and plentiful sea life in these waters. And while the sail back and forth is a bit on the longer side, it’s a gorgeous place to enjoy being on a beautiful catamaran.

If you don’t have the time or flexibility to do the Cayos Cochinos tour (it’s a weather dependent trip), you can do the Port Royal snorkel tou r from Roatan. This tour is much closer to the island and not weather dependent. It’s also one of the best places to snorkel and dive from Roatan and is a national park filled with beautiful marine life.

Snorkeling - West Bay

There are also many places within swimming distance of the Roatan shore to enjoy some easy snorkeling. The easiest is the reef right off the shores of West Bay. You can rent snorkel gear on this beach, and simply swim out along the rock wall along the southwestern edge of West Bay Beach to see some beautiful marine life. Be sure to ask about any currents and be careful if you plan to swim out very far.

Snorkeling West End

Another great spot for snorkeling is off the coast of West End. It’s a little too far and not safe to swim to. But instead of going on an organized day tour to this beautiful reef, you can simply ask a water taxi at the West End pier to take you out to the reef, wait while you snorkel, and then bring you back when you are finished. I haven’t done this myself, but heard from locals this was a great option. Price would most likely cost about $10-15 USD per person for an hour of snorkeling. Be sure to settle on a price before you leave.

You can rent the snorkel gear from Ecodivers Roatan in the center of West End.

You can also snorkel right off the shore of West End beach if you want something more lowkey. I recommend doing this in the morning before the crowds arrive.

Sunset Sailing Tours

What’s better than being on a sailboat in the clear Caribbean sea while watching the sun set? Probably nothing. If you want to enjoy the beautiful view from a boat and relax with some rum punch, you might want to book a sunset sailboat tour during your Roatan travel.

Visit the Botanical Gardens of Carambola Gardens

Carambola is a pretty botanical garden within a couple minute drive of West End. You can take any shared taxi making the trip between Coxen Hole and West End and ask to be let out at Carambola Gardens.

This is probably not the most mind blowing botanical garden in the world, but it was very beautiful, and had lots of examples of local flora that were nicely labeled. There are also some nice and well maintained paths that wind up the mountain. It’s an easy enough walk, though is climbing up. It takes about 30 minutes to reach the top, and then you are rewarded with an incredible view of the shore.

I loved visiting the garden because I love the jungle and being surrounded by tropical plants. I also love hiking and a view so this was a great stop! Admission costs $10 USD.

Visit West End Beach before Noon

West End beach is actually a really pretty and underrated beach. The trick is to enjoy it before the cruise shippers arrive. You can check this schedule or this one for cruise ship days, but the easiest thing to do is to time your beach hang to be before noon. You will most likely have the white sand and clear waters to yourself!

Visit West Bay Beach before Noon

The same can be said for West Bay Beach. I took a morning beach run around 8am and barely saw anyone else around on this famous beach, besides diving tour staff preparing their boats for the day. If you time your beach visit for the morning, you should be able to enjoy a peaceful and tranquil beach.

That’s not to say that West Bay isn’t worth visiting even when it’s crowded. We spent one lazy afternoon parking ourselves at the beach chairs in front of the Argentinian Grill. The beach was busy, but it didn’t stop us from enjoying the sun and the clear and calm water in front of the restaurant. It all depends on your perspective and what you are looking for.

Check the above links for the cruise ship schedules.

Visit the Wild East End

The East End of Roatan is unlike anywhere else I’ve been. It’s mostly undeveloped and feels totally wild and gorgeous. The beach of Camp Bay is a long stretch of white sand and clear water with some reef reaching to the shore. This is a great place for enjoying nature, doing a little beach or jungle hiking, and enjoying a swim with no one else around.

Stop at Camp Bay Lodge for lunch or La Sirena for sunset drinks (and/or dinner) at the local restaurant right on the water.

Punta Gorda Sunday Celebration

If you are interested in culture, be sure to visit Punta Gorda during your trip to the East End. Punta Gorda is the oldest Garifuna community on the island and holds strong to its culture and traditions. Try to time your visit on a Sunday. Every Sunday the community has a celebration with music, dancing, and traditional food. I didn’t know about this before booking my time on the East End, so unfortunately I missed it based on my schedule. But I would have absolutely loved to get this glimpse into local culture during my Roatan travel. These celebrations are for the locals but open to all.

Also every year on April 12 , the Punta Gorda community celebrates the anniversary of their ancestors arrival on the island. If you are on the island during this time, be sure not to miss it!

Take a Yoga Class

There is shockingly little information online about Roatan yoga options. I was even led to believe that public classes didn’t exist. However, I learned about some near the end of my trip so want to share the info!

TranquilSeas in Sandy Bay holds regular Roatan yoga classes. Contact them for a current schedule. Another Sandy Bay resort, Sol y Mar has started doing Roatan yoga classes - check their Facebook for a current schedule. West End Yoga Roatan also has regular yoga classes - check t heir Facebook for a schedule.

This information will surely change, so confirm with your hotel. I found Talia at Puerta Azul to be the best source of information about yoga on Roatan.

Horseback Riding

The wide open beaches and calm waters of Roatan make this a great place to spend an afternoon exploring by horseback. Ask your hotel if you’re interested in setting up a horseback riding tour.

Kayaking or SUP

Roatan is a fantastic place to explore the water and shore by kayak or SUP because the waters are generally calm and crystal clear. Most hotels have kayaks and SUP boards to borrow or rent. Or you can set up a day tour to explore different places around the island .

There is great fly fishing and deep sea fishing from the island of Roatan. Check with your hotel for the best local options.

Kitesurfing

The East End of Roatan has strong winds, so it’s a fantastic place to learn or practice kitesurfing. Camp Bay Lodge has an in-house kitesurfing school with equipment to rent and lessons available.

Have a Beach Day or Anthony’s Key, Little French Key or Pigeon Cay

There are some gorgeous beaches around the island of Roatan besides West Bay and West End. If you want some relaxing time during your Roatan travel head to Anthony’s Key or Little French Key .  These Keys are privately owned by resorts, so require you to purchase a day pass to use their facilities and enjoy their beaches. But many give you access to their pool, snorkel gear, and other amenities. This is the perfect way to enjoy the stunning beaches and have a relaxing day during your Roatan travel.

Another option is to take a day tour to Pigeon Cay - a little picturesque Cay off the Eastern edge of the island. You can just enjoy the beautiful beach, or do some snorkeling or diving here. This is a day tour - ask your hotel for more information.

Mangrove Tours

The nature around the island of Roatan is incredible, including the many jungley mangroves on the East End of Roatan. Consider taking a day tour to explore these hidden places and all the wildlife that lives there. Ask your hotel to set up a mangrove tour.

Scuba Diving

Of course, I can’t skip mentioning the world class scuba diving that put Roatan on the tourism map. There is a wealth of information out there and I didn’t dive on Roatan, so I will leave it to the experts. Ask your hotel or visit Padi Travel for lots more info.

Or Find More Roatan Activities and Tours Below:

Find roatan flight deals:, where to eat: roatan travel guide.

Roatan is not famous for their cuisine, but there were a few standout restaurants that were absolutely great.

My Roatan travel was a 10 day trip, and I ate every meal out. There were lots of places I tried that were ok, but the below 4 were excellent.

Luna Muna at Ibagari Boutique Hotel

Luna Muna restaurant at Ibagari Boutique Hotel was absolutely perfect. I was blown away at the quality of the food and inventive flavors. Every meal I had there - breakfast, lunch, and dinner was fresh and delicious. Beyond that, the atmosphere is incredible. It’s nestled in one of the most gorgeous boutique hotels I’ve stayed in. And in the evening, the atmosphere is very romantic with pretty strung lights and tiki torches. I absolutely recommend making a reservation for a special dinner here! And then maybe visiting again the next day for breakfast. 🙂

Argentinian Grill

The Argentinian Grill is a classic option on Roatan. It has been open for 15 years and has locations in both West End and West Bay. The Argentinian owners know their steak - their cuts are delicious and they are cooked to perfection. All the sides and the appetizer I tried were also great. I loved dining at the West End location at the little patio near the water.

Anthony’s Chicken

I didn’t have a chance to try Anthony’s Chicken until my last full day in Roatan and I wish I had tried it sooner because I would have gone back every day! Anthony’s has classic Caribbean cuisine - the jerk chicken being super delicious. It’s also much more budget friendly than many of the other restaurants on the island, with most meals being just over $5 USD.

Thai Place Roatan

This restaurant was a bit of a surprise. I didn’t expect to find delicious and authentic Thai food during my Roatan travel. But this restaurant is well respected on Roatan and it didn’t disappoint. The portions are huge and tasty. And the restaurant is right on the water with a nice pier, so it’s a great place to enjoy a romantic dinner or some sunset drinks too.

I hope I’ve convinced you to visit the gorgeous island of Roatan and given you some good ideas of where to stay, what to do, and where to eat during your Roatan travel. This hidden gem will surprise you with its beauty and culture. It may not remain little-known for long so hurry up and go before word gets out!

Find your Roatan Airbnb or Hotel Below:

15 Responses

Perfect! A Non-Divers guide. I don’t dive, but love to explore on land. The food and beaches look spectacular. I’ve been to Roatan once on a cruise excursion. I’d love to go back.

Jenn and Ed Coleman

The west end looks really special with the botanical gardens and the snorkeling spots. Anytime you can get a stretch of beach that pretty all to yourself, it’s truly magical.

Roatan Vacation for Adventure Lovers: Camp Bay Lodge in the Off-the-Beaten Path East End of Roatan

[…] already established that my time on the Caribbean island of Roatan was above and beyond anything I expected. I loved this interesting and beautiful island. One of the […]

Ibagari Boutique Hotel looks absolutely gorgeous! I wouldn’t want to get out of bed, either. 🙂 Do you have any suggestions for where or what to drink in Roatan? Anthony’s Chicken is getting me hungry for dinner now…

Allison Wong

Caribbean is still on my list to go and Roatan looks so heavenly! Since I’m not a diver your list of things to do are definitely very helpful. Love the look of those food too!

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[…] Golfo de Fonseca in the far east of the country. This giant gulf is shared by El Salvador, Honduras and Nicaragua and is filled with small […]

Hi! I found this on Pinterest as I am researching my upcoming trip to Roatan. This is the best post I have seen on Roatan. Nobody seems to leave the West side! I have a couple questions for you. I am an adventurous solo female traveler, and I am interested in exploring both the West and East sides of Roatan. If I rent a car to go to the east side of the island, will I be safe? I checked on TripAdvisor and most people say it’s not safe, but I find that TripAdvisor travelers are not very adventurous or overly cautious. Also, where did you rent your rental car from? Thanks in advance!

Susan Ripley

Hi Victoria! Thanks so much for your kind words – I’m glad you found the post useful. Personally I found the east side to feel just as comfortable as the west side, safety-wise. I don’t have any actual statistics, just going by how I felt when I was there. I just recommend that you use common sense, don’t walk around at night alone, etc.. I really liked the hotel I stayed in, and enjoyed spending time there. I did not rent a car, I hired a taxi to drive us back and forth between the west and east side. I would recommend that, as the roads on the east side aren’t great, and it might be easier to let someone who knows them do the driving. I would ask your hotel for recommendations or to help you book a taxi. Enjoy your trip!!

Roatan is my favorite spot in the western Caribbean! I have read several blogs about Roatan and you definitely take the cake, details!! I must have visited 13-15 times in the last 8 years. People are friendly, English and US currency is used widely, and you get a lot more than the eastern Caribbean for your monkey. Here are my favorite things to do in Roatan: https://discoverroatan.net/things-to-do-in-roatan-honduras

Victoria, please take what you read about the island with a grain of salt. I have never had an issue or ran across any problems when visiting Roatan. I find people are too bubbled up in their lifestyle back home and don’t know ( or want to) how to experience new places and cultures.

Thanks for your kind words, Michael! It is a really special place and feels like so many people don’t know about it. You’re right – money does go a lot farther than Eastern Caribbean islands and the water is just as gorgeous. I can’t wait to return.

Joel Valach

Hey My name is Joel. Thank you for all this information! We are looking to go to Roata and are having troubles where to stay. I was looking at Puerta Azu and wondering is there any other places there to stay in? such at a VROB or something. Is there places to eat there? We want someplace a little quieter and are kinda wanting a something with a kitchen so we could cook so we dont have to eat out every nice. Is there a grocery store somewhere so we could do that or do you just eat out overnight. Do you know where exactly the sunday dance is on the East end. Thank you for your help I look forward to hearing back from you

Hi Joel, Thanks for your message! I believe there are quite a few airbnbs (similar to vrbo) in Roatan, so you might check there. There is a big supermarket near the airport, so you could arrange to stop on your way in. You’ll also be able to find mini markets in other areas around the island for a few staples. There are restaurants to eat at around the island as well. The sunday dance is in Punta Gorda which is a small town. I haven’t been but I think if you arrive on sunday it will be obvious or you can ask your taxi driver. Have a great trip!

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Roatán travel guide

Home > Travel guides > Roatán travel guide

Roatán might be associated with being a popular cruise-ship stop, but if you get under its skin there is plenty on offer. Whether you’re a backpacker or looking for a luxury resort , the different corners of this Honduran island will deliver. If you escape the resorts and cruise stops then you’ll uncover a place packed with culture, fantastic people and stunning environments to explore.

As the largest of Honduras’ Bay Islands, Roatán has a thriving local scene and plenty of interesting activities to get stuck in with. Part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the island offers some of the best diving in the world, pristine beaches and a wealth of marine wildlife. With a coral reef fringing almost the entire circumference of the island and a mountainous interior, the island has plenty for adventurous backpackers or holidaymakers looking for a relaxing beach holiday.

Jump to…

Where to go

When to visit

Accommodation, getting around.

• Visit requirements

Food & drink

Cultural tips.

Brief history

Interesting facts

Roatán is a relatively small island and can easily be explored in a relatively short space of time. The island stretches 50km long, yet only 2-4km wide. One of the more popular areas of the island is West End, which is the young and trendy part that is great for a night out and a thriving hub to meet new travellers. The laid-back vibe makes it one of the hotspots of the island where people congregate.

The east of the island offers a more relaxed atmosphere, with a small strip of restaurants and bars along the beach. This area has pristine white beaches stretching towards calm waters, making it a great spot for snorkelling straight from the shore. Here is where you’ll find more luxurious places to stay as well, along with a calmer atmosphere.

Eastern Roatán offers up pristine beaches and an alluring wildness, away from the cruise ships and tourist sites. Known as what used to be a pirate hangout, where the road ends nature takes over. This area of the island is where the locals inhabit and you’re likely to find a more authentic experience opposed to the tourist hotspots on the Western side of the island.

The best beaches in Roatán

Diving is one of the most popular of Roatán’s activities. People come from far and wide to explore the islands crystal clear waters in search of marine wildlife and 1000-foot coral walls. Roatán sits on the lower section of the world’s second-largest barrier reef system, called the Mesoamerican Reef. This natural wonder stretches nearly 700 miles from Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula to the Bay Islands, providing the island with a rare place for divers to see a coral reef teeming with life. The long sandy beaches make Roatán a favourite compared to its touristy island cousin of Utila. The waters surrounding the island offer plenty of interesting dive sites for both novices and experts from fascinating shipwrecks to nerve-wracking shark dives.

Other water activities which are incredibly popular including fishing, kayaking and exploring the area in a glass-bottom boat. The beaches provide the perfect place to snorkel in shallow water for those less confident in their abilities with the opportunity to see vibrant coral and a diverse selection of tropical fish. In the eastern end of Roatán, you can explore the deep mangroves on a motorised canoe and see some of the colourful wildlife of the island including endangered spiny-tailed iguanas and yellow-naped parrots.

Another popular tourist activity is to just… relax. Roatán is great for those looking to get away from it all with miles of untouched, sandy beaches that offer the perfect backdrop to read a book, have a drink or watch the sunset. Walks around Roatán will unearth glorious mountainous landscapes with lush tropical foliage and varied wildlife. A range of wildlife sanctuaries dots the area that allows you to interact with the tropical birds and endangered wildlife of the island while learning about their habitats, challenges and future.

27 things to do in Roatán

Everything you need to know about diving in Roatán

The best times to visit Roátan are in May and September. These months are just before and after the high season for tourists, which means that the weather is hot and sunny and you get to avoid the crowded streets that come with the higher season. May is great for endless sunny days, while September is incredibly cheap but you run the risk of having a few downpours.

From December to Easter, Roátan experiences it’s high season. This is when the cruise ships come in and the island is taken over by tourists. Usually, the weather during this time is unpleasant in the US and they start to run more direct flights. Due to this, the prices for everything rises but the island has a pleasant hum of activity. If you’re looking for a holiday where you want to interact with plenty of new people and don’t mind a busy environment, this is definitely the time for you.

October to December is regarded as the low season for tourists. The island is quieter, there are fewer activities taking place and the wet season has begun. The bad weather creates a knock-on effect across the island meaning that accommodation and food become much cheaper but the amount of sunny days diminishes. That means less time for sunbathing!

Like most Caribbean islands, Roátan is full of luxurious resorts and hotels that offer every accommodation you could possibly dream of, from luxury spas to jungle-themed properties.

The most luxurious places to stay tend to be found at West Bay with a mix of beachfront and hillside options. During the day this part of the island will be a flurry of activity with the arrival of enormous cruise ships, but in the evening it turns into a tropical hideaway. Ideal for families and honeymooners, West Bay provides private resorts, garden bungalows and luxury B&Bs.

The island offers some amazing diving opportunities making it popular with a younger crowd. Due to this, you’ll find hostels dotted around the coastline offering a cheaper stay for those looking to soak in all Roátan has to offer while watching their wallet. Options for backpackers tend to be found in the West End that offers a range of diverse shoestring accommodation. Properties on the main road tend to be booked by people looking for adventure and to experience the vibrant nightlife of West End.

Those looking for an off the beaten path experience can stay in Eastern Roátan, the wild and quieter side of the island. Resorts that dot along this unspoiled beachfront are few and far between, and the ones that do reside on this side of the island are private and intimate. Staying on this side of the island will have you interacting with the locals for a much more personalised experience than the busier Western side.

The Best Resorts in Roatán Island, Honduras

Where to stay in Roatán

A guide to the best hotels in Roatán

Although Roátan is a fairly small island in the Caribbean, you’ll still need to utilise their public transport to get around. The island has plenty of buses and taxis, making it easy for you to travel around if you don’t want to rent a car. In fact, there are about 400 taxis on the island and they’re all based on the Western side of the island due to its popularity with tourists. There are no addresses on the island so to get around by taxi you’ll need to be good with directions. You’ll likely be telling the taxi driver when to turn so make sure you have clear instructions on how to get to your accommodation, or at least know a popular landmark close by!

Within the main areas, most places are within walking distance and the surrounding beaches provide the perfect backdrop for a pleasant walk. If you’re thinking of travelling further afield, then there’s the option to hire a car. It takes roughly an hour and a half to drive from the West Bay of the island to Camp Bay Beach in the East, so if you want to go exploring the Eastern beaches away from the city then hiring a car to take the trip at your leisure is ideal.

Read more about how to get to Roátan

Visa requirements

As Roátan is part of Honduras a visa is required to visit the island and country as a whole. Visiting the country is a fairly simple process as you will be issued a visa on arrival without any prior paperwork. On your arrival to Roátan Juan Manuel Galvez Airport, you will be granted a 90-day tourist visa. If you decide that you love Honduras enough to want to stay longer the visa can be extended for an additional 30 days while you’re in the country. That’s 120 days of paradise.

When travelling to Roátan you must also have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months after arrival or else you may not be able to enter the country.

The island of Roátan was first discovered by Christopher Columbas as the first European visitor to the island on his fourth voyage between 1502 and 1504. Since then Roátan has been invaded by the Spanish and British; essentially starting a tug of war between the countries for the island’s plentiful natural resources. Due to this, Roátan has very varied ancestry that ranges from the Garifunas, who have been recognised as a UNESCO World Intangible Heritage of Humanity, to the Caracoles of European and British-Afro-Caribbean descent, the Mestizo people from the mainland and the people from modern countries who have chosen Roátan as their home.

Roátan is also well known for its history of harbouring a number of pirates, and played a large part in the pirates of the Caribbean era. The island is said to have been home to a pirate stronghold called Port Royal. Some say that the pirates’ influence is still strong on the island, but mostly it’s just the consumption of rum.

Further reading – Where is Roátan?

As you’d expect, Roátan’s cuisine is rich in freshly caught fish from the surrounding oceans and decadent fruit such as bananas, oranges and limes, which all grow locally on the island. Typically restaurants serve western food intended for tourists, but in some hidden areas you’ll find places selling local delicacies. Lobster, shrimp and conch are always on the menu, and are usually made into stews and soups.

The most popular food in Roátan is Balaedas; homemade flour tortillas that are heated and filled with refried beans and cheese, then topped with a variety of options including shredded chicken, scrambled eggs and avocado. They’re usually sold for a very cheap price and are easily available, providing the perfect morning snack before a long day of diving.

It’s always important to research the country that you’re travelling to which will help prevent you from offending someone by doing a seemingly innocent act. Every country has its own quirks, which means navigating one without the proper research can leave you in a sticky situation.

When travelling to Roátan, a few things to keep in mind are:

• Although Honduras is a primarily Spanish speaking country, the most common language on Roátan is English.
• The residents are very proud of their island and all it’s natural to beauty. It goes without saying that leaving rubbish on the beach and breaking coral is a surefire way to annoy the locals.
• Although Iguanas are protected in the island and it is illegal to do so, locals of Roatan will hunt down these creatures to eat. The lizards have a reputation in Honduras of curing all ailments from colds to poor sexual performance, making them a popular dish. Iguanas are most prized when they are served with their eggs, making it a huge problem for the endangered species.
• Roatan used to be a pirate hotspot, with more than 5000 pirates living on the island in the 17th century. The island has had some famous pirates step on its shores including Blackbeard, Henry Morgan and John Coxen, who the town of Coxen Hole has been named after.
• It is prohibited to build higher than 3 stories on Roatan. This means you won’t find any high-rise buildings on the island, just endless rolling mountains and beautiful coastlines.

Read more about Roatan

Roatán in November

Roatán in October

Roatán in September

Roatán in August

Roatán in July

Roatán in June

Roatán in May

Roatán in April

Here is the Best Time to Visit Roatán

Roatán in March

Roatán in february.

Roatán in January

Where is Roatán?

How to get to Roatán

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Roatan Maps

Roatan is a very diverse island with distinct areas, towns and landscapes. Use the below Roatan Maps of West End, West Bay Beach, Sandy Bay, Coxen Hole, French Harbor and the East End to assist you in travel planning or download the maps by  Clicking Here .

West Bay, Roatan Map

West End, Roatan Map

Sandy Bay, Roatan Map

Coxen Hole, Roatan Map

French Harbor, Roatan Map

East End, Roatan Map

The Roatan Relocation and Investment Guide supplies you with the insiders information necessary for you to make an informed decision about Investing and Living on beautiful Roatan, Bay Islands of Honduras.