Roatan is an island in the Caribbean Sea, off the coast of Honduras. It is the largest of the Bay Islands and the most developed tourist destination in Honduras. Roatan is known for its scuba diving and snorkeling sites, as well as its beaches.
Roatan is populated by many different cultures and people. You’ll find ex-pats as well as many Afro-Hondurans and people of mixed ancestry. Roatan has a wide variety of restaurants and bars, as well as many different activities to keep tourists entertained.
Roatan is a beautiful place to explore whether you have just or many days on a more extended vacation.
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Things to do in Roatan
1. Go scuba diving or snorkeling.
Roatan is known for its clear waters and beautiful coral reefs. There are many dive shops and tour operators on the island that can help you plan your trip.
A large coral reef called the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is off the coast of Roatan. This reef is the second largest in the world and home to a wide variety of marine life.
2. Visit West Bay Beach.
This is the most popular beach on the island, and it is well-known for its white sand and turquoise waters. There are many restaurants and bars in the area, as well as a variety of shops.
3. Explore the island.
Roatan is a beautiful island, and there is much to see and do. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, and caves to explore. You can also take a tour of the island on a bicycle or ATV.
4. Go fishing.
Roatan is home to some of the best fishing in the world. There are many charter companies that can take you out for a day of fishing. Discuss what kind of fishing is popular in Roatan.
5. Relax on the beach.
With its beautiful beaches and clear waters, Roatan is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun.
The best beaches for relaxing are West Bay Beach, Sandy Bay Beach, Palm Beach, and Tabayana Beach.
6. Visit a museum.
The Flamingo Cultural Center is a small museum that showcases the history and culture of Roatan. You can also explore the Bay Islands Underwater Museum, which is a snorkeling adventure.
7. Eat local food.
Roatan has a wide variety of restaurants, but you should also try some of the traditional Honduran dishes.
If you’re looking for something to eat, try the national dish of Honduras, which is called Baleadas. Baleadas are flour tortillas filled with refried beans, cheese, and sour cream. Be sure and try conch fritters too, a Caribbean favorite.
8. Zipline over the canopy.
There are a few options for ziplining in Roatan, including at Mahogony Bay cruise port. My favorite place to zipline though is the Pirates of the Caribbean Zipline. The course is incredible, and the staff is friendly and helpful.
9. Go horseback riding.
There are several companies that offer horseback rides on the beach and through the jungle. This is a great way to see parts of the island that you wouldn’t be able to see from the road.
10. Take a cooking class.
If you’re interested in learning how to cook some of the local food, sign up for a cooking class. Many of the resorts offer cooking classes, or you can take a class at a local cooking school.
11. Get to know the local wildlife.
In Roatan, you will find many opportunities to get close to some of the local wildlife residents. There are quite a few zoos, and tour companies that offer the chance to meet Capuchin Monkeys and Sloths.
It’s important to not support businesses that don’t have the best interest of animals in mind. After a lot of research, I came across Daniel Johnson’s Monkey and Sloth Hangout. I’ve visited a few times, and it’s instantly apparent that the animals are loved and cared for.
The monkeys and sloths are able to play in the trees on the property and are not confined to cages. You will have a wonderful opportunity to learn about the animals and interact with them.
On Roatan, you can also visit an Iguana Farm and a butterfly garden.
12. Go to Little French Key.
Located just a few minutes from Roatan’s West Bay Beach, Little French Key is a beautiful island oasis that offers travelers a wide variety of activities to enjoy.
Visitors can go diving and snorkeling in the crystal clear waters, kayaking around the island, go horseback riding on the beach, sunbathe, swing on the rope swings, and much more.
You can rent jet skis if you are searching for adventure, or get a massage if you want to relax.
The island also has a mini zoo with macaws, parrots, and monkeys.
13. Gumbalina Park.
Gumbalina Park is an adventure park located in Roatan’s West End. The park has zip lines, ropes courses, ATV tours, and much more.
14.Carambola Botanical Gardens.
The Carambola Botanical Gardens, with its 40 acres of natural and unspoiled jungle trails, offer the perfect opportunity to get away from it all and reconnect with nature.
15. Visit Saint Helene
Take a short boat ride to Saint Helene to explore natural caves and kayak over mangrove forests. You can get beautiful photos, go bird watching, or learn all about the local plants that inhabit Roatan.
16. Souvenir shop at the Straw Market.
Stroll through the straw market to find all kinds of souvenirs and homemade trinkets.
Where to Stay in Roatan
While a large majority of visitors to Roatan arrive on a cruise ship, plenty of others decide to visit Roatan for a longer holiday.
There are many options for lodging in Roatan ranging from rustic vacation rentals to luxurious resorts.
If you want to be close to all of the action in Roatan, including restaurants, bars, and shopping, you will want to stay near West End or West Bay.
Best places to stay in West End
Splash Inn Dive Resort
The hotel is ideally situated in the West End, close to some of the best beaches on the island. With an up-close view of the stunning coral reefs, Splash Inn Dive Resort is the perfect place to stay for your next diving trip.
The 2 bedroom / 2 bathroom villas and swimming pool are located 6 minutes from the hotel and dive center.
The Beach House Boutique Hotel
This gorgeous hotel has been newly remodeled and is a favorite among travelers.
You’ll find comfortable beds and air conditioning in each room. The rooms overlook the bay and are a wonderful spot to watch the sunset.
West Bay Hotels
In West Bay, you’ll find larger resorts and more chain-type hotels. If you are looking for a large, active resort scene, you can stay in West Bay. It is a water taxi ride away from West End.
Grand Roatan Caribbean Resort
Looking for a luxurious and relaxing retreat? Look no further than Grand Roatán Caribbean Resort. This resort offers a unique boutique experience on one of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean.
Mayan Princess Beach and Dive Resort
The Mayan Princess Resort is the only luxury all-inclusive resort on Roatan. You can dine at 4 restaurants, and enjoy unlimited premium drinks.
If you are looking for a more quiet vacation, you will want to look for lodging near the East End or Sandy Bay.
Sandy Bay is a more populated area of the island, but unlike the touristy areas of the West side, Sandy Bay is inhabited by local residents.
East End is definitely the quietest and most remote area of Roatan and offers seclusion and peaceful relaxation.
Roatan Conclusion
Roatan is a beautiful island with something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, there’s something on Roatan that will appeal to you.
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy during your stay, but be sure and take some time to relax on the beach too.
The people of Roatan are friendly and welcoming, and they love sharing their culture and traditions with visitors. I’m confident you’ll fall in love with Roatan as much as I have.
Contributed by Chantelle, Flannels or FlipFlops
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