Caribbean · Honduras
Roatan Travel Guide
Roatan sits atop the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef — the second-largest in the world. The snorkelling rivals anything in the Caribbean, and the laid-back island vibe is infectious.
How Do You Get to the Beach?
Mahogany Bay has its own beach. For West Bay Beach, take the water taxi ($5, 10 min) or road taxi ($10).
What Can You Do in 6 Hours?
West Bay Beach — White sand, turquoise water, healthy reef right off shore. Snorkel gear rental $10.
Reef snorkelling — The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is metres from shore. Tropical fish, coral, sea turtles.
West End village — Bohemian centre with dive shops, waterfront bars, and small restaurants.
Gumbalimba Park — Monkeys, macaws, butterfly garden, and zip lines. Fun for families.
Where Should You Eat?
Baleadas: Honduras's national street food — flour tortillas with beans, eggs, and cheese.
Fresh lobster: Grilled with garlic butter at beachfront restaurants. Very reasonable by Caribbean standards.
Is Roatan Worth Exploring Independently?
The water taxi makes it easy and cheap. Ship excursions charge $50-70; you can do it for $10 water taxi return plus snorkel rental.
Useful Local Phrases
English widely spoken
Alongside Spanish
(n/a)
Hola
Hello
(OH-lah)
Local Tips
- •West Bay Beach is the best beach in Honduras. Crystal-clear water and excellent snorkelling.
- •Take the water taxi to West Bay ($5) — faster and more fun than road taxi.
- •The reef is metres from shore at many beaches. The marine life is extraordinary.
- •Roatan is much safer than mainland Honduras.