A Beautiful destination in the Honduras

Roatán a beautiful island in the Caribbean Sea is about 65 kilometers off the northern coast of Honduras. (The island was formerly known in English as Ruatan and Rattan.)

This lush green island with its interesting coastline and almost tropical jungle is also a diving mecca.

Here is only a sneak peek at the very small Flowers Bay on the island. In the background you will see a cruise ship and that is where we are heading. Right where the action is.

Roatán is indeed a beautiful island located in the Caribbean Sea, and there are several compelling reasons to visit it:

Cruise Ships port at either the Town Centre (Port of Roatán) or at Mahogany Bay in Dixon’s Cove which is both near Coxen Hole.

Stunning Beaches: Roatán boasts pristine white-sand beaches and clear turquoise waters, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers and water enthusiasts. West Bay Beach, in particular, is known for its breathtaking beauty.

Capital of Roatan

Coxen Hole is Roatán’s Capital and here you will find grocery stores like Eldon’s, the Post Office and obviously the local market (Mercado). I do always advise travelers to stop at local markets as this is where you get to experience the true culture and cuisine of any place you ever visit. Along the streets you will also find street vendors and fruit carts along with restaurants.

International airport

Coxen Hole is also where the nearest International airport is located.

Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (Aeropuerto Internacional Juan Manuel Gálvez) (IATA: RTB, ICAO: MHRO)

Getting around

You can rent scooters on the island at it is a very good way to get around on the island as you will find many potholes and poor road conditions in some areas. Remember to get your map from the agent when renting your scooter and ask the locals for what to see on the island. They do speak Spanish and English and are very friendly and eager to help. Scooter rentals are found on the main road in West End and West Bay.

Taxi services are also good to use.

Natural Beauty: Beyond the beaches and reefs, Roatán features lush tropical landscapes, hiking trails, and wildlife. The Carambola Botanical Gardens, for instance, offer a glimpse of the island’s native flora and fauna.
Relaxation and Tranquility: The island’s laid-back atmosphere and picturesque surroundings make it an excellent destination for those seeking relaxation and tranquility away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Island Culture: Roatán has a rich cultural heritage with influences from Indigenous peoples, Spanish colonization, and Afro-Caribbean traditions. Exploring local communities and enjoying traditional cuisine can provide insights into the island’s unique culture.

Accommodation in Coxen Hole

Is the Honduras expensive

Honduras Travel Costs

When is the best time to visit Roatán

Well when thinking of a holiday on the Caribbean Sea, you would definitely want to visit during the months of March to May when the weather is good. The rainy season is between October and January with November and December seen as the “very wet months”

What to do

Roatán is paradise for any diving or scuba enthusiast. If you love diving, you simply must add Roatán to your travel list. Located on the world’s 2^nd largest coral reef and home to the Cayman Trench (just West of the island), the marine life is rich with a variety of fish species.

The Odyssey is Roatán’s largest deliberate shipwreck and located on a sandy seabed near the village of Mud Hole. This is a great sport for lovers of shipwreck diving.

Did you know: There are several intriguing underwater attractions on the island, including the wreck of the USS Odyssey, a 300-foot-long cargo ship that was intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef.

Diverse Marine Life: The island is surrounded by the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. This makes Roatán a prime spot for snorkeling and scuba diving, allowing you to explore vibrant coral reefs and encounter a diverse array of marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and more.
Water Activities: Apart from diving and snorkeling, Roatán offers various water-based activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, deep-sea fishing, and parasailing, providing opportunities for adventure and exploration.

Dolphin Encounters: Roatán is known for its dolphin encounters, where visitors can have the opportunity to swim and interact with dolphins in a controlled and responsible environment.
Waterfront Dining and Nightlife: The island offers a range of waterfront dining options, beach bars, and nightclubs, allowing you to enjoy a vibrant nightlife scene after a day of exploration.
Adventure Tourism: Beyond the water-related activities, Roatán offers ziplining, horseback riding, and other adventure activities that let you experience the island from a different perspective.

Things to do while visiting Roatan:

Explore the island and beaches on horseback or go kayaking.
The Black Pearl Golf Course is here for golf lovers
There are 6 Zipline and canopy tours available in Roatán at the moment.
Visit Camp Bay Beach
You can go to the Arch’s Iguana and Marine Park or the Manawakie Eco Nature Park
Maya Cay is an excellent spot for snorkeling and scuba diving
West End Village is definitely the most fun town on the island, with good bars, restaurants, live music, and diving shops.
If you ever dreamed of learning to dive or scuba, this is the place. Now is your chance. Just do it and make the booking.
Explore the Caves of Helene and Carambola Gardens
Listen to the song of Parrots early morning while sipping on your cocktail. Yes this is Caribbean island time and anything goes, but make sure to include “me-time” on the island, to just enjoy the experience of being there.

Travel Tip(s)

Roll your clothes instead of folding them to save space in your luggage. It also prevents wrinkles (especially when you don’t have a travel-size steamer) and it’s easier to find specific items.

Use leak-proof sleeves for your toiletries to prevent spills in your luggage. Keep things tidy and hassle-free!

Top 10 things to do while you're in Roatan

This is why you visit Roatan: You can…

Explore vibrant coral reefs through scuba diving and snorkeling.
Relax on stunning West Bay Beach with turquoise waters.
Visit the Gumbalimba Park for wildlife encounters and ziplining.
Dive into history with the sunken wreck of USS Odyssey.
Interact with dolphins responsibly at local centers.
Discover lush landscapes on hiking trails.
Enjoy local cuisine at waterfront dining spots.
Embark on underwater adventures with clear kayaking.
Experience thrilling parasailing over the Caribbean Sea.
Immerse in island culture and Afro-Caribbean traditions.
Unwind in tranquil settings away from daily hustle.
Capture beautiful sunsets over the Caribbean horizon.

Suggested things to do at Roatan

A Top Caribbean Destination

The locals distinguish between the two French Keys, situated next to each other as BFK and LFK.

BIG FRENCH KEY (BFK) is located about a quarter of a mile from the main island. This is a stunning tourist destination and very family orientated with a variety of water sports. Relax and lounge in the hammocks on the white sandy beach.

LITTLE FRENCH KEY (LFK) is a Caribbean paradise.

Experience the life as a Sloth with a tour among these cute and friendly animals living on island time. Here you can also buy tickets for the underwater museum (Mayatlantis) where you can dive in clear water amongst structures from the Mayan civilization.

But most of all the Little French Key has been voted as top attraction in all of Honduras and you will find something here for the whole family. This family owned Private Island and piece of paradise was kind enough to open their doors to the public and share this wonderful place. Ever since tourists flock to this island and experience horseback swimming, snorkeling, family fun or just lazy days in a hammock.

Whatever you choose the Roatán Island of Honduras is definitely worth a visit.