Exploring Paradise: Your Guide to Travel to Roatan Island, Honduras

If you’re seeking an alternative destination in Central America or the Caribbean, consider planning your travel to Roatan Island, Honduras. Located off the coast of mainland Honduras, Roatan offers a compelling mix of safety, accessibility, and natural beauty. With multiple non-stop flights available from the United States and being a popular cruise ship stop, reaching this island paradise is convenient for many international travelers. Roatan is widely regarded as the safest place to visit in Honduras, boasting friendly locals who converse in English, Spanish, and Creole. Its proximity to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world, makes it a premier destination for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts, with easy swim-out access to the vibrant reef directly from the beach.

My own journey to Roatan began when an old friend suggested we ring in the new year (2022) there. The offer coincided with United Airlines starting non-stop Saturday service, allowing me to arrive a couple of days early for some cherished solo time on the island before friends joined.

Accommodation Experiences on Roatan Island

To fully appreciate the variety Roatan offers, I stayed in three distinct accommodations during my trip. My first two nights were spent in a rustic villa at Bananarama Dive and Beach Resort in West Bay, one of the island’s most popular tourist areas.

Rustic villa exterior at Bananarama Dive and Beach Resort, West Bay Roatan

Among the three, my favorite was Puerta Azul, a delightful boutique bed and breakfast in Sandy Bay run by an owner from Boulder, Colorado. If you crave solitude and tranquility by the beach, their five private bungalows are perfect.

Exterior of a charming bungalow at Puerta Azul boutique hotel in Sandy Bay, Roatan

For the remainder of the week, I joined friends at Infinity Bay, a larger, more traditional resort. Regardless of where I stayed, all three locations provided easy access to incredible snorkeling just a short swim from the shore, highlighting Roatan’s appeal for underwater exploration.

View of the beach and resort buildings at Infinity Bay in West Bay, Roatan

Arriving and Settling In (Saturday)

Landing around 3 pm, I found clearing immigration and customs in Roatan to be straightforward. I quickly located the taxi line and met Oscar, a friendly and responsive driver whom I ended up hiring for transport throughout my stay. Oscar proved invaluable, always arriving early for scheduled rides. He recommended stopping at the grocery store on the way to Bananarama, a suggestion I was grateful for, especially given it was Christmas Day and having snacks and drinks readily available was a lifesaver. After a swift check-in to Villa #25 at Bananarama in West Bay, I enjoyed a sunset walk on the beach before relaxing in the hammock on my porch. The evening concluded with fireworks lighting up the sky, celebrating Christmas night.

Path leading through tropical foliage towards accommodations at Bananarama in Roatan

Close-up view of a rustic villa balcony with a hammock at a Roatan resort

View of the beach at sunset in West Bay, Roatan Island Honduras

Colorful sunset sky over the ocean and beach in Roatan

Silhouette of palm trees against a dramatic sunset sky over the sea in Roatan

An Eventful Boat Ride (Sunday)

Sunday began with a relaxing morning, enjoying coffee in the hammock followed by a walk on the beach. While photographing a small boat named “Island Girl,” its captain, Brooks, approached and offered a snorkeling trip. What started as a planned three-hour excursion turned into an all-day adventure after agreeing on a $100 price. Breakfast at Bananarama’s Thirty Turtle, included with the stay, provided fuel for the day.

Small boat named "Island Girl" docked near the beach in Roatan

Our first stop was West End. Though smaller and less bustling than West Bay, West End is a charming village lined with waterfront restaurants, bars, hotels, and shops. Here, I sampled my first Honduran beers: SalvaVida, a local favorite, and Barena, a lighter option sometimes referred to as the “ladies beer.”

Street scene in West End, Roatan with shops and restaurants

Entrance to a bar or restaurant with signage in West End Roatan

Waterfront view of buildings and boats in the village of West End, Roatan Island

Colorful building facade with signage in West End, Roatan

We cruised through mangroves and past Anthony’s Key Resort, known for its dolphin encounters. Our inaugural snorkeling spot was Spooky Channel. Captain Brooks mentioned it gets dark if you follow it all the way out. Being a solo snorkeler at that moment, I chose to stay within the shallower reef area instead of venturing into the channel’s depths.

Boat cruising through mangrove trees in Roatan

Water taxis docked near a sandy beach in West End, Roatan

View from the water looking towards buildings and vegetation on the Roatan coast

Dock extending into clear blue water near a resort in Roatan

Underwater view of colorful coral and fish while snorkeling in Roatan

The next snorkeling stop was particularly fascinating: a shipwreck accompanied by what appeared to be ancient ruins. It prompted the thought that this might be the fate of those who pilfer artifacts. Captain Brooks then asked if I wanted to continue to Palmetto Bay Beach, a local spot, and I eagerly agreed. It was enjoyable observing how locals spend their beach day and spotting an old treehouse. We proceeded to Palmetto Bay Plantation Resort, where I savored a refreshing cocktail at the open-air bar. This was intended to be our turnaround point, but as we prepared to leave, the boat wouldn’t start. After an hour of troubleshooting as the sun began to set, the general manager and head chef at Palmetto Bay generously offered to drive me back to Bananarama. Their kindness was greatly appreciated after a slightly stressful conclusion to an otherwise wonderful day.

Underwater view of coral and marine life near a shipwreck in Roatan

Colorful tropical fish swimming amongst coral reef in Roatan waters

Underwater shot showing coral formations and small fish in the Roatan reef

Distant view of Palmetto Bay beach and trees in Roatan

Small treehouse structure visible among trees near a beach in Roatan

View of the beach at Palmetto Bay, Roatan with calm water

Open-air bar area at Palmetto Bay Plantation Resort in Roatan

Cocktail glass on a wooden bar counter at Palmetto Bay Plantation Resort

A Serene Stay at Puerta Azul (Monday)

The following morning, I woke early to watch the sunrise, joined by a new bird friend. Another round of coffee in the hammock was thoroughly enjoyed before a pleasant beach walk. Breakfast at Bananarama consisted of scrambled eggs, beans, plantains, fruit, and Honduran cream. The meal was accompanied by watching a brief tropical downpour. Late morning, I packed up and Oscar drove me to Sandy Bay for my one-night stay at Puerta Azul.

Sunrise over the ocean from a beach in Roatan Island Honduras

Small bird perched on a fence railing near the beach during sunrise

View from a hammock looking out towards the ocean and beach in Roatan

Simple yet inviting breakfast plate with eggs, beans, and plantains

Raindrops on the water's surface during a tropical shower in Roatan

Oscar the friendly taxi driver posing for a photo in Roatan

Sign for Puerta Azul in Sandy Bay, Roatan Island Honduras

Exterior view of a charming bungalow at Puerta Azul in Sandy Bay

Path leading to a bungalow at Puerta Azul, surrounded by tropical plants

Welcome sign outside a bungalow at Puerta Azul B&B

Interior detail of a bungalow with dark wood furniture and white linens

I had pre-arranged an early check-in at Puerta Azul. Stepping into Bungalow #5, I immediately regretted not booking a longer stay. The decor featured dark wood, crisp white linens, and art with blue and green tones. The bright flowers next to the water pitcher were a lovely touch.

Bedroom area in a bungalow at Puerta Azul with a large bed and artistic decor

Colorful art pieces on the wall in a Puerta Azul bungalow

Bathroom sink area with mirror in a Puerta Azul bungalow

Doorway looking out from a bungalow to the patio area at Puerta Azul

Outdoor patio furniture outside a bungalow at Puerta Azul

Puerta Azul’s owner, Talia, suggested a walk along the shore to Lawson Rock Deli for lunch. While other beachside restaurants in Sandy Bay had closed, this deli remained. Following the shoreline proved to be an adventure, requiring navigating rocks and wading through tidal pools. A set of stone stairs led me into someone’s backyard instead of the right path, but a kind woman helped me find my way to the deli. I enjoyed a pleasant lunch of a Greek salad and Barena beer there. On my walk back, observing a crab in a tidal pool turned into a real-life National Geographic moment as it devoured another crab – a truly shocking sight.

Outdoor seating area at Lawson Rock Deli in Sandy Bay, Roatan

Greek salad and a bottle of Barena beer on a table at Lawson Rock Deli

View of the ocean and shore from Lawson Rock Deli patio

Tidal pool with rocks and seaweed on the Roatan shoreline

Close-up of a crab in a tidal pool on the beach in Roatan

Rocky section of the shoreline requiring careful navigation in Sandy Bay, Roatan

Upon returning, the hammocks at the end of Puerta Azul’s dock were incredibly inviting. I relished the solo time, swaying gently in the breeze and drifting in and out of a salty air nap.

Hammocks hanging over the water at the end of a dock at Puerta Azul

View from a hammock looking back towards the beach and palm trees at Puerta Azul

Dock extending into the ocean at Puerta Azul, Sandy Bay Roatan

Clear blue water under the dock at Puerta Azul

Lounge chairs on the beach near the dock at Puerta Azul

I retreated to my bungalow only briefly for a shower before sunset. Watching the sky turn vibrant shades of tangerine and fuchsia from the dock was breathtaking. With about an hour before dinner, I enjoyed a private happy hour, sipping wine in a comfortable beach chair. Dinner, prepared by Chef Rose, was coconut shrimp with rice and grilled vegetables – absolutely delicious.

Vibrant sunset colors over the ocean viewed from a dock in Roatan

Pink and orange hues in the sunset sky over the water in Roatan

Close-up of a wine glass silhouetted against the sunset sky

Sun setting below the horizon, casting warm light on the clouds

Silhouette of palm trees and a dock against a colorful sunset

Cooked coconut shrimp served with rice and grilled vegetables

Dinner table setting with delicious food under outdoor lighting

Friends Arrive and West Bay Exploration (Tuesday)

Tuesday marked the transition from solo travel to joining friends. I started the day with an early, long walk through Sandy Bay village and along the beach. Roatan feels very safe, and I felt completely comfortable exploring alone in the morning. I returned to Puerta Azul in time for their included breakfast. Chef Rose prepared delicious quesadillas filled with eggs, beans, and avocado. I enjoyed chatting with other guests from the US and Canada during breakfast. Afterward, I squeezed in a quick snorkel off the dock and a swing in a hammock before checking out. Having some time before my friends’ flight, I set up an outdoor office in a shaded beach chair, enjoying the beautiful environment while working.

Morning light on the beach in Sandy Bay, Roatan

View of the beach and palm trees during a morning walk in Roatan

Breakfast plate with quesadillas, beans, and avocado at Puerta Azul

Another view of the dock and hammocks at Puerta Azul B&B

Someone working on a laptop from a beach chair in the shade

Laptop and water bottle on a small table beside a beach chair

Around noon, Oscar drove me back to the airport to meet my friends. The afternoon involved getting a rental car, stopping at the grocery store, checking into Infinity Bay, and having a late lunch at Thirsty Turtle back at Bananarama. Their fish tacos were simple and absolutely fabulous. The rest of the afternoon was spent catching up over drinks and watching a glorious sunset from the beach in West Bay. For dinner, we walked along the beach to Gula Gastropud and Winery, a place with a unique concept combining Italian comfort food and island cuisine. I started with the shrimp ceviche, which was outstanding (the only time I had ceviche on the island), followed by gnocchi for the main course.

Meeting friends at the airport in Roatan

Shopping cart filled with groceries from a store in Roatan

Entrance to Infinity Bay Spa & Beach Resort in West Bay, Roatan

View of the pool and resort grounds at Infinity Bay in Roatan

Delicious fish tacos from Thirsty Turtle at Bananarama resort

People enjoying drinks and sunset on the beach in West Bay Roatan

Shrimp ceviche appetizer served at Gula Gastropud in West Bay

Plate of gnocchi served at Gula Gastropud restaurant

Bottles of wine displayed inside Gula Gastropud and Winery

Outdoor seating area at Gula Gastropud with a view of the street

The “No Plans” Beach Day (Wednesday)

For trips lasting five days or more, I always schedule a “no plans day.” This strategy prevents over-scheduling and allows for spontaneous relaxation, especially for a Type A personality like myself who tends to be always on the go. It’s an essential R&R day built into the vacation. While my friends Coach and Phen went diving, Wendy and I took a walk on the beach to find a great spot for breakfast. We chose Trattoria da Piero at Las Rocas Resort, partly attracted by the colorful swings at the bar and its palpable island vibe. Breakfast there included empanadas (ham and cheese or just cheese), fruit, pastries, juice, and coffee.

Breakfast plate with empanadas, fruit, and coffee

View of the beach and ocean from the seating area at Las Rocas Resort

The remainder of the day was dedicated to relaxing on the beach in West Bay with Wendy’s friend Michele and her companions. It was a fun afternoon of sun and socializing. After sunset, we returned to the condo and ordered pizza, winding down early after a day of sun and drinks.

People relaxing on lounge chairs on the beach in West Bay, Roatan

Beach view with palm trees and resort buildings in West Bay, Roatan Honduras

Group of friends enjoying drinks on the beach at sunset

Smiling friends posing for a photo on the beach in Roatan

Sunset over the ocean in West Bay with people silhouetted on the beach

Close-up of a cocktail glass with a straw at sunset

Palm trees silhouetted against the colorful evening sky

Snorkeling and Sunset Cruise (Thursday)

Maintaining our morning ritual, Wendy and I walked to Las Rocas for breakfast again while the divers were out. This morning’s meal was veggie burritos, which quickly became our favorite.

Breakfast plate with veggie burritos, fruit, and coffee

View from the breakfast area at Las Rocas towards the beach

Exterior view of Trattoria da Piero at Las Rocas Resort

For the afternoon, we booked a snorkel and sunset cruise with Amazing Roatan Tours. Our crew, Nick, Kelsey, and Fernando, were fantastic. The first stop was Spooky Channel again, known for its depths and walls extending to Carmen Trench. Feeling braver with others around, I swam part of the channel – and it was indeed spooky! Exploring the coral, a highlight was spotting a pod of cuddlefish, which resemble squid and were a new sighting for me. Following Nick closely, I navigated some of the channel’s darker sections. We stopped for a wonderful mid-afternoon surf and turf lunch at Palmetto Bay Plantation Resort. They easily accommodated my request for a non-meat option, and I was grateful for another chance to thank the general manager for his help earlier in the week. Next, we headed to a spot known for large starfish. With winds picking up, only Nick and Kelsey went in, successfully finding and showing us a couple of big ones while keeping them submerged. Due to choppy water, only a few of us entered the water at the subsequent stop, near an old shipwreck. Holding onto Nick, I swam out and through the shipwreck – a thrilling and slightly scary adventure! The rest of the boat ride was filled with music, singing, flowing rum punches, and watching a stunning sunset. I highly recommend Amazing Roatan Tours for snorkeling or boat excursions.

Boat from Amazing Roatan Tours on the water

Passengers on the boat with Amazing Roatan Tours

Underwater view of coral formations and fish in Roatan

Delicious surf and turf lunch served on a boat

Nick from Amazing Roatan Tours holding a large starfish in the water

Group of people snorkeling near a boat in Roatan waters

Underwater view of a shipwreck structure

Fish swimming amongst the structure of a shipwreck underwater

People enjoying sunset views from a boat on the water in Roatan

Vibrant orange and pink sunset over the ocean with a boat

Cheersing glasses of drinks on the boat during sunset

Friends enjoying the sunset cruise on Amazing Roatan Tours boat

Fernando from Amazing Roatan Tours mixing drinks on the boat

Dramatic sunset sky over the ocean in Roatan

Silhouette of people on a boat against the colorful sunset

For dinner that evening, we headed to Beacher’s Bar and Grill in West Bay, sitting on their breezy deck. They are renowned for having the best coconut shrimp in the area, served with plantains and rice and beans. The shrimp lived up to the hype – they were delicious!

Plate of coconut shrimp with plantains, rice, and beans at Beacher's Bar and Grill

Outdoor deck seating area at Beacher's Bar and Grill in West Bay

Sign for Beacher's Bar and Grill in West Bay, Roatan

Sloths, Monkeys, and More Snorkeling (Friday)

Continuing our morning routine, Wendy and I walked the beach for breakfast at Trattoria da Piero at Las Rocas, enjoying quesadillas. The breakfast menu varied daily based on what the chef had available, which was a nice touch.

Breakfast plate with quesadillas and sides at Las Rocas Resort

At 10 am, we headed to Daniel Johnson Monkey and Sloth Hangout in French Key. We were originally scheduled for Wednesday, but Stephanie from the Hangout thoughtfully contacted me to suggest moving our visit due to three cruise ships being in port that day. We were happy to reschedule for a less crowded experience. We were picked up at Infinity Bay and enjoyed a mini-tour of the island, passing through Flowers Bay and Coxen Hole en route to the wildlife sanctuary.

Entrance sign for Daniel Johnson Monkey and Sloth Hangout in Roatan

We had a wonderful guide at the Hangout. A memorable highlight was holding “Granny,” a sweet 10-year-old three-toed sloth. We learned that monkeys and sloths are not native to Roatan Island and rely on sanctuaries like this one for survival. Next, we entered the enclosure with Dena, a very active seven-year-old white-faced monkey. Dena was quick and mischievous. It was fascinating to watch her rub citrus (like a lime) all over herself, apparently using it as a body cleanser, antiseptic, and bug spray. We continued through the sanctuary, observing various birds and other monkeys.

Holding a cute three-toed sloth named Granny at Daniel Johnson Monkey and Sloth Hangout

Close-up portrait of Granny the sloth

A white-faced monkey, Dena, sitting on a branch

Monkey using a lime for cleansing at the sanctuary

Group of monkeys interacting on a branch

Colorful tropical birds in an enclosure at the wildlife sanctuary

Bird with vibrant blue and yellow feathers

While getting fins for snorkeling (we had our own masks and snorkels) and waiting for the boat, we noticed a sloth in a nearby tree. I went over to admire its cuteness. As we chatted with Luke, an employee/family member, he pointed out another sloth on a branch directly above Wendy that we hadn’t seen. Daniel arrived with the first snorkeling group, and we boarded the boat. As we were the only two for the afternoon snorkel, it felt extra special. Daniel took us near Little French Key, and our snorkel guide, Jayvian, joined us for a fun underwater exploration where we even spotted a puffer fish. He also demonstrated a neat trick where a coral flower closes when you snap your fingers near it – quite amusing! Before getting back in the boat, Jayvian found a sea urchin and allowed us to hold it in the water before returning it. After the snorkel, with Daniel present, we returned to the tree with the sloth, and it unexpectedly wanted to climb onto me for a hug! I highly recommend booking a tour at Daniel Johnson Monkey and Sloth Hangout when you travel to Roatan Island, Honduras.

Holding a sea urchin in the clear water

Smiling while holding a sea urchin underwater

View of Little French Key island from the water

Someone holding a sloth that is climbing onto them

Happy expression while getting a hug from a sloth

Sloth perched on a branch in a tree

Jayvian the snorkel guide underwater near coral

Close-up of a puffer fish swimming in the reef

Instead of heading back to West Bay, we decided to get dropped off at West End for a snack. Our choice was Sundowners Bar, a popular spot in the area. From there, we took a water taxi back to Infinity Bay.

View of Sundowners Bar from the water taxi

Water taxi on the water near the shore

Dock area at Sundowners Bar in West End, Roatan

People gathered at the bar area of Sundowners Bar

As I was flying out the next morning, I needed a COVID test to return to the United States. Wendy headed to Bananarama to meet up with the rest of our group. Both of my at-home tests were expired, causing a scramble at 4 pm on New Year’s Eve. Fortunately, I found an international medical clinic nearby and got my test done quickly. (BinaxNow replaced my expired tests upon returning home). With the test completed, I joined everyone at Thirsty Turtle for fish tacos and drinks. Despite fun New Year’s Eve festivities happening in West Bay, we ended up falling asleep before midnight.

Medical clinic sign in Roatan offering COVID testing

Exterior of the medical clinic building in Roatan

Heading Home from Roatan (Saturday)

Having gone to bed early, I was awake for the first sunrise of 2022. I took a lovely, long walk on the beach, which was sparsely populated at that hour. Returning to the condo around 8 am, I found everyone else awake. Keeping with our cherished routine, Wendy and I, joined by Coach this time, walked to Las Rocas for breakfast. We had rancheros, and they were absolutely fabulous. Oscar picked me up around 11 am for my early afternoon flight back to Denver. As I left, I wished I had another week in this paradise. Roatan is definitely a destination I plan to revisit.

Beautiful sunrise over the ocean viewed from the beach in Roatan

Sunbeams breaking through the clouds during sunrise on Roatan beach

Breakfast plate with rancheros (eggs, salsa, tortillas, beans)

Final view of palm trees and the beach in West Bay before leaving Roatan

The airport building in Roatan Island, Honduras

Plane parked at the airport in Roatan

This week-long experience highlighted the incredible appeal of travel to Roatan Island, Honduras, from its world-class reef and friendly atmosphere to unique wildlife encounters and diverse dining options.