Roatan
Roatan
Hotels
Things to DoRestaurantsFlightsVacation RentalsTravel StoriesCruisesRental CarsMore

Plan Your Trip to Roatan: Best of Roatan Tourism

What is Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best?
This award is our highest recognition and is presented annually to those businesses that are the Best of the Best on Tripadvisor, those that earn excellent reviews from travelers and are ranked in the top 1% of properties worldwide.
Learn more
By Management

Roatan, Honduras

Roatan is one of the Caribbean’s best-kept secrets, with all the same perks of the other islands: white, sandy beaches, beautiful blue waters, miles of lush jungle—but with experiences you can’t get anywhere else. Scuba or snorkel to the second biggest barrier reef in the world at Cayos Cochinos, cuddle with sloths at the Sloth Sanctuary, swim with sharks at Cara a Cara, and hang with monkeys at the Carambola Botanical Gardens. When it’s time to kick back, you’ll find all the quintessential luxury resorts in West Bay and backpacker-fueled bars in the West End, but the street parties in centuries-old Punta Gorda are where it’s at, with traditional music, dancing, and some of the best Caribbean food on the island. You can find all our top recs below.

Roatan in one day: a cruise guide

Home to the world’s second largest barrier reef, Roatan is a playground for scuba divers, beach lovers, and—of course—cruise ships, which call on this stunning little 40-mile-long island. But when you’re only visiting for the day, you need to be as strategic as possible. Your first big decision is: Stay on land or head out on the water? (A diving trip will take up a good chunk of the day.) Then follow these picks to make sure you hit the highlights.
Samantha Priestley, Yorkshire, UK
  • Bean Crazy Café & Breasfast
    296
    I love to start the day at this busy West End cafe, not just for the views of the palms and the sea, but also for the amazing coffee, served hot or iced. Sure you could order a bowl of fruit or a plate of waffles, but we say—get the party started early with a slice of rum cake. (Just go easy: They’re not stingy on the rum.)
  • Gumbalimba Park
    1,488
    It’s an 11-minute cab ride from Bean Crazy to Gumbalimba Park, but I recommend getting there via water taxi (so much cheaper and way more fun). Part wildlife park, part adventure playground, Gumbalimba is best known for its zip line, which will have you whizzing through the jungle by parrots and dancing monkeys.
  • Roatan Rum Company
    448
    You could walk from Gumbalimba Park to the Roatan Rum Company—it’ll take about 40 minutes—but I recommend hopping in a taxi. If you didn’t get enough rum cake at breakfast, you can taste it here and sample the house-distilled rums infused with coconut, chocolate, mango, and more. My partner is a rum connoisseur and says that the blends are excellent—especially for the low prices.
  • Macaw Container Market
    4
    Another 20 minutes up the coast is the Macaw Container Market, where shipping containers have been converted into a colorful collection of stalls. Local makers and creators sell their creations. If you’re a beer lover, you can grab an artisanal brew at the Roatan Brewery. For anyone else, a tasting at the chocolate factory is a no-brainer.
  • Thirsty Turtle Bar and Grill
    1,361
    Most of Roatan’s action takes place in the West End around West Bay, and it’s no wonder: The beach is picture-perfect, all white sand and calm, crystal-clear water. The Thirsty Turtle—set right on the beach—gets busy in the evening when everyone gathers to watch the sunset. During the day, it’s a quiet lunch find. Tripadvisor reviewers love the shrimp tacos with chimichurri sauce.
  • Gio's Restaurant
    584
    My other lunch pick is Gio’s in French Harbour, one of the island’s oldest neighborhoods. This is where French buccaneers landed in 1510, giving the area its name (it still has an authentic vibe). The owner Gio and his son (also named Gio) run the show. Grab a table on the outdoor patio, where you can see tarpon or spotted eagle rays swimming around, and order the King crab and the coconut shrimp.
  • Carambola Botanical Gardens
    340
    A fun afternoon detour—Carambola Botanical Gardens in Sandy Bay, where you can hike along paths through the jungle. I recommend booking the Bill Brady tour, which includes a look at the 40-acre grounds with the owner himself. Brady will tell you all about this special place that he built and will even prepare a plate of fresh fruit for you to try.
  • Radical Adventures
    358
    Roatan’s incredible barrier reef has to be seen to be believed, so in my opinion, getting on (or under) the water is a must-do. An easy way to see it is with a sailing and snorkeling trip on the 48-foot Spirit of Free Radical catamaran. Tripadvisor reviewers rave about the homemade food (including just-caught shrimp), the endless pina coladas, and the sea life (flounder, sea urchins, nurse sharks, and more).
  • Roatan Divers
    1,679
    If you’re a diver, you’ll love this highly rated company, which works around the cruise ship schedules so that you can fit in one to two dives. If you’re not certified, there’s even a four-hour PADI Discover Scuba Dive that will give you an intro to Roatan’s spectacular underwater world.

Browse collections

Whale-watching 101

Snorkeling adventures and boat tours

Do a deep dive

Top-rated dive spots for top-notch views

Furry (and scaly) friends

Sloth sanctuaries, iguana-spotting, and more

Drinks with a view

Cocktails in one hand, camera in the other

Beyond the beach

Head inland for the island’s best activities

Feeling fancy

Restaurants and experiences worth the splurge

Roatan on a dime

Budget-friendly bites, and plenty of free fun

All about beaches

The best resorts and hidden gems on the island
Explore more from our sponsors

Roatan travel advice

Powered by AI
These questions and answers were created by AI, using the most common questions travelers ask in the forums.

Location Preference

Many travelers prefer staying in West Bay due to its proximity to beaches, restaurants, and nightlife. West Bay offers a variety of accommodation options ranging from resorts to vacation rentals and is recommended for its walk-in snorkeling opportunities.

Accommodation Types

According to forum posts, travelers have options like Infinity Bay, which offers amenities such as a pool and proximity to restaurants but does not have BBQ facilities. Turtle Beach is also favored for its amenities and access to water taxis. For those looking for rustic and local experiences, places like Posada Seremein and Fosters, which is family-operated, are mentioned.

Accessibility

For visitors with mobility issues, Infinity Bay is suggested because it may offer ground floor units and is close to the beach, making it easier to access the water for snorkeling. Another small property, Brisas del Mar in West End, offers ground-level condos, which could be convenient for seniors or those with limited mobility.

Price Considerations

While specific prices are not detailed, accommodations like Mayan Princess and Paradise Beach Hotel are highlighted as moderately priced options that provide good snorkeling opportunities right off the beach.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Resort Recommendations

Some travelers have recommended Coco View and Anthony Key as top dive resorts in Roatan. Coco View is favored for its proximity to vibrant coral walls and intriguing underwater sites such as a shipwreck and a DC3 aircraft, all accessible via a short swim. Anthony Key also offers excellent diving experiences, though its shore dive doesn't quite match up to Coco View's.

Alternative Options

Infinity Bay, located at West Bay, is another recommended resort that provides both shore and boat diving, offering a balance of luxury and diving convenience. It features good food, a beautiful pool, and is positioned right on a prime beachfront, enhancing the overall vacation experience for divers.

Additional Considerations

For those seeking more personalized and less crowded diving experiences, boutique dive operations like Roatan Divers have been suggested. They cater specifically to small groups and offer tailored diving sessions, which might appeal to divers looking for a more intimate underwater adventure.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Snorkeling Locations

According to forum posts, West Bay offers excellent snorkeling options directly off the beach. Travelers have mentioned that the reef snorkeling is just steps from the sand, making it easily accessible.

Snorkeling Experience

Some users have highlighted that while the coral at West Bay is close to shore, it is in poorer condition due to heavy usage. For better-preserved reefs, it is suggested to swim or kayak out a bit further from the main areas, which can provide a more pristine snorkeling experience.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Non-Diving Activities

Some travelers mentioned enjoying non-diving activities such as ziplining and visiting sloth and monkey sanctuaries. Gumbalimba Park was highlighted for its natural environment where monkeys and macaws interact freely with visitors.

Snorkeling and Boat Tours

According to forum posts, snorkeling is a popular activity, especially around West Bay where the coral reefs are more preserved. Travelers have recommended private boat charters for a more personalized experience, with options to visit multiple snorkeling sites and enjoy island hopping.

Interaction with Wildlife

Travelers have called out specific wildlife interaction opportunities such as Daniel Johnson's Monkey & Sloth Hangout and Gumbalimba Park. On days when certain attractions are closed, alternatives like Gumbalimba still offer chances to see and interact with local wildlife, even if sloths are not guaranteed.

General Exploration

Lastly, for those looking for a broader exploration of Roatan, driving across the island or participating in guided tours was suggested. This allows visitors to experience the diversity of the island’s landscapes and cultural spots at their own pace.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

General Climate

According to forum posts, Roatan typically experiences warm temperatures year-round. The warmest month is often September, with average highs around 86°F (30°C), and the coolest month is January, averaging 81°F (27°C). The annual maximum temperature averages about 83°F (29°C), and the minimum averages around 79°F (26°C).

Water Temperature

Some travelers mentioned that the water temperature around Roatan generally remains around 82°F year-round, providing a comfortable environment for swimming and other water activities.

Rainy Season

Travelers have called out that Roatan's rainy season generally begins in October and can last until January. However, the intensity and duration of rain can vary, with some years experiencing less rainfall than others. November is noted as one of the rainiest months, often making outdoor water activities less enjoyable due to choppy waters and reduced visibility for activities like snorkeling.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Snorkeling and Fishing

According to forum posts, Cayos Cochinos is celebrated for its exceptional snorkeling and fishing experiences. Travelers have highlighted the clear waters and abundant marine life, making it an ideal spot for underwater adventures.

Cultural Interaction

Some travelers said that visiting the Garifuna people adds a unique cultural dimension to the Cayos Cochinos trips. These interactions include dining with the locals and experiencing their cultural practices, which enhances the overall experience of the excursion.

Boat Tours

For many users, the boat tours to Cayos Cochinos are a major highlight. These tours often include additional activities such as swimming and visiting multiple spots within the islands, providing a comprehensive day out on the water.

Scenery and Environment

Travelers have called out the picturesque scenery of Cayos Cochinos, noting its pristine beaches and the stunning views available during the boat rides. The natural beauty of the area is consistently a top draw for visitors.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Popular Cuisine Choices

According to forum posts, popular dining options in Roatan's West End include Loretta’s Island Cooking and Creole’s Rotisserie Chicken, known for its relaxed vibe and delicious food. Beachers is another favorite spot, praised for its lively atmosphere and good food.

Health and Budget-Friendly Options

For many users, Calelus offers the best baleadas, providing a taste of local cuisine at affordable prices. Travelers have also appreciated the inexpensive yet flavorful options at places like Cannibal Café, which is known for its smoothies and Creole Chicken for quick, tasty meals.

High-End Dining

Some travelers mentioned Lotus at Xbalanque and Luna Muna at Ibagari as upscale dining options with stunning sunset views and sophisticated menus, requiring reservations.

Specialty Foods and Atmosphere

Travelers have called out specific spots like the Argentina Grill for surf and turf and the Gingers for burgers, indicating a variety of food choices that cater to different tastes and preferences.

This summary was generated by AI from Tripadvisor forum posts.
Was this helpful?

Tripadvisor is not responsible for these answers or any opinions in them. Please read full forum posts for more details and information.