2 Best Sights in Honduras' Caribbean Coast, Honduras

One of the most geographically diverse nature preserves in the country is Parque Nacional Jeanette Kawas, named for a slain environmentalist. The park, also known as Parque Nacional Punta Sal, protects mangrove swamps, tropical forests, shady lagoons, and coral reefs. It is likely you will see as many as 60 howler monkeys having their breakfast if you head out early enough in the morning. The males gesticulate from their perches in the treetops, while the females, many with tiny babies, watch from a wary distance. You may also come across white-faced monkeys, some of which have developed a habit of throwing avocado pits at visitors—be ready to duck. Radiantly colored parrot and vine snakes, almost shoelace thin, ripple through the foliage. They are harmless, but be sure to watch your step.

If you take the Los Curumos trail, you can hear the waves as you reach Puerto Caribe, one of the hiding places of the notorious pirate Captain Morgan. Turtles and dolphins swim here in the turquoise waters. If you snorkel, you may see barracudas and nurse sharks, as well as spindly lobsters taking a slow-motion stroll.

You can see Punta Sal jutting out into the ocean from Tela, which might make you think it's quite close. It's actually difficult to reach, so you should considering hiring a guide. It's also a great way to learn about the exotic animal and plant species (there are 14 types of banana here, for example). The park is only accessible by water, and the trip to the park takes about an hour. Laguna de los Micos has the largest bird population in the park.

You can't miss Pico Bonito, the majestic peak rising behind La Ceiba that turns a deep blue at dusk. Parque Nacional Pico Bonito is named after the 7,989-foot peak. Rugged and little explored, Parque Nacional Pico Bonito harbors some amazing primary tropical wet forest. There are 22 rivers that run through the park, meaning there are numerous cold-water pools where you can stop for a dip. Guides see jaguars and ocelots with impressive regularity, although the enormity of the area means you are lucky if you glimpse these fearsome creatures.

The most popular route through the park leads to a waterfall called La Ruidosa (meaning "The Noisy One"). Trails are fairly well maintained, but it is best to go with a guide. They are found through the Fundación Parque Nacional Pico Bonito office in La Ceiba.