Roatan and the Bay Islands
We’ve compiled the best of the best in Roatan and the Bay Islands - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.
Sort by:
22 Recommendations
{{numTotalPoiResults}} {{ (numTotalPoiResults===1)?'Recommendation':'Recommendations' }}
0 Recommendations
Loading...
-
1. Chachahuate
BeachThis traditional Garífuna cay has lunch, lodging, and snorkeling. Village chief Roman Norales heads the town of 44 fishing families and often...
This traditional Garífuna cay has lunch, lodging, and snorkeling. Village chief Roman Norales heads the town of 44 fishing families and often oversees tourism in the tiny community, a budding industry that supplies most of the island's income. The communal restaurant prepares fried fish, shrimp, and lobsters for tourists (have your guide put in an order at least an hour in advance). A rustic motel with 16 rooms and shared latrines costs L300 a night per couple.
Cayos Cochinos, Bay Islands, Honduras -
2. Arch's Iguana & Marine Park
French Harbour | Farm/RanchWest of French Harbour you'll find Arch's Iguana & Marine Park, an unusual attraction that has been around for three decades. Drop in around...
West of French Harbour you'll find Arch's Iguana & Marine Park, an unusual attraction that has been around for three decades. Drop in around noon to see the stern-faced lizards have lunch. An estimated 3,500 sleepy creatures roam around the reserve, which also has turtles, monkeys, and a fish hatchery.
Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras-2445–1498Sight Details
Rate Includes: L176 -
3. Bando Beach
Utila Town | BeachThis private beach is a 10–15 minute walk east of the municipal dock. Entrance is L60 and gets you access to lounge chairs, shade, and a more...
This private beach is a 10–15 minute walk east of the municipal dock. Entrance is L60 and gets you access to lounge chairs, shade, and a more secure setting than the nearby public beach. The sand here is much softer and cleaner than at the public beach, it's (usually) quieter, and the swimming area has less turtle grass. A palapa bar serves inexpensive cold drinks. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: swimming; partiers.
Utila, Bay Islands, Honduras -
4. Brandon Hill Cave
CaveThis cave is the largest among the dozens of caverns that puncture the mountainside. Legend has it that pirates hid their treasure here in the...
This cave is the largest among the dozens of caverns that puncture the mountainside. Legend has it that pirates hid their treasure here in the 16th and 17th centuries. To get there from Utila Town, head toward the airport on the paved road and turn left at the first dirt path after the horse stables.
Utila, Bay Islands, Honduras -
5. Carambola Botanical Gardens
Sandy Bay | GardenWith one of the country's most extensive orchid collections, the Carambola Botanical Gardens is home to many different varieties of tropical...
With one of the country's most extensive orchid collections, the Carambola Botanical Gardens is home to many different varieties of tropical plants. It is also a breeding area for iguanas. There are several trails to follow, and many of the trees and plants are identified by small signs. The longest trail leads up to the top of the hill, where you find an amazing view of the West End of the island. Guides can be hired at the visitor center.
Across from Anthony's Key Resort, Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras-9961–3074Sight Details
Rate Includes: L220; guided tour L330 -
Recommended Fodor’s Video
-
6. Cayo Mayor
BeachThere is great snorkeling on the western end of Cayo Mayor, the largest cay in the archipelago. ...
There is great snorkeling on the western end of Cayo Mayor, the largest cay in the archipelago.
Cayos Cochinos, Bay Islands, Honduras -
7. Cayo Menor
BeachThe second biggest cay, Cayo Menor, is more than just a mandatory stop. The Honduras Coral Reef Fund arranges scientific expeditions to involve...
The second biggest cay, Cayo Menor, is more than just a mandatory stop. The Honduras Coral Reef Fund arranges scientific expeditions to involve visitors in data collection on endemic species, such as the hamo negro iguana and boa Rosado serpent. The fund also coordinates programs during turtle migrations to the Cayos Cochinos in July and August.
Cayos Cochinos, Bay Islands, Honduras -
8. Chepes Beach
Utila Town | BeachHop on a hammock or soak in the sun at this public space, which is a five-minute walk west of the municipal dock. There's not much to be found...
Hop on a hammock or soak in the sun at this public space, which is a five-minute walk west of the municipal dock. There's not much to be found in the way of shade or chairs, but it's a great place to tan or hang out with friends. Abundant turtle grass means swimming is only for the brave. A few small restaurants and bar shacks surround the sand, and it can get rowdy late at night. Amenities: food and drink. Best for: partiers; sunset.
Utila, Bay Islands, Honduras -
9. East End
BeachOn the east end of the cay (referred to, suitably, as the East End), trails leading up to the lighthouse offer stunning panoramic views of the...
On the east end of the cay (referred to, suitably, as the East End), trails leading up to the lighthouse offer stunning panoramic views of the islands. This side of the cay is home to around 50 Garífuna villagers and the only school in Cayos Cochinos. The community has constructed beachfront cabins to offer visitors a more cultural experience.
Cayos Cochinos, Bay Islands, Honduras -
10. Fruit Harbour Farm
Farm/RanchIf you've come to Guanaja, you're likely planning to either dive or fish with an outfitter, or do nothing at all but unwind. When you're ready...
If you've come to Guanaja, you're likely planning to either dive or fish with an outfitter, or do nothing at all but unwind. When you're ready for a break, we recommend an afternoon trip to the only slightly incongruous Fruit Harbour Farm, an organic operation run by a German expat. Take a guided tour or horseback ride through the fruit tree orchard and dairy farm, and then sip slowly on the powerful wine of fermented fruits and nibble on juicy dried mangoes. If you feel like staying longer, there are overnight bungalows available.
Guanaja, Bay Islands, Honduras-9899–8509 -
11. Gumbalimba Park
West Bay | Nature Preserve/Wildlife RefugeThis park is part nature reserve, part tourism fun. Macaws, parrots, and monkeys will land on your shoulders as iguanas scuttle around more...
This park is part nature reserve, part tourism fun. Macaws, parrots, and monkeys will land on your shoulders as iguanas scuttle around more than 200 tropical tree and plant species. Paved paths lined with boulders lead to a 91 meters (300 feet) high-hanging bridge that crosses a lagoon. The park's zip-line tour is its main attraction, with 13 lines traversing the rain-forest canopy. There is also snorkeling, SNUBA (a form of surface-supplied diving), horseback riding, kayaking, and a white sandy beach. Coxen's Cave is reminiscent of a theme park ride: recreated cave drawings line the walls; and dotting the interior are life-size pirate statues and replicas of maps, weapons, and treasure. Grab a bite at the poolside grill and take a refreshing shower in the outdoor stalls. Park admission includes the pirate cave, animal preserve, botanical gardens, and the pool. All other activities cost extra. Avoid cruise ship days if you want to beat the crowds.
Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras-2445–1033Sight Details
Rate Includes: From L560 -
12. La Ensenada
BeachFishing and passenger boats pull up to the white beaches at La Ensenada bay as fins and snorkels poke out of soft blue waters. Behind the shoreline...
Fishing and passenger boats pull up to the white beaches at La Ensenada bay as fins and snorkels poke out of soft blue waters. Behind the shoreline are several recreational trails that cut through the rising rainforest.
Cayos Cochinos, Bay Islands, Honduras -
13. Maya Key
Coxen Hole | IslandOne of the premier day excursions—it's a great place for children—for cruisers visiting Roatán is this small, private island near Coxen Hole...
One of the premier day excursions—it's a great place for children—for cruisers visiting Roatán is this small, private island near Coxen Hole. The park offers a wide variety of amenities and activities, including sandy beaches, tropical gardens, a museum with cultural displays, and an animal rescue center, where you can meet the animals. The 10-acre island also has spectacular snorkeling. Most cruise lines offer the island as a shore excursion, and it's the only way it can be visited; the park takes no independent bookings. It's a 3-minute water shuttle from the shuttle pier 50 yards east of the Terminal de Cruceros in Coxen Hole.
-
14. Pumpkin Hill
ViewpointFrom Utila Town, a 4.8 km (3 mile) trail cuts through the muggy tropical forest up to Pumpkin Hill. Standing at 91 meters (300 feet) above sea...
From Utila Town, a 4.8 km (3 mile) trail cuts through the muggy tropical forest up to Pumpkin Hill. Standing at 91 meters (300 feet) above sea level, the dormant volcano cone is the highest point on the island. Sweeping views of Utila and nearby Roatán can be viewed from the top.
Utila, Bay Islands, Honduras -
15. Pumpkin Hill Beach
BeachOn the paved road out of Utila Town, bear right at the airport runway and onto Pumpkin Hill Beach, a mosaic of fossilized coral and sand patches...
On the paved road out of Utila Town, bear right at the airport runway and onto Pumpkin Hill Beach, a mosaic of fossilized coral and sand patches. From here you can walk about 45 minutes along the beach until connecting with the trail that leads up Pumpkin Hill.
Utila, Bay Islands, Honduras -
16. Roatán Institute for Marine Sciences
Sandy Bay | Educational InstitutionOne of the attractions at Anthony's Key Resort, the Roatán Institute for Marine Sciences is an educational center that researches bottlenose...
One of the attractions at Anthony's Key Resort, the Roatán Institute for Marine Sciences is an educational center that researches bottlenose dolphins and other marine animals. A dolphin show takes place every day at 4 pm. For an additional fee, you can participate in a "dolphin encounter," which allows you to interact with the dolphins while either swimming or snorkeling. There are also programs for children ages 5 to 14, including snorkeling experiences, and the "Dolphin Trainer for a Day" program. Cruise-ship passengers must make reservations for dolphin encounters through their ship's excursion desk.
Anthony's Key Resort, Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras-9556–0212Sight Details
Rate Includes: L110 -
17. Roatán Institute of Deepsea Exploration
West End | ReefFor a pricey but one-of-a-kind experience, contact Stanley Submarines for the ultimate deep-sea wildlife-viewing excursion. The two-passenger...
For a pricey but one-of-a-kind experience, contact Stanley Submarines for the ultimate deep-sea wildlife-viewing excursion. The two-passenger submarine, named Idabel, is piloted by Captain Karl and expeditions take you as low as 610 meters (2,000 feet) below sea level. The journey promises the chance to spot sharks and mysterious creatures you've likely never imagined. It's reservations only so be sure to book in advance.
Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras-3359–2887Sight Details
Rate Includes: From $500 per person for 1½ hrs -
18. Roatán Museum
Sandy Bay | Museum/GalleryOften called one of the best small museums in Central America, the tiny Roatán Museum is well worth a visit. The facility, at Anthony's Key...
Often called one of the best small museums in Central America, the tiny Roatán Museum is well worth a visit. The facility, at Anthony's Key Resort, displays archaeological discoveries from Roatán and the rest of the Bay Islands and gives a detailed history of the entire island.
Anthony's Key Resort, Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras-9556–0212Sight Details
Rate Includes: L22, or included in admission to Roatán Institute of Marine Sciences -
19. Underwater Paradise MC Tours
West End | ReefGlass-bottom boat and submarine tours are an excellent way to enjoy the West End's coral reefs from a nondiver perspective. Underwater Paradise...
Glass-bottom boat and submarine tours are an excellent way to enjoy the West End's coral reefs from a nondiver perspective. Underwater Paradise drops passengers 7 feet below the water in an air-conditioned semi-submarine with a crystal-clear bottom view for 45 minutes of reef exploration.
At Coconut Tree dock in Half Moon Bay, Roatán, Bay Islands, Honduras-9542–6475Sight Details
Rate Includes: L660 -
20. Utila Cays
IslandThe Utila Cays make for an interesting afternoon excursion. Jewel and Pigeon Cay (also the Upper and Lower Cay, respectively) are home to around...
The Utila Cays make for an interesting afternoon excursion. Jewel and Pigeon Cay (also the Upper and Lower Cay, respectively) are home to around 400 people, including local fishermen and the descendants of settlers who came from the Cayman Islands in 1836. The two cays are joined together by a short concrete bridge, and houses, churches, schools, restaurants, and docks are crammed together on these urban islands. Residents, or Cayons, learn Spanish in school but speak Caribbean English at home, and they distinguish themselves from the 2,500 people living on the main island of Utila. A few tasty seafood joints make for a relaxing escape from the Utila Town crowd.
Utila, Bay Islands, Honduras
-
{{ (numCurrentPage-1)*numPageLimit+index+1 }}.
{{ item.neighborhood }} | {{ item.first_keyword }}{{ item.review_snippet }}...
{{ item.review }}
{{ item.address }}{{ item.phone[0] }}{{ item.details.title }} Details
{{ item.details.content }}View Tours and Activities -
Recommended Fodor’s Video
No sights Results
Please try a broader search, or expore these popular suggestions:
There are no results for {{ strDestName }} Sights in the searched map area with the above filters. Please try a different area on the map, or broaden your search with these popular suggestions:
Recommended Fodor’s Video
Around the Web
TOP
