Diving and Water Activities
The entire coastline of Roatan is surrounded by healthy, vibrant coral reefs; actually the southern tip of the world’s second largest Barrier Reef, Mesoamerican Barrier Reef. Roatan also lies alongside the deep southern edge of the Cayman Trench. The result: great visibility year-round, and nutrient-rich waters bringing in a host of animals. It is said that 90% of all Caribbean reef species can be found off Roatan’s shores. Take the 2 minute swim out from the village to have all of this at your finger tips. One of our visitors wrote back: “My kids were in heaven, it was like having the Discovery Channel right in front of them.”
Snorkeling
Just off the beach in West Bay in front of West Bay Village and the "L" shaped dock, there is a marked snorkeling channel so you can get out to the reef safely and easily. This end of the beach is where the reef comes closest to the shore. You can find snorkel gear for hire all along the beach, but it’s best to bring your own, for comfort and fit. Our guests regularly see rays, sea-turtles, eels, lobster, crab, barracuda and more. Some have even been lucky enough to swim out to see pods of dolphin swimming by.
Diving
Underwater is where Roatan really comes alive. There is every kind of diving you could ask for (except drysuit!). Explore the wrecks, deep walls, caves, canyons, night dives and vibrant shallow coral gardens. Within a short walk of West Bay Village, there are a number of well-established dive operators where you can get certified, advanced training, or be taken out for fun to any number of world class dive sites. With water temperatures kept mild year-round, we dive every day.
We especially recommend West End Divers in West End Town or, for West Bay Beach visit Banararama Resort or Ocean Connections both offer excellent diving in a professional friendly atmosphere.
Submarine Ride
Roatan is home to the world’s deepest tourist submarine. Built and piloted by Karl Stanley, “Idabel” takes up to two passengers to over 2000ft below the waves. In this cold, pitch-dark inner space you’ll meet some of the strangest creatures ever seen by the human eye. Maybe your eye is the first! Visit Stanley Submersibles web site for more info.
Dolphin Encounters
For many, swimming with dolphins has been a childhood dream. Now you can live that dream here on Roatan. Anthony’s Key Resort (call: 504 445-3003) in Sandy Bay offers encounters snorkels, swims and dives. Kids of all ages can get up-close and personal with these playful mammals. Experienced trainers will take you into the lagoon and introduce you to the dolphins. Once you get to know them for while, feed them and play with them, you’ll go out for a swim! Drop by our office for help with reservations.
Sailing
There are a number of yachts and catamarans you can charter for the afternoon, for a day, or for a longer cruise to the neighboring islands. Even Belize is only a day’s sail away. Stock up the coolers, get the rods out, lay back and let the wind take you. Chartered sunset cruises or dive trips are also possible.
Fishing Charters
Roatan is famous for fishing opportunities, deep sea or flats. We recommened striking up a conversation with one of the many local fisherman that hang out on the docks. You will get a good price and a very rewarding day of fishing on a tropcial Caribbean Island. The Millers in West End, if you are looking for a larger boat, have been fishing on Roatan for years. From 2 hours to full days, this family knows its stuff on the water. Barracuda and Tuna can be found in these waters all year long while Dorado and Wahoo come around in the winter months.
Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
For those of you seeking more active fun and adventure let the Caribbean Winds take you on a ride. Kite Honduras at Marble Hill Farms are a small Kiteboard instruction center. A little closer the Windsurf School in Sandy Bay has instruction for many level levels plus board and sail rentals.
Land Activities
There is plenty to see and do above the water and away from Roatan’s popular beaches. Take the time to seek out the Island’s hidden corners, or some of it’s hidden luxuries. Spend the afternoon finding a deserted stretch of beach, the best seafood on the island, or a lazy tropical spa.
Road Trip
Rent a jeep or a truck and head out to the less developed East End of Roatan. You’ll come across isolated beaches, small fishing villages dotting the coast and always some interesting characters. Be sure to stop at The View; a great restaurant just after French Harbour with vistas along the north shore.
Mangrove Tunnels
From Oak Ridge, a water taxi can take you through a series of tunnels, carved through the mangrove forests many centuries ago. You’ll pass by some of the oldest settlements in the Americas, built on stilts over the water. Be sure to stop off at the infamous “Hole in the Wall” for a drink, a seafood buffet, or to meet some of the Island’s quirky ex-pats.
Nature Tours
Nature lovers and birdwatchers will enjoy a stroll around Carambola Gardens, located just above Anthony’s Key Resort. Learn about the many different tropical plants and flowers. Climb up to the lookout above the Gardens and you’ll see the whole jungle and reef laid out before you. There is an Iguana Farm near French Harbour, a sanctuary for these endangered Island creatures. Don’t miss feeding time! There is a Butterfly Garden near West End
Canopy Tours
There are now a number of eco-adventures featuring zip-lines through the jungle canopy. With safe, professional guides you can fly through trees filled with wildlife, orchids and exhilerating views. We recommend South Shore Canopy, just outside West Bay.
Horseback Riding
Best done in the cooler hours of the early morning or sunset, you can ride along the beaches, through the forests and along the ridges of West Bay. We recommend El Rancho Barrio Dorcas West End and Keifito’s Plantation West Bay.
Prices are reasonable and the horses are well cared-for. You can catch a water-taxi from West Bay Village to the Keifito’s stables or West End.
Spas and Massages
There are some excellent massages available. For the full spa treatment, complete with poolside drinks and service, pedicures, manicures and specialty treatments we recommend a fantastic retreat in Sandy Bay called Baan Suerte (504 445-3059). The innovative “Mayan Hot Stone Massage” is a must. Go on, treat yourself.
Seaplane Adventures
Bay Island Airways (504 946-5665) now operates a two-passenger seaplane for charters around Roatan and the Bay Islands. Real Estate tours or even dive trips to remote sites.
You can learn more about the island and it’s people at the Roatan Museum at Anthony’s Key Resort.
Roatan is still largely undeveloped, and with a little effort, you can see the Caribbean as it was in the days before tourists and cruise-ships. The real charm of Roatan Island is still hiding out there. Step off the beaten track and make some discoveries for yourself!
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