Islas de la Bahía

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Introduction

Incomplete dock in Sandy Bay, Roatan

© All Rights Reserved GregW

The Islas de la Bahía rest off the coast of Honduras and they are a wonderful series of islands. These islands are home to amazing unspoiled coral reefs, which divers come from far and near to swim in. For those not interested in diving there is also great beaches to relax on and to enjoy the sun. The island of Roatan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Honduras although the smaller are worth a visit also.

Christopher Columbus was the first European to discover the islands in 1502, although the islands did not stay in Spanish hands for long. The British took control of the islands in 1643 and held onto them until 1860. The lasting legacy of the British can be felt on the islands, with some residents never even learning Spanish. Today it is very easy to travel to the islands and among the different islands.

Geography

The 5 main groups of islands have very different geography and and a distinct flavor to them. Even culturally they are different from the rest of Honduras. The largest island of Roatan has a mountain range down the center while the other islands tend to be flat.

Islands

• Roatan is 60 km long making it the largest island and has a mountainous backbone with stunning beaches along the coast.
• Utila is a flat island and has become a backpacker hangout in recent years. There are also amazing reefs around the island that are home to the rare whale shark. This is also one of the cheapest places on the planet to get a PADI certification.
• Guanaja was damaged during Hurricane Mitch in 1998. Its Caribbean pine covered interior is largely undeveloped although it had a rich history of being the hideout for 17th century buccaneers.
• Cayos Cochinos is a protected marine area and home to great reefs.
• Swan Islands is a small island located 120 km north of the main islands.

Sights and Activities

Me with a barracuda

© All Rights Reserved monkyhands

• Diving is the main attraction here. The world's largest reef system is alive and strong off the coast of these islands and divers come from all over the world to experience it.
• Beaches are a great way to relax and the amazing beaches here just want to make you go relax on them.

Events and Festivals

Weather

The weather is generally ok, but not always that nice. October to February is rainy season, with a smaller rainy period in Jun and July. Temperatures are between 25 and 30 degrees Celsius most of the year, but some nights can be cool with temperatures dropping to around 15 degrees in January.

Getting There

By Plane

There are airports located on all three of the major islands and they have regular domestic service to the mainland. There is even direct flights to the USA on certain days of the week.

By Train

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

M.V. Galaxy provides ferry service to Utila and Roatan from the mainland. There is also regular ferry service between the islands with cheaper local boats.

Getting Around

By Plane

By Train

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

There is regular ferry service among all the different islands.

Eat

Drink

Sleep