Roatan

Introduction

Incomplete dock in Sandy Bay, Roatan

© All Rights Reserved GregW

Roatan is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. The biggest draw are the amazing reefs in crystal clear water making for great diving. In recent years some mega resorts have started to open up bringing in a higher class of tourist. Another fascinating thing to explore is the local Caracole population. Decedents of runaway slaves, freed slaves and Europeans looking for refuge in the 19th century this population is still alive and strong, even with the recent influx of immigrants from the mainland.

Towns

• Coxen Hole is the capital and largest town on the island. It is also the location of the airport.
• French Harbour
• West End
• Oak Ridge

Sights and Activities

Half Moon Bay beach, West End, Roatan

© All Rights Reserved GregW

• Diving in the reefs around the island is the main draw for most tourists.
• Beeches are always fun and these ones are especially nice.

Weather

Although Roatan is a great place to enjoy the beaches and watersports, the weather is not always that nice. October to February is rainy season, with a smaller rainy season in June and July. Temperatures are between 25 °C and 30 °C most of the year, but some nights can be cool with temperatures dropping to around 15 °C in January.

Getting There

By Plane

Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (IATA: RTB, ICAO:MHRO) is also known as the Roatan International Airport. This airport has regular service to La Ceiba, San Pedro Sula, Tegucigalpa, Belize City, San Salvador, Miami, Houston and Atlanta. There is also seasonal service to Toronto, Montreal, Ottawa and Newark. There are direct flights with Blue Panorama Airlines to/from Milan.

By Boat

There is regular ferry service to and from the mainland. Safeway Maritime’s new Galaxy Wave catamaran ferry provides fast, comfortable services between Roatán and La Ceiba (economy/first class US$21/26.50, 1¼ hours). There are daily departures from La Ceiba to Roatán at 9:30am and 4:30pm, and from Roatán to La Ceiba at 7:00am and 2:00pm.

Getting Around

By Car

Car rentals as well as motorcylces are available on Roatan, starting at around US$50 per day.

By Public Transport

Water taxis are used on the island to get to different spots. They are useful for getting between West End and West Bay.
On Roatan minibuses are available, costing around US$1-2 per ride.

Sleep

Budget

Keep Connected

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls