A week in Roatan is the perfect amount of time to explore the island without feeling rushed. Most of the tourist traffic comes from cruise ships, but I think 8 hours isn't enough time to get a real taste of the island.
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Best Place to Stay in RoatanTwo main areas appeal in Roatan - West End and West Bay - and this is where the majority of island visitors will stay. A third area, Sandy Bay, is worth mentioning, as it's well-liked by ex-pats, but hasn't become a hotspot for tourists - although this may soon change.
Roatan's call to fame is its coral reef. The Mesoamerican Barrier Reef is world-renowned. It is the largest of its kind in the northern hemisphere and second largest worldwide. Only the Great Barrier Reef is larger in scope and size that is the reef in the waters around Roatan Island.
The reality is that Roatan is an island, and almost everything consumed here is imported. Our food, products and supplies had to undergo a much longer journey to make it to our happy island, and therefore that drives up the price of just about everything.
Visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, paddle boarding or simply lounging on the beach chairs or cabanas. Mahogany Bay Beach is a perfect place to experience the tropical charm and natural beauty of Roatan.
Map of RoatanRoatan's West Bay Beach is located on the island of Roatan's western- (and southern-) most tip, and has been described as the ultimate Caribbean beach vacation destination: pristine, white sand beaches, perfectly clean, clear, and warm tropical waters.
For the Sun and Beach type of tourism, Roatan offers unbeatable beaches and lush coastal vegetation, coral reefs, dive sites, and seascapes. These all come together to provide an attractive (and different) aquatic experience.
Roatan's rainy season starts in October and can run through February. The heaviest rainfall is typically in November and December. This basically matches up with winter in North America and Europe, which is the most popular time of year for all of you to flee the winter and seek some tropical sun.
Roatan is situated outside of the Hurricane Zone. The island of Roatan is too far west to be affected by most annual hurricanes. In fact, hurricanes only come across Roatan once every 26 years. So feel free to plan ahead and travel to Roatan even if you're considering traveling to Roatan during hurricane season.
Water temperatures are also pleasant for most of the time, which makes diving in Roatan extremely comfortable. During the summer season, the average water temperature is 84-86F. As winter comes knocking, water temperatures cool off, but are still far from freezing cold.
Areas to avoid after dark.Conversely, there are areas or town around Roatan which should be avoided after dark or in which extra precaution is recommended. Coxen Hole, Los Fuertes, French Harbour, are some of the main places where tourist and residents alike should keep a watchful eye.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Roatan IslandHigh season is considered to be January, November and December. The cheapest month to fly from the United States is January. Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Roatan Island flight deals.
Currency in RoatanThe Lempira is the official currency of Honduras but US dollars accepted throughout Roatan and can be used in most parts of the island. Credit Cards can also be used in larger stores and restaurants, but not all.
There are two cell services on Roatan, TIGO and CLARO. Which one you buy depends completely on a few factors. I have always had TIGO and don't plan to change but there are places where TIGO does not work on the island so let me lay out the differences and you can choose for yourself.
Ferry from Honduras to Roatan IslandThe La Ceiba to Roatan ferry crossing operates Weekly with a scheduled sailing duration from about 1 hour 15 minutes.
The Bay Islands and Roatan are popular destinations today for many vacationers, including some rather famous people. The islands in the area are popular for celebs such as Christopher Lambert, Richard Gere, Michael Douglas, and Cameron Diaz.