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 its 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. Getting from the airport in Roatan is easy with Roatan Transfers
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.
Scuba Diving
Roatan has some world-class scuba diving right from the shore if not very short comfortable boat rides away. With great sea life where you can spot anything on the right day, it continues to draw divers from around the world. If you want to learn more about it then we recommend you take a look at https://roatan-diving.com for the best sites, shops and resorts that fully cater to your needs.
Fishing
Botanical Gardens
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.
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 exhilarating views. We recommend GumbaLimba Park, just outside West Bay (504 965-2135) or South Shore Canopy Tour ((504) 904.7855 or (504) 967.1381).
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 Keifito’s (504 978-4472).
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 and then set out.
Spas and Massages
There are some excellent massages available, and for therapeutic work we recommend Edgar Rodriguez (504 958-4673), a certified masseuse. For the full spa treatment, complete with poolside drinks and service, pedicures, manicures and speciality 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
We are sorry to say that Bay Island Airways is no more.
Other Places of Interest
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 and you can learn more about the island and its people at the museum at Anthony’s Key Resort. Also, you can have fun with paintball.
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!
