Top Things to do in Roatan
Countries
Top 7 Things to do in Roatan, Honduras
The best way to cap off a day of pristine Roatán reef diving and heart-pumping adventure is to sip a sunset cocktail by the beach. From zip-lining to deep-sea fishing to exploring the military-protected archipelago of Cayos Cochinos, the Honduran island is a playground for lovers of water sports and ecotourism. Landlubbers will adore the Carambola botanical gardens, touring the Stone Castle Cameo Factory, or exploring the beaches on horseback.
Restaurants in Roatan
1. Daniel Johnson's Monkey and Sloth Hang Out
Overall Ratings
5 based on 583 reviews
Reviewed By Nicole M - Corunna
I kind of have an obsession with sloths, so this was a must when we went. We got there and waited to go in. When we went in (about 15 mins later) we were brought to different areas that held different animals to include birds, spider monkeys and white faced monkeys. Our guide was really good at describing what a day in the life looks like here. They told us that when tours aren't going on, the animals are let out of their spaces and are free to roam.
They had seven sloths when we were there and we saw 4 of them. Our guide told us that the sloths are only allowed to be held by so many people before they move on to another sloth. They roam free.
Overall it was a really cool experience. We got to meet the owner too which was pretty cool.
2. Rusty Fish
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 233 reviews
Rusty Fish makes artwork out of recycled materials. Most of which comes from the garbage dump. The Rusty Fish store benifits 60 local families. Providing a way for them to make an income and support their families. Beyond recycled artwork we also have the best selection of locally made wood carvings, local stone carving, paintings by local artisans and handmade jewelry. 100% of our items are made on the Island. Giving you a unique gift and enabling you to help local families by purchasing their artwork.
Reviewed By Jalama - Santa Barbara, California
Stayed in Roatan for 8 days and tried to visit all the stores. I went in early on to most of the stores just to see which I wanted to go back to. My last couple days I went back to the chosen few and did all my shopping. This store has the coolest gifts, knick-knacks and earrings in it!!! I purchased quite a few things and wish I had gotten more! Next year I will top off my collection, and gifts to share, from The Rusty Fish! Both times I was there the staff were friendly, welcoming and not pushy! It made for a nice relaxed shopping experience.
3. West Bay Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
West Bay is what many consider the picture-perfect Caribbean destination: white sand, clear, calm waters and full service resorts. The variety of water activities include scuba diving, fishing charters, snorkeling and parasailing. Scuba diving and other outfitters leave directly from the beach so starting your water-based activities is easy and convenient.
Reviewed By Mardaver - Bracebridge, Canada
West Bay Beach is a beautiful spot, but much too busy for its own good!. The people of Roatan are fantastic. I didn't have a single negative experience with a "local" the entire week we spent in Roatan. The beach, however, is overrun with tourists...many of whom have very little respect for the natural wonder they are enjoying. The section of Mesoamerican Reef that runs along this beach is in rough shape! I was dismayed to see many tourists standing on the coral in the shallow waters just meters off the beach. When I ventured out with my snorkeling gear, the destruction of the coral was immediately evident. Much of it has been destroyed. The inner reef was in sad condition, but the outer reef was still pristine...it was too deep for ignorant tourists to stand on. Perhaps if the thousands of people brought to the area by cruise ships each day were better educated before arriving, the destruction would be reduced. I enjoyed my time here but was also saddened by the experience.
4. Maya Key
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 441 reviews
11.5 acre private island conveniently located just three minutes across the bay from the Roatan cruise pier and 15 minutes away from Mahogany Bay Cruise Pier. This pristine island features two secluded Beaches, excellent snorkeling from a scenic pier, a 70,000 gallon swimming pool, 5,000 square foot lounge deck, lush garden paths bursting with indigenous flora and most recently an animal rescue center, artisan plaza and Roatan's finest cultural attraction, The Bay Island's Interpretation Center and Ethnic Honduran Art Exhibit Center.
Reviewed By Michael L - Winter Park
We visited as part of our stay at Anthoney's Key but anyone can arrange to go here. The island is well maintained and clean with hundreds of beach chairs to use and a nice lunch spot by the pool. I would try to go when there are no cruise ships using the island as I suppose it could get crowded. The small zoo is well stocked with native island species and if you time it right you can be on hand for feeding. Don't miss the sea lions. We found the snorkelling to be quite good here. I recommend bug spray though. With so many people, the sand fleas are everywhere.
5. Blue Harbor Tropical Arboretum
Overall Ratings
5 based on 133 reviews
Blue Harbor Tropical Arboretum is home to Roatan's most exotic tropical Gardens and some amazing hiking trails. Featuring the only commercial hydroponic lettuce farm in the Caribbean, exotic tropical fruit trees, large orchid collection, heliconia Gardens and a conservatory with an indoor waterfall surrounded by lush tropical plants. Enjoy our pond with several varieties of aquatic birds. Breathe deep and take in nature at Roatan's tropical Eden covering over 150 acres.
Reviewed By Allen21096 - Chicago, Illinois
This is a great place to visit and see some of the horticultural aspects of the island. We did try and found that they are currently closed for maintenance. A quick call and we determined that they were, in fact, temporarily closed, possibly until November. Don't be afraid to call and they do keep their website up to date, as well.
6. Dolphin Encounter
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 206 reviews
Reviewed By ColoradoTourist - Evergreen, Colorado
I’ve wanted to swim with dolphins for years, and this didn’t disappoint. The experience was a couple hours. It started with learning about dolphins, and the second half was snorkeling with them. It was wonderful. There were times it was just me and five other dolphins. I highly recommend this.
7. Tabyana Beach
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 690 reviews
Reviewed By ColoradoKristy - Colorado
This was the best excursion of our cruise. It was a 45 minute bus ride to the west end of the island, all the while our bus driver was narrating and giving us information on the wildlife, the culture, the economy, and answering any question we asked. The entire tour lasted much longer than the ticket time said, because of the travel time. There was plenty of room on the beach and in the water to enjoy without feeling too crowded. There were empty chairs on the beach all day.
It was absolutely gorgeous! Beautiful white sandy beach, turquoise blue water and the barrier reef is right off shore. Shallow water that dropped down to deeper waters, so something for everyone. Beach had plenty of lounge chairs in the shade (or sun, if preferred), and private security guards that watched your things while you were in the water. They also happily took your photo. Wait staff for drinks, changing room, Freshwater showers, a bar with live music, and for an extra $15, a lunch buffet. Free lemonade, ice tea, and water. Everything was very clean. There were life guards/tour guides on duty that would give you a water tour of the reef with a boogie board- no charge. This means all you had to do was hang on with one hand and take pictures and enjoy the sealife. We saw lots of fish, a barracuda, eagle ray, beautiful coral and sea fans, a sea cucumber and a live conch, which the guide brought up for us to touch.
We got to spend at least 3 hours here- wish it was longer. You could take any shuttle bus back that you wanted- just had to be sure to take one that would get you back to the ship in time.
