Roatan News and Articles: there are times when you dream of escaping to a perfect tropical island in paradise just like you see in the movies, The Island of Roatan, right off the coast of Honduras is just that... Read full post
Welcome to Roatan, Bay Island of Honduras
The Bay Island of Roatan in the Carribean Sea is surrounded by various cays and smaller islands. It is a true paradise off the northern coast of Honduras, Central America.
Blue skies, wonderful turquois waters, and a warm sun will welcome you to Roatan, an island with various beaches, distinctive for their quietness, and crystal clear waters that will make you enjoy the sea as if you were in an enormous natural swimming pool.
The coral reef that surrounds the island is considered to be the second biggest in the world, and is a source of permanent attraction and entertainment for those who enjoy scuba-diving. The necessary training to join in an adventure in a marvelous underwater world, with all the appropriate safety and help. Those that do not want to participate in very deep diving can go snorkeling, which offers a view of marine life one will never forget.
Roatan Island is 33 miles long and 4 miles wide. A paved road crosses the island on 75% of its length. Just by riding in a car along the road can become a very relaxing experience, since the beautiful landscapes you an enjoy are truly impressive. This main road leads to all the different destinations and attractions on the island.
Roatan is also an ideal place to invest in real estate, since the natural beauty of the island has been enhanced by the development of exclusive residential projects with the comfort and services that modern life demands, within an environment that is unique for vacation and enjoyable paradisical hideaways.
There are also several well developed communities with their own attractions, such as Coxen Hole, French Harbour, West Bay, West End, Port Royal, Punta Gorda, Oak Ridge, the Barbareta and Morat Island, Jonesville, etc. Each one of these small towns or communities have their own charm, and it is worthwile visiting each one of them.
Coxen Hole
This capitol city of Roatan is the biggest and most populated. The doorways to the island (sailing port, international airport) are located here. All administrative activities on the island take place here. The Customs office and the City Hall are located in this town. There is also a hospital, banks, stores, gas stations, "cyber-cafes", legal bureaus, souvenir and gift shops, etc.
French Harbour
This is the second most important town in Roatan. The main seafood packing companies are located here, and of course, because it is a seaport, many fishing companies are settled here too. French Harbour hosts the most recognized restaurants on the island, and the best and most stocked supermarket, as well as car rental agencies, schools and high schools, gas stations, bars, discos, esecutive hotels, and even an exciting canaopy tour. It is a very interesting place to visit, go shopping, have fun or look for your next real estate investment.
West End
Located, obviously, on the western end of the island, this area is a must see. In addition to its beautiful beaches, there are restaurants, very good hotels and many options for leisure. From a tour on the "Glass Bottom Boat", a ride in a mini-submarine, deep sea scuba-diving, to motorcycle rentals, sea kayak rides, and souvenir shops. At night, West End certainly turns into the liveliest zone on the island, where you will be able to have fun until late at night in a very international ambience.
West Bay
This is the community with the highest growth and hotel development since it has very beautiful beaches with peaceful waters and extremely white sand. Full days in contact with nature can be enjoyed here with the comfort of hotels that are very close to the beach.
Sandy Bay
This is an area of the island where hotels, restaurants, splendid residential developments, and a research center (the Institute of Marine Sciences) have been established. Part of the attractions you can enjoy here are an interesting dolphin show, windsurfing or even a relaxing moment at a spa.
Punta Gorda
This is the community where the Garifuna ethnic group first settled. Their arrival to the island in 1797 is celebrated every year on November 12th, with an eye-catching festival. Tourists can appreciate the cultural inheritance of the Garifuna people in this place, in one of its most natural expressions. We do, however, suggest a visit a visit to Politilly Bay, located on the paved road that takes one to Punta Gorda, only 10 minutes away from French Harbour. There you can enjoy the full experience of contact with the Garifuna culture, attending shows offered by Yubu, where tourists can transport themselves to ancient times through native dances and the sounds of the Garifuna drums.
Jones Ville
A typical Caribbean community mainly dedicated to fishing. It is an interesting and picturesque spot appropriate for vast picture taking.
Oak Ridge
An Afro-Antillean-like picturesque community. The are known for their tradition of building houses on the water. Many of the locals offer tours on their own "water taxis" to the mangrove swamp or other places on the island. You will also find some small bars and restaurants here.
Paya Bay
Close to Oak Ridge, this is one of the most reommended places. It is known for its white sands and crystal clear water.