A Visit to Roatan Honduras
I took a recent trip to Honduras which has been on my list for a while and it certainly did not disappoint. I found the country to be pretty affordable once we navigated around a few things. Here is a detailed guide for all you need to know.
Entry Requirements:
Negative Covid 19 PCR test 72 hours prior to departure. Rapid PCR tests are accepted. No self administered test or no throat/saliva tests accepted.
If you are fully vaccinated you don’t need to take a test. You must bring your original vaccination card.
Fill out your immigration forms here https://prechequeo.inm.gob.hn/Login
Print all forms and bring to the airport.
Getting Here:
Direct flight from the US: This can be a bit more pricier than flying into San Pedro. I flew to San Pedro Sula from NYC then from San Pedro Sula to Roatan.
Fly from San Pedro Sula to Rotan - 35 minute flight that can range from $100-$130 each way. This was the route I chose. However, looking back I would have just flew into Roatan and skipped San Pedro altogether.
Ferry from La Ceibas to Roatan - This is a three hour bus ride from San Pedro and one hour ferry ride that can be very rocky due to the waters. I get very bad cases of motion sickness so this wasn’t an option for me.
Tips For Visiting Roatan:
Currency: The local currency is the Honduran Lempura. Most places accept US dollars but they may not give you the correct change in USD so its better to have Lempuras.
When to Visit: Rainy season is from October to February but it doesn't rain all day. I visited during the month of June which is the start of summer.
Rent A Car: If you plan on exploring the island like I did, it’s best to rent a car. Taxis are expensive here so my wallet thanked me. I rented mine from AVIS right outside of the airport for $45 per day. Note: with renting a car, it can be a bit tough to find street parking to be mindful of this.
Sunscreen: Please do not come here without sunscreen. It. Is. HOT. That is all. Be prepared to use it multiples per day.
Insect Repellent: The island has lots of tropical bugs so pack your spray or creams as needed.
Things to Do:
Little French Key: This is one of the most popular attractions in Roatan. You can get here by driving to the ferry dock and parking in the lot (its small so spaces fill up). The island is for excursions and water related activities. To get across to the island it’s $35 for a very short 3-5 minute ride. There are also packages you can purchase that include your activities or you can purchase them once you get on the island. We decided to make it a chill day so we hung out at the Beach and did kayaking as well as paddle boarding. Be sure to take pics at Frenchy’s 44.
West Bay Beach: The best beach in Roatan by far. It takes a whole lot to impress me especially when it comes to beaches, but this one I really loved. Although its packed with tourists, this beach is definitely worth a visit. There are also a lot of resorts here as well as this beach is located on a hotel strip.
Garifuna, Punta Gorda: Visit the indigenous Garifuna people of Roatan in Punta Gorda. It’s best to come here on a Sunday for the weekly celebration with dancing and live music in the street.
West End: A more happening area on the island with tons of bars and restaurants. You’ll find vendors selling tours, tourists and locals walking in the street and different places playing music especially at night. This is where you go to mingle and have a good time. Note, parking here can be tough if you choose to rent a car.
Where to Eat:
Callelu’s: Great local food in West End. I actually had my best meal on the island here. It was so good that I went twice. Try to get here before 7pm to avoid crowds
Gingers: Another local restaurant right on the water. Note: This place only takes PayPal and cash.
Calketts: Located on West Bay Beach at the Mayan Princess resort, check out their fish tacos. This was a great lunch option.
The Booty Bar: This isn’t a restaurant but it’s a pretty good bar in West End. The drinks are great and they have a dance floor that got pretty crowded. Good recommendation for nightlife.
Where to Stay:
Las Verandas: Affordable luxury at its best. I stayed here and loved every bit of it. Check out my full hotel review here.
Splash Dive Resort: A budget accommodation in West End. Rooms here start at around $50-$60 per night. The location is pretty ideal for the West End area since you can walk half a block to the restaurants and bars.
Mayan Resort - Located along West Bay Beach, this resort is great for families.
Hotel Posada Las Orquideas: A budget accommodation located in West End that’s a bit far from the happening places. Be prepared to either drive or take a taxi because it’s located at the end of an unpaved road.
All in all, my visit to Roatan was one to remember. I fell in the love with this island and would definitely visit again.