Roatan

ROATAN | The International Connection

Roatán is the heart of the Bay Islands vibrant, connected, and globally accessible. With direct international flights, a thriving expat community, and modern infrastructure- this is where tropical ease meets opportunity. Luxury beachfront villas, ocean-view condos, and resort communities define its landscape, attracting investors who value comfort, growth, and connection.

Welcome to Roatán: The Caribbean Gem of Honduras

Roatán, the crown jewel of the Bay Islands, offers breathtaking beaches, vibrant culture, world-class diving, rich history, and growing investment opportunities — all set in a laid-back, tropical paradise just off Honduras’ northern coast.

Index

• Geography & Administrative Divisions
• Towns & Localities
• History & Tourism Development
• How to Get to Roatán
• Getting Around the Island
• Where to Stay
• Tours & Activities
• Island Style: Culture, Music & Food
• Real Estate Market & Opportunities

Geography & Administrative Divisions

Roatán is located about 30 miles off the north coast of mainland Honduras, in the Caribbean Sea. It’s part of the Bay Islands (Islas de la Bahía), a tropical archipelago that includes Utila, Guanaja, and several cays such as Cayos Cochinos and Barbareta.

Administratively, Roatán is divided into two municipalities:

• Roatán Municipality: Covers the western and central parts of the island. Capital: Coxen Hole.
• José Santos Guardiola Municipality: Covers the eastern end. Capital: Oak Ridge.

Though the East Side is officially part of José Santos Guardiola, the whole island is often casually referred to as “Roatán.” There’s a colloquial division into West Side and East Side, with the West being more developed and touristic.

Towns & Localities

Roatán is a mosaic of communities, each offering its own charm, attractions, and rhythm. Here’s a tour of its main areas, organized west to east:

West Side (Tourist Zone)

• West Bay: Home to one of the Caribbean’s best beaches. Ideal for snorkeling, diving, and upscale beach resorts.
• West End: A laid-back village with dive shops, bars, budget hotels, and backpacker energy.
• Flowers Bay: Local coastal community, known for its authenticity and proximity to nature.
• Sandy Bay: Upscale residential areas and eco resorts. Also home to several dive centers and marine parks.

Central Roatán

• Coxen Hole: Island capital and commercial center. Location of the international airport, local markets, and ferry terminal.
• Dixon Cove: Near cruise ship ports, this bay area is developing with tourism infrastructure.
• French Harbour: A commercial hub and former fishing village. It hosts luxury developments, shopping, and services.
• French Key: Tiny private cay, home to boutique experiences and marine parks.

East Side (Untouched Beauty)

• Jonesville: Quiet fishing village with mangrove channels and traditional life.
• Parrot Tree: Upscale resort and residential area with marina access.
• Oak Ridge: Capital of the eastern municipality. A unique water-based village, often called the “Venice of Roatán.”
• Punta Gorda: Traditional Garífuna village with strong cultural roots and local cuisine.
• Paya Bay & Camp Bay: Pristine beaches, secluded escapes, and eco-resorts. Excellent for kayaking, hiking, and diving.
• Port Royal: Historic harbor with pirate lore, now remote and scenic.
• Barbareta & Santa Helena: Remote islands or islets with very limited development — ideal for nature lovers and explorers.

History & Tourism Development

Roatán’s history spans indigenous civilizations, colonial conflict, pirates, and Garífuna settlements. Initially inhabited by the Paya, it was later touched by Spanish, British, and African cultures. The British influence led to widespread English use.

Tourism began to grow in the 1980s with scuba diving as the main attraction. Resorts and infrastructure followed in the 1990s, especially in West Bay and West End. Cruise tourism surged in the 2000s with the construction of Mahogany Bay and the Port of Roatán.

How to Get to Roatán

• By Air: Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (RTB) connects to Miami, Houston, Atlanta, Dallas, and seasonal flights from Canada. Local airlines also connect Roatán with La Ceiba, San Pedro Sula, and Tegucigalpa.
• By Ferry: Two ferries operate from La Ceiba to Roatán daily. Fast catamarans make the crossing in about 75 minutes.
• From Other Islands: Charter boats and some regular services connect Roatán with Utila and Guanaja.

Getting Around the Island

• Buses: Public minibuses run routes between major towns, especially on the western side.
• Taxis: Both private and shared taxis are available. Always agree on price beforehand.
• Car & Scooter Rentals: Widely available in tourist areas. A great way to explore remote beaches and villages.
• Water Taxis: Especially between West End and West Bay, as well as other waterfront communities.

Where to Stay

• Luxury: Infinity Bay, Grand Roatán, Ibagari — oceanfront, full-service resorts in West Bay.
• Mid-range: Splash Inn (West End), Blue Bahia (Sandy Bay), Clarion Suites (French Harbour).
• Budget: Hostels and guesthouses in West End and Coxen Hole offer great value.

Tours & Activities

Roatán is packed with adventure, nature, and culture:

• Diving and snorkeling at the Mesoamerican Reef (2nd largest in the world).
• Boat trips to Cayos Cochinos, Barbareta, Utila, or mangrove tunnels.
• Ziplining, ATVs, horseback riding, and hiking in the hills.
• Fishing charters, kayaking, paddleboarding, sunset cruises.
• Eco parks, sloth and monkey sanctuaries, botanical gardens.
• Cooking classes, Garífuna cultural tours, rum tasting, chocolate factories.

Island Style: Culture, Music & Food

Roatán offers a laid-back vibe, friendly locals, and diverse culture. English and Spanish are spoken. The Garífuna, Afro-Caribbean, and Latin influences shine in music, food, and traditions.

• Music: Reggae, Punta, Calypso, live music in local bars.
• Food: Coconut rice, fresh fish, tapado, pastelitos, baleadas, and tropical fruits.
• Traditions: Easter celebrations, Garífuna Day, and colorful festivals.

Real Estate Market & Opportunities

Roatán’s real estate is among the most attractive in the Caribbean for foreign investors, retirees, and remote workers. You can legally own property in your name as a foreigner.

• Hot Areas: West Bay (luxury beach), Sandy Bay (residential), French Harbour (commercial), and East End (raw beauty and growth potential).
• Types of Property: Beachfront condos, hilltop homes, lots for development, eco-lodges.
• Market Outlook: Growing steadily with infrastructure development and expanding tourism. Opportunity zones include Oak Ridge, Punta Blanca, and Camp Bay.