Roatan: A Colorful, Exotic Paradise Island
|
Still relatively untravelled compared to the rest of the Caribbean The Bay Islands still offer a traveler a chance for adventure and a throw back to the "old-Caribbean". Though much development has taken place over the last 10-15 years it still has its remote charm...which in years to come will surely fade. Though not for everyone, Roatan has a charm and charisma that echos a time gone by in the Caribbean. 
Roatan, Honduras Beach
The Bay Islands, Honduras...Roatán, Guanaja, Utila and smaller cays provide brilliant blue and clear water, palm-fringed beaches cooled by constant tradewinds, exotic plants, and nature trails. Delight in one of the most extensive reef systems in the world, that offers spectacular diving and snorkeling. Surrounded by warm Caribbean waters, these hilly islands are as picturesque as unspoiled. There are diverse coral types, sponges, fishes and marine life as well as warm, clear blue water and excellent visibility. Have a tropical drink and savor the very best in seafood and native cuisine while viewing spectacular sunsets from a dockside bar or restaurant. Horseback riding, scuba diving, snorkeling, charter fishing trips, sailing, day hikes, and sea kayaking are some of our local activities...to name a few! For an interesting day or overnite trip, arrange a visit to the ancient Maya city of Copán on the mainland of Honduras. These impressive ruins represent one of the most sophisticated and culturally developed of all the ancient Maya cities. Or, if it's true adventure you seek, journey deep into the tropical rain forest, on the main land, for a river rafting trip. The Bay Islands have a colorful history quite distinct to that of mainland Honduras. Indeed, the islanders are native English speakers and are proud of their traditions. During the pre-Hispanic period the islands were inhabited by the Maya Indians and visited frequently by Mayan traders. In the 17th century, they became a refuge for British pirates who preyed on Spanish ships setting out from the nearby port of Trujillo on the long voyage back to the mother country. There was even a pirate stronghold on Roatán called Port Royal. According to local legend, the loot from the Henry Morgan's 1671 raid on Panama is buried somewhere on the island. The Bay Islands are a part of the world's second largest barrier reef system. They offer greatly diversified wall diving at each of the islands where the walls can start at fifteen, forty or even sixty feet. The reefs along these walls are abundant in stony corals and colorful sponges. 
Crab on coral, Bay Islands
With just one glance of the crystal blue waters and teeming marine life you'll see why why Roatan is one of the premier dive spots in the world. Endless diving opportunities are to be found including dolphin dives, walls, volcanic tunnels, shallows, whale shark encounters and a dazzeling soft corals and sponges. The adventurous can explore canyons, ridges and stunning walls rich in marine life. Now a protected marine park, the waters around West End are home to dozens of exciting deep water dive sites.
Guanaja and Utila are similar and because of there remote location with fewer accomodations and divers it can be better diving. One thing is for sure, the pace of life is tuned way down and your vacation here will be laid back and restful. Off the Island of Guanaja there is the Jado Trader, a cargo boat deliberately sunk several years ago for divers, a 160 foot ship that rests in about 100 feet of water. Home to numerous sea creatures. The Mayan Ruins of Copán, located in the mountains of western Honduras near the Guatemalan border are the de-facto reason to visit Western Honduras. At the very minimum this should be an overnight trip with most travelers departing from San Pedro Sula, about a four-hour drive. A must see if you come to Honduras. Meticulously maintained and more prominent than a skyscraper, the Mayan ruins at Copan are a superb memorial to a once powerful kingdom. To really appreciate Copan, it is a good idea to read all about it before you arrive. 
Copan Ballcourt
|
|
Cabana Roatana: Roatan
Nestled on West Bay Beach, Cabana Roatana is a vacationer's paradise. Your stay in this impressive tropical setting will be made as enjoyable as possible by the friendly owner-operators Liz and Bill ... |
|
|
Summary: Like emerald islands adrift in an tropical sea, The Bay Islands of are remnants of a submerged mountain range. On Roatan, you're sure to find an adventure. Scuba dive on the world's second largest reef, check out the salt water fishing action or explore the ancient ruins.
Resources »
