The Bay Islands

Roatan, the largest of the Bay Islands, is about 40 miles long and hilly. The western part of the island is the main tourist destination, with West End the most vibrant spot with a variety of bars, hotels and restaurants. Most visitors are here to dive or snorkel as the whole island is surrounded by a reef with wonderful coral. For the intrepid, there is even a zip wire which descends in 11 stages to West Bay, the prettiest beach on the island.

Our preferred accommodation

Barefoot Cay

Beach hotel - Between French Harbour and Brick Bay, Roatan
A charming small hotel, owned and run by a delightful American couple, situated between French Harbour and Brick Bay on the south side of the island. There is a lovely pool overlooking the ocean, a restaurant and a selection of bungalows, villas and suites on a private beach, which is lined with mangroves.
Las Rocas Resort

Beach hotel - West Bay, Roatan
A small hotel at the east end of West Bay with 15 rooms, a friendly atmosphere and helpful staff. Good restaurant serving Caribbean food with an Italian twist and excellent fish. Lap pool, small sun deck with an ocean view and nice gardens. Own PADI dive shop.
Palmetto Bay Plantation

Beach hotel - Palmetto Bay, Roatan
Villas set in 100 acres on a private bay on the north side of the island, 30 minutes from the airport. Pool side restaurant and bar, with ocean views.
Turquoise Bay Beach Resort

Beach hotel - Turquoise Bay, Roatan
A quality small hotel with excellent facilities set up on hillside overlooking a private beach, protected by a reef, situated towards the east end of Roatan's north shore on the way to Punta Gorda. The main restaurant and bar overlook the pool and beach and there is the option of eating inside or outside.