What to do on Roatan

In some ways Roatan is like any other dive island in the Caribbean. It has the typical laid back vibe, killer sunsets, cheap beer, and water so blue it doesn’t seem real. Walking down the dusty road felt familiar to me. But, having felt like this before, I knew the secrets of Roatan would soon reveal themselves. Here are a few of my favorites.

Roatan must see and do

Daniel Johnson Monkey and Sloth Hangout

Imagine a place with an exotic pet problem. What does that even mean? Honduras doesn’t have strict rules around the kinds of animals a person can attempt to keep as a pet. This leads to people getting adorable baby monkeys and then realizing that they are in no way able to care for a monkey, a sloth, a macaw, a racoon, etc. The Hangout was created to be a sanctuary for these animals who are surrendered by former owners. Unable to truly live in the wild, but also not wanted in the home they were taken to, they spend the day visiting with guests, eating snacks and taking pictures.

This place is small, but it was such an awesome stop. I could feel how much my guide loved the animals. He knew each name and cute little things about the relationships the animals had with eachother. And the highlight? Holding a sloth!

Take the beach walk from West End to West Bay

If you walk consistently, it’ll take you an hour or less to get from the shops of West End to the beaches of West Bay. The walk is mostly on the beach, passing hotels along the way, and in some spots passing over rocks and a bridge. You’ll know you reached West Bay when the entire shoreline is filled with a row of restaurants and a sea of people.

Crossing the bridge along the route to West End from West Bay

West Bay is a stunning beach with a HUGE crowd. This is not a relaxing, desserted island- this is the place to have a beer with lunch and people watch. Grab lunch at any of the restaurants along the bay and then you gain access to the beach chairs lined up in front. Beaches will let you use the chairs for free and you don’t need to order any food.

Peruse the shops in West End

The West End is home to many little shops, ranging from local art galleries to totally touristy t-shirt shops. While not the most exciting shopping area, it’s a good way to get out of the hot sun for an hour or two and explore another aspect of Roatan’s culture.

The Rusty Fish- Art Gallery

Art Gallery in West End

Take a sunset water taxi

This is truly just a taxi ride home, but in a boat, which makes it magical. Follow my advice, and in the morning walk from West End to West Bay and spend the day in the sun, getting a $10 massages, and drinking 2 for $5 specials at Earle’s. Skip the walk home and instead pay $3USD and hop in one of the many boats lined up on shore. The ride is beautiful and will get you back home quickly. As a boater, this was my favorite part of the day!

Enjoying my evening water taxi home