Roatan Port in Honduras is a popular scuba diving spot and onshore excursion for cruise travelers. While this may be an unfamiliar part of the world, there is plenty to do here. Roatan is located in the Bay Islands in Honduras. It enjoys a warm, tropical Caribbean climate. Your ship will dock at Coxen Hole, also known as Roatan City which is within easy reach of the beaches, stores and restaurants. The downtown area is within easy walking distance of the port. If you want to visit the beaches and attractions at the West End, taxis are available for a reasonable round-trip fee.
Shopping
Wood carvings, shell jewelry, and baskets are specialty craft items. Tecno Corona is a store that sells its own line of beauty products, jewelry and games. All items are made in Roatan. The shop at Luna Beach Resort also offers many local, handmade items that are ideal gifts. Yaba Ding Ding and Waves of Art both specialize in local artwork. Due to the number of tourists, many shopkeepers speak a little English and the US dollar is accepted by many shop owners.
Things to See
The water and beaches are clean and inviting. Diving and snorkeling are the main activities, largely due the coral reef. The coral reef is the second-largest coral reef in the world and hosts many interesting and unique fish and sea life. A glass boat tour lets you get out and see the reef up close, a truly unique experience. Boats can take you out to the prime spots for snorkeling and diving, and sailing tour boats in the area have diving and snorkeling equipment onboard for your convenience. You can also rent a kayak.
The beaches on the West End are also nice, and are good places for swimming and sunbathing. The area is also ideal for fishing enthusiasts, and fishing boats can take you to the best places to catch the big one. A small submarine is even available to take tourists for a closer look at the ocean life.
Horseback riding is a good way to see the surrounding countryside, there are stables around the village that rent out horses and offer riding tours. The more adventurous traveler can tour the jungle canopy under the care of experienced guides. Oak Ridge is a local fishing village that lets you see shrimp and lobster fishermen in action. Tours are offered through the nearby Mangrove Canal.
The Carambola Gardens allow you to walk on trails through tranquil, exotic gardens to see flora and fauna. The Roatan Butterfly Garden is home to many butterfly species, as well as exotic birds like macaws and toucans.
Restaurants and Bars
B.J.'s Backyard is a top destination, serving island-style cuisine. The Hole in the Wall offers steak and seafood specials. Dian's Garden of Eat'n combines Caribbean food with Asian cuisine for a unique dining experience. Pura Vida brings guests the best of both Italian and island food. A number of restaurants serve steak, seafood, and American-style food. A multi-ethnic selection of other restaurants includes Argentine, Indian, Thai, German, French, and Chinese food.
For drinks, the Thirsty Turtle, the West Bay Inn and Bar features a waterfront bar, and Fosters Bar and Restaurant are the most popular locations. These locations also offer food.