Are you planning a vacation or a cruise day in Roatán, Honduras, and looking to find the best beach? Roatán is a paradise for beach lovers and water enthusiasts alike. It’s famous for pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and coral reefs. But with so many stunning beaches, choosing where to spend the day can be tricky.
Roatán is a picturesque island in the Bay Islands off the coast of Honduras. It is a popular destination for cruises in the Western Caribbean and more extended vacations. The tropical island offers sun, sand, and relaxation. Beaches on Roatán provide a range of activities—from sunbathing to snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming with turtles.
If you want to enjoy a luxurious day at a beach in Roatán, Honduras, you could check out one of the many beach resorts on the island.Many resorts offer day passes with access to facilities, refreshments, and water sports.
I’ve reviewed the best beaches on the island. Here, you’ll find all the information you need to plan your perfect beach getaway in Roatán, Honduras. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to unwind or a lively beach to socialize and partake in water sports, Roatán has something for everyone.
Where Cruise Ships Dock in Roatán, Honduras
Roatán, Honduras, is a popular cruise ship destination in the Western Caribbean. The island has two piers for cruise ships on the south of the island.
Cruise ships will dock at one of two locations: the Port of Roatán at Coxen Hole or the Mahogany Bay Cruise Terminal in Dixon Cove, which primarily serves Carnival Cruise ships.
For those docking at Coxen Hole, the nearest beaches are Sandy Bay, Half Moon Bay, and Maya Key Beach. Alternatively, if your ship docks at Mahogany Bay, the closest beaches you can enjoy are Mahogany Beach, Little French Key, and Marbella Beach.
However, the island is relatively small, and day excursions are possible for most beaches in Roatán.
How to Choose the Best Beach in Roatán, Honduras
The best way to choose a beach in Roatán for your cruise day or vacation is by deciding how you want to spend your dream day in paradise.
For example, West Bay Beach is a long stretch of sand and the best beach for excellent snorkeling opportunities or sunbathing. In contrast, Little French Key is an idyllic beach for relaxing and unwinding. Camp Bay Beach on the east side is stunning and has fewer tourists, but it takes an hour to get there.
Map of The Best Beaches in Roatán, Honduras
Best Beaches on Roatán’s Western Side
Beaches on the west and northwestern sides of the island are closest to the Port of Roatán.
West Bay Beach Roatán
West Bay Beach, located on the western end of Roatán, Honduras, is both popular and picturesque. This stunning 1.5-mile stretch is renowned for its crystal-clear azure waters and vibrant coral reefs just offshore.
Due to its popularity, there are plenty of activities to occupy your day at West Bay Beach. Its main attraction is as a diving and snorkeling spot. The reef system just offshore is part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef—the second-biggest barrier reef system in the world.
The famous beach also has plenty of restaurants and bars, making it a convenient beach location to spend the entire day on a cruise.
Several all-inclusive resorts offer day passes if you want to escape the crowds of cruise passengers on one of the best beaches in Roatán. Depending on the resort, you may have access to a freshwater swimming pool, private beach chairs in the shade, a buffet, an open bar, snorkeling gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and free WiFi.
- Distance from the Port of Roatán: 6 miles (9.6 km), 20 minutes
- Amenities: Showers, restrooms, beach chairs,
- Activities: Snorkeling, parasailing, scuba diving, fishing charters, jet skiing, kayaking, paddleboarding
- Food and Beverages: Many cafes, bars and restaurants line the beachfront
- Atmosphere: Vibrant and lively
Tabyana Beach
Tabyana Beach, part of West Bay, is one of the best spots on the beach for its views, atmosphere, and snorkeling. The coral reef, teeming with colorful tropical fish, is only 70 feet from the shoreline. You can swim, snorkel, lie in the sun, or rent kayaks at the beach.
Access to Tabyana Beach and its facilities is through one of the beach resorts. If you are in Roatán on a cruise ship, you can book a shore excursion online or with your cruise line. This gives you access to drink vouchers, restrooms, changing rooms, and private sun loungers.
If you’re enjoying a more extended vacation on Roatán, check the cruise ship schedule before planning your beach day. It can get busy if several cruise ships are in port. However, it’s a great place to spend a day enjoying the natural beauty of the Caribbean.
- Distance from the Port of Roatán: 6 miles (9.6 km), 20 minutes
- Amenities: Restrooms, showers, beach chairs, umbrellas
- Activities: Snorkeling, diving, jet skiing, paddleboarding
- Food and Beverages: Beachside bars and restaurants serving local cuisine and drinks
- Atmosphere: Lively, popular with tourists, vibrant beach scene
Half Moon Bay Roatán
Half Moon Bay is a beautiful beach located in the heart of the West End on Roatán. This stunning Caribbean beach is famous for its calm, shallow waters, making it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. The horseshoe shape of the bay helps keep the waters tranquil.
The bay is also home to a spectacular coral reef, where you can explore and observe colorful tropical fish, stingrays, and turtles. This makes Half Moon Bay Beach popular for snorkeling and diving, although the water isn’t as clear as at West Bay, making it a better option for swimming with more limited snorkeling opportunities.
Half Moon Bay is quieter than West Bay Beach, providing a perfect spot if you want to relax and unwind during your cruise. Along the shore, there are a few beach bars and restaurants where you can grab a drink or a bite to eat while enjoying the beautiful views.
At the bay’s north end, you can book a submarine excursion to explore the depths of the Caribbean. Additionally, the bay features a rope swing on a sailboat, adding a touch of adventure to your beach day.
- Distance from the Port of Roatán: 5 miles (8 km), 15 minutes
- Amenities: Restrooms, beach chairs, umbrellas, free WiFi (if you purchase food at a restaurant)
- Activities: Snorkeling, swimming, diving, paddleboarding, boat excursions
- Food and Beverages: Beach bars and restaurants serving local cuisine and drinks
- Atmosphere: Relaxing and tranquil
Sandy Bay Beach
Sandy Bay Beach is a spectacular beach on the northern coast side of Roatán Island. It is located approximately 2 miles (about 3.2 kilometers) northeast of West End, a popular and lively spot known for its bars, restaurants, and nightlife. Just 5 miles (8 km) from the Port of Roatán, the unspoiled beach is quiet and free from the masses that flock to West Bay Beach. The coral reef near the shore makes it perfect for snorkeling.
Sandy Bay Beach is beautiful because it is part of the Roatán Marine Park and has no commercialism. The secluded beach has a few bars and restaurants nearby, and dive shops rent snorkeling equipment. It offers a peaceful and quiet escape from the more crowded beach clubs in the area.
Visiting Sandy Bay offers two choices. You can relax on the natural beach, soaking up the Caribbean sun, or visit the Roatán Marine Park to enjoy a day of snorkeling and learning about marine ecosystems.
The peacefulness of the location makes it the perfect spot for relaxation and tranquility.
- Distance from the Port of Roatán: 5 miles (8 km), approximately 15 minutes
- Amenities: Beachfront resorts, cabanas, loungers
- Activities: Scuba diving, snorkeling, fishing
- Food and Beverages: Seafood restaurants, beach bars
- Atmosphere: Serene, picturesque, frequented by divers and snorkelers
Best Beaches Close to Mahogany Bay Cruise Terminal
Mahogany Bay Beach
Mahogany Beach is within walking distance of the cruise terminal at Mahogany Bay. The port area, with its pristine beaches, beach bars, and swimming area, is only for cruise ship passengers. Here, you can relax on the 800-foot-long stretch of sand, swim in a sheltered area, and go snorkeling.
However, you can head to the Blue Lagoon to escape the cruise crowds. The Lagoon area features private cabanas and a private beach.
To make it easy to get to Mahogany Beach, the Magical Flying Chair is a chair lift that takes you straight from the cruise terminal to the beach. However, it’s good to note that the resort is highly commercialized and lacks the authentic feel of Honduras. So, if you’re looking for some culture, it’s best to go further afield.
- Distance from the port at Dixon Cove: Adjacent to the Port
- Amenities: Cruise port facilities, shops, restrooms, restaurants, bars
- Activities: Paddleboards, banana boat rides, glass-bottom boat tours
- Food and Beverages: Beach bars, fast-food outlets
- Atmosphere: Bustling, energetic, often crowded with tourists on cruise ship days
Best Beaches Close to the Port of Roatán
Maya Key Roatán
Maya Key is a private island off the coast of Roatán, Honduras, offering a unique beach club experience. The 12-acre lush, tropical island features pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, an animal sanctuary, and superb snorkeling to observe vibrant coral reefs. The beach has comfy lounge chairs and hammocks to relax in the tropical surroundings.
The private island has some of the best snorkeling opportunities in Roatán. You can snorkel directly from the pier or from the 5,000-square-foot deck. You can also get close to exotic birds and animals, view ancient Mayan ruins, or relax under coconut palm trees. You can also indulge in delicious Caribbean cuisine at the on-site restaurant or sip tropical cocktails at the beach bar.
Maya Key Roatán is accessible by boat from the mainland. Here, you can enjoy the perfect getaway to escape the cruise ship crowds. Visitors say it’s the best way to enjoy all Honduras has to offer in a day.
- Distance from the Port of Roatán: 1 mile (1.6 km), 5 minutes
- Amenities: Private island resort, swimming pool, hammocks
- Activities: Snorkeling, animal encounters, ziplining
- Food and Beverages: Buffet-style dining, bars serving tropical cocktails
- Atmosphere: Secluded, exotic, ideal for day trips and relaxation
Best Beaches on Roatán’s Southern Side
Little French Key
Little French Key is a private island paradise located on the south side of Roatán. The beach club offers a luxurious and upscale experience, with white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical surroundings. You can relax for the day under one of the cabanas connected by decks to the island.
Little French Key offers beach activities such as snorkeling, paddleboarding, and swimming. You can also go ziplining, horse riding, or look at exotic wildlife. The beach club also has a fantastic restaurant serving a mix of French and Caribbean cuisine and a bar with delicious cocktails.
You can rent a beach house if you’re on a longer vacation to immerse yourself in the island’s tranquility. This allows you to live in peace and tranquility on a deserted Caribbean island for the night.
- Distance from the Port of Roatán: 8 miles (12.8 km), 25 minutes
- Amenities: Private island resort with decks connecting cabanas
- Activities: Horseback riding, kayaking, snorkeling, swimming, diving, fine dining, mini zoo
- Food and Beverages: Beachfront restaurants, bars
- Atmosphere: Exclusive, luxurious, known for its crystal-clear waters
Big French Key
Big French Key is beside Little French Key and offers a luxurious Caribbean experience. The private island is ideal if you want tranquility and serenity during your cruise. You can relax on a comfy sun lounger, admiring the crystal-clear waters, turquoise sea, and pristine beaches.
As you’d expect, Big French Key offers a range of peaceful water activities, including swimming, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and kayaking. There is also a unique underwater museum called Mayalantis. This one-of-a-kind experience lets you snorkel through an underwater Mayan city and admire Mesoamerican sculptures.
- Distance from the Port of Roatán: 8 miles (12.8 km), 25 minutes
- Amenities: Beachfront villas, hammocks, nature trails
- Activities: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, diving
- Food and Beverages: Beachside grills, tropical drinks, restaurants
- Atmosphere: Tranquil, secluded, ideal for nature lovers
Parrot Tree Beach
Parrot Tree Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand on the south side of Roatán. Beach access is through the Parrot Tree Beach Resort. This ensures you can enjoy your stay on the island on a secluded beach. Amenities at the resort include access to a private beach, swimming pool, massage, and free WiFi.
Parrot Tree Beach is an excellent option if you want a quieter, more laid-back beach day experience in Roatán, Honduras.
- Distance from the Port of Roatán: 13 miles (19 km), 35 minutes
- Amenities: Full resort facilities, including bars, picnic areas, restaurants, private beach, and massages
- Activities: Swimming pool, snorkeling, paddleboarding, swimming in the sea
- Food and Beverages: Restaurants and bars
- Atmosphere: Secluded away from cruise passenger crowds
Best Beaches on Roatán’s North Side
North of the Mahogany Bay Cruise Terminal in Roatán are several stunning beaches where you can escape the crowds of tourists. While the island boasts numerous beautiful beaches, some of the best can be found on Roatán’s north side.
Marbella Beach
Marbella Beach is a deserted beach with stunning coral reefs close to the shore. The stretch of sandy shore offers a tranquil, laid-back, and picturesque setting away from crowded tourist areas. This beach offers a peaceful atmosphere if you want to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Caribbean coast.
Marbella Beach doesn’t have facilities; therefore, you’ll need to bring everything you need for a beach day. However, the palm trees and vegetation along the beachfront provide plenty of shade. Unfortunately, the beach is difficult to get to and requires a half-mile hike on an unpaved road from the Hottest Sparrow Highway.
- Distance from the Port of Roatán: 8 miles (12.8 km), 25 minutes
- Amenities: None
- Activities: Swimming, snorkeling
- Food and Beverages: None
- Atmosphere: Quiet and peaceful
Best Beaches on Roatán’s East Side
Roatán, a beautiful island in Honduras, is known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. While the island’s west side is popular among tourists for its bustling towns and resorts, the east side offers a more secluded and peaceful beach experience. However, the best beaches are approximately an hour’s drive from the cruise ports.
Camp Bay Public Beach
Camp Bay Beach is the most stunning beach on the island’s east end. This long, secluded, untouched beach offers spectacular views of the Caribbean Sea without the crowds. The beach has pristine white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it ideal for swimming and snorkeling to explore the coral reef.
It’s important to note that there are few facilities at Camp Bay Beach, so bringing your own food and drinks for the day is essential. However, you can usually find shade under the palm trees that line the beach. There are restaurants and bars in the nearby village.
Camp Bay Beach is the perfect destination for you if you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-path beach experience away from the crowds. Although the one-hour drive and its remoteness don’t make it suitable for a cruise day. However, visiting the beach is worth the effort if you spend more time on the island.
- Distance from the Port of Roatán: 22 miles (35 km), 1 hour 10 minutes
- Amenities: None
- Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, kitesurfing, kayaking, paddleboarding
- Food and Beverages: Go to the nearby village for what you need
- Atmosphere: Tranquil without the crowds of cruise passengers
Paya Beach
Paya Beach is a beautiful beach situated on the east side of Roatán. The secluded, private beach offers a peaceful and tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the crowded beaches on the west side of the island. The beach is ideal for swimming, relaxing, and snorkeling activities—the coral reef is only 100 feet from the shore.
Access to Paya Beach is through a resort that offers a day pass. The price includes transportation to and from the cruise terminal, a seafood lunch, access to the two beaches, nature trails, and a clifftop restaurant. You can also hire snorkeling equipment to explore the colorful reef.
It’s important to note that the beaches at Paya Bay Resort are “clothing-optional” beaches, so nude sunbathers are common.
- Distance from the Port of Roatán: 21 miles (34 km), 1 hour 5 minutes
- Amenities: Full resort amenities
- Activities: Swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and nature trails
- Food and Beverages: Restaurant and bar
- Atmosphere: Secluded, private, peaceful beach
How To Keep Safe On The Beaches In Roatán
Roatán, Honduras, is a beautiful island known for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters. However, to ensure your stay on the island is memorable, it’s vital to remember safety. Here are a few tips on staying safe while on the beach:
Swim at designated swimming areas: Many beaches in Roatán have designated swimming areas with lifeguards on duty. It is essential to swim only in these areas to ensure your safety.
Be aware of strong currents: Some beaches in Roatán may have strong currents that can be dangerous for swimmers. It can be easy to be immersed in the beauty of the coral reefs and colorful fish, and you lose track of how far you are from the shore. Beaches with strong currents include Sandy Bay Beach, Camp Bay Beach, and Paya Bay Beach.
Be careful of marine life: Always wear water shoes or fins when swimming to avoid getting stung by sea urchins. During jellyfish season, wearing protective clothing is advisable.
Use reef-safe sunscreen: Protect your skin from sunburn by applying sunscreen suitable for swimming in coral reefs. Sunscreen is necessary if you plan on spending a lot of time on the beach without the protection of an umbrella or cabana.
Keep an eye on your belongings: While Roatán is generally safe, it’s always a good idea to be aware of your surroundings. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and keep an eye on your belongings at the beach to avoid theft.
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