Are you having trouble deciding what to do during your cruise day at Roatán Port, Honduras? Known as Isla Roatán, this picturesque Western Caribbean island is part of the Bay Islands, nestled in the Caribbean Sea off the northern coast of Honduras. Whether you’re into adventure or relaxation, Roatán has something for everyone. You can enjoy top experiences including snorkeling and diving in the barrier reefs, ziplining through lush forests, visiting botanical gardens, getting up close with sloths, and relaxing on a private island.
With so much on offer and limited time in port, choosing the best way to spend your cruise day in Roatán can be tricky.
In this article, I’ve reviewed the top attractions and excursions that will make your day in the port of Roatán memorable. With its stunning coral reefs, endless white sand beaches, lush forests, and diverse marine life, Roatán offers a paradise for cruise visitors.
Please read on to learn about popular attractions like West Bay Beach, Gumbalimba Park, and adventure tours in Roatán’s lush rainforests.
Where is Roatán Located?
Roatán is a tropical island in the western Caribbean Sea off the northern coast of Honduras. The island is famous for its beautiful beaches, vibrant coral reefs, crystal-clear waters, and lush tropical forests. The ports of Coxen Bay and Mahogany Bay are popular Caribbean cruise destinations. The island offers cruisers adventure, tranquility, and relaxation.
Where Cruise Ships Dock in Roatán
The southern side of Roatán has two ports where cruise ships dock—the Port of Roatán and Mahogany Bay Cruise Terminal. The two ports are close to the island’s most popular attractions, making it possible to combine several shore excursions to make the most of your cruise day.
Mahogany Bay Cruise Terminal
The Mahogany Bay Cruise Terminal, developed by Carnival Corporation, is a purpose-built facility located on the island’s southwestern coast. It is approximately a 10-minute drive from Coxen Hole, Roatán’s capital. This terminal offers various activities and amenities for cruise passengers, including duty-free shopping, a chairlift from the main shopping area to Mahogany Beach, and various bars and restaurants.
Primarily, Mahogany Bay serves as a port for Carnival Corporation cruise lines, which include Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, and Holland America Line. Occasionally, non-Carnival Corporation lines such as Norwegian Cruise Line and MSC Cruises may also make stops at Mahogany Bay, particularly when rerouting from other ports.
The terminal can accommodate two post-Panamax cruise ships simultaneously, making it a capable and versatile docking point in the Caribbean. This capacity ensures that Mahogany Bay can handle thousands of visitors every day,
If you want to stay close to the ship, Mahogany Bay Cruise Port offers plenty to do. You can take the ‘Magical Flying Beach Chair’ from the terminal to the pristine beach area to relax on the white sand and snorkel in the crystal-clear waters. This chairlift gives you beautiful views of the island and the Caribbean Sea, making it a memorable ride.
However, it’s important to note that the chairs of the “Magical Flying Beach Chair” move at a leisurely walking pace, and there is no shade provided during the ride. Therefore, on hot, sunny days, you might find it more pleasant and equally fast to walk to Mahogany Beach from the pier along the lush nature trail.
What facilities does Mahogany Bay Cruise Center offer?
The Mahogany Bay port area has everything you need to spend the entire day in port. Attractions and cultural experiences at the cruise pier include the following:
- Mahogany Bay beach
- Lounge chairs, umbrellas, and private air-conditioned cabanas
- Bars and restaurants
- A chairlift
- Duty-free shopping
- Craft markets
Port of Roatán, Coxen Hole
The cruise port at Coxen Hole, the capital of Roatán, is older than Mahogany Bay and is located on the island’s south side. This port has fewer modern amenities compared to the newer Mahogany Bay. It is favored by cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages, MSC Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line. If more than two ships arrive simultaneously, Coxen Hole serves as a tender port, meaning passengers are ferried to shore using tender boats.
When planning your cruise day in Roatán, consider exploring beyond Coxen Hole. While the port’s central location is convenient, it offers limited facilities and no nearby beaches. Venturing further afield will allow you to enjoy Roatán’s renowned excursions, including beach trips, snorkeling, and jungle adventures, for a more comprehensive experience of the island.
Facilities at Coxen Hole Roatán cruise port
Here is a list of what you can enjoy at the Roatán Cruise Port in Coxen Hole:
- Souvenirs, craft stalls, and gift shops
- Duty-free shopping
- A zipline adventure
- Restaurants and bars
Some cruise passengers enjoy strolling through the small port town of Coxen Bay. However, there’s not too much to see, and you may get pestered by local vendors trying to sell their goods.
Arriving in Port Roatán, Honduras
Arriving at the two cruise ports in Roatán is a different experience.
There are a limited number of facilities at Coxen Bay. So, the best way to spend your day in port is to book a shore excursion online or through your cruise operator. Mahogany Bay cruise terminal is a state-of-the-art cruise port with a range of facilities and attractions. At both ports, taxis and tour operators are located near the exit of the cruise terminal.
Map of Roatán
Transportation in Roatán on a Cruise Day
Most cruise visitors head out of the port to one of the famous beaches, private islands, or shore excursions, or you can take a taxi to the many attractions on the island. Generally, taxis are the best way to get around Roatán. Depending on your destination, the fare can cost between $10 and $20 per person.
Taxi
Take a taxi if you want to explore Roatán yourself. Taxi drivers work to set rates depending on the zone. Typically, the furthest you wish to travel on a cruise day is Zone C, around 10-15 miles (16-24 km) from the terminal. You will find a taxi stand just outside the cruise terminal area.
The fastest way to book a taxi is online, meaning you don’t have to stand in line after disembarking from the ship. Although taxi fares are pre-set, you may be able to negotiate the fare. In any case, always confirm the fare before your journey. Some taxi drivers are willing to take you on a tour of the island.
When taking a taxi, you can opt for the cheaper option of “colectivo.” This is where you share the cab with other passengers, and the driver may make stops along the way, picking up or dropping off passengers.
Top tip: Only travel in Roatán by a licensed taxi with numbers painted on the door.
Bus
Local public buses, which are 16-passenger vans, provide an economical way to travel from Coxen Hole to popular areas like West End, West Bay, and Sandy Bay. The trip to the island’s West End typically takes about 40 minutes and costs around $1 per person. However, it’s best to avoid these minibuses on cruise days as they can get quite crowded and may not adhere to strict schedules.
Here are a few things to remember about using public transport in Roatán:
- There are no bus stops on the island; you must flag down the bus.
- To stop the bus, you must shout “baja” to tell the bus driver you want to get off.
- Buses don’t run on Sundays.
Water taxi
A novel way of traveling in Roatán is by water taxi.
On the island’s west side, you can take a water taxi between West End and West Bay. The taxi can stop off anywhere along the way. This is a favorite way to get between West Bay and West End, as you can admire the beautiful Roatán shoreline along the way.
Discovering Roatán
Roatán is a stunning tropical island and a popular cruise destination located in the Western Caribbean. It is part of Honduras’s Bay Islands, which lie near the vast Mesoamerican Barrier Reef — the second-largest coral reef system in the world. This makes Roatán especially appealing for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
For the ultimate beach day, head to the stunning West Bay Beach to enjoy the crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. However, several shore excursions let you get up close to the island’s wildlife. For the ultimate relaxation, book an excursion to a beach club or private island like Maya Key.
The Best Things to Do in Roatán on a Cruise Day
Do you want to spend an unforgettable cruise day in the Port of Roatán? Here are some of the best shore excursions that include the island’s wildlife, cultural, and adventure experiences.
Hang out with sloths and monkeys
Fancy getting up close to gentle, adorable sloths and monkeys on your cruise day? Several animal sanctuaries on Roatán allow you to interact with these super-friendly animals. The sanctuaries are a safe, ethical environment dedicated to wildlife conservation. The keepers manage the animals gently and can place one on your chest for a memorable photo.
Several operators and ship-organized tours include monkey and sloth sanctuaries on a shore excursion. In addition to sloths, you can witness exotic birds, spider monkeys, capuchin monkeys, macaws, and endangered parrots. Depending on the type of excursion, activities can also include ziplining, horseback riding, snorkeling, and lunch.
Iguana Farm
During a wildlife excursion in Roatán, be sure to visit an iguana farm. For example, Arch’s Iguana & Marine Park is located close to both ports. The animal sanctuary has over 4,000 iguanas, including indigenous black spiny-tailed iguanas. Additionally, you can see monkeys, Amazon parrots, and scarlet macaws.
It’s also good to note that many eco-parks, like Gumbalimba Park, also have populations of free-roaming iguanas and other exotic animals. Therefore, you have many options to incorporate iguanas and other tropical wildlife into your shore excursion while spending the day in Roatán.
Garifuna Cultural Center (formerly Flamingo Cultural Center)
The Garifuna Cultural Center is a must-visit if you want to experience the history and culture of indigenous island inhabitants. The center showcases traditional Garifuna music, dance, and authentic local cuisine. You can also participate in interactive cultural workshops, learn how to play traditional Garifuna drums, or create handmade crafts.
Located 13 miles (21 km) from the cruise terminal at Mahogany Bay, the cultural center takes just under 40 minutes to reach by taxi or tour bus. Several tour operators include the center on their shore excursions, which may also include mangrove tours, snorkeling, and beach relaxation.
Visit the Roatán Chocolate Factory
If you are in Roatán’s West End, taking a tour of the Chocolate Factory is worth the effort.
At the factory, you can experience the chocolate-making process hands-on. You learn what it takes to grow cacao beans and transform them into chocolate bars. There is also a shop, bakery, and café where you can sample the tastiest chocolate in the Caribbean.
Usually, the factory is included in other shore excursions that may include ziplining, sloth encounters, beach breaks, snorkeling, and wildlife parks.
Roatán Island Brewing Company
One of the popular foodie excursions in Roatán is the island’s famous brewery. The Roatán Island Brewing Company is 20 minutes from Coxen Hole in the stunning Palmetto Valley. Here, you can sample local beers and ales, including Latin Lager, Citrus IPA, and Salva Vida. Tours may also include a beer platter.
During the tour, you can try four of 12 locally brewed beers. The brewery is located in the lush countryside, where you can wander along nature trails in the shade of trees. You can also include the tour as part of a two- or four-hour shore excursion exploring other island attractions.
Roatán Zipline
Ziplining on your cruise day in Roatán Port is a thrilling and fun-filled adventure. Several parks on the island have zipline experiences. These let you soar through the lush tropical jungle canopy while taking in breathtaking views of the island and the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea. You get one of the most unique views of the island.
Zipline adventures are usually combined with other activities on shore excursions in Roatán. During the four-hour excursions, you may visit an animal park, explore shipwrecks while snorkeling, swim in the crystal-clear Caribbean Sea, and ride horseback along the beach.
The longest zipline on Roatán is 2,000 ft. (61 m) long, and you can reach speeds of over 50 mph (80 kph). Head to West Bay or Gumbalimba Park to find the South Shore Canopy Zipline. They have the famous “Zuperman Zipline” and “Zipline Canopy Tours” to provide memorable experiences.
ATV Jungle Tour
Do you want to explore a tropical Caribbean island on a dune buggy or quad bike? If so, ensure you book a shore excursion that includes a guided ATV tour.
Depending on the type of excursion, you could travel off the beaten path into the lush jungles of Roatán. You could explore the natural beauty of this tropical paradise uniquely and thrillingly. Some ATV tours include navigating rugged terrain, splashing through mud puddles, and taking in stunning panoramic views from high vantage points.
Like many of the best shore excursions on Roatán, 4×4 ATV Jungle Tours may include additional activities like a sloth park, ziplining, snorkeling, and time at an exclusive beach resort.
Roatán Rum Company
Roatán Rum Company is a must-visit destination for your cruise day in Roatán Port. Visiting the local rum distillery allows you to learn about rum production on the island. You can arrange a guided tour of the distillery and try some artisan rums you cannot find anywhere else.
During the tour, you can learn about the aging and mixing processes used to create uniquely flavored rums. The Roatán Rum Company also produces unique rum infusions with various natural fruits and spices. You can also create your own unique flavored rum with a personalized label.
Located 15 minutes from Coxen Hole Roatán Cruise Port, the rum distillery offers 360° panoramic views of both sides of the island. You can also climb “El Faro,” the lighthouse on the island’s highest point.
Local cuisine and island tour
One of the best ways to explore Roatán is to book a cuisine and island tour. Tour operators provide four- to six-hour combo excursions to visit restaurants, bars, and popular attractions. These tours can include Coxen Hole, the rum factory, the chocolate factory, and lunch at a beach resort.
While on your culinary excursion, be sure to try conch soup or the local tapado—a hearty seafood stew with tropical root vegetables and plantains. Local Honduran beers include Port Royal and Salva Vida.
Shopping for local crafts and souvenirs
During your cruise day in Roatán, pick up some unique souvenirs and local crafts. The island is known for its vibrant culture, Garifuna folk art, and rich artistic traditions. The best places for shopping are the Port of Roatán town center, West End village, and the terminal area at Mahogany Bay.
Explore an Eco Nature Park
Roatán, Honduras, isn’t all about pristine beaches, coral reefs, and fun-filled adventures. The island’s lush landscape makes it perfect for nature and wildlife parks.
Mayan Eden Eco Park
Located close to the Port of Roatán at Coxen Hole, Mayan Eden Eco Park is a stunning interactive zoo with guided tours. Animals you can expect to see at the park include monkeys, butterflies, toucans, macaws, and parrots. Additionally, there is a botanical garden, Mayan relics, and a rope suspension bridge.
You can also incorporate some fun and adventure into the tranquil, lush forest at Mayan Eden Eco Park. The park has a zipline adventure that incorporates nine ziplines and 13 platforms. You can also pay an extra fee to get a beach day pass.
Manawakie Eco Nature Park
One of the best places to see sloths, monkeys, tropical birds, and other exotic animals is the Manawakie Eco Nature Park on Roatán. Located approximately 8 miles (about 13 km) from Coxen Hole, this captivating park offers visitors a chance to get up close with native wildlife in a responsible and educational setting.
The park provides interactive experiences with sloths and monkeys, and informative sessions about the island’s rich ecosystems. Besides animal interactions, it offers insights into the Mayan civilization and the local Garifuna culture, enhancing visitors’ understanding of the area’s history and heritage.
The Manawakie Eco Nature Park offers various packages for cruise passengers. Some of the additional things you can do at or near the park include:
- Interacting with animals
- Snorkeling in Roatán Bay
- Ziplining with 16 cables, 23 platforms, and three bridges
- Sightseeing in a glass-bottomed boat
- Motorized canoe through mangroves
- Holding animals like sloths, capuchin monkeys, and macaws
- Access to a private beach and opportunities for snorkeling
- Traditional lunch in a thatch hut
- Swimming with dolphins
- Transportation to and from the Roatán Cruise Pier
You can find out the list of what’s included in individual cruise excursion packages.
Gumbalimba Park
Gumbalimba Park in Roatán is one of the most popular nature reserves where you can get close to exotic wildlife. The stunning park has all you need to spend a memorable cruise day on the island. You get to mingle with white-faced capuchin monkeys, exotic birds, and black iguanas.
In the lush gardens, you can admire butterflies, tropical flowers, exotic plants, and over 2,500 insects in the insectarium. Walking through the park lets you escape the cruise crowds in the port city. Nature trails include waterfalls, bamboo-lined paths, rough terrain, and climbing rock stairs.
Other attractions of the eco-nature reserve include a freshwater pool, botanical gardens, pirates cave, access to Tabyana Beach, and ziplining. The zipline adventure features 17 platforms for the canopy and around 13 lines through the rainforest canopy and over stunning lagoons.
Here are a few facts about visiting Gumbalimba Park:
- Entrance to Gumbalimba Park is $30, with extra fees to enjoy the ziplining adventure.
- Gumbalimba Park is one of the best places in Roatán to see monkeys and sloths.
The journey time is 25 minutes from the Roatán Cruise Port at Coxen Hole and 45 minutes from Mahogany Bay.
Carambola Botanical Gardens
You can experience the tranquility of lush tropical rainforests in the Carambola Botanical Gardens.
Located 20 minutes from the Coxen Hole Roatán cruise port, this beautiful and serene oasis features jungle trails, orchids, a stunning collection of flowering plants, and exotic flowers. It is a must-see for nature lovers and anyone looking to immerse themselves in the lush tropical beauty of Honduras.
If you’re in the Sandy Bay area of Roatán, visiting the Carambola Botanical Gardens is ideal. Getting a guided tour is the best option because you’ll learn more about the beneficial properties of the trees and plants. You can also marvel at the famous “Chocolate Tree” and the mahogany trees that make Honduras famous.
Blue Harbor Tropical Arboretum
If you want to escape to nature and enjoy a unique eco-friendly experience, go to the Blue Harbor Tropical Arboretum. A shore excursion to the park includes botanical gardens, bird watching, nature hiking, and fruit orchards. You can also see how a hydroponic farm works to embrace sustainable farming practices.
A day excursion to the Blue Harbor Tropical Arboretum is ideal if you want to spend the day away from the cruise crowds. You can relax among lush vegetation with spectacular views over the Caribbean Sea. You also get to see hummingbirds, geese, ducks, and other exotic birds.
Butterfly Gardens at West End
Visiting the Roatán Butterfly Garden is well worth it on an extended island tour or if you are spending the day in the West End. The butterfly park provides an oasis for tropical plants, parrots, and over 700 varieties of beautiful butterflies. The self-guided tour helps you identify various plant and butterfly species.
The attractive gardens are set in a 2,992-square-foot (278-square-meter) walk-through enclosure. It’s also a good place for kids to learn more about the lifecycle of these beautiful insects.
Caribbean Sea Adventures in Roatán
The shoreline’s proximity to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef makes the reefs perfect for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and glass-bottomed kayaking. Let’s look at some of the best water activities on your cruise day in Roatán in detail.
Snorkeling in Roatán
Roatán is a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers thanks to its crystal-clear waters and stunning coral reefs teeming with vibrant marine life. The beauty of snorkeling in Roatán is that the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef in the world, is near the shoreline. This proximity means that you can easily explore this magnificent reef with just a snorkel and a pair of fins.
Half Moon Bay and West End beaches are some of the best snorkeling spots in Roatán. The water is exceedingly calm, relatively shallow, and sheltered from waves and currents. You can see colorful coral formations, tropical fish, and even the occasional sea turtle or nurse shark here.
Other excellent spots for snorkeling in Roatán include the following:
- West Bay Beach: The reef is easily accessible from the beach, and the crystal-clear waters give outstanding visibility of the large reef and tropical fish.
- Anthony’s Key: Located at Sandy Bay, 20 minutes from Roatán cruise pier, the area has fantastic reefs around the keys and along the extensive shoreline.
- Palmetto Bay Shipwreck: On the island’s northern coast, 8 miles from the Port of Roatán, you can explore a shipwreck and the reef system.
Several tour operators offer cruise-day snorkeling excursions that take you to some of the best locations on the island. These can include Starfish Alley, the Big French Key Reef, various shipwrecks, Blue Chanel, and the Coco View Wall drop-off.
Catamaran excursions
A catamaran cruise is one of the most fun and adventurous ways to explore the crystal-clear waters of Roatán. From the luxury of the sun deck, you can marvel at the island’s coastline, with its keys, cays, and secluded bays. Many catamaran cruises include snorkel gear, snacks, drinks, and relaxation on private beaches.
Swimming with dolphins
One of the most memorable experiences on a cruise day at Roatán Port is swimming with dolphins. Located at Anthony’s Key Resort at Sandy Bay, 5 miles (8 km) from the cruise pier, this excursion lets you get up close with dolphins. You can swim, snorkel, and interact with these playful creatures in their natural seawater environment.
Experienced instructors at the Marine Park also provide plenty of information on dolphins and their habitat. Therefore, this is a great educational tour for kids who want to swim with dolphins. The instructors also seem dedicated to animal welfare and don’t exploit the dolphins for entertainment.
Snuba and scuba diving in the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef
West Bay in Roatán is the best place for scuba and snuba diving if you want to explore the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest barrier reef system in the world. Snuba diving allows you to discover coral reefs up to 22 feet (6.7 m) deep without needing scuba diving training. You are connected to an air supply via a long hose, which allows you to stay underwater longer and explore more extensively than snorkeling.
Several dive clubs at West Bay Beach and West End offer certified divers various diving excursions. These can include boat trips further from shore to exploring deeper coral reefs or shipwrecks. Depending on the tour operators, food, snacks, drinks, and beach relaxation may be included in the price.
Four-hour deep-sea fishing
Roatán, Honduras, is one of the best locations in the Caribbean for deep-sea fishing. Four-hour excursions give you plenty of time to enjoy the thrill of catching exotic fish at sea. Some of the fish you can expect to catch include mahi-mahi, wahoo, barracuda, amberjack, blue marlin, and yellowfin tuna.
Several fishing charters in Roatán offer half-day deep-sea fishing trips for cruise ship passengers. Most charters include necessary fishing gear, native anglers, snacks, drinks, and transportation to and from Roatán Cruise Pier. Even if you’ve never fished before, you can get fishing lessons from experts.
Flyboarding and submarine tours
Flyboarding is one of the most fun water activities you can do in Roatán. Your flyboard is attached to a 45-foot hose that uses water pressure to propel you up to 25 feet (7.6 m) in the air. After instruction and some practice, you’ll soon be soaring above the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea.
However, if flying isn’t your thing and you’re not claustrophobic, a submarine tour might be better. Underwater tours from Half Moon Bay and West End take you to depths of 2,000 feet (610 m) to explore the seafloor that never gets natural sunlight.
If you want to explore marine life and coral reefs more calmly, a glass-bottom boat tour and beach break may be a better option.
Explore Roatán’s mangroves
Experiencing the beauty and tranquility of mangroves in Roatán is a fantastic way to spend a relaxing day away from the commotion of busy tourist beaches. Mangrove boat tours take you through naturally occurring mangrove tunnels and lush tropical rainforests. Along the way, you can stop off to snorkel, swim, and relax on an isolated beach.
Mangroves are unique ecosystems found in coastal areas in the tropics. They are home to a variety of plant and animal species. A mangrove excursion allows you to explore the beauty and diversity of these ecosystems up close. Experienced guides also provide fascinating insights into the island’s past.
Spend the Day at a Luxurious Private Island Resort
Do you want to escape the commotion that usually occurs in port on a cruise day? If so, why not spend the day at a luxurious private island resort on one of the stunning keys off the south coast of Roatán? Relaxing on a deck by the water and in the shade of a cabana gives you the feeling of a tropical paradise.
Little French Key
Little French Key is a private island paradise 9 miles (14 km) east of Roatán Cruise Pier in Coxen Bay. The small island is 5 minutes from the shore. Depending on the day pass package, you can access beach chairs, palapas, snorkel gear, kayaks, paddleboards, and a tour of the animal rescue center.
You can spend your day lounging on the beach, swimming in the pristine waters, or exploring the island’s nature trails. You can also enjoy a delicious meal at one of the island’s three restaurants or sip on a refreshing cocktail at the beach bar. Other activities include ziplining and horseback riding.
Big French Key
Big French Key is a picturesque, exclusive island beside Little French Key. The waters around the cays are some of the clearest in the Caribbean. Here, you can relax on pristine private beaches, swim in crystal clear turquoise waters, and enjoy a drink at one of the swim-up huts. Then, you can enjoy Caribbean island food at one of the restaurants.
Relaxing in a hammock seems like a thousand miles from the hustle and bustle of cruise ship trippers. Other activities available at the private key include kayaking, paddleboarding, exploring an underwater Mayan museum, or even ziplining through the lush jungle canopy.
Maya Key
Maya Key is an exclusive island paradise that offers an escape from the cruise crowds. Located beside the Roatán Cruise Pier or 15 minutes from Mahogany Bay terminal, the island has everything you expect from a Caribbean vacation. The Maya Key has palm-lined, pristine beaches, lush tropical surroundings, and crystal-clear blue waters.
One of Maya Key’s best spots is the sizable 5,000-square-foot (464 square meter) lounge deck and scenic pier. These are ideal for exploring the stunning coral reefs surrounding the cay. Other island experiences include an animal rescue center, lush garden paths, the Ethnic Honduran Art Center, and two secluded beaches.
The Best Beaches in Roatán for a Cruise Day
The best Roatán beaches are located on the northwestern side of the island. They are found along the coast from West End to the island’s southernmost point, Lighthouse Point.
West Bay Beach
West Bay Beach is a long stretch of stunning white sand, palm trees, and crystal-clear turquoise waters. The best way to enjoy the beach is to get a day pass at one of the many beach resorts. This gives you access to amenities like beach chairs, lockers, changing rooms, and showers. The pass may also include food and drink.
Relaxing on West Bay Beach makes you feel like you’re in a true tropical paradise. You can enjoy breathtaking Caribbean sea views with lush palm trees swaying in gentle ocean breezes. There are also plenty of opportunities for snorkeling in the vibrant coral reefs just offshore. Other beach activities include paddleboarding, kayaking, jet skiing, and glass-bottom boat tours.
Water taxis regularly operate from the West End to various points along West Bay Beach.
Half Moon Bay Beach
Nestled in a secluded cove, Half Moon Bay Beach is stunning and perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Located beside the West End, this spectacular beach is a true Caribbean paradise. In addition to relaxing on the soft sand and listening to reggae music, you can choose from various fun activities.
In the center of the horseshoe-shaped bay is a sailboat rope swing. Other water activities available include snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing charters, flyboarding, kayaking, and jet skiing. Additionally, there are several shops and restaurants nearby for shopping and dining.
Mahogany Bay Beach
Mahogany Bay Beach is located in the cruise terminal area at Dixon Cove. Access to the beautiful beach is by chairlift or a short walk. The well-maintained beach has stunning white sand and crystal-clear azure waters. You can also swim in the warm waters and a snorkeling area. There are also many restaurants, bars, and souvenir shops.
Many cruisers love Mahogany Bay Beach because they can walk straight off the ship to the secluded beach. It’s also free if you arrive on a cruise ship. However, the beach can get exceedingly busy on some cruise days.
Roatán on a Cruise Day: FAQs
Is Roatán safe for cruise passengers?
Roatán is generally safe for cruise passengers, especially if you stick to the popular tourist destinations. You may get pestered by street sellers if you walk around Coxen Hole, but a polite “no thank you” is enough to be left alone. However, like any tourist destination, take precautions to safeguard personal belongings and be aware of your surroundings.
Why is Roatán so expensive?
Roatán can seem expensive due to its status as a tourist destination. However, its reliance on imported goods is also a significant factor impacting the cost of food, supplies, and products.
Is Mahogany Bay, Roatán free?
The Carnival Corporation owns the terminal area of Mahogany Bay. So, cruisers arriving here enjoy free access to its facilities, including shops, restaurants, bars, and the beach. However, some activities or amenities within Mahogany Bay may require an additional fee, such as renting a private cabana on the secluded beach.
Can you walk to the beach from Mahogany Bay cruise port?
The beach is within walking distance of Mahogany Bay Cruise Port and takes 8 to 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can take the chairlift to enjoy fantastic views of the cruise pier and Caribbean Sea. However, the chairlifts only go at a walking pace and have no shade. So they can be uncomfortable on hot days.
What currency should I use in Roatán, Honduras?
The official currency of Honduras is the Honduran Lempira (HNL), which uses the currency symbol “L.” However, U.S. dollars are accepted throughout the island at the main tourist spots. Prices are usually in lempiras and dollars. One thing to remember: vendors only take dollar bills that are in excellent condition.
When is the best time to visit Roatán, Honduras, on a cruise?
The best time to visit Roatán on a Caribbean cruise is usually during the dry season, from mid-November to mid-April. During this time, you are guaranteed sunny skies, cool breezes, and ideal beach weather. However, cruise prices are at a premium, and resorts can be crowded.
Roatán is beautiful year-round, and cruise ships visit throughout the year. June to November tend to be the wet season, and you should plan for some itinerary changes. However, prices are lower, and the beaches and tourist areas are less crowded. The worst time for a Caribbean cruise to Roatán is during the hurricane season.
Related articles:
