The Bay Islands are comprised of three main islands: Roatán, Útila and Guanaja, along with more than 60 small islets and keys. The Bay Islands belong to the second largest barrier reef in the world, making them a fantastic destination for diving, fishing and sailing. Snorkel with sea turtles, dive with eagle rays, soak up the sun on picturesque beaches or hike through tropical forests.
Roatán is the largest and most developed of the Bay Islands. Enjoy the West End’s buzzing nightlife scene, and sip drinks in a casual beachfront bar or chic lounge. Don’t miss West Bay Beach, which is often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. Snorkel at the southern end of the beach, or simply lounge on the beach’s soft, white sands under the shade of a coconut palm. Explore more than 40 acres (16 hectares) of protected forest filled with orchids, fruit trees and spice plants at the Carambola Botanical Gardens.
Útila attracts backpackers and budget-travelers with its affordable dive classes. Sign up for a lesson and plunge beneath the calm waters off-shore, looking for turtles, stingrays, hammerhead sharks, parrotfish and dolphins. Relax on the warm sands of Bando Beach or follow the 3-mile (4.8-kilometer) trail to the summit of Pumpkin Hill to see dramatic views over Útila and Roatán.
Guanaja is the greenest and least developed of the Bay Islands, defined by hilly forests filled with pine trees and tropical plants. Discover the Mestizo Reef, located off Soldado Beach. This intriguing dive features statues of Christopher Columbus and a local chief, along with Spanish colonial artifacts. Explore the white-sand beaches around Michael’s Rock, or take on the challenging hike to the summit of Michael Rock Peak, the highest point in the Bay Islands.
The Bay Islands are located between 15 and 30 miles (25 and 50 kilometers) off the northern coast of Honduras. Direct flights are available from several North American cities, including Atlanta, Houston and Miami. Alternatively, take the ferry from Muelle de Cabotaje in La Ceiba.
Enjoy a fun-filled tropical getaway in the Bay Islands.