Honduras lies at the knee of Central America situated between Guatemala and Nicaragua. Though there are more than 400 miles of unspoiled Caribbean coastline, the main tourist area for the country lies about 35 miles off the northern coast in a region called the Bay Islands. Of the 70 islands that make up this archipelago only 3 islands are inhabited and make up the tourist zone. These three islands, Guanaja, Roatan, and Utila account for most of the tourism along Honduras’ Caribbean coast.

Guanaja has been described as a giant chia-pet growing out of the water. This island has limited tourism that is focused mainly on scuba diving and snorkeling. There is only one town, a small airstrip, and no roads on the island. There are good accommodations here and the snorkeling and diving is second to none. The only way to get to the island is by small plane or boat but once you are here the beauty and tranquil peace are worth it.

Utila is the smallest of the 3 main Bay Islands but it does have a paved road and a small airstrip. This islands tourism is focused mainly on fishing, snorkeling, and diving. The coral reef that completely encircles the island allows divers to see exotic fish, sponges, and whale sharks, the world’s largest fish.

The largest of the Bay Islands is Roatan which runs generally east to west and is 40 miles long by about 4 miles wide with a mountainous spine along the center. Roatan is the most developed island having a deep water cruise ship port and an international airport. Getting here is easy with direct airline flights to Roatan from Atlanta, Houston, and Miami.

Opportunities abound for you to see and do whether you are here for a day-trip from a cruise ship or you are staying in a hotel for a week or more. There are many fine white sand beaches and the clear azure blue waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving. In the mountains along the island’s interior you can take a zip-line ride that zig-zags through the lush tree canopy, across steep cliffs and ravines, and delivers you onto a beautiful beach. There is also horseback riding and the fishing is excellent.

Accomodations range from low-cost divers hostels to private condos. With some of the best prices in the Caribbean, you’ll save enough money for a second trip.