Known as the “Hidden Jewels of the Caribbean”, the Bay Islands of Honduras are a true subtropical paradise. They have the second largest coral reef in the entire world and their nature is absolutely outstanding.
Located in the Caribbean Sea, north of the mainland of Honduras, the eight Bay Islands offer the perfect setting for an exotic vacation. Not to be confused with The Bay of Islands, New Zeeland, the Bay Islands Department is administered by the Republic of Honduras.
It consists of three large islands, Ulta, Roatan, and Guanaja, and of five smaller islands, Barbareta, Morat, St. Helena and the two Hog Islands, knows as the Cayos Cochinos. Roatan is known as “The Big Island” because it is the largest of the eight islands. It is 48 miles long and less than 5 miles across, which makes it quite a unique place to visit.
The Bay Islands, Honduras are one of the best places in the whole world for scuba diving, as they have true underwater museums that are absolutely amazing. There are so many other amazing things to do here. Let us tell you a little bit about them!
1. Enjoy the Underwater Paradise in the Bay Islands
The Bay Islands are the ideal place to go scuba diving or snorkeling because the water is extremely narrow and the coral reefs are very close to the shore. Prepare to see everything from colorful fish and sea horses to turtles and dolphins. We guarantee that this is an experience that you will never forget.
However, you will have to be very careful not to harm the local ecosystem. Here are the main things you need to bear in mind when setting off on your underwater adventure:
· Don’t touch the corals because this could harm them!
· Don’t step on corals! Always know where you are and what lies around you!
· Admire the beauty, but don’t take anything with you!
2. Rent a Car or a Moped
Each of the Bay Islands is worth visiting from coast to coast and the best way of doing this is by driving. While the islands are too big to cross on foot, they are the perfect size for a short road trip. Rent a car, a moped or a bike and spend the day getting to know the less touristic parts of the islands.
3. Take a Ride on a Boat Taxi
If you are visiting the Bay Islands, then riding a boat taxi is something that you simply must try. All you have to do is go to the end of any dock and wave to the boats around you. The taxi boats will come pick you up and you will get a great view of the beach on your way. Just remember to ask for the price before getting on the boat, just so you can avoid surprises.
4. Take a Charter Flight around the Island
If you want to see the full extent of the tropical beauty of the Bay Islands, you have to see it from the air. With prices starting from $50 per person, taking a plane tour of the islands is one of the best things you could include in your schedule.
All you have to do is go to Roatan Airport and find the best local flight for you. This is also an amazing way to travel from one island to the other because it is cheap, fast and the view is simply breathtaking. Reserve a flight early in the morning or late in the evening to experience a sunrise or a sunset that you will definitely never forget.
5. Have a Perfect Fishing Adventure
If you enjoy fishing, then you must have heard about the Roatan International Fishing Tournament. It starts every year on the 15th of September and it is one of the key events of the fishing season.
The Tournament offers an amazing experience for fishing aficionados because they have the opportunity to catch some amazing species here, such as kingfish, tuna, mahi-mahi or marlin. Furthermore, in Roatan they can reach 2000 feet of water in just five minutes, making it an ideal place for fishing.
The Tournament has introduced a catch and release policy a few years back, meant precisely to conserve and preserve these amazing species.
6. Visit the Mangroves
This is something that you simply cannot miss. Ride through the dark waters of the mangroves and take in the amazing charm of this pirate paradise. The color of the water comes from the tannin released by the plants. The mangroves make for an absolutely unique place for you to visit during your trip to the Bay Islands Honduras.
7. Feed the Iguanas
The Bay Islands are the home of a great many exotic animals. Visit an iguana farm to feel an entirely new type of connection with animals. The iguanas will be very excited about the treats you will be offering them and you will get to see a brand new side of these cold-blooded sweethearts.
8. Have an Amazing Time at the Carnival
The West End Carnival in Roatan is something that you simply cannot miss. The beautiful costumes, the dancing and the sheer joy of the participants will turn your trip to the Bay Islands into an exotic extravaganza.
9. Go to Coxen Hole
Coxen Hole is the largest city in the entire Bay Island Department. It is the main commercial center of Roatan, so you will find a wide variety of stores here for that holiday shopping session. It also has the largest harbor, so all the cruise ships stop here.
10. Fly Through the Trees
If you are looking for a bit of adventure for your vacation, then try the zip line! It will really feel like flying through the trees, which is bound to give you quite the adrenaline rush. The friendly instructors will explain everything you have to do to keep safe and you will have an amazing time!
11. Experience the Local Community
The Bay Islands are far less commercially developed than the other Caribbean communities, so you can actually see how the people there live and how the simple things in life can make you happy. Connect with the locals, as they are extremely friendly and welcoming.
12. Taste the Local Food
No exotic vacation is complete without the culinary delight of the local food from the place you are visiting. Go to restaurants and local eateries and taste the delicious traditional cuisine.
As you can imagine, the seafood dishes are key items in the menu, so be adventurous and try out new things like the scrumptious conch soup or the tasty curry conch chowder.
13. Go Horseback Riding on the Beach
Have a romantic adventure on your trip to the Bay Islands. Horseback riding on the beach at sunset is bound to fill you up with energy for the rest of the evening. If it your first time riding a horse, there are instructors who can teach you everything you need to know for this thrilling endeavor.
14. Ride an Underwater Scooter
This is one of the most exciting underwater activities you can take part in. Take a look at the picture below to get an idea about what it would feel like to take a ride a scooter under the sea. The Bay Islands are actually one of few places in the world you can do this in. Moreover, they are one of the top ten diving locations in the entire world, so don’t miss your chance at an amazing experience!
15. Participate in the Obstacle and Mud Run
For those tourists looking for an extreme adventure, the Obstacle and Mud Run in Roatan is a must do. This exotic obstacle course will make you challenge your limits and it will pump you up with positive energy. So sign up if you dare!
We hope we have managed to convince you that the Bay Islands in Honduras are the ideal choice for your next holiday. Book your all-inclusive trip today and experience the luxury in one of the amazing hotels and resorts on the islands. We guarantee that you will have a terrific time!
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