About Roatan, Honduras

Where White Sand Meets Turquoise Water in the Bay Islands

Roatan, in the Bay Islands of Honduras, is home to Tabyana Beach's spectacular cruise excursion on the best Roatan beach. Known for its breathtaking sunsets and incredible diving, this intimate island paradise is located about 40 miles north of mainland Honduras and is surrounded by the world's second largest coral reef, housing the largest amount of marine life found in the Caribbean.

The topography of Roatan varies from beaches and iron shoreline to mangroves and hilltops to lush valleys and, of course, the spectacular reef. Part of Honduras' 3 main Bay Islands, which include Roatan, Utila, and Guanaja, Roatan is the largest, best developed, and most frequented.

More About Roatan

Roatan is approximately 36 miles long and 3-4 miles at its widest point. The population is estimated at 50,000 people and the official language is Spanish, with English also being widely spoken. Some traditional languages, such as Garifuna, are also spoken in more remote areas.

There is a mixture of ethnic backgrounds and cultures. The largest ethnic population descended from a mix of Indian and Spanish ancestors, but there are also residents of African ancestry and descendants of settlers from the USA and Europe. Generally, the people of Roatan, Honduras are very friendly and welcoming.

Tourism and fishing are the most important economic sectors in Roatan. The main towns on the island include:

• Coxen Hole - the largest town, home to government offices, the airport, & the cruise ship dock.
• French Harbour - the second largest town and a business center with grocery stores, banks, real estate offices and a shopping center.
• West End - Roatan's tourist area, complete with dive centers, hotels, restaurants and shops.
• Punta Gorda - houses the largest settlement of Garifuna people.

Helpful Tips About Roatan

• Accepted Currency: Honduran Lempiras & American Dollars
• Weather: typically warm, sunny & humid with yearly average temperatures of 80°F; humidity is monitored by the constant cooling trade winds
• Reef: It is illegal to touch or stand on the coral reef; please respect this fragile ecosystem
• Languages: Spanish & English
• Food: Roatan's dietary mainstays include seafood, chicken, beans and rice, and, of course, the tropical fruit that grows naturally on the island; in tourist areas, you can also easily find standard American fare and other international cuisines

The Best Roatan Beach

With the largest reef system in the Caribbean and the second largest coral reef in the world, Roatan is known world-wide for its spectacular scuba diving. While diving is certainly a main attraction, island tourists and cruise guests can enjoy an array of other activities.

For example, Tabyana Beach is located on the best beach in Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras where breathtaking views are punctuated by an incredible white sandy beach for relaxation. Snorkeling, SNUBA and helmet diving are available within 70 feet of the beach - the closest access anywhere on the island and the ideal location to discover the treasures of the underwater reef. Canopy Tours, beach volleyball, kayaking, souvenir shopping, live music, and fresh food are also available.

There are, certainly, other beaches in Roatan, but you won't find the same fine baby powder sand, clear turquoise water, or facilities and amenities to enjoy that are available to you at Tabyana.

Regardless of your reason for visiting, you can be sure of one thing - you will create memories to last a lifetime in beautiful Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras. Welcome to our island!