La Selva Eco-Resort Roatan 

Where is Roatan?

Roatan, the largest of the Bay Islands of Honduras, is a Western Caribbean island about 35 miles off the northern coast of Honduras in Central America.  

How large is Roatan?

Roatan is approximately 37 miles long and 1-3 miles wide. The island is mountainous with the largest peak around 800 feet. It is part of the Bonacca Ridge, the second largest coral reef system in the world. The western half of the island is lush and green while you can find pine trees on the eastern tip.  

What is the weather like?

The climate varies between seasons. Temperatures are between 78F in January and 90F in August (24/C to 32/C) with humidity increasing into September. The green season characterized by showers followed by several hours of sunshine, is mid-October to January. Water temperatures range from 80-84 degrees Fahrenheit for most of the year, dropping to between 74 and 76 degrees in the winter.

What about hurricanes?

Roatan is not in the main path of the hurricanes. They typically turn north to the Mayan Riviera region of Mexico or the United States. Roatan does however enjoy trade winds the majority of the year to make the warm climate even more comfortable.

What should I wear? Are there any bugs?

The dress for the entire island is casual. Comfortable cool clothing, shorts and lightweight pants, are recommended. Even for the evening, the dress is casual at the better restaurants. There are mosquitoes and sand flies, but if you use repellent, you shouldn’t be bothered.

How do I get there?

Direct flights are available between Roatan and several North American cities. Main hubs that serve Roatan are: Houston with a 2 hour and 40 minute flight, Atlanta is 3 hours and 25 minutes and Newark is 5 hours and 4 minutes. 

What about sailing or yachting into Roatan?

There are numerous marinas in Roatan. Fantasy Island, Romeo's and Brick Bay Island are just a few. Barefoot Cay is the latest full service destination that can handle boats of over 100 feet.

How long can I stay and what are the necessary travel documents?

You will need a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining on it. Upon arrival you will be required to fill out a customs form of which a yellow copy will be stapled to your passport. It is important not to lose this form. It provides date of arrival and amount of days you will be allowed to stay. Typically you are are given a 30 day visiting visa, however it can be extended up to 90 days. Upon leaving Roatan you will be required to pay an exit tax of approximately $35 US per person. This will be paid at the airport.

Is it safe?

Yes, Roatan is safe. It is imperative however to use common sense. Most crime on the island is petty crime, so do not leave your car unlocked or leave belongings unattended at the beach or public areas. This is not unlike any area in North America or Europe. Roatan is considered the crown jewel of Honduras, and tourism is the driving force of its' economic growth, so incredible resources have been invested to make your stay in Roatan safe and enjoyable.

Is there medical care on the island?

Yes, there is medical care on the island. Anthony's Key Resort offers a North American style clinic which also includes two decompression chambers. Clinic Esperanza also offers modern and clean facilities and is regularly manned by North American doctors.

What languages are spoken?

The history of Roatan is predominantly English, with Spanish having been brought to the island only in recent history. You can get by very easily speaking only English. However, a couple commonly used Spanish phrases will be helpful.

Where can I stay when I get there?

In the world renowned West Bay Beach area, we recommend Infinity Bay Resort. In the West End area, we like Casa Calico and in Sandy Bay we recommend the Blue Bahia. There are several dive related resorts such as Fantasy Island Beach Resort, CoCo View Resort, Anthony’s Key Resort, and Turquoise Bay. Even though we have only recommended one place per area, the selections are many and the choice is yours.

What kind of restaurants are on the island?

There is no shortage of wonderful restaurants to enjoy while in Roatan.

Lighthouse, Mavis & Dixies, Argentinian Grille all call West End home. West Bay has its share of great food too including Vintage Pearl, Las Rocas on the beach, Mangiamo's Deli and Henry Morgan. In Sandy Bay you'll find many locals favorites, such as Blue Bahia and Que Tal. 

How do I get around once I am there?

The island is easy to navigate by car, but please always drive a road in the daylight before you try it at night. One paved main road runs east-west from Oak Ridge to West Bay Beach with dirt or gravel side roads. Driving is on the right side of the road. There are several car rental companies on the island: Alamo/National Car Rental, phone 504 445-1169 , Toyota Rent-A-Car, phone 504 445-1166, and AVIS, phone 504-445-0122. Drivers are required to show a valid drivers license and a major credit card or a cash deposit. Of course, there are taxis and buses called collectivos.

Can I use foreign money or credit cards?

You can use US dollars everywhere on the island. The local currency is called the Lempira. You can receive a better exchange rate if you convert your dollars into Lempiras and pay for your purchases in Lempiras. This can be done at any local bank including Lafise, Credomatic, HSBC and Atlantida. You can use Visa or Master Card at most of the higher end restaurants or resorts, but it would be wise to check prior to purchasing.

What about tipping or sales tax?

There is a 12% sales tax and tipping 10-15% is customary.

What can I do while I am visiting Roatan?

Roatan is an adventurers dream. Activities include scuba diving, snorkeling, sea kayaking, swimming, charter boats, deep sea fishing, bone fishing , water skiing, horseback riding, hiking, sailing, salt water fly fishing, zip line canopy tours, island air tours and an extensive night life, to only name a few. Of course, one can always just relax with a good book or enjoy an ice cold beverage of choice while watching the world go by at one of our spectacular beaches.

How easy is it to get to Mainland Honduras?

You can either take a commuter flight (25 minutes) or take the ferry (90 minutes) to get to La Ceiba. There are several departures per day depending on weather.

For more information about vacationing, or considering taking the bigger step of relocating, investing and living on Roatan, please feel free to contact us via email or phone at anytime. We look forward to hearing from you!