Sightseeing in Roatan - what to see. Complete travel guide
A wonderful island with sandy beaches and picturesque green hills, Roatan is famous for beautiful reefs and gentle sun. Up to 1502 the live on the island was quiet and measured, until the first European stepped on its shore. It was Christopher Columbus. The Islanders were captured by colonists from Spain and were sent to Cuba, where they had to work on plantations. In less than 30 years the island was completely deserted and there were left no local people. Many years later Roatan became the base of British pirates. It is worth noting that strong British influence is felt on the island even nowadays.
The tourism has started developing not so long ago on the island. Before this the island was a major fishing area, and a large part of the population was engaged in mining and processing of seafood. New hotels have grown along the coastal area like mushrooms, and new hotels keep opening as the number of tourists wishing to relax on spacious beaches only increases year after year. This resort is especially popular among scuba diving fans because the underwater world here is unique and picturesque. Just like any large beach resort Roatan is equipped with centers of sports equipment rental and diving schools.
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Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy a walk through the gardens of Carambola, where they can walk through mango groves and true tunnels made of greenery. Tourists are also offered to attend an excursion to Oak Ridge town, where they will find many attractions and entertainments.
One of the most picturesque bays of the island houses a dolphinarium nowadays. It will be of interest for absolutely everyone. Exciting shows with the participation of dolphins are held daily for holidaymakers. Visitors can swim with the dolphins, as well. A memorable photo shoot will be a pleasant bonus.
All the beaches have their own attractive features. Young tourists enjoy the most popular West End beach. It is famous for the variety of bars, discos, and other entertainment facilities. Here, you can relax and have fun around the clock. Another part of the coast is in demand among fans of night diving.
Nearby, is West Bay beach, which is considered quieter and less crowded. It is also distinguished by the availability of cozy restaurants and first-class equipment. Next to this beach are some of the best budget hotels in Roatan.
The Half Moon beach is special. It is considered the best place for diving and snorkeling. An incredible number of exotic fish, sea stars, jellyfish and other residents of the sea depths inhabit the coastal waters. Beginners will feel comfortable diving here. More experienced divers can swim at a greater depth, where sea turtles live. Blue Harbor garden is a gorgeous place. A lot of exotic plants and fruits are grown on its territory. They give fascinating tours. Visitors can see artificial reservoirs created specially for watering plants. The conditions are so favorable that it has long become a home for rare birds and insects. There are even aquatic birds there.
The Roatan coast is famous not only for its picturesque beaches and the diversity of marine life, but for beautiful caves, as well. Tours to Helene Caves are extremely popular with tourists. The caves can be reached by boat only. You can admire unique geological formations during your trip. Seawater contributed greatly to their creation. One can get to the caves along the shore. In this case, the excursion will be accompanied by a walk through picturesque pristine places. Ideal conditions for outdoor and beach activities have been created on the island. 
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City tours, excursions and tickets in Roatan and surroundings
Reference information
Map of all parks
National and city parks around Roatan
♥ National Park 'Port Royal' , 25.9 km from the center. On the map
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♥ National Park 'Capiro Calentura' , 80.5 km from the center. On the map
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♥ National Park 'Pico Bonito' , 85.7 km from the center. On the map
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♥ National Park 'Punta Izopo' , 104.7 km from the center. On the map
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♥ National Park 'Blanca Jeannette Kawas Fernandez' , 133.7 km from the center. On the map
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Sights around Roatan from our guide 'Extreme places on Earth'
El Cajon Dam
From the series “The Most Impressive Dams on Earth”
Check on the map: Distance from Roatan center - 193.5 km.
The main function of the dam is the electricity output and flood prevention for a great area. Since the dam building, this region became safe from tragic floods. During the rainy season, the dam keeps huge water volumes. The agricultural line has also improved with the advent of the dam. Earlier during the drought season, the fields suffered from the lack of water. Now they can be irrigated throughout the year. …
Read further Distance from Roatan center - 193.5 km.
Sightseeing in Honduras: things to see
Several important tourist sights are located in the city of Tegucigalpa. Basilica of Our Lady of Suyapa is one of the most famous landmarks of the city. The building of the basilica has been started in 1952 and still continues. The statue of Our Lady of Suyapa, who is considered the protector of the city, is the main relic of the church. The statue is taken out of the church on important holidays, so that everyone can pray to it. Fans of art and sculpture are recommended to visit the National Art Gallery, the 12 halls of which exhibit different collections. The building itself is also very interesting. It was constructed in 1654, and initially the first university of the country occupied its premises. Besides the permanent exhibition, the gallery often exhibits collections of modern art, so residents and guests of the city can see works of young talented artists.
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Search touristic sites on the map of Roatan
All about Roatan, Honduras - sightseeings, attractions, touristic spots, architecture, history, culture and cuisine. Prepare your trip together with OrangeSmile.com - find out the 'must see' things in Roatan, which places to visit, which excursions to take, where the breathtaking views are waiting for you. Planning your trip with this travel guide will help your to get the most out of Roatan in few days.
