If you’re planning a cruise to Honduras, you’ll be stopping at either Mahogany Bay or the Port of Roatán, both of which are located on the island of Roatán. These two ports are situated just five miles apart from each other and are approximately 35 miles away from the northern coast of Honduras. When you arrive, there are plenty of exciting things to do and see in the area.
If Roatan is part of the itinerary, the closest beach is Mahogany Bay, which is just a short walk from the pier and takes less than 10 minutes to get there. Although it’s a bit further from West Bay than Coxen Hole, most cruise tourists prefer to spend their time relaxing on Mahogany Bay Beach.
The tropical haven of Mahogany Bay is under the ownership of Carnival Corporation and serves as a docking station for their cruise ships on Roatan Island. Frequently visited by holidaymakers, Roatan is a common stop on Western Caribbean cruise itineraries, often alongside other mainstream sites such as Belize and Cozumel.
What should I visit in Roatan?
Roatan is a very active place and there is so much to see and explore on the island itself. If you organize a little in advance, we guarantee that you will have an unforgettable day if you visit this port.
Here are just some of our suggestions for you:
– First step out to Mahogany Bay
– Visit Manawakie Eco Nature Park
– Visit Roatan’s Chocolate Factory and Rum Factory at the West End
– Visit Little French Key Island
– Visit Maya Key
– Visit Gumbalimba park
Mahogany Bay
If you’re looking for a serene place to bask in the sun, Mahogany Bay is the perfect spot. Its crystal clear waters and pristine white sand beaches make it an ideal destination for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. There’s no shortage of dining options either, with many restaurants and bars located near the beach. The coral reef is a must-see as well, as it’s home to a variety of fish and corals waiting to be discovered. A trip to Mahogany Bay is a surefire way to appreciate the natural beauty of Honduras.
Manawakie Eco Nature Park
Manawakie Eco Nature Park is situated in Honduras on the island of Roatan. It is a protected area that provides shelter to various plant and animal species. Additionally, it is a popular tourist destination due to its breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The park spans 1,000 hectares and is segregated into two sections: the dry forest and the wet forest.
The dry forest is home to a range of flora and fauna, including trees, shrubs, and reptiles. On the other hand, the wet forest is home to several aquatic animals such as fish, amphibians, and birds. The Roatan Island Research and Conservation Center, situated in the dry forest, is one of the most popular attractions in the park. The center is equipped with several research facilities, a museum, and an education center, and it focuses on preserving the island’s natural resources.
Roatan's Chocolate Factory - A Tasty Tour
At Roatan’s Chocolate Factory, the tour starts with a delightful chocolate tasting, followed by a presentation on the company’s history. Established in 2004, it is the only chocolate factory in Honduras. The founders, Roberto and Sandra BA, are two ambitious individuals with an ardor for chocolate. Roberto hails from Roatan, while Sandra is from Italy. They met while working in Switzerland’s chocolate industry and decided to venture into business together. Their goal was to create high-quality chocolate that is reasonably priced and accessible to everyone. They use only natural ingredients in their chocolate, which is organically certified and Fairtrade approved. The factory offers tours of the facility, which includes a chocolate tasting, and has a store where chocolate is available for purchase.
Rum Factory
The Rum Factory is an operating rum distillery that welcomes visitors with tours and tastings. It’s an excellent place to explore the intricacies of rum production, as guests can witness the distillation process firsthand. The factory also features a gift shop where visitors can buy rum and other keepsakes to remember their visit by. With tours and tastings available, the Rum Factory is an exceptional destination for anyone eager to learn about rum distillation.
Little French Key
Are you in search of a secluded, private island to escape the chaos of your everyday life? Look no further than Little French Key. This serene island is the perfect getaway to unwind and recharge, surrounded by verdant greenery, white sandy beaches, and crystal-clear blue waters. Little French Key offers an array of activities to keep you entertained, whether you want to soak up the sun on the beach or explore the breathtaking natural surroundings. Situated in Roatan, Honduras, Little French Key is an animal sanctuary and rehabilitation center established in 2006 by Stacey Lee O’Neill, a Canadian native. The center aims to provide a safe haven for animals, educate the public about animal welfare, and put an end to animal suffering in Roatan and throughout Honduras. Don’t miss the chance to take a photo with a jaguar, an opportunity that comes once in a lifetime!
Maya Key
Maya Key is a private island and archeological site that is both exclusive and eco-friendly. It is one of the few remaining Maya sites that have not been disturbed or looted and was discovered by University of California archaeologists in 1993. The site features small platforms with stone structures that have been carbon-dated to the Maya period and were likely used for ceremonial or religious purposes. It is open to the public and is a must-visit for those interested in Maya history or archaeology.
Gumbalimba park
Gumbalimba Park is a well-known tourist attraction situated on the western end of Roatán in Honduras. The park boasts a diverse range of animals such as monkeys, iguanas, and parrots. Visitors can also indulge in a refreshing swim in the pool or lounge in the hammocks. Additionally, the park has a gift shop and restaurant, providing visitors with a comprehensive experience. The park is open year-round and offers activities like hiking, bird watching, and zip lining for nature enthusiasts. Hikers can enjoy the well-marked trails and picturesque views, while zip lining provides an exciting adventure through the trees. The park also has a monkey sanctuary where visitors can observe the care and conservation of different monkey species including Spider monkeys, Howler monkeys, White-faced Capuchins, and Woolly monkeys.
Roatan offers a plethora of activities to explore, with many more than what has been mentioned here. However, we have only just begun to scratch the surface. A trip to Honduras can be a truly unforgettable experience, so it’s a good idea to do some research before embarking on your cruise.
