Exploring the Depths of Roatán
Introduction
Roatán, the tropical jewel off the coast of Honduras, has become a staple destination for us. We’ve traveled there twice, and come January 2025, we’ll be back for our third visit. Roatán offers some of the best freediving, SCUBA diving, and underwater experiences in the Caribbean—and we’re excited to share it with you. Every year, we host a freediving trip here in January, giving us a chance to escape the unpredictable (and often chilly) winter conditions in the Americas.
How to Get to Roatán
At the time of writing, getting to Roatán is more convenient than ever. Direct flights land at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (RTB) from several major cities:
- American Airlines: Miami (MIA), Dallas (DFW)
- Delta Airlines: Atlanta (ATL)
- United Airlines: Houston (IAH)
- Sunwing and Transat: Toronto and Montreal
From the airport, a taxi to West End (a popular area for tourists) costs about $25 USD, making it easy to get settled right away.
Diving in Roatán
We spend a lot of time training with Roatán Freediving, which operates a tri-maran with a dedicated freediving platform, taking us just five minutes from shore to reach impressive depths. The calm, warm waters make it ideal for practicing our line diving. Roatán Freediving has even hosted the Freediving World Championships and the Caribbean Cup, further solidifying its place as a world-class freediving destination.
Beach Cleanups and Roatán’s Challenges
Though Roatán feels like paradise, it’s not without its challenges. One significant issue is the trash that accumulates on its beaches, especially along the south coast. Waste from surrounding Central American countries, where infrastructure for recycling and waste management is limited, often finds its way into rivers and ultimately into the ocean, washing up on Roatán’s shores. During each of our visits, we make time to organize beach cleanups—a small way to help protect this beautiful island and its ecosystems.
Where to Eat
Roatán has a range of food options to suit any budget.
- Budget meals: $5-$10 USD (think street food or simple local fare)
- Mid-range restaurants: $10-$20 USD (sit-down spots serving a mix of local and international dishes)
- High-end dining: $20-$40 USD (for more refined menus and waterfront views)
Other Things to Do
Beyond diving, Roatán has a wealth of activities. You can explore the lush jungles, visit sloth and bird sanctuaries, or even zipline through the treetops for a thrill. For nightlife, West End offers live music, cozy bars, and vibrant eateries—a perfect way to unwind after a day in the water.
Final Thoughts
Roatán is more than just a destination for us—it’s a part of our yearly rhythm. Every January, we look forward to returning to this Caribbean oasis, reconnecting with nature, and sharing it with others. If you’re ready for warm waters, incredible marine life, and a bit of island charm, Roatán might just be the escape you need.
