Roatan City Guide

Must-try local dishes include seafood, baleadas, and coconut bread. A good variety of international cuisine is available in tourist areas.

Roatan has lively nightlife in West End, with bars, pubs, and some clubs offering live music.

Developing coffee culture with a mix of local cafes offering quality coffee, especially in West End.

Tipping is customary, 10-15% in restaurants if not included. Appreciated for taxis and other services.

Local SIM cards can be bought at the airport or from authorized dealers in towns. Tigo and Claro are main providers.

Street cleanliness varies with tourist zones generally clean. Sanitation issues can occur in less developed areas.

Not fully 24/7, but some minimarts and pharmacies in tourist areas have extended hours. Late-night food options exist in nightlife spots.

International products are available in larger supermarkets but may have limited selection and higher prices than the mainland. Local markets offer fresh produce.

Card acceptance is common in tourist areas, hotels, and larger restaurants. However, cash is essential for smaller vendors, local markets, and some taxis.

ATMs are available in major towns like Coxen Hole, West End, and French Harbour. Banco Atlántida and BAC Credomatic are common.

Notable schools include the Roatan Bilingual School and Sandy Bay Alternative School. Languages of instruction are English and Spanish.

Roatan has a growing digital nomad community with informal meetups and online groups.

Gumbalimba Park and Carambola Botanical Gardens offer beautiful green spaces with trails.

Beach runs and road running are popular. Some roads are narrow with traffic.

Gyms and fitness facilities are available, including at resorts.

Tennis courts are available at some resorts and private clubs. Equipment rentals might be available.

Limited or no padel facilities available.

Several yoga studios offer various styles. Drop-in classes are available, especially in tourist areas.

Limited info on dedicated martial arts facilities. Some resorts or centers may offer boxing or fitness with martial arts.

No skiing available as Roatan is a tropical island.

Popular activities include kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing. Rentals are widely available, especially in tourist areas.

Surfing is mainly on the north side of the island. Suitable spots for beginners and advanced surfers. Best during winter months.

Roatan offers exceptional diving and snorkeling on the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef with excellent visibility and diverse marine life.

Roatan has clinics and a hospital with some English-speaking staff. Private clinics usually offer better care. Serious emergencies may require evacuation.

Tap water is not safe to drink directly. Bottled water is recommended.

Roatan offers playgrounds, kid-friendly cafes, and stores for baby supplies. Attractions include beaches suitable for families.

Roatan is generally accepting, especially in tourist areas. Limited specific LGBTQ+ venues but inclusive spaces are found.

Pet-friendly accommodations and restaurants exist. Veterinary services are available, but pet parks are less common.