Our go-to guide to Roatan hotels
From divers to families, we break it down.
The island of Roatan isn’t on many people’s Caribbean radars—but that’s a mistake. I discovered this hidden gem in Honduras when I was traveling around Central America for a few months and in desperate need of R&R. I was looking for an easy getaway where I could go scuba diving, stay in a good (but not too expensive) hotel, and sip cocktails with my feet in the sand.
Roatan checked all of the boxes. The island is a magnet for divers: Off its coast is the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world behind Australia’s Great Barrier Reef. And along the pristine shoreline, you’ll find resorts lined up like pearls on a necklace, ranging from private island bungalows to wellness retreats to glamorous villas. In fact, it would take multiple trips to experience every hotel on Roatan, so I vowed to keep returning to try them all.
For divers
Bananarama
For divers, the choice is easy: Bananarama. It’s an old-school, family-friendly Caribbean resort with one of the island’s best dive shops (sea turtle spotting is par for the course). Though the hotel is smack dab in the middle of the main strip, the beach is quiet—even on cruise ship days. My favorite secluded spot at the hotel is the hammock grove. Grab a strawberry cheesecake popsicle from the nearby Copito ice cream shack and relax there, enjoying the sweet treat and the soft breeze.
The vibe: Summer camp for adults.
Room scene: Guest rooms are set inside rustic wood cabins with configurations that work for couples, families, or solo travelers. Choose your view: beachfront, ocean, garden. When my partner and I stayed here, we opted for a room tucked behind palm trees and sandy trails that led straight onto West Bay Beach, with easy access to Bananarama’s oceanfront bar and grill.
Restaurant report: Right on West Bay Beach, the Thirsty Turtle is the hotel’s main restaurant. It’s known for its sunsets and karaoke sessions, fire dancers and crab races, and a simple menu of ceviche, shrimp tacos, and killer pina coladas.
Don’t miss: I can’t stop raving about the dive shop, which has brand new equipment and patient, expertly trained instructors who tailor the trip to your skill level. There are shore dives, night dives, and even shark dives (for the bravest of us). You can also complete your scuba certification courses and specialty classes here.
In the area: Check out the food stands near La Placita Inn, just behind Bananarama (the staff eats lunch here, so you know it’s gotta be good). My wallet-friendly go-to is Arlyn’s Place for the fried chicken and the baleadas (a traditional Honduras tortilla stuffed with red beans, cotija cheese, sour cream, avocado, and scrambled eggs).
Travelers say: "Bananarama has been my “home away from home” since 2014. I’ve stayed at over a dozen hotels on the island but when I bring new groups I prefer to stay here in the king house. You absolutely cannot beat the view, location, pizza, or frozen drinks! Kristy in the office is AMAZING. Ed and Darry at the bar are the cherry on top!" –@whittleseysarah
For luxury seekers
Ibagari
The next time I’m in Roatan, I know exactly where I want to stay: Ibagar, which is the crown jewel of what I consider the trifecta on Tamarind Drive (Xbalanque Resort and Blue Roatan Resort are magnificent runners-up). Ibagari edges above the rest with its creamy wood interiors and elegant architecture. One pool features a spiky sculpture jutting out of the water, while the other is a shaded beachfront infinity pool straight out of my dreams.
The vibe: A high-end, adults-only boutique hotel.
Room scene: The ocean-view suites bring the outside in thanks to a retractable glass wall that opens up to a large terrace.
Restaurant report: Order the conch carpaccio at the hotel’s upscale Luna Muna restaurant. (Heads up: Even if you’re a guest here, you need to book reservations in advance.)
Don’t miss: Ibagari has a wonderful wellness program. When you’re ready to be pampered, I recommend splurging on a sonotherapy session or cacao ceremony. There’s also an on-site dive shop, Duna Divers, with customized excursions.
In the area: The location is prime: The hotel is set in a wildlife reserve, but still close enough to activities like zip-lining and fine-dining bistros such as Sea Salt (try the vitello tonnato and grilled snapper).
Travelers say: "A 5-star review doesn't do this place justice. The service was fantastic and the food was incredible. The atmosphere nicely accented the waterfront view with a mixture of covered and uncovered dining. They provided a complimentary glass of champagne during sunset while playing some song that marks that nightly occurrence. A must visit for anyone who gets tired of some of the more pedestrian options long the strip in West Bay and West End."—@Mike V.
For solo travelers in search of a secluded getaway
Camp Bay Lodge
Many people don’t realize how huge Roatan is: 40 miles long and five miles wide. If you’re willing to take a road trip to the windswept eastern tip, you’ll be rewarded with peace and quiet, far from the tourist center. Here, Camp Bay Lodge Roatan offers a relaxed atmosphere (picture a surfer’s spot) with a hammock hangout so you can nap to your heart’s content. The communal environment and friendly owners make it particularly inviting for solo travelers.
The vibe: The perfect place to slow down, unwind, and get on island time.
Room scene: Barefoot, budget-friendly rooms are scattered along the shore—but you’re never more than a few steps from the restaurant and bar.
Restaurant report: The food at the outdoor restaurant never disappoints, with locally sourced ingredients and handmade tortillas made right in-house; there are even vegan options available.
Don’t miss: If you ever decide to leave your cozy hammock, there are free sea kayaks and stand-up paddleboards as well as a yoga pavilion for guests to use. By far the most unique activity is the kite-surfing shop, where you can get lessons and be out on the water in no time. Safety is top of mind—your instructor will follow you in a boat, so you’re never in open water alone.
In the area: Tripadvisor reviewers recommend taking a boat tour to Port Royal through the mangrove forest or a guided hike to the top of the ridge to see an incredible view of the entire island.
Travelers say: "Camp Bay Lodge was absolutely gorgeous! The facilities were very nice and the beach front was pristine. The staff were all extremely friendly and the food on site was great! Camp Bay Lodge is a hidden gem and an amazing place to unplug and rest!"—@Nathan T
More to explore nearby
For people who love big resorts
Kimpton Grand Roatan
In my experience, larger resorts can be hit or miss. But when Kimpton announced it was opening its first outpost in the West Caribbean, I knew it would deliver. The Kimpton Grand Roatan is not only stunning but also has every convenience, so you never have to leave the property. First, let’s talk about the Kao Komasa Spa: Beyond the hydrotherapy circuit, there are treatments like jade facials and Obsidian palm stone rituals that honor Honduras’ indigenous Pesh community. And then there’s the infinity pool and lush grounds.
The vibe: Your all-in-one Roatan resort.
Room scene: 126 zen rooms that belong in Bali.
Restaurant report: You’ve got choices with Alera (island vibes meets Mediterranean cuisine), Vos (an all-day cafe), and Sea Cat (California-inspired beachfront bites), plus a free breakfast included in the rate.
Don’t miss: Kimpton has tons of perks, including complimentary cruiser bikes, yoga mats, an extensive kids’ club, pet services for Fido, and happy hour at the beachfront tiki bar.
In the area: Anything you could possibly want is within a very short walk, with restaurants and shops all scattered along the beach.
Travelers say: "We've been to top beach resorts all over the world, from Maldives to Tahiti and most every Caribbean Island, Belize, etc—we try to never go back to the same place. We'd make an exception here at the Grand Roatan. Other than the Galapagos, some of the best snorkeling anywhere on the planet and right off this resort's beach!"—@marcsb
More to explore nearby
For food lovers
The Beach House
A remote hideaway isn’t for everyone. I’m a city girl, so I like to feel the hustle and bustle of a town and be able to walk to restaurants, shops, and tours. For that, I’d book a room at The Beach House, sandwiched between Half Moon Bay’s waterfront and main street. Although the property is pretty (think: blond wood accents and beachside balconies), you’re really here for the location.
The vibe: A stylish hub in the heart of the action.
Room scene: The 14 suites are open, airy, and breezy, in shades of cream with hardwood floors and pretty beach views. Suite #14 is called the presidential suite, though it starts at just $450 a night—worth the splurge.
Restaurant report: The service goes above and beyond, especially at the restaurant. If you catch a fish, the staff will grill or cook it for you at dinner—talk about fresh.
Don’t miss: Tripadvisor reviewers rave about the island tour (ask for Moises), which includes zip-lining, holding sloths, feeding toucans, touring chocolate and rum factories, and seeing the mangroves by boat.
In the area: Just steps out the door is Crisp, a cute cafe with fresh-pressed juice and healthy bowls. But my favorite spot is Loretta’s for the island’s best seafood in a casual cottage setting. I’m not kidding when I say I’ve never tasted lobster like this.
Travelers say: "This was our second trip to Roatan and staying at TBH. It was really great when we stayed here before, but they've gone through some renovations, so now it's even BETTER!! From the entrance to the views, to the restaurant and the rooms, simply outstanding."–@Phloridadaze
For sustainability seekers
Arca
Tucked away on the popular West Bay Beach, Arca is the new kid on the block. Imagine one of Tulum’s chic retreats transported to Roatan. This sustainable boutique hotel is divided into two landscapes—the tranquil garden and the oceanside—with 16 suites in total across both sections. The beachfront sets the stage for the main gathering place, pool, and bar.
The vibe: The eco-chic newbie.
Room scene: There are beachfront rooms, but I prefer the sea view king suite or the quieter jungle junior suite, both of which have terraces where I can greet the day with my morning cup of coffee. If you’re planning a longer trip, consider upgrading to a luxury suite (king-size bed, living room, daybed, patio, and outdoor shower) or splurge on a villa, which can be customized to include a kitchen and the exact number of bedrooms you need.
Restaurant report: There’s no restaurant here, but when hunger strikes, walk down the beach to Gula Gastrobar & Winery for a table in the sand and a plate of lobster pasta or gnocchi bolognese.
Don’t miss: The hotel’s motto is “as beachfront as it gets,” and it truly is all about relaxing on the blinding whitesand beach facing the turquoise water.
In the area: Tripadvisor reviewers report that there’s major-league snorkeling right off the beach: Head all the way to the end until you hit the rock wall. The farther out you go the better it gets.
Travelers say: "Definitely one of the nicest beaches we have ever been to. Super safe. The water is mega clean and meets the cliché of a dream beach." –@859christiank
For going off-the-grid
Barefoot Cay
Honestly, who doesn’t dream of disappearing to some romantic private island to while away your days in the sunshine? Well, you’re in luck, because Barefoot Cay, on the southern side of Roatan, offers just that. A pontoon will ferry you to this four-acre retreat, which is circled by sugar-soft sand, sparkling water, and a yacht-filled marina.
The vibe: Castaway—gone luxe.
Room scene: Each beachfront bungalow has its own plunge pool, not to mention the social main pool at the lodge.
Restaurant report: The brand new poolside restaurant is helmed by a Guatemalan chef who creates mind-blowing dishes like lionfish ceviche.
Don’t miss: This place is so off-the-grid every guest gets a complimentary cell-phone—not that you’d want to connect to the outside world, anyway.
In the area: The hotel offers world-class valet diving with Barefoot Divers. You can even get PADI certified.
Travelers say: "An incredible place. The staff is fantastic. The rooms are amazing. I can’t recommend a place more highly than Barefoot Cay. This place made our trip to Roatan. With all places you stay, it starts and ends with the people. And you could not ask for a better group of people to make you feel at home."—@Matt K.
More to explore nearby
For a group vacay
Villa Topaz
Sometimes I want space without sacrificing amenities—especially when I’m booking a group getaway with friends or family. That’s where Villa Topaz excels. The open floorplan lets everyone spread out: Just take your pick between the rooftop dining and infinity pool area, living room, and kitchen with walls of windows overlooking the water.
The vibe: Your home away from home.
Room scene: There’s a rooftop main villa with four bedrooms and a guest villa with two rooms. Book the main villa: The largest and most airy option, it has a bird’s-eye view of the shimmering sea. If your group is bigger, you can rent both villas together.
Restaurant report: Anyone who loves to cook will appreciate that the kitchen is stocked with quality cookware and state-of-the-art appliances (stainless steel gas range, French-door fridge, wine cooler), plus a Weber grill outside.
Don’t miss: Paul and Chantelle, your hosts, double as private concierges and can arrange fishing trips and island tours. For one set of guests, they even brought in a local jeweler so that they didn’t need to leave the property.
In the area: There are scooters for you to use—making it easy to get to the restaurants and shops in the West End.
Travelers say: "This was our second stay at Villa Topaz. Last year, we stayed in the 2 bedroom guest villas and thought that our trip could not have been any better. We were wrong! This year, we stayed in the 3 bedroom rooftop villa. The 360 degree views were astonishing. No matter where we were sitting we could see ocean! When we first arrived and I was standing on the deck next to the pool, looking at the ocean, I could feel the stress melting away."–@2uniforms