Honduras

A simple food map to help you eat better (and avoid bad choices) West End is one of the most popular areas in Roatán, Honduras, and for good reason: it’s walkable, lively, and packed with restaurants. But with so many options in such a small area, choosing where to eat can quickly become confusing : especially when prices, quality and reviews don’t always align. This article is not a complete food guide. It’s a practical blog post built around an interactive food map, designed to give you a clearer, more realistic overview of where it actually makes sense to eat in West End. If you’re planning a longer stay or want more local insights, you can also check my Honduras page, which links to all my other articles about Roatán and the country in general. How to use the West End food map The map combines two simple indicators to reflect how food really works in West End. Value level (map filters) Each restaurant is classified based on overall value, not hype or online ratings: Low value → food that doesn’t really justify the price or reputation Medium value → decent options that depend on timing or context High value → consistent places that deliver what they promise This helps you understand whether a place is actually worth choosing : regardless of how popular it looks online. Price indication (icon color) Each restaurant icon also gives a rough idea of price: 🟢 Green → cheap 🟡 Yellow → reasonable 🔴 Red → expensive A restaurant can be expensive and still worth it, or cheap and disappointing.That’s very common in West End — and exactly why price alone isn’t enough. Why this approach works in West End, Roatán In West End : cheap doesn’t always mean good touristy doesn’t always mean bad expensive doesn’t automatically mean a rip-off Two restaurants next to each other can offer similar food with very different value.This map is simply here to help you avoid bad guesses and make more informed choices. A couple of local favorites Some places stand out because they’re consistent and reliable over time. Sandy Buns : a bakery and food spot known for quality, consistency, and great value👉 Check Sandy Buns here Drunken Sailor : good food, relaxed atmosphere, and an easy, no-surprise option👉 See Drunken Sailor here These are the kinds of places people who live or stay longer in West End naturally come back to. ✨ Tips from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨ This map is meant as a starting point, not the final word. I’m currently working on a much more detailed West End food guide, with: in-depth menu analysis real price ranges best value picks practical advice for workers, expats and long stays And if you combine this food map with my article How to Avoid Cruise Ship Crowds in Roatán (Even on 6 Ship Days), you’ll already be in a very good position to enjoy West End at the right places, at the right time. BISOUS

One of the things I love most about Roatan is how easy snorkeling can be. On the southern tip of the island, you don’t need a boat, a guide, or an organized tour to see beautiful reefs : you just walk into the water and start exploring. This part of the island concentrates some of the most accessible and beginner-friendly snorkeling spots, with calm water, shallow reefs, and great visibility. Whether you’re traveling light or staying longer on the island, these are the places where snorkeling feels effortless. Before getting into the spots, a quick note on gear: I always snorkel with my own snorkeling set and a reef-safe sunscreen (french brand oc). And for photos and videos underwater, I personally use a GoPro. It’s compact, reliable, and perfect for reef shots without carrying bulky equipment. Here are my top 5 snorkeling spots on the southern tip of Roatan, all accessible directly from the beach. Some links in this article are affiliate links. This means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. It helps support my work and allows me to keep sharing honest, on-the-ground travel tips from Roatan. 1. West Bay West Bay is iconic and for good reason. The water here is crystal clear, the sand is white, and the reef is easily reachable straight from the beach. Once you’re in the water, you’ll find colorful tropical fish, coral formations, and sometimes small rays or turtles if you’re lucky. The reef starts close enough that even beginners can feel comfortable, making it one of the best all-around snorkeling spots on the island. The only downside? It gets busy. My advice is to snorkel early in the morning, when the water is calmer and visibility is at its best. West Bay is also heavily affected by cruise ship arrivals. If you want to enjoy this beach without the crowds, I explain exactly how to do that in my article : How to Avoid Cruise Ship Crowds in Roatán (Even on 6 Ship Days) timing really makes all the difference here. 2. West End Reef (in front of Creole’s Rotisserie Chicken) If West Bay feels a bit too busy, West End Beach is a great alternative. Entering the water near Creole’s Rotisserie Chicken, you can snorkel directly from the beach in a much more relaxed atmosphere. The reef here is closer to shore in some areas, and the snorkeling is easy and calm. You’ll see plenty of tropical fish, small corals, and reef details that make this spot perfect for slow exploration. This is one of those spots where you don’t need to rush. I usually take my time here, swimming out to the reef from the beach : a diver’s buoy (I use this one) can be useful because of the boat traffic. Water shoes might help for the entry if there’s sea grass near the shore. 3. Half Moon Bay / The Point Half Moon Bay is one of my favorite snorkeling spots on the southern tip of Roatan because of its diversity. The reef structure here is interesting, with coral gardens and plenty of marine life packed into a relatively small area (& a submarine sinks with eels inside). You can enter directly from the beach and swim along the reef, adjusting how far out you go depending on conditions. On calm days : visibility is excellent. This is also where I love filming underwater. The light, reef structure, and fish activity make it ideal for photos and videos, which is why I usually bring my GoPro here. 4. Sandy Bay (in front of Puerta Azul) Sandy Bay offers a quieter, more laid-back snorkeling experience. Entering the water in front of Puerta Azul, you’ll find calm conditions and a relaxed vibe that’s perfect if you want to avoid crowds altogether. Close to shore, you’ll see schools of fish and seagrass areas, and if you swim a bit farther out, the coral becomes more interesting and dense. It’s a great spot for beginners, but still enjoyable for intermediate snorkelers who want a peaceful session. I like Sandy Bay for longer, slower snorkels : it’s the kind of place where you lose track of time just floating and observing. 5. Flowers Bay Flowers Bay feels more local and less touristy than the other spots on this list, which is exactly why it deserves a place here. Snorkeling is accessible directly from the beach, and while it’s not as famous as West Bay or Half Moon Bay, it offers beautiful shoreline snorkeling with plenty of fish and shallow reef areas. It’s especially nice in the middle of the day, when more popular beaches start to feel crowded. Flowers Bay also reminds you that Roatan isn’t just about famous beaches. If you’re curious to explore more shoreline spots, I’ve put together a full guide to the Most Beautiful Beaches in Roatán, including quieter areas like this one. ✨ Tips from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨ Starfish Alley : It used to be known for starfish, but honestly, there’s not much to see anymore. I mention it more as an anecdote than a must-do. Best time to snorkel : Mornings are almost always better : calmer water and clearer visibility. Safety : Always check sea conditions and avoid strong currents, especially when snorkeling alone. Respect the reef : Don’t touch coral or marine life, and always use reef-safe sunscreen. BISOUS

Roatán is often described as a tropical paradise… and it truly is.But on some days, up to six cruise ships can dock at the island, bringing 10 000 to 18 000 passengers in just a few hours. The result? Crowded beaches, traffic jams, and packed excursions : if you don’t know how to plan your day. The good news? Even on the busiest cruise days, you can enjoy Roatán without the crowds. It just takes understanding where cruise passengers go, when they arrive, and how to think like a local. To check the weekly cruise ship schedule, take a look at the Roatán Cruise Ship Facebook Page : Anacaribe, S. de R.L. de C.V. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you. I only recommend places and experiences I personally trust or would send friends and family to. How Many People Actually Arrive on Cruise Days ? 1 cruise ship = 2,000 to 4,000 passengers 6 cruise ships = up to 18,000 people The crowd is concentrated in specific areas during certain times, not across the entire island. Knowing this is the first step to a stress-free day. Key Hours to Know Cruise ship traffic is very predictable: Mass arrival: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM Peak crowd: 10:30 AM – 3:30 PM Return to ports: from 3:30 PM – 4:30 PM Areas to Avoid on Heavy Cruise Days Certain areas are almost always crowded with tourists : Mahogany Bay (port area and beach) West Bay, especially between 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM Wildlife tours (sloths, monkeys, etc.) Standard shore excursions booked on board These spots are not bad : they just attract the majority of cruise visitors. Where to Go Instead West End The beach just after Sundowners is perfect for escaping the crowds. Diving : Caribbean Reef Divers is excellent for exploring the reef without large tourist groups. (They speak English, Spanish & French) Walk from West End to West Bay : completely safe, scenic, and virtually empty during cruise hours; perfect for a mid-morning stroll or snorkeling. Sandy Bay Enjoy the large beach, relatively untouched by cruise ships, and have lunch in one of the seaside restaurants.   Diving : ask for Anna at Sandy Bay Divers : she knows which spots will be quiet and the best timing to avoid crowds. (For French speakers : Grand Bleu Diving remains a top choice.) Palmetto Bay Palmetto Bay Resort is a great alternative on busy cruise ship days when you want to avoid West Bay without driving all the way to the East Side. You can enjoy time at the Roatan Island Brewing Co., have lunch or dinner at The Cove restaurant, and relax on Palmetto Bay beach, all in the same area. East Side of the Island Camp Bay : the largest wild beach on the island, incredible for walking, relaxing, or snorkeling in solitude. Paya Bay : a hidden beach with a small hotel, perfect for a quiet stop away from the crowds. Dining : La Sirena de Camp Bay or Camp Bay Lodge (my personal favorite), and Marble Hill Resort, an amazing complex with a very good restaurant : ideal for lunch or dinner after exploring the East Side. Want more ideas ? Check out my full guide to the best beaches in Roatán. Activities to Prioritize (and Avoid) Avoid During Peak Times Boat snorkeling trips Organized excursions Popular beach clubs Prioritize Shore snorkeling, early in the morning Scuba diving at the recommended centers Kayaking / paddleboarding  Exploring the East side of the island Local Strategy That Makes the Difference Watch the shuttle buses and excursion groups to gauge where the crowds are heading Tcheck the Facebook Group : Anacaribe, S. de R.L. de C.V. Eat before 12 PM or after 2 PM to avoid crowded restaurants The Golden Rule When cruise ships arrive on the west side → go east.When they eat → hit the beach.When they leave → enjoy the sunset. ✨ Tips from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨ Here are a few insider tricks you won’t find in guidebooks: Check the cruise schedule before planning your day : the Facebook page for weekly cruise arrivals is a lifesaver. Combine beaches and diving smartly : start at a calm beach (West End after Sundowners), then head for a dive session at Caribbean Reef Divers when crowds are low. Use the West End → West Bay promenade : it’s safe, scenic, and virtually empty during cruise hours, perfect for a mid-morning stroll or snorkeling. This hidden coastal path lets you enjoy calm snorkeling and stunning views without the crowds. Plan meals strategically : eat at Las Sirenas or Camp Bay Lodge outside peak lunch hours (before 12 PM or after 2 PM) to enjoy local flavors without waiting in line. Choose the Sandy Bay road instead of Flowers Bay on cruise days : the Flowers Bay road gets completely congested because the main Roatán cruise port is located there. Sandy Bay is usually much smoother and saves you a lot of time and stress. Following these tips turns a chaotic “six-ship” day into a stress-free, almost private island experience. For more hidden beaches and secret spots, check my full Roatán Beach Guide. And contact me if you have some questions ! BISOUS

Nestled in the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea, just off the coast of Honduras, Roatán is one of those islands that instantly captures you. With its white sandy beaches, laid-back vibe, and incredible snorkeling spots, it’s a dream destination for anyone who loves sun and sea. If you’re looking for Maldives-like beaches without a long-haul flight, Roatán is a perfect alternative. Beyond its beaches, the island is also known for some of the best shore-access snorkeling in the Caribbean. If that’s your thing, I’ve listed my favorite south-side snorkeling spots accessible directly from the beach in a dedicated guide. In this article, I’m sharing my favorite beaches on the island. (This post may contain affiliate links : which means I may earn a small commission if you book through them, at no extra cost to you.) West Bay Beach : the Picture-Perfect Postcard West Bay is the island’s most famous beach and for good reason. Soft white sand, crystal-clear waters, and a nearby coral reef make it perfect for swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing while watching the sunset. Hotels, bars, and restaurants are all within walking distance. Pro tip : West Bay can get busy, especially when cruise ships are in town. For tips on avoiding the crowds, check out my guide on how to avoid cruise ship crowds in Roatán (even on 6-ship days). Camp Bay : the Wild One (& my favorite) If you’re looking for peace and authenticity, Camp Bay is a must. Far less touristy than other beaches, it offers quiet, natural surroundings with the sound of waves and palm trees to lounge under. Why it stands out : It feels untouched and gives off real “deserted island” vibes, perfect for picnics or a full day of unplugging. Just bring your own snacks, as restaurants are limited, though Camp Bay Lodge is a great option if you want to stay overnight. Half Moon Bay : Local and Expat Favorite A crescent-shaped bay in West End, Half Moon Bay is popular with both locals and travelers. Swim, snorkel, or sip cocktails while watching boats pass by. Its friendly atmosphere and nearby cafés make it a relaxed, social spot. Why I love it: It’s perfect for a sunset drink and offers a lively yet laid-back vibe. Sandy Bay : Sunsets & Snorkeling Less crowded than West Bay but equally beautiful, Sandy Bay is home to a quiet expat community and charming hotels. The calm waters and stunning sunsets make it ideal for snorkeling or simply enjoying the view. Access tip: You can reach the beach directly by car, which makes it easy to explore at your own pace. Secret Spots and Hidden Beaches Roatán also hides secret beaches only accessible by boat or through hidden trails. If you’re an explorer at heart, set off to find  Paya BayLocated on the far east end of the island, Paya Bay is a wild, secluded beach framed by jungle and open ocean. A true off-the-grid spot, home to the Paya Bay eco-resort, perfect for disconnecting and slowing down.  Beach between West End & West BayA quiet stretch of sand accessible only on foot or through nearby hotels. An easy escape from the crowds, right between the island’s two busiest areas. Palmetto BayA remote and peaceful beach known for its untouched feel. The Cove, a beachfront restaurant, makes it an ideal place to enjoy the view while staying connected to the island’s natural rhythm. Pro tip : Also, you can rent a scooter or car here and enjoy exploring on your own terms ! ✨ A Tip from Shiny Expatrie Frenchie ✨ Roatán isn’t just a postcard. From lush mountains to turquoise bays and white sand beaches, it’s a true paradise. Every turn reveals a new view, a hidden cove, or a perfect spot to relax and soak it all in.🌿 Discover more tropical tips on the blog BISOUS