The Ultimate Roatan Itinerary: How to Spend a Week in Paradise

Welcome to Roatan—a slice of Caribbean paradise! This tropical gem off the coast of Honduras is famous for its stunning beaches, vibrant coral reefs, and wealth of attractions. Whether you’re an avid diver, a nature lover, or just craving relaxation, Roatan has something for everyone.

A week here offers the perfect balance of exploration and unwinding, with time to discover the island’s highlights without feeling rushed. Let’s dive into your ultimate 7-day itinerary for a dream Roatan getaway.

Day 1 – Arrival and West Bay Beach Relaxation

Arriving in Roatan

From the very first moment you arrive in Roatan, you’ll feel the warmth of the island—both from the sunny skies and welcoming locals. Book a private transfer or grab a taxi to your accommodation, whether a luxurious beachfront resort like Infinity Bay or a peaceful retreat like Xbalanque. Settle in and get ready to experience paradise.

Relaxing at West Bay Beach

Ease into vacation mode at West Bay Beach, one of the finest in the Caribbean. With powdery white sand and turquoise waters, it’s my favorite place for lounging, swimming, or just enjoying a tropical cocktail with a stunning view.

As the sun sets, find great dining at beachfront restaurants like Beachers or Bananarama while the sky lights up in streaks of pink and orange. It will be a magical start to your Roatan adventure.

Day 2 – Snorkeling and Beach Fun

Morning: Snorkeling at West Bay

Kick off your second day with snorkeling at West Bay, home to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef—the second-largest reef system in the world. Just a few feet from the shore, you’ll enter a world full of vibrant marine life. The clear, calm waters make snorkeling easy for beginners and rewarding for experienced explorers.

Afternoon: Visit Gumbalimba Park

Spend the afternoon at Gumbalimba Park, where you can zip-line through the jungle or get close to monkeys, parrots, and iguanas. This scenic eco-park offers adventure and relaxation, making it a hit with visitors of all ages.

Day 3 – Roatan’s Marine Adventures

Morning: Scuba Diving Excursions

Roatan is a diver’s paradise. Explore renowned dive sites like Spooky Channel's coral walls or the serene Black Rock. Dive shops offer certification courses for beginners, so even if you’re new to diving, you can still experience the underwater magic.

Afternoon: Sunset Cruise

Unwind with a sunset cruise, where you can snorkel one last time or enjoy the vibrant colors as the sun sets over the Caribbean Sea while out on the water. It's a perfect, relaxing way to close the day.

Day 4 – Exploring Roatan’s Cultural Side

Visit the Garifuna Village at Punta Gorda

Immerse yourself in the island’s heritage with a visit to Punta Gorda, the heart of the Garifuna culture. Experience rhythmic music, lively dances, and traditional dishes like hudut—a rich fish and plantain stew. 

Roatan Chocolate Factory

A visit to the Roatan Chocolate Factory is a perfect afternoon treat. Learn about local cacao farming and production, and indulge in some handcrafted chocolate samples. Honduran cacao is like no other, so grabbing a few souvenirs here is a must!

Day 5 – Island Tour and Adventure Activities

Full-Day Island Tour

Day five takes you on a tour of Roatan’s hidden corners. Explore French Harbour’s bustling fishing scene, visit local villages, and enjoy scenic coast views. Stop at Punta Gorda for panoramic vistas and explore the island’s mangroves with a local guide.

Adventure Activities: Zip lining and Kayaking

For adrenaline seekers, end the day by zip-lining at places like Pirates of the Caribbean Zipline, which offers breathtaking island views. For a more peaceful adventure, paddle through Roatan’s mangrove tunnels by kayak, surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife.

Day 6 – An Off-Island Adventure: Cayos Cochinos

Boat Trip to Cayos Cochinos

No trip to Roatan is complete without visiting the Cayos Cochinos, a pristine archipelago and marine reserve. Snorkel in clear waters, swim with colorful fish, and enjoy a traditional seafood lunch. It’s a peaceful off-island escape with stunning natural beauty.

Day 7 – Relaxation and Departure

Morning: Relax at Your Resort or Explore the West End

On your final morning, relax at your resort or explore the West End for last-minute shopping at quirky local spots like Rusty Fish. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique souvenirs that support local artists.

Preparing for Departure

As your week comes to an end, make sure to leave enough time for check-out and a smooth transfer to the airport. Pack up your souvenirs and start planning your return for another unforgettable Roatan adventure.

Where to Stay in Roatan: Accommodation Recommendations

Infinity Bay Spa & Beach Resort

Infinity Bay offers luxurious beachfront accommodations ideal for families and couples. Located in West Bay, it's the perfect base for your Roatan adventure with spacious rooms, a full-service spa, and an infinity pool overlooking the sea.

Xbalanque Resort

Xbalanque Resort is a secluded boutique resort, perfect for couples seeking privacy and tranquility. With private villas and a stunning beachfront, it’s a peaceful escape from the busier parts of the island.

Anthony’s Key Resort

Diving enthusiasts will love Anthony’s Key Resort, known for its all-inclusive dive packages and easy access to top dive sites. Overwater bungalows, dolphin encounters, and other activities make it an excellent choice for divers and non-divers.

Tips for Planning a Perfect Roatan Vacation

Best Time to Visit

The dry season (February to May) offers sunny skies, though there are peaks in traffic during these months, especially around Easter. Avoid the hurricane season, which peaks from September to November.

Transportation on the Island

Taxis and water taxis are widely available, but car rentals allow you to explore at your own pace. Water taxis are a fun and convenient way to travel between West Bay and West End.

Health and Safety Tips

Roatan is safe but follow basic precautions. Apply sunscreen regularly, stay hydrated, and be mindful during water activities. Bug spray is also recommended for the evenings.

Ready for Your Week in Paradise?

Roatan is a Caribbean gem offering a bit of everything—from underwater adventures to cultural experiences and relaxation on beautiful beaches. Whether you’re snorkeling vibrant reefs, zip-lining through the jungle, or savoring Garifuna traditions, a week in Roatan promises unforgettable memories. So pack your bags, grab your snorkel gear, and prepare for a week in paradise!