Idyllically situated in the Caribbean Sea near the world's second-largest coral reef, the tropical paradise of Roatan Island is the largest of Honduras' astonishingly beautiful Bay Islands. It is known for its exquisite golden sand beaches and world-renowned diving attractions such as shipwrecks, a submerged aeroplane, and some spectacular night diving. The area is a haven for an abundance of both marine and land-based wildlife, including innumerable species of tropical fish, turtles, dolphins, whales, parrots, iguanas, and monkeys. Visitors tend to navigate the island by water taxi to visit its fascinating sights. These include the educational Institute of Marine Sciences, an iguana farm home to thousands of these remarkable reptiles, the traditional Garifuna cultural settlement in Punta Gorda, and the lush, green pine-forested hills of the island's mountainous interior. With its laid-back lifestyle, fabulously fresh and flavourful local seafood, and warm and welcoming locals, Roatan Island is an ideal tropical island getaway.
