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The Bay Islands of Honduras—Roatan, Utila & Guanaja— serve up a quintessential mix of Caribbean dive experiences with near shore shallows to plunging drop-offs and wrecks where divers can spend hours searching for cryptic marine life

Walls, Reefs, Wrecks and Fish—The Total Package

The Bay Islands of Honduras—Roatan, Utila and Guanaja— serve up a quintessential mix of Caribbean dive experiences. There are near shore shallows where divers can spend hours searching for cryptic marine life, sheltered lagoons and coastal slopes where hard corals harbor a colorful range of reef fish and sponge-covered walls that plunge into the depths. There are wreck dives, drift dives, night dives, shark dives and, for the lucky, an encounter with the biggest fish in the sea—the whale shark. The three primary islands of the group have distinctly different personalities, allowing divers to choose between first-class resorts or laid-back dive lodges.

Highlights

  • Best for: All divers
  • Best season to visit: Year round
  • Weather: Tropical climate with drier winters, passing summer showers and more frequent rains from October through December. Temperatures range from the 70s to summertime highs near 90

Things to Do

Honduras Information

About Diving in Honduras

Though each of the three primary islands has its own topside personality, the seascapes are similar. Beyond coastal shallows dominated by grass beds and patch reefs, north-shore sites typically transition to walls that drop to great depths. Sites on the southern shores feature moderate to steep slopes, spur-and-groove formations and mini-walls to a depth beyond 130 feet, with offshore pinnacles rising from the sandy plateau that stretches to the mainland. Many of these walls and slopes are cut by intricate crevices, swim-throughs and canyons.

Diving in Honduras Tips

The walls and slopes that surround the Bay Islands are ideal for multi-level dive profiles, both with air and Nitrox mixtures. By starting deep then working shallow, divers can enjoy longer bottom times with a margin of safety and spend added time in the shallows searching out the many small creatures that hide among the crevices and coral heads.

Best Places to Dive in Honduras

Famous sites such as Mary's Place offer narrow canyons crowded with sea fans, black coral trees and marine life. Half Moon Bay Wall adds giant orange elephant ear sponges. Toon Town is a favorite for macro life and the signature blue bell tunicates.  At Jim's Silverlode divers navigate tunnels filled with thousands of silverside sardines. Offshore pinnacles such as the Black Hills showcase dense coral covers. Favorite wrecks include the Odyssey, El Aquadilla, Haliburton and Jado Trader. Cara a Cara puts you face-to-face with gray reef sharks. Water temperatures have moderate seasonal variations between 78 and 83 degrees.

What to Pack for Diving in Honduras

A skin suit to 3mm full suit. If visiting in winter, add a cover-up for days with north winds. Bring a light not only for night dives but also to illuminate crevices during the day.

Specials

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Anthonys Key Resort

ROATAN WINTER EARLY BIRD DIVE SPECIAL includes 7-night Hill Superior Room accommodations, 20 boat dives (6 days of 3-tank boat dives, 2 1-tank night boat dives), buoyancy control workshop, breakfast, lunch, and dinner daily (dinner on arrival day through breakfast on departure day), airport transfers, free WiFi, welcome island cocktail & orientation, beach day excursion to Maya Key, Island Fiesta Night on the key, kayaks, stand up paddle boards, fresh water pool, taxes, and service charges. Saturday arrivals preferred/possibly required during peak season

Valid for travel 12/2/23-12/23/23 & 1/6/24-2/3/24. Rates from $1,960 per person, double diver.
Valid for travel 12/23/23-1/6/24. Rates from $2,369 per person, double diver.

Book by 10/31/23.
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Rates from $1,960 per person double diver

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Paradise Beach Hotels and Resorts

ROATAN HONDURAS PARADISE DIVE PACKAGE 7 night’s accommodations, 5 days 3 tank boat dives, unlimited, unguided beach dives, 1 night dive with Paradise Beach Divers. Buffet breakfast daily, free WiFi, airport/ferry transfers, and taxes.

Valid through 12/31/23.
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From $1,784 per person double diver

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Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort

ROATÁN - TURQUOISE BAY DIVE PACKAGE includes 7 night garden view accommodations, 3-tank daily boat dives including 1 night boat dive, breakfast, lunch and dinner daily including unlimited alcoholic and non- alcoholic beverages (excl premium brands), use of kayaks/paddleboards, horseback riding, free WiFi access, roundtrip airport transfers, hotel tax and service charges.

Valid 8/7/23-12/24/23.
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From $1,546 per person double diver

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Packages

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ROATAN - DIVE PACKAGE includes 7-night Sea View Room accommodations, 6 days of 2-tank boat, daily all American breakfast, lunch and dinner, welcome cocktail or freshly brewed beer. Free WiFi, farm to table garden tour, exotic plant tour, brewery & distillery tour, use of kayaks, paddle boards, access to Latin Dance Class and after party at no charge.

Caradonna guests preferred pricing (paid on site) on beer, spirit, cheese and jam tastings, cocktail mating workshops, boat charter trips (snorkeling or fishing), yoga, pilates, personal trainers, and more!

Book Now or Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 or sales@caradonna for additional information.
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Paradise Beach Hotels and Resorts

ROATAN HONDURAS DIVE PACKAGE 7 night’s accommodations, 5 days 3 tank boat dives, unlimited, unguided beach dives, 1 night dive with Paradise Beach Divers. All meals including buffet breakfast, lunch, dinner daily, snacks, alcohol and non-alcohol drinks, free WiFi, airport/ferry transfers, and taxes.
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Anthonys Key Resort

ROATAN - DIVE PACKAGE includes 7-night Standard Room accommodations, 20 boat dives (6 days of 3-tank boat dives, 2 1-tank night boat dives), buoyancy control workshop, all meals, welcome island cocktail & orientation, admission to Roatan Museum, day excursion to Maya Key, Island Fiesta Night on the key, kayaking, stand up paddle boarding. Saturday arrivals preferred/possibly required during peak season.

Saturday arrivals preferred and possibly required during peak travel.
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Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort

ROATÁN - DIVE PACKAGE includes 7 night gardenview accommodations, 3-tank daily boat dives including 1 night boat dive, breakfast, lunch and dinner daily including unlimited alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages (excl premium brands), use of kayaks/paddleboards, horseback riding, free WiFi access, roundtrip airport transfers, hotel tax and service charges.
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Resorts

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ROATAN With its unmatched dive adventures, luxurious amenities, and impeccable service, The Resort at Marble Hill is the epitome of an unforgettable escape. Experience the essence of tropical luxury at The Resort at Marble Hill, located in breathtaking Roatan, Bay Islands. A premier destination for discerning travelers, our boutique adults-only Resort offers a true retreat for diving enthusiasts.
Created by an avid diver for divers, the Resort provides direct access to the Mesoamerican Reef, an extraordinary underwater paradise. Our 5-Star PADI dive shop is fully equipped with state-of-the-art gear, experienced instructors, and boats. More than 30 dive adventures are available, and the Resort offers a diverse range of dive packages to suit every diver's preference. From thrilling wall dives to hidden underwater caves, an abundance of new experiences awaits.
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Paradise Beach Hotels and Resorts

ROATAN Located in the Village of West Bay Beach, Roatan. Paradise, with crystal-clear waters and white sand, scuba diving, unforgettable sunsets, parties, and activities full of life and passion. Spacious, modern, and each room offers a terrace with spectacular views of the garden. Choice of restaurants with a mix of International and Caribbean cuisine. The perfect Caribbean experience for your next vacation! Perfect accommodations a cozy paradise. Customize your stay and discover all the activities while enjoying life in a tropical environment.
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Infinity Bay Spa and Beach Resort

ROATÁN - Beachfront Resort offering well-appointed accommodations and amenities on Roatán’s award-winning West Bay Beach, one of the top 10 beaches in the world. An upscale beach property featuring a 300-foot long infinity pool—the largest on the island—stretching down a white sand beach. Bordering the pool are swaying palms and 145 spacious Spanish style villas, balconies overlook the pool, exotic gardens and turquoise water. Underwater adventures abound with the world’s second largest barrier reef less than 50 feet from shore. When you’re in need of refreshment out of the water, the restaurant and beach bar combine first class service and taste for extraordinary dining experiences. All-inclusive and breakfast only options.

Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.

Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 for additional information.
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Mayan Princess Beach & Dive Resort

ROATAN - All-inclusive resort paradise for divers, snorkelers and beach lovers, located on West Bay Beach offering a spectacular setting for your vacation getaway with four restaurants and top shelf liquor. Luxury one and two-bedroom villas with full kitchens plus deluxe hotel rooms, all with spacious interiors. PADI 5-Star dive center offering smaller boats with fruit boats onboard and personalized service. One of the last great Caribbean destinations, Roatan offers the ultimate access to the world's second largest barrier reef system.

Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.

Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 for additional information.
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Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort

ROATAN - All Inclusive, exclusive resort with unlimited domestic alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks. Valet diving with daily gear care, fresh fruits onboard. PADI 5-Star IDC resort. Over the water day bungalows available during afternoons. Where you come to unwind and get away from it all. Boasting one of Roatan’s only completely private beaches; 500 feet of pristine white sand shores just for you. Pol table, board games, kayak, stand up paddle boards, horseback riding plus botanical tour.

Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.

Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 for additional information.
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Anthonys Key Resort

ROATAN - Located on a private island just off the coast of Roatan offering dive vacations on the world’s second largest barrier reef. Three dives per day, two-night dives weekly plus shore diving. Bungalows with large shaded decks (some air-conditioned), swimming pool, adventure activities, kayaking, dolphin encounters, and much more. Resort Prefers Saturday Arrivals especially during “high/peak travel season”.

Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.

Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 for additional information.
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Cabanas on Clarks Cay

GUANAJA - All-Inclusive private island getaway located in Guanaja on 4-acre island oasis that offers incredible seascapes, an infinity pool with a lazy river, including a waterfall! Twenty guests max in a combination of Standard, One-Bedroom and Two-Bedroom Cabaña’s. All Air conditioned with wrap around porches. PADI dive partner offering concierge dive services on 3 roomy dive boats. Divers will enjoy Guanaja’s coral reef system featuring dives on pinnacles, vertical walls, lava tunnels, and wrecks. Concierge dive services provided by Clark’s Cay and a low diver-to-dive master ratio, guarantee a relaxed experience on each of your three daily dives. Air Travel scheduled on day other than Saturday, will likely require an overnight in Roatan.

Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.

Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 for additional info.
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Villa on Dunbar Rock

GUANAJA - All-Inclusive Villa perched on a cay with 360° views of Sandy Bay, Guanaja and surrounding cays, this unique all-inclusive resort blends beauty and serenity in a laid-back, inviting atmosphere. Comfortable dive boats depart for rarely visited sites at 8:30 am for morning 2-tank dives, returning for lunch with the afternoon or evening dive following. Prepare to be spoiled by the eager and earnest staff at Dunbar Rock. Amenities include an infinity pool, pool bar, pool table, cardio/massage room, kayaks and SUP’s and beach.

Optional add-ons for Watersports Activities and Topside Activities available in the shopping cart after room category is selected.

Contact Caradonna Adventures at 800.328.2288 for additional information.
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Liveaboards

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Roatan Aggressor

LIVEABOARD - The Roatan Aggressor offers guests the best diving in the Bay Islands of Honduras. Guests will depart from Roatan and continue the itinerary to include Utila, Cayos Cochinos and the remote Sea Mounts. Dive sites will include Mary's Place in Roatan, the remote Cocos Sea Mount, Black Hills in Utila where guests will see schools of Creole Wrasse, Atlantic Spadefish, Horse-eye Jacks and Toon Town off of Cayos Cochinos which is jam-packed with big clumps of bluebell tunicates, small crabs, flamingo tongue cowries and many more unique critters. Available for 7 and 10 night itineraries.
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Diving in Honduras

The three primary members of the Bay Islands group—Guanaja, Roatan and Utila, run in a roughly east-west line with deep waters of the Continental Shelf to the north, and the coast of Honduras some 20 to 30 miles to the south and west. With more than 300 named dive sites to choose from, divers have a seemingly overwhelming number of options. By looking at the big picture, it's possible to gain a basic understanding of what to expect. All three islands share similar underwater topographies, with minor variations in diversity. In general, their northern coasts are flanked by walls that begin at depths of 30 to 40 feet and drop to depths of more than a half mile. This area marks the southern end of the Great Mesoamerican reef system. On Guanaja and Roatan this drop begins a quarter to half a mile from shore, with shallow lagoons in between. On Utila, the walls come closer to shore. These walls are often riddled with swim-throughs, pinnacles and caverns, perhaps carved when sea levels were lower during the last ice age. These formations become more pronounced as you move east, with Guanaja having some of the most dramatic underwater terrains. The Bay Islands sustain some of the highest marine biodiversity in the Caribbean. Healthy hard and soft coral growths support a range of marine life along the walls, while their proximity to open water means an increased chance of sighting passing pelagics such as sharks, dolphin and rays. Utila is also known for the seasonal sightings of whales sharks, and dive operators will sometimes use surface intervals to head into deeper water in hopes of a bonus encounter. The island's southern shores are typified by gentle to moderate slopes that begin close to shore, then become steeper and sometimes vertical as they drop to depths of 100 to 150 feet to meet the coastal plain that extends to the mainland. Southern sites can be calmer, as they are not exposed to seasonal north winds, but don't always display the same stellar clarity. This is most noticed in summer and fall when rains swell mainland rivers and push nutrient-dense waters out from the coast. One benefit of this seasonal flow is the prolific soft coral and sponge growth that is characteristic of south-shore sites. On deeper sections of the slope, giant barrel sponges can grow to person size, and sea fans stretch broader than arms width. These reefs support a wide range of Caribbean reef fish, from grunts to groupers, damselfish, spotted drums, pufferfish, trunkfish, creole wrasse and parrotfish, plus smaller finds such as seahorses, cleaner shrimp and a range of invertebrates. The coastal plateau beyond the islands contains a number of pinnacles and seamounts that rise to support colonies of coral and sponges. Day trips from Roatan also bring divers to the small islands of the Cayos Cochinos, which sit within a marine park, and offer some of the most pristine dive sites in the region.

Passport and/or Visa Requirements

Entry Requirements: All U.S. citizens are required to present a valid passport. The passport must be valid for 6 months beyond your date of entry into Honduras. Proof of onward or return ticket is required. No visa is required. Exit Requirements: Effective Feb 15, 2015, all persons leaving Honduras pay an International Departure tax of approx $32 U.S. and $13 U.S. which should be included in your international airline ticket taxes.

Immunizations

Vaccinations are not required for entry into Honduras. Check with your doctor and the Centers for Disease Control on recommended vaccinations for travel at cdc.gov.

Culture and Customs

While the Bay Islands are similar below the waterline, they offer distinctly different personalities above. Guanaja is a land removed, where small dive lodges perch on wooded slopes and boats are a primary means of transportation—the island has only one road. Some ten miles to the west, Roatan offers a far more developed take on island life, with first-class resorts and a well-developed dive and tourism infrastructure. The island's west end is the center of nightlife, with waterfront eateries and lively bars. A few miles to the west, the island of Utila is the hippie stepchild, where divers and backpackers mingle in open-air beach bars. The islands have a colorful history. They were a haven for French, English and Dutch pirates, who ventured forth to launch raids of Spanish treasure galleons. Spanish and British colonists made several unsuccessful attempts at colonization and fought one another for possession. The islands became a refuge for black Caribes—mixed descendants of African slaves and Arawak Indians—who were forcefully displaced from the eastern Caribbean by the British. This exodus became the foundation of the Garifuna culture, which still features prominently in island traditions of song, dance and language. Equally influential are the English-speaking settlers who arrived from the Cayman Islands. Today, the population is a convivial mix of Aboriginal, Spanish and English cultures, with international accents from travelers who come from around the globe to swim in bright Caribbean waters or explore the treasures below.

Electricity, Phone and Internet Access

Electricity in Honduras is 110 volts, 60 cycles, the same as in the United States. Some outlets are 2 prongs, so you may need an adapter for any items that require a 3 prong plug. The country code for Honduras is 504. Check with your cell phone provider for international data and cell service plans and costs. WiFi is available at many resorts.

Water Quality

Many hotels offer purified water, but bottled water is recommended for drinking and brushing teeth.

Language & Currency

Spanish is the official language, known as Honduran Spanish which is similar to that of Nicaragua and El Salvador, however, English is widely spoken. The local currency is the Lempira (HNL or locally referred to as LPs) but U.S. dollars and major credit cards are accepted in most places. Check the currency rate here.

Time

Honduras is on Central Standard Time which is 6 hours behind Greenwich Mean Time (-6 GMT). Honduras does not observe Daylight Savings Time.

Location, Size and Population

Honduras is situated in the north-central part of Central America. It has a Caribbean and a Pacific Coastline. To the west is Guatemala, to the South is El Salvador and to the East is Nicaragua. Honduras is the second largest country in Central America, over 43,000 square miles. The main capital is Tegucigalpa. Some of our featured destinations include islands located off mainland Honduras known as the Bay Islands, including Roatan (approx. 32 square miles), Guanaja (19.31 square miles) and Utila (17.37 square miles).

The population of Honduras is just over 8 Million, with close to 65,000 living in Roatan, 4,160 living in Utila (2015), and 5,538 living in Guanaja (2015).

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