Roatan's West Bay is home to the Mesoamerican Reef, which is the largest barrier reef in the Western Hemisphere. It comes close enough to shore that you can snorkel to it without a boat. The reef also attracts divers from around the world with its 65 species of coral and 500 species of fish. Resorts in West Bay offer visitors ample opportunities for water sports, as well as a variety of other activities and dining options.
Henry Morgan Resort is a good choice if you're looking for an all-inclusive resort on Roatan. Villas have from one to three bedrooms, and larger units have living rooms, fully equipped kitchens and terraces or balconies. The rustic, cottage-like villas surround a swimming pool that extends to the beach. All-inclusive rates include three meals a day, snacks, and a full activities program including dancing lessons, water sports and nightly shows inside an indoor theater. Other activities at the resort include beach volleyball, scuba diving and snorkeling. The full-service spa has a range of massages and treatments.
Infinity Bay Beach Resort, directly on West Bay Beach, appeals to active travelers, with on-site scooter and bike rentals, a 300-foot infinity pool and a full-service dive shop. The resort also can arrange sailing, horseback riding, scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking and zip-line expeditions. Golfers are welcome at the nearby Black Pearl Golf Course. Accommodations at the resort include one- to three-bedroom condos and studio suites, all of which have views of the pool, gardens or the Caribbean. Select units have fully equipped kitchens and verandas.
If it's pampering you're after, stay at the Mayan Princess, one of Roatan's most luxurious resorts. The property has one- and two-bedroom villas with Egyptian-cotton bedding, bathrobes, fully equipped kitchens and private balconies. Amenities include a pool surrounded by tropical gardens, a kid's club and daily and nightly entertainment. Restaurants feature Latin American, Italian and Caribbean cuisine. Guests can participate in a variety of activities, including diving, snorkeling, kayaking, beach soccer and beach volleyball. The resort has a full-service spa.
For a more rustic experience, stay at Las Rocas Resort and Diving Center, which has one- or two-story bungalows with private porches overlooking the Caribbean. Each porch has a hammock for snoozing or reading. Amenities at the resort include a plunge pool, private dock and dive center. The waterfront restaurant, which specializes in lobster, conch and shrimp, features a mix of Italian and Caribbean cooking. The resort can arrange island tours and horseback rides along the beach.
