Roatan Diving, 10 Things You Need to Know

Many of the same Roatan diving resort staff were still there nine years later—something you almost never see in the Divemaster world. The best part? I ran into Allison, my divemaster from my first trip in 2016. I told him how, back then, I thought he was pranking me on my first-ever night dive with bioluminescence. It seemed too unreal—like some elaborate underwater trick.

But just like before, it was pure magic. We sank to the bottom, formed a circle, and switched off our dive lights. And then—sparkles. Every movement sent golden waves of light cascading through the water, like swimming through liquid stardust. I don’t even have the words to explain how incredible it is.

Roatan dive resorts cater to everyone from beginners to advanced. Whether you’re looking for an all-inclusive experience, a laid-back atmosphere, or easy access to some of the island’s best dive sites, this Roatan scuba diving guide has you covered!

Article Summary

Best All-Inclusive Roatan Diving Resorts
Top Roatan Scuba Diving Sites
Six Pro Tips for Diving Roatan Honduras
Marine Life, Scuba Diving Roatan
The Five Best Things to Do After Diving Roatan, Honduras
Five Incredibly Useful Tips for Diving Roatan
Ten Pro Tips for Visiting Roatan: What to Know for an Easy,
Stress-Free Trip
Taking the Ferry to Go Scuba Diving in Utila
Four Pro Tips for a Smooth Utila Scuba Diving Trip
Scuba Diving Sites in Utila, Honduras
A Few Last Things

Anthony's Key Resort Island Bungalows — Anthony’s Key Resort Island Bungalows

1. Best All-Inclusive Roatan Dive Resorts

David, my divemaster on my most recent trip, recommended spending a week at Anthony’s and a week at CoCo View to experience both sides of the island.

Anthony’s Key Resort (West Bay)

A true Roatán classic, Anthony’s Key Resort has been a diver’s destination for over 50 years. I stayed there as a beginner diver in 2015 and returned in 2024 as an advanced diver.

Anthony’s Key is a laid-back, family-friendly spot with a big focus on scuba diving. Their dive packages are solid and reasonably priced—get on their email list because they run sales often. Most dive packages are Saturday to Saturday and include unlimited shore diving plus three to four boat dives a day.

The on-site Roatán Institute for Marine Sciences is home to the Dolphin Encounter, where you can swim or snorkel with dolphins in a natural lagoon (not a performance show). I splurged on this during my first trip, and I still remember the feeling of being towed through the water by two excited dolphins.

These dolphins aren’t forced to perform—every interaction is based on their comfort. Back in 2016, they used to offer open-water dives with the dolphins, but the program was canceled when the dolphins stopped wanting to participate. That’s the kind of respect they show here.

The resort also hosts an African Night—think drumming, dancing, and food inspired by Roatán’s Afro-Caribbean culture. Also included is an afternoon barbeque lunch trip to Maya Key, a private island with a beach, an animal sanctuary, and a replica Mayan ruin. It’s a fun half-day activity.

I’ve stayed in both the overwater bungalows and the hillside rooms. The bungalows are a boat ride from the main resort and have very inviting hammocks over the water (especially after 3 dives). The hillside rooms are usually cheaper, and I loved the view—but be ready for a climb. I counted 75 stairs from the bottom to my room.

It’s also a great choice for families, with kids camps, snorkeling, paddleboarding, and a safe vibe.

The resort was recently renovated and has a beautiful new dining room. I liked the food better the first time (I found the food a little overcooked this time), but I’m not picky and can always find something good to eat.

CoCo View Resort (South Side)

This is where I will stay on my next scuba diving Roatan trip. CoCo View Resort is a Roatán favorite for intermediate and advanced divers. It’s located on the island’s quieter, less touristy south side.

The resort sits on its little peninsula, and you can gear up and drop into the water right from shore. Their house reef includes two walls and a sunken 140-foot wreck (the Prince Albert), just a short swim away.

The dive schedule is two daily boat trips; both are guided dives. On top of that, you get unlimited shore diving anytime you want.

CoCo View’s boats are unique—originally built for the U.S. Navy and customized for divers. They have a mid-ship cutout so you can step right into the boat’s center from the water instead of climbing up the back ladder, which is especially nice since the currents are rougher on this side of the island.

Accommodation includes oceanfront rooms, overwater bungalows, and cabanas. Everything’s designed with divers in mind, from the drying racks to the gear stations. If your trip is mostly about diving, this place makes it super easy to maximize your time underwater.

Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort (Northeast End)

Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort is on the northeast side of Roatan. It’s away from the busier West End, so the vibe is quiet and relaxed. This is a solid option if you’re looking to dive and chill without the crowds.

The resort has a private beach with calm water, and food, drinks, and diving are all included. There’s also a pool, beach bar, and some other simple activities, but the main focus here is really just slowing down.

Diving is run through Subway Watersports, the on-site dive shop. Since it’s not near the busy West End, you’ll get access to reefs that don’t see much traffic. You won’t be sharing sites or mooring lines with other boats, which makes the dives feel more private.

They run three boat dives a day and offer unlimited shore diving. The groups are small, and the dive crew is helpful and laid-back, which makes for an easy, comfortable dive experience.

Which Resort is Right for You?

For an all-inclusive, classic Roatan dive experience, go with Anthony’s Key Resort.
For more advanced diving and a shore diving house reef, Coco View Resort is your best bet.
For a peaceful, way-off-the-beaten-path getaway, Turquoise Bay Dive & Beach Resort offers seclusion and less crowded diving.

2. Top Roatan Scuba Diving Sites

Roatan’s west side is known for calm water, lively reefs, and cool swim-throughs—it’s also where most of the tourist action is. The south side has more dramatic walls and great macro life, but conditions can be rougher. The northeast side is more remote and has less-crowded dive sites.

Mary’s Place – The Iconic Dive (South side)

This site is famous for its deep crevices and swim-throughs, formed by ancient volcanic activity. Picture towering coral-covered walls so close together you feel like you’re gliding through an underwater canyon.

Spooky Channel – Otherworldly and Eerie (Northwest side, near Sandy Bay)

The name says it all! This site combines adventure and mystery with a deep underwater channel cutting through the reef. The light from above creates a strange ethereal glow; this is a unique atmospheric dive.

Hole in the Wall (North side, near Mangrove Bight)

If you love dramatic descents, this one’s for you. You’ll drop through a wide opening in the reef into the deep blue and then drift along a stunning wall. It’s common to spot turtles, massive groupers, and a passing eagle ray if you’re lucky.

El Aguila Wreck – Roatan’s Famous Sunken Ship (North side, near Sandy Bay)

Resting at about 110 feet, El Aguila (Spanish for “The Eagle”) is a massive cargo ship intentionally sunk for divers. Over time, the wreck has become a thriving artificial reef, home to giant groupers, green moray eels, and clouds of silversides. Penetration opportunities make this popular for wreck-diving.

Blue Channel (West side)

Filled with swim-throughs, tunnels, and coral formations. It’s a favorite for night dives, where octopuses, lobsters, and bioluminescence are put on a dazzling show. The shallow depth makes for long, relaxing dives with lots to explore.

West End Wall – A Vertical Wonderland (West side)

This is a dramatic drop-off dive, starting at about 40 feet. The sheer vertical reef is alive with sponges and gorgonians. Look out, schools of horse-eye jacks flashing silver in the sunlight.

3. Six Pro Tips for Diving Roatan Honduras

1. Try a night dive

The bioluminescence here is next-level magical—think glowing gold glitter swirling with every movement.

2. Keep your eyes peeled for macro life

Roatan’s reefs are crawling with tiny treasures like nudibranchs and cryptic blennies hiding in evices. Thanks to conservation efforts, seahorses have returned to the reefs in recent years
Some of the house reefs in Roatán are really good. Places like CoCo View and Anthony’s Key have easy access and tons to see. Great for a chill afternoon or a night dive.

3. Pack a Surface Marker Buoy

Even with mooring lines, it’s smart to have your own SMB in case you drift or surface away from the group. It’s a small thing that makes a big difference for safety.

4. Bring reef-safe sunscreen and/or a rash guard

The sun is strong out here, and most dive boats lack shade. A rash guard is easy sun protection, and reef-safe sunscreen helps protect the coral, too.]

5. Dive the north, south, and west sides if you can

Each side of the island has a different vibe underwater. The west is calm with swim-throughs, the south has dramatic walls and macro life, and the northeast is quieter with less boat traffic. If you can, try diving in more than one area.

6. Add a quick overnight to scuba dive in Utila, Honduras

If you have the time, hop the ferry to Utila for a night or two. It’s a smaller island with great diving, a more laid-back feel, and the chance to spot whale sharks, especially from February to May, when sightings are more common. It’s an easy way to add something different to your trip.

4. Marine Life, Scuba Diving Roatan

Shadow Hunting – One of the Coolest Things I’ve Seen Underwater

One of my favorite memories from Roatan was watching a grouper and a green moray eel team up to hunt. At first, I thought it was just a weird coincidence. But nope—they were working together.

The grouper swam above the reef, and the eel moved through the cracks below. As the fish tried to escape the eel, the grouper swooped in and grabbed them. It was total teamwork. It felt like I was watching a live episode of a nature documentary right in front of me.

Reef Life

Roatan is located along the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world, which is why its biodiversity is so incredible.

That kind of thing is what makes diving in Roatán so fun. The reef is full of life—schools of wrasse weave through sea fans, cleaner shrimp set up shop on coral heads, and turtles cruise past like it’s no big deal. Moray eels peek out from crevices while parrotfish crunch away at the reef. There’s always something happening if you slow down and watch.

Night dives are a whole other vibe—lobsters and octopuses come out, and you might catch a flash of bioluminescence lighting up the dark. Total magic.

Coral Health: The Good and the Not-So-Good

Roatan’s reefs are still beautiful, but not everything is perfect. Coral diseases have hit parts of the Caribbean hard, and Roatan’s reefs haven’t been immune. Some areas, especially the pillar corals, have taken a big hit.

You’ll still see coral, but in some spots, it’s clear that things are struggling. That said, the island’s conservation efforts are making a difference. Projects are in place to restore damaged reef sections, and signs of recovery are showing up.

The Comeback: Seahorses, Rays, and More

Thanks to local protection efforts, certain species are rebounding. Spotted eagle rays and seahorses are showing up more often. This is a good reminder that while the reef endures a lot, it’s still full of life and worth protecting.

Sharks on Roatán – Where to Spot Them

If you’re hoping to see sharks, head to the east side. It’s deeper, with more current, and bigger marine life tends to hang out there. Caribbean reef sharks and nurse sharks are your best bet.

Nurse sharks are usually chill and are often found resting in the sand. They’re big but mellow—and always fun to spot.

Over on the west side, it’s a little calmer. You won’t see as many sharks, but the coral gardens, fish life, and easy conditions make it a great place to dive, especially if you like macro stuff.

5. The Five Best Things to Do After Diving Roatan, Honduras

Here are my top picks for things to do after a day of diving in Roatan:

1. Visit the Sloth Sanctuary & Take an Island Tour

Holding a sloth had been on my list forever, and Daniel Johnson’s Sloth & Monkey Hangout totally delivered. The sloths are exactly what you’d expect, slow, gentle, and super chill. The monkeys? Not so much. But they’re hilarious. Scarlet macaws and parrots add to the mix.

Afterwards, we ended up with an island tour led by our guide’s mom Karla, and it was honestly one of my favorite moments—personal, low-key, and full of interesting island facts I wouldn’t have heard otherwise. For example, Roatán is not the whole island but technically part of a bigger island chain and shares a landmass with Guanaja. I never would’ve guessed.

2. Delicious Fish & Sunset Views at Ginger’s

Ginger’s Caribbean Grill is a must-stop if you hang around West Bay. A Canadian expat owns it, and it has one of the best views on the island—right on the beach, looking out over the bay.

The seafood is fresh, the drinks are cold, and make sure to grab a bottle of their house-made hot sauce. It’s smokey and delicious — makes a great souvenir.

3. Try the Famous Cinnamon Buns at Sandy Buns

Ask anyone—locals and tourists both rave about the cinnamon buns at Sandy Buns in West End. These things sell out fast, so get there early if you want to see what all the hype is about.

4. Chocolate & Rum Factory Stops

On your way back from the sloths or while cruising the island, make time for stops at the Roatan Chocolate Factory and Roatán Rum Company. Both are small shops with free tastings—locally made stuff that makes great gifts or snacks for the rest of your trip. Try the coconut rum and the frozen hot chocolate.

5. Explore West End’s Bars & Shops

West End is where the island comes alive at night. I love strolling through the little shops —casual, fun, and full of divers swapping stories over drinks.

Christmas Tree Worms, Macro Life in Roatan

6. Five Incredibly Useful Tips for Diving Roatan

After multiple dive trips to Roatan, I’ve picked up some solid tips that can make your experience smoother, safer, and even more magical. Whether it’s your first time or your tenth, these pro tips will help you make the most of your underwater adventures.

1. Book a Scuba Dive Package in Advance

Roatan is one of the most affordable places to dive in the Caribbean, but you can save even more by booking a multi-dive package ahead of time. Most dive shops offer discounts if you commit to a certain number of dives, and you’ll secure your spot during busy seasons.

2. Protect Yourself from Mosquitos and Sand Fleas!

You won’t notice them until it’s too late. The mosquitos and tiny no-see-ums love Roatan’s beaches, and their bites can itch for days. Bring bug spray (with DEET) and apply it before sunset—especially on the West End beaches. I use Off Wipes. They are easy to pack and carry with you.

3. Get Your Gear Ready for Boat Dives

Most diving in Roatan is boat diving, meaning you’ll want:

A dry bag to keep your phone, sunscreen, and other items safe.
A hat and reef-safe sunscreen—the sun is brutal out there.
A reusable water bottle (scuba hack: I attach mine to the railing of the boat with an
XL carabiner clip, I also clip my mask case that holds defogger and my phone)

4. Don’t be “That Diver”- Show Up on Time for Dives

Yes, you are on vacation, but don’t hold up a dive boat because of tardiness. This has happened on several occasions, and a boat of eager people who want to go diving is waiting for you.

5. Respect the Island & Its Locals

Roatan is an incredible place, but it’s also home to a tight-knit local community. Be respectful—support local businesses, learn a little Spanish, and be mindful of how tourism impacts the island. A little kindness and consideration go a long way!

7. Ten Pro Tips for Visiting Roatan: What to Know for an Easy,
Stress-Free Trip

Roatan is an easygoing island, but a little preparation can make your trip even smoother. Here’s everything you need to know about entry requirements, fees, money, transportation, and avoiding common travel hiccups.

1. Passport & Entry Requirements

Most visitors don’t need a visa to enter Honduras, including travelers from the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and the EU.
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date—Honduras is strict about this, and they will turn people away.
You’ll get a 90-day entry stamp upon arrival. If you’re staying longer, you may need to visit an immigration office for an extension.

2. The $40 Exit Fee (Sometimes Included in Your Ticket)

When leaving Roatan, there’s a departure tax of ~$40 USD (exact amount fluctuates slightly).
Many airlines now include this in your ticket price, but check ahead of time so you’re not caught off guard at the airport.

3. Roatan’s Tourism Fee (New Since 2024!)

As of 2024, Roatan now charges a $3 per person per day tourism fee.
Some hotels and resorts include this in your bill, while others require you to pay separately.

4. Cash, Cards & ATMs

The local currency is the Honduran Lempira (HNL), but U.S. dollars are widely accepted.
Bring small bills ($1s, $5s, $10s)—many places won’t take $50 or $100 bills.
Credit cards are accepted in most restaurants and dive shops, but some charge a 3-5% fee for card payments.
ATMs can run out of cash, especially on weekends. It’s best to withdraw money earlier in the week or bring enough cash to last your trip.

5. Getting Around Roatan

There is NO Uber or Lyft in Roatan—your options are taxis, rental cars, scooters, and water taxis.
Taxis don’t have meters, so you must negotiate the price before getting in. Here are some typical one-way fares:
- Airport to West End: ~$25 USD
- Airport to West Bay: ~$30 USD
- West End to West Bay: ~$10–$15 USD
- West End to Coxen Hole: ~$10 USD
You can also hire a taxi for the day to explore the island, which costs around $60–$100 USD, depending on distance and stops.
If you plan to explore beyond West End/West Bay, consider renting a car (~$50–$70/day) or scooter (~$30/day)—just be aware that driving is a bit chaotic!
Water taxis are a fun and scenic way to travel between West End and West Bay. They cost $5 per person each way, and usually don’t run at night.

6. SIM Cards & Wi-Fi

If you need reliable data, get a Claro or Tigo SIM card at the airport or in town.

Many hotels and restaurants offer Wi-Fi, but it can be slow or spotty, especially after storms.

7. Language & Tipping

Spanish is the official language, but most locals in tourist areas speak English.
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. At restaurants, 10% is standard (check your bill—some places include it).
I bring between $50 – $100 cash in one- and five-dollar bills to use for tips. American money is accepted here, preferred actually, for tipping.

8. Pack Bug Spray & Reef-Safe Sunscreen

https://roatan.online/roatan-blog/roatan-water-taxiThe Mosquitos and Sand fleas are no joke—bring bug spray with DEET and apply it in the evenings.
Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect Roatan’s coral reefs – this is sold at scuba shops around the island.

9. Safety & Common Scams

Roatan is one of the safest places in Honduras, but like anywhere, petty theft can happen. Keep an eye on your belongings, especially on the beach.

Be cautious if someone offers you a “too good to be true” deal—especially for tours, taxis, or money exchange.

10. Don’t Drink the Tap Water

Stick to bottled or filtered water—most hotels and restaurants provide it for free.

8. Taking the Ferry to Go Scuba Diving in Utila

If you’re in Roatan and want to add a quick diving trip to Utila, it’s easy to do and worth it. Utila is known for its relaxed atmosphere, popular with backpackers, and offers a chance to see whale sharks (if you’re lucky!). Here’s how to get there without any hassle.

Step 1: Getting to the Ferry Terminal

The ferry to Utila departs from Roatán’s ferry terminal in Dixon Cove, about a 10–15 minute drive from West End or West Bay. If you don’t have a rental car, take a taxi—just agree on the fare before you get in. The ferry to Utila typically leaves at 2:00 PM, but schedules can vary, so it’s best to check the latest times. Arrive at least 45 minutes early to check in and stow your gear.

Step 2: The Ferry Ride (A.K.A. How to Survive the Crossing)

The ferry from Roatán to Utila is a small catamaran called the Utila Dream. The trip takes about an hour and can be bumpy, so take motion sickness medication beforehand if you’re prone to seasickness. The best spot for fresh air and stability is on the back deck, so try to grab a seat there.

Step 3: Arriving in Utila & Getting to Your Dive Shop

Upon arrival in Utila, you’ll dock at the main pier in town. Most dive shops are within walking distance. If your accommodation is farther out, like on the South Shore or near Coral Beach, you might need a tuk-tuk—a small motorized taxi. They’re inexpensive, quick, and a fun way to get around the island.

Step 4: Booking Your Dives

Utila has numerous dive shops catering to both certified divers and those looking to get certified. If you hope to see whale sharks, your best chances are from March to May and September to December. Many dive shops offer trips specifically aimed at spotting them. Even if you don’t see a whale shark, you’ll enjoy excellent wall dives, wrecks, and possibly even encounters with dolphins.

Step 5: Getting Back to Roatan

The ferry from Utila back to Roatán usually departs at 10:20 AM, but schedules can change, so confirm the time in advance. Plan your dives accordingly to ensure you have enough surface interval time before flying, especially if you’re doing multiple deep dives the day before. As always, arrive at the ferry terminal early.

9. Four Pro Tips for a Smooth Utila Scuba Diving Trip

1. Book your ferry tickets online

If you can book your Utila ferry online—this saves you time and guarantees your spot, especially during high season.

2. Bring cash!

Utila is still a cash-heavy island, and while some dive shops take cards, smaller restaurants and transport options may not.

3. Pack light

If you’re just going for a quick dive trip, a small bag with essentials is better than dragging all your gear. Many dive shops have rental equipment if you don’t want to bring your own.

4. Stay the night

Utila has a totally different energy from Roatan—think Caribbean-meets-backpacker-party scene. If you have the time, soak in the local vibe before heading back.

10. Scuba Diving Sites in Utila Honduras

Utila Scuba Diving is famous for its dive sites, with a mix of deep walls, wrecks, caves, and some of the best chances to spot whale sharks in the Caribbean (seasonally and not guaranteed). Here is an overview of some of the most famous Utila dive spots:

Black Hills

This is an underwater seamount teeming with life. It starts around 35 feet and drops to over 100 feet.

The Halliburton Wreck

This intentionally sunk 100-foot cargo ship sits upright at around 100 feet, covered in colorful sponges and home to eels, crabs, and the occasional grouper. The bridge, cargo holds, and even the wheelhouse are fun to explore.

The Maze

A winding reef system full of tunnels, swim-throughs, and coral arches.

Duppy Waters

Known for strong currents and deep drop-offs, this advanced site often delivers big surprises—think sharks, rays, and huge schools of snapper.

Whale Shark Point

Utila is famous for its whale sharks, and while they don’t have a dedicated “whale shark dive”, boats often head to this area to search for them.

11. A Few Last Things

One of my favorite places, Roatan is an incredible dive destination with a terrific “island vibe”. Scuba diving Roatan offers diverse underwater experiences, amazing marine life, plus a vibrant island culture. Whether you’re coming for the reefs, the wrecks, or the sloths, Roatan is unforgettable.

Stay Connected!

Want a sneak peek at what to expect? Check out my videos from Roatan on Instagram and TikTok under @reesehwanderwild or #reesehwandwild.

Bookmark this site, follow my adventures, and let’s keep exploring together.

See you back here soon!

Remember, the best stories happen underwater.