Roatán and the Bay Islands

The Bay Islands, strung off the Caribbean coast of Honduras, are the country's tropical jewel, with Roatan the largest and best known, alongside quieter Utila and Guanaja. Fringed by the great Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest reef system in the world, they are a diving and snorkelling paradise, famous for vibrant coral walls, abundant marine life and, off Utila, the chance to swim with whale sharks. With white-sand beaches, warm turquoise water and a relaxed, English-tinged Caribbean culture, they offer world-class diving at remarkably affordable prices.

What you actually see

• The barrier reef diving - the coral walls and marine life.
• The whale sharks - the seasonal encounters off Utila.
• West Bay Beach - Roatan's white-sand beach and snorkelling.
• The island culture - the laid-back Caribbean island life.

When to go

The islands are good year-round, but the drier, calmest conditions and best visibility tend to run from March to September; whale sharks off Utila are most likely around March to April and August to September. The wetter months and the hurricane season, June to November, can bring storms.

Honest expectations

Roatan has developed considerably, with cruise-ship crowds and resort areas that can feel busy and commercial, so quieter Utila and Guanaja appeal to those seeking a more low-key, backpacker or diver vibe. Some reef areas have suffered damage. For superb, affordable diving on a world-class reef, warm turquoise water and relaxed island living, though, the Bay Islands are a genuine Caribbean treasure.

Nearby

The mainland coast at La Ceiba and Pico Bonito are reached by ferry or flight.