Krista M.’s Field Notes from Roatán, Honduras
Courtesy of Krista
Field Notes are firsthand travel recommendations for and by our ECT Clubhouse members. Get the lowdown on destinations across the globe from travelers and locals alike. This week, Krista M. shares her notes from Roatán.
Last December, my husband and I traveled to Roatán, Honduras, for an unforgettable adventure. After extensive research on the best places in Central America to get PADI certified, we landed on Roatán—an island off the coast of Honduras known for its world-class diving, laid-back vibe, and stunning scenery.
When to Visit
If you’re planning a trip, timing is everything. Roatán’s dry season starts after Christmas, making late December to April the best time to visit. We arrived on December 1st (still wet season), and the moment we landed, we were greeted with a torrential downpour. It rained so hard that airline staff handed out umbrellas for us to deboard the tiny TAG Airlines plane. If you want clear skies and calm waters, consider visiting later in the month.
Where to Stay
We chose to stay in West End, a vibrant yet relaxed part of the island known for its dive shops, local eateries, and stunning sunsets. Our Airbnb, a beautiful two-bedroom tucked away from the main strip, was a perfect mix of tranquility and accessibility—just a 5–10 minute walk to everything.
Where to Eat
Pazzo Italian Restaurant – A must for date night! This tiny, no-reservations-over-the-phone spot serves the best homemade pasta. You have to walk in to book a table, and once you’re seated, the table is yours for the night. We paired our BYOB Argentine Malbec with fresh pasta and finished the meal with their unforgettable key lime dessert. The owner, Johnny, has decades of restaurant experience worldwide and made us feel right at home.
Loretta’s Kitchen – A local gem north of West End, where Loretta herself cooks incredible island-style meals. The fish fillet melted in my mouth, and the lobster tails (three for a great price!) came with sides like sweet black beans and homemade lemonade.
Courtesy of Krista
Also included in her notes:
‘The best Baleadas on the island!’
More blogger-approved food recommendations for West End
The place to get PADI certified
Something on Krista’s to-do list next time she’s in Roatán
…And more
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