Roatan is the largest of the Bay Islands north of Honduras. It is approximately 32 miles long and a little over two miles wide. The island 1s divided into two separate municipalities, Santos Guardiola the east and Roatan Municipality in the west. Our operation is home-based in Calabash Bight, a bit east of Oak Ridge.
History
In 1502, Christopher Columbus landed on Roatán during his fourth and final voyage to the Americas. He named the island “Isla de los Pinos” (Island of Pines) due to the abundance of pine trees on the island. However, the island’s name was later changed to Roatán, which is thought to have come from the Paya word “Roatán,” meaning “water of the sun.”
In the 16th and 17th centuries, Roatán was a popular stop for pirates and privateers, who used the island as a base for their operations. The island was also a popular destination for English and Dutch loggers, who harvested the island’s pine trees for use in shipbuilding.
In the 18th century, Roatán became an important center for the African slave trade. The island was used as a holding and processing center for enslaved Africans, who were then transported to the mainland to work on the sugar plantations. This period of history has had a significant impact on the island’s culture and population, as many of the island’s residents today are of Afro-Caribbean descent.
In the 19th century, Roatán was ceded to Honduras by the British, and the island became an important center for the export of mahogany and other tropical hardwoods. The island’s economy also grew through the production of coconut oil and cocoa.
The 20th century brought world-wide recognition for the island’s laid-back feeling, lush environment, great beaches, and diverse activities, including freshly-discovered fly fishing for permit, bonefish, juvenile tarpon and other saltwater species.
How to fly to Roatan
Flying to Roatan (RTB) is convenient, with direct flights available from major U.S. cities (Miami, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Denver, Minneapolis) primarily on weekends via American, Delta, and United. October offers the best value, while December is peak season. Flights land at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (RTB).
Most lodging places offer shuttle service to and from the airport. If you’re staying at a place without shuttles, there are a variety of local taxi services:
Tips for Roatan Taxi Services:
Quick Note of Interest
Roatan’s black Iguana
The endangered black Iguanas of Roatan are found in all habitat types across the island includes mangroves, tropical wet forests, and rocky shorelines and urban areas as well. Hunting has reduced their numbers, but they’re still seen in many places. If you travel around the island, keep your eye out for these rare, beautiful lizards.
