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Pier at Half Moon Bay, one of the more popular dive sites off the coast of Roatán
The island of Roatán, Honduras, is the place to visit if you’re intrigued by exploring shipwrecks, scuba diving, snorkeling among beautiful tropical fish, or just relaxing as you gaze at the sea. Only thirty miles off the northern coast of Honduras, this stunning Caribbean island is at the top of the wish list of places to visit for anyone hoping for an island getaway.
Just thirty-seven miles long by less than five miles wide, Roatán is the largest of Honduras’ Bay Islands. The biggest towns on Roatán are Coxen Hole, French Harbour, West End, and Oak Ridge, and the island’s total population is only about 100,000. Since Roatán is located near the largest barrier reef in the Caribbean Sea—the second largest in the world after Australia’s Great Barrier Reef—this small island is a hotspot for cruise ships and tourists wanting a piece of the scuba-diving action.
Tourists aren’t the only ones who’ve ever wanted a piece of Roatán’s action. The Paya were its first permanent settlers, but pirates, the Garifuna, the Spanish, and the British all wanted control of the island. From the mid-sixteenth century to the early eighteenth century, it was the British and occasionally the Spanish who were most often in control. Roatán officially became part of Honduras in 1859.
Visitors will leave Roatán with fond memories of the wildlife and sea creatures they’ve seen on the island and in its reefs. And if they take a little time to gain a bit of knowledge about the island’s unique history, visitors will have a true appreciation of the island’s diversity. Follow the link below for a slideshow about Roatán.
Explore More:
1. The article mentions that the reef located off the shores of Roatán is the second largest in the world. What do you know about barrier reefs? Have you ever seen one? Do some research to learn more about barrier reefs and the reef that is near Roatán.
2. Roatán is only one of Honduras’ Bay Islands. How many Bay Islands are there? What are the others’ names and where are they located?
Share What You Know:
Have you ever been scuba diving or snorkeling? What was it like? Where were you? Prepare a presentation (in Spanish, if possible) about the experience and present it to the class. If you have pictures, share those with the class as well.