Where to Stay in Roatán, Honduras: Area Guide & Top Hotels for Every Budget

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In this guide I’ll explain the difference about the two locations and show you the best places to stay for every budget whether you end up choosing West End or west Bay.

Can you only stay in West End or West Bay?

Roatán is a much bigger island than one might think and there are smaller and bigger towns scattered around pretty much the whole island. So no, there are other places you can choose to locate yourself, like the areas around Coxen Hole or Pristine Bay. However, they are much more secluded. If you want a variety of places to stay, different restaurants and bars as well as the best beaches on Roatán, either West End or West Bay is your best bet!

So what are the difference between the two places?

West Bay - Beach Bliss, Snorkeling, and Resort Comfort

West Bay is where you’ll find that postcard-perfect beach that Roatán is famous for. West Bay beach is a long stretched beach with white sand, calm turquoise water, and easy access to snorkeling right off the shore. It definitely feels a bit more polished than its neighbor West End, and prices on accommodation do reflect that.

This part of Roatán is full of luxury resorts and hotels as well as more restaurants than you could ever have time to try. However, if you’re looking for a party scene I would head over to West End instead. West Bay is definitely more calm and has more upscale travelers looking for a place to relax than West End does.

One negative aspect of West Bay is that this is the area most cruise tourists will come to spend their day on the beach. Meaning that on days where there is one, or often multiple cruise ships in port, this beach gets really crowded!

West End - Laid-Back, Quirky, and Budget-Friendly

West End is like the barefoot boho cousin of West Bay. It’s full of colorful buildings, cozy beach bars and the kind of place where flip-flops are formalwear. It definitely has a more relaxed feeling than West Bay. This is also reflected in its price both when it comes to accommodations and food. However, don’t get me wrong, it‘s still Roatán so it‘s not cheap!

This is also a more popular area for divers, so if that’s your thing than this might be a better fit for you. Also if you’re backpacking through Central America you will definitely find more fellow backpackers here. West End is also more famous for its nightlife, though I didn’t really test it out so I can’t give you any personal reviews on that front.

Even though it doesn’t have the most famous beach in Roatan I still think the beaches here were pretty amazing. Especially if you like less crowds and a relaxed vibe. We even had a a stunning beach all to ourselves at some points.

On the days there are cruise ships in port you will notice it here too, but not as much as in West Bay.

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My Favorite Hotels in West End

Even though West End is an area leaning more towards backpackers and budget travelers, it sure has something to offer everyone. Below are some of my favorite places to stay in West End.

Budget Friendly Hotel Options in West End, Roatàn

Hotel Chillies ($40 per night)

Located right on Half Moon Bay, Hotel Chillies offers budget travelers both dorm beds and private wooden cabanas in lush garden surroundings. The onsite Native Sons dive shop makes it a favorite among divers, and the shared kitchen, cozy cafe, and social vibe make it feel like a home-away-from-home.

Sea Breeze In ($55 per night)

Sea Breeze In is right on the main strip, just steps from the beach and all the restaurants. The rooms have A/C, some have sea views, and it’s a solid value for the price. The owner is super helpful, too!

Mr. Tucan Hotel ($90 per night)

Tucked slightly off the main strip, Mr. Tucan offers air-conditioned rooms and quiet gardens, making it a restful option for travelers wanting affordability without sacrificing cleanliness and convenience.

Mid-Range Hotel Options in West End, Roatàn

Lands End ($100 per night)

Perched on the water’s edge, Lands End offers rustic wooden cabins surrounded by lush tropical gardens. It’s a quieter choice in West End, yet just minutes from the action, and offers a serene retreat after a day of diving or snorkeling.

Splash In Dive Resort & Villas ($80 per night)

This budget-friendly hotel features simple, clean rooms and a relaxing pool area. With an onsite PADI dive center and friendly staff, Splash In is ideal for divers and backpackers looking for reliable comfort just steps from the beach.

Cocolobo resort ($140 per night)

Garden cabanas, a beautiful pool, and a peaceful vibe make Cocolobo a favorite for couples and travelers seeking mid-range comfort. It’s still a short walk to Half Moon Bay and the local restaurants.

Luxury Hotel Options in West End, Roatàn

The Beach House Boutique Hotel ($290 per night)

This place is a hidden gem! Located right on the water at Half Moon Bay, The Beach House has spacious suites with balconies, dreamy views, and a stylish Caribbean design. Prices hover around $250–300 per night, but it’s totally worth it if you want charm without full-blown resort vibes.

Seagrape Plantation Resort ($120 per night)

More boutique than resort, Seagrape has lush grounds, ocean-view villas, and an on-site dive center. It’s a peaceful option between West End and West Bay and offers quality service and tropical charm.

Paradise Beach Hotel & Resort ($230 per night)

A beachfront property with spacious rooms, a pool, and onsite dining, Paradise Beach offers resort-style amenities with local charm. A great fit for travelers who want a larger property without moving into big resort territory.

My Favorite Hotels in West Bay

Even though West Bay is on the pricier side, you will be able to find accommodations for every budget here as well! Below are my favorite accommodation options in West Bay.

Budget Friendly Hotel Options in West Bay, Roatàn

West Bay Colonial ($80 per night)

Just a short walk from the beach, West Bay Colonial is clean, quiet, and surprisingly affordable for the area. Rooms are simple but air-conditioned, and you’re close to all the beach bars and restaurants. Prices start around $60–70 per night which is an amazing deal for West Bay.

Las Rocas Resort ($85 per night)

Set directly on the reef, Las Rocas offers casual resort living with excellent diving packages. It feels secluded yet is only a short walk from the main beach strip. This is ideal for aquatic adventurers.

Mid-Range Hotel options in West Bay, Roatàn

Bananarama Dive & Beach Resort ($150 per night)

Families and divers love Bananarama for its relaxed beachfront setting, included breakfast, and dive shop convenience. Every room is just a quick walk from the sand and the snorkeling reef.

La Placita In ($150 per night)

Tucked among tropical gardens, La Placita is peaceful yet walkable to West Bay Beach and shoreline dining. The boutique décor and personal service make it a standout for value and comfort.

Naboo Resort ($250 per night)

Perfect for couples seeking tranquility, Naboo offers direct beach access, quiet luxury, and personalized service. Morning snorkeling from the dock and afternoon cocktails by the sea make it a favorite with adults.

Luxury Hotel Options in West Bay, Roatàn

Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort ($500 per night)

If you’re ready to splurge, this is the place. Grand Roatán sits right at the tip of West Bay Beach and offers elegant suites, an infinity pool, and one of the best snorkeling spots just steps from your room.

Inifinity Bay Spa & Beach Resort ($300 per night)

One of the most popular resorts in West Bay, Infinity Bay offers spacious villas with full kitchens, a massive pool with ocean views, an onsite spa, casino, and even dive shop services. Day guests sometimes visit, but the beach remains gorgeous and inviting.

So… West End or West Bay?

Here’s my two cents:

• Choose West End if you want to meet people, dive, enjoy cheap eats, and explore local culture. Great for solo travelers, backpackers, and digital nomads.
• Choose West Bay if you’re here for the beach, the sea, and total relaxation. Best for couples, families, or anyone who just wants to float and forget the world.
• If you want both worlds, split your stay between West End (social and fun) and West Bay (relaxation and water access).
• Avoid cruise‑ship days at West Bay if you’re looking for peace—here’s a cruise schedule.

Whether it’s diving, sunsets, or laid-back island hangs you want, Roatán has the perfect place to stay waiting for you. Whichever area you choose, you’re in for endless Caribbean charm under the palms. However, my personal favorite is West End.

I hope this guide helps you pick which area to stay in and a hotel that fits your budget and vibe!

If you have any questions about traveling to Roatán or Honduras in general, don’t hesitate to reach out to me on social media. I would love to connect and help out!

-Ingrid