From parks to shopping, Roatan has much to offer away from the waters of the sea

Port Royal National Park

Home to native yellow-nape parrots (photo above) and native Caribbean pines. Port Royal National Park, which is quite small at only 5 square kilometers, is one of the few places where visitors can still see what Roatan was like before colonization. Remember, the Bay Islands — of which Roatan is a part — have endured European colonial influences for more than 500 years. Much of the native flora and fauna are gone, and those that remain are prized. The parrots are threatened, largely by the exotic pet trade. The park is one of the few places birders can visit to see these beautiful birds.

Another feature of the park? Hikers can get out of the heat under the shade of its trees and its elevation. The park, which is located on the south shore Roatan near Santos Guardiola, gets near-constant, cooling breezes from the sea. It’s a great place to visit when it’s hot.

Interested in hiking into the park? Just let us know — we can book your day trip to the park before you even arrive. Then, all you have to do is show up. 

Shopping on Roatan

Have the itch to do a little bargain hunting while you’re on the island? No problem. A taxi ride away from the Villa can put you in the midst of some excellent shopping for Roatan souvenirs and trinkets. Coxen Hole is about 45 minutes from the Villa by car, and, particularly where the cruise ships frequent, Villa guests can find great deals on everything from authentic Roatan arts and crafts to fresh fish pulled directly from the sea. 

But the largest shopping in Roatan is in French Harbor, right in the middle of the island. Here, we boast what’s called the “Mega Plaza,” a collection of stores and shops where visitors can find virtually anything they might to help them remember their adventure to Roatan. From locally crafted clothing for both men and women, to much-needed (but often forgotten) items, like camera memory cards, the Mega Plaza has it all. There are also several restaurants in the Mega Plaza, where you can sample some of the excellent Creole cuisine found on Roatan. 

There are other smaller shopping destinations, too, particularly on the more populated and developed West End, where you’ll find art galleries and the main office of the Roatan Marine Park, where you can get your hands on dive maps and such. 

A zipline adventure

Looking for something a bit more exciting? Roatan offers a couple of zipline adventures that will literally send you flying over the jungle canopy for a thrilling arial ride. From the Villa, it’s an easy taxi ride to one of the zipline outfitters. To make it even easier, we can book it for you and arrange transportation. Then, as is the case for most of the tours and experiences you can take from the Villa, all you need to do is show up at the appointed time.

Final word

There’s lots to do on Roatan, and not all of it involves the clear Caribbean waters. Consider a land-based experience while you visit, and get to know our island for all that it is. Everywhere you go, though, you’ll find welcoming smiles and friendly people. That’s one nice thing about Roatan — when you’re here, we’re happy to see you.