How to Get to Honduras and the Bay Islands
Flying into Roatan (RTB)
Roatan international airport, code RTB, sits just outside Coxen Hole on the south side of the island. It receives direct seasonal flights from several US hubs such as Houston, Miami and Atlanta, plus connections through San Pedro Sula on domestic carriers. The terminal is small and clearing immigration is usually quick. From the airport it is a 15 to 20 minute taxi to West End and about 25 minutes to West Bay, the two main beach bases. Agree the taxi fare before getting in, as rides are not metered.
The Ferry from La Ceiba
If you fly into the mainland or want to island hop, the ferry is the classic route. Boats leave from the ferry terminal in La Ceiba, on the north coast of Honduras. The crossing to Roatan takes about 75 minutes and the one to Utila about 60 minutes, with daily morning and afternoon sailings. The Caribbean can get choppy in the afternoon, so the morning departure is the smoother ride. Book ahead in high season and arrive at least 45 minutes early. There is a separate cabin class with air conditioning for a small extra fee.
Arriving by Cruise Ship
Roatan is a major western Caribbean cruise stop. Ships dock at one of two ports. Mahogany Bay is a purpose-built terminal on the south coast with its own beach and shops, and the central cruise terminal sits beside Coxen Hole near the town. From either pier, taxis and pre-booked tour vans reach West Bay Beach, the reef snorkel sites and the sloth and monkey sanctuary within 20 to 40 minutes. Because your time ashore is limited, booking a tour in advance is the safest way to see the island and return before the all-aboard call.
Getting to Copan and the Mainland
To visit the Copan Maya ruins you fly into San Pedro Sula international airport (SAP), the main gateway in northern Honduras. From there it is a scenic 3 to 3.5 hour drive west to the town of Copan Ruinas, by rental car, private transfer or comfortable tourist shuttle. Shuttles also link Copan with the Guatemalan town of Antigua across the border. For the north-coast adventures around La Ceiba and Pico Bonito, San Pedro Sula is again the closest hub, with a roughly 3 hour drive east along the coast.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which airport do I use for Roatan?
Fly into Roatan international airport, code RTB, near Coxen Hole. It has direct seasonal flights from US hubs and domestic connections via San Pedro Sula. West End is a 15 to 20 minute taxi away.
How long is the ferry from La Ceiba to Roatan?
The fast ferry from La Ceiba to Roatan takes about 75 minutes, and to Utila about 60 minutes, with daily morning and afternoon sailings. Morning crossings are usually calmer than afternoon ones.
How do I get to Copan ruins?
Fly into San Pedro Sula (SAP), then drive or take a tourist shuttle about 3 to 3.5 hours west to Copan Ruinas town. Shuttles also connect Copan with Antigua in Guatemala across the border.