Roatán: Private Snorkeling, Sloth Park & West Bay Beach Day

Summary

Roatán wildlife encounters and reef snorkeling with relaxed beach time

You’ll meet sloths and monkeys at a peaceful wildlife park before heading to Roatán’s West Bay Beach for a private snorkeling tour over vibrant reefs. Enjoy your own beach chair, fresh-water showers, pool access, and time to relax or explore before easy return transport—leaving you with salt on your skin and maybe a new favorite memory.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to laugh so much with our driver on the way from the cruise port — I think his name was Daniel? He pointed out all these tiny fruit stands along the road, and told us how his grandma makes plantain chips (I wish we’d stopped for some). The air felt thick but sweet, like rain had just passed. When we got to the ecological park, it was quieter than I thought. There were two sloths just sort of hanging there, blinking slowly at us like they had all the time in the world. I actually got to hold one — their fur is rougher than you’d guess, kind of earthy-smelling. My partner tried to talk to a monkey (not recommended), and one of the guides just grinned and shook her head. I liked her energy.

After that, we drove over to West Bay Beach — you can see the water before you even get out of the van, this clear blue that looks fake until you’re standing in it. They gave us wristbands for Henry Morgan Beach Resort (makes everything simple), and I just flopped into my reserved chair for a second before realizing there was WiFi here too. We changed in the shower rooms (clean enough) and then met our snorkeling guide by these little boats bobbing close to shore. Blue Rock is only five minutes away by boat but feels like another world. The reef is wild — flashes of yellow fish everywhere, corals that look almost painted on. I kept fogging up my mask because I couldn’t stop smiling.

Snorkeling lasted about 45 minutes but honestly could’ve been longer — time moves weird underwater. Back on shore, we grabbed something cold from the bar (the bartender made fun of my Spanish but in a nice way), then just sat with our feet in the sand watching families play in the shallows. It’s busy but not loud; people wave at each other here more than back home. When it was finally time to head back, Daniel found us without us even looking for him — he said he always keeps an eye out for “his people.” That stuck with me for some reason.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Roatán private tour and snorkeling

• Private transfer from cruise port
• Visit ecological park to see wildlife
• Relax at West Bay Beach
• Enjoy beachfront restaurant and bar
• Boat to Blue Rock snorkeling spot
• 45-minute guided snorkeling session
• Return to beach for free time
• Transfer back to cruise port

Top questions

Is pickup included from Roatán cruise port or hotels?

Yes, private pickup and drop-off are included from both cruise port and hotels.

How long is the guided snorkeling session?

The snorkeling session lasts about 45 minutes at Blue Rock reef.

Are sloths guaranteed at the wildlife park?

The ecological park features sloths, monkeys, and scarlet macaws that visitors can usually observe up close.

Is lunch included at Henry Morgan Beach Resort?

No set lunch is included, but you have access to the beachfront restaurant and bar where you can purchase food or drinks.

Are beach chairs and showers free with entry?

Yes, your day pass includes reserved beach chairs as well as restroom and fresh-water shower access.

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes, infants can ride in a stroller or pram; families should bring their own infant seat if needed.

Is this Roatán private snorkeling tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, all areas including vehicles are wheelchair accessible according to tour info.

Will there be enough time to return before cruise ship departure?

Your guide ensures timely return well before your ship’s scheduled departure.

What’s included

Your day includes private pickup from your hotel or cruise ship, entry to an ecological park where you’ll meet sloths and monkeys up close, all transfers between stops in a private vehicle with your own guide-driver throughout Roatán, full day pass access at Henry Morgan Beach Resort (with beach chair reservation, showers, restrooms), use of snorkel gear including vest and fins for your 45-minute guided session at Blue Rock reef by boat, plus free WiFi and pool access before returning comfortably to your starting point.