Roatan: West Bay Beach day pass with snorkel & transfers

Summary

Snorkeling, chocolate, and a lazy day at Roatan’s West Bay

You’ll taste local chocolate and rum in Roatan before heading to West Bay Beach for a relaxed day with your own chair and Wi-Fi. Snorkel over bright reefs with a local guide, then unwind under palm trees or try other water sports if you feel like it. It’s an easygoing mix of flavors, sun, and sea you’ll remember long after you rinse off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

I almost missed the turnoff for the chocolate factory — our driver, Luis, just grinned and said, “You’ll smell it before you see it.” He was right. The air got thick with cocoa as soon as we stepped out. I tried a piece that was way darker than I’m used to (my teeth squeaked on it), and then we poked around the rum place next door. The lady behind the counter let us sniff all these little bottles — coconut, coffee, even mango rum. I probably looked like a kid in a candy shop.

After that, it was a winding drive down to West Bay Beach for our Bananarama Beach Resort day pass. The sand here is so pale it almost glows under your feet — not hot though, just soft and cool somehow. There were families everywhere but also this laid-back vibe; some folks napping under palms, others already waist-deep in the water with masks on. Our guide helped us get set up with chairs (Wi-Fi password scrawled on a napkin) and pointed out where to grab lunch if we got hungry later — which I did, but first things first: snorkeling.

The boat ride out to the reef was quick — maybe ten minutes? The captain joked about “not feeding the fish” if you get seasick (I didn’t). Underwater, everything went quiet except for my own bubbles and this clicking sound from the coral. Bright fish zipped past my mask; one of them actually stared back at me for a second before darting off. When we got back to shore I just sat there dripping saltwater onto my towel, watching kids build lopsided sandcastles while someone nearby played old reggae from their phone. It felt like time slowed down for an hour or two.

I didn’t expect to feel so at home in such a busy spot — maybe it was Luis waving every time he passed by or just how everyone seemed happy to share space here. Anyway, if you’re looking for a day trip in Roatan that’s equal parts lazy and lively (with plenty of snacks), this is probably it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Beach Relaxation and Water Activities

• Relax at West Bay Beach
• Snorkel around the reef

Top questions

Is pickup included from my hotel or cruise port?

Yes, round-trip transportation from your hotel or cruise port is included.

Can I use Wi-Fi at Bananarama Beach Resort?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available at the resort.

Are lunch or drinks included in the day pass?

No, lunch is not included but there is a restaurant on the beach where you can buy food.

How long does the snorkeling last?

The guided snorkeling trip lasts about one hour.

Is this excursion suitable for children or people with limited mobility?

Yes, it's wheelchair accessible and infants can ride in strollers.

What else can I do besides snorkeling?

You can try other water activities like jet skiing or kayaking for an extra fee.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip pickup from your hotel or cruise port in Roatan, entry to Bananarama Beach Resort with access to a beach chair, changing room, fresh water shower, free Wi-Fi, plus guided snorkeling around the reef before returning whenever you’re ready.