Essentially a long, forested ridge rising from the Caribbean, Roatan retains much of the original landscape that the Buccaneers knew in the 17th and 18th Century. There are several towns around the island, each offering their own unique character to visitors. Following is a list of some recommended destinations and their culinary offerings:

To the East of the Villas

Oak Ridge – Travelling east on the main road from the Villas, scenic Oak Ridge is on the southern shore. It boasts a strong Afro-Antillean heritage. Most homes are right on the water, and locals operate water taxis, offering highly recommended tours through the mangroves. B.J.’s is a very rustic local bar that’s great for light lunch and a beer. Take the right fork at the entrance to Oak Ridge and follow it down and around. B.J.’s is in front of Bodden’s Supermarket on the water.

Punta Gorda: There are two roads down into Punta Gorda – just to the East of the Villas. The first Garifuna settlement, established in 1797. This event is celebrated annually on November 12th with a celebratory carnival that should be high on your list should you be visiting during that time. Socrifice Restaurant is on the waterfront in Punta Gorda. Very local food like deep fried lobster. A good lunch suggestion.

• Continue East past Oak Ridge to the sign to East End Beaches and follow the dirt road to The Crow’s Nest, at Marble Hills Farms. They have a lovely sunset view and are open for dinner >and drinks Wednesday – Saturday.Tropical Island Divers, located at Marble Hill Farms, offers a full range of dive courses from a “Discover Scuba” afternoon through to Divemaster training.

• Paya Bay, clothing optional: Look for the sign to Paya Bay about 10 minutes after Marble Hills Farms- Paya Bay resort sits on a bluff in the center of two beautiful white sand beaches. Their restaurant is on a deck overlooking the beaches and the sea. Take your swim suits and take a dip on one of the scenic, uncrowded beaches. Paya Bay also has clothing optional areas.

• Camp Bay – Check out the Camp Bay Beach Adventure Lodge restaurant and their variety of island tours and activities. Beautiful public beach.

To the West of the Villas

French Harbour – Located 20 minutes west of the Villas. A bustling community, with many banks. A well-stocked market, a clinic, pharmacy. Just East of town is Arch’s Iguana Farm, where a local has set up his own iguana reserve. Stop by around noon to view mealtime for the inhabitants. There are also several restaurants located in French Harbour.

• About 10 minutes from the Villas as you head west towards French Harbour is Cal’s Cantina, great place for lunch or dinner. open Tues thru Friday only.

• Just before you reach town on the right hand side is Pineapple Villas. Herby’’s Sports Bar is open for Lunch & Dinner.  The Pineapple Grill is open for Breakfast and Dinner. American and Tipico breakfast, omlettes, etc. Dinner, steak, seafood, full bar. Outside or inside dining.

• Supermarket: In French Harbor, turn left at the juntion and go about 100 yards, Eldon’s supermarket is on the right.

• Banks: On the right hand side of the road just past French Harbour is the Mall. It has four banks with ATMs and Big House Burger, typical food, very good.

• Just west of the French Harbour junction on the main road on the left hand side are the Chinese Kitchen.