Roatan’s West side is booming with opportunities for people who wish to live directly in – or at the very least close to – all the action. Roatan’s West Side comprises the whole area of Sandy Bay, West End, West Bay, and Flowers Bay…plus all the smaller (but still special!) pockets in between. From secluded hillside homes to happening condos directly on the beach, the neighborhoods of Roatan’s west side have it all.
Sandy Bay
Home to gorgeous golden sand beaches, pockets of protected mangroves, boutique resorts, exclusive neighborhoods, and some of Roatan’s most iconic experiences – like the Dolphin Encounter at Anthony’s Key Resort or the lush, walkable vegetation at Carambola Gardens – that’s Sandy Bay! Sandy Bay can be thought of as the more relaxed “sister” of West End. While still boasting many of the island’s best resorts and amenities, a bigger local population and fewer tourists lend Sandy Bay a quieter, more authentic feel than some of the more popular areas on the west side.
Some of Sandy Bay’s residential areas include:
- Lawson Rock (10 Minutes to West End or Coxen Hole)
A luxury condo steps from the beach or a contemporary home on your own plot of land…whichever you choose, Lawson Rock is the pinnacle of fine living on an island. Aside from 24-hour security, other amenities included in your HOA Fees at Lawson Rock include 2,600 ft of beach front, 3 community pools, 2 docks, an on-site restaurant, and an exercise room!
- Sundancer (10 Minutes to West End or Coxen Hole)
Sundancer is a tranquil community in Sandy Bay that features several standalone beach front or jungle cabanas and condos. The minimal HOA fee includes an on-site manager, security, a community pool, and dock on the beach to enjoy all those unforgettable Roatan sunsets!
- White Rock Hills (10 Minutes to West End or Coxen Hole)
As its name suggests, the private community of White Rock Hills is tucked on a high hill away from the hustle and bustle of the main road. On top of its unbeatable location, this bird watchers paradise offers panoramic views of the jungle, valley, and ocean. Currently there is no HOA in place, however, there is a small monthly fee for maintenance. Similar characteristics apply to the Wesley Heights and Top Ridge neighborhoods located between White Rock Hills and Lawson Rock.
Sandy Bay is perfect no matter if you are searching for beach front luxury, hillside privacy, a stand-alone home, or a community – all at a convenient distance from the action in West End and the necessities in Coxen Hole, as well as close to the Roatan International Airport.
West End
West End Village – this is where all the magic happens! This mini metropolis is easily one of the busiest areas of the island for tourists, locals, and expats alike. Welcoming you to West End is the crescent shaped Half Moon Bay, sprinkled with palm trees and bright white sand. To the right of Half Moon Bay is the infamous Sundowner’s Bar, the perfect place to catch the sunset after a day of diving. Further down, expect to trade beaches for the iron shore as you enter the quieter, more accommodation focused side of West End – you may even stumble across the elegant Cafe de Palo!
To the left of Half Moon Bay is the heart of West End, with the majority of restaurants, accommodation, night life, and dive shops located directly off the road. West End Village is small enough to be traversed by foot, with dozens of docks, small beaches, and quaint homes and shops greeting you along the way. Maneuvering further around the island is no problem, as there are plenty of taxis, water taxis and buses ready to take you to Coxen Hole in 20 minutes, or West Bay in 10.
On the outskirts of West End are the two smaller neighborhoods of Mangrove Bight and Gibson Bight. Both offer a plethora of accommodation, from standalone homes to apartments that are close enough to walk to town, but far enough to be quiet. There is no lack of amenities either! Top off your tank at the Gibson Bight Marina, grab a cup of coffee at Fresh Bakery, or enjoy a delicious Asian inspired meal at Wok.
West End is perfect for people who are looking for a vibrant social scene and nightlife – offering world class cuisine like that found at the Thai Blue Elephant, many a happy hour, and endless opportunities for activities; whether it’s yoga, diving, fishing, or snorkeling. Real Estate options available in the area range from oceanfront condos to villas and homes all walking distance from beaches and all of the amenities that West End has to offer. Every now and then commercial land, building and business opportunities also become available. Contact us at ZeUs Roatan Real Estate to give you the latest scoop as to current availability in the area.
West Bay
West Bay is what many envision as the picture-perfect Caribbean destination: clear turquoise water, bright white sand, hidden keyholes, and lush tropical jungle. With its towering full-service resorts, modern hillside mansions, and high-end restaurants – West Bay is by far the ritziest place to be on the west side of the island. But don’t let its glamour fool you, for West Bay actually offers a slower paced and more family-friendly atmosphere than that of West End. If you are looking for a larger home and a simpler life without giving up that picture perfect beach, West Bay is for you!
As you drive to West Bay, you will pass sprawling hillsides with ocean views of both the north and south side of the island. Along this road lies Gumbalimba Park and several neighborhoods perfect for people looking to be out of town, yet close enough for convenient access to amenities. Neighborhoods you will find along the way include “The Banks” in the area of Turtle and Orchid Beach, Tamarind Drive where some of the best boutique hotels and restaurants X-Balanque and Ibagari are located, Mar Vista Bay and Keyhole Bay, both known for their unique keyhole beaches. Available properties in these neighborhoods include, for the most part, ocean view lots and homes on hills facing either the north or south shores.
Entering West Bay’s main “hub” you will find a quaint shopping center with the local coffee joint, Java Vine, and the Mangiamo’s convenience store and deli, where you don’t want to miss trying the “Dive Master Sandwich”. Along this area is West Bay Beach, which leans towards a more touristy style. This is where beachfront resort condos are available in Grand Roatan, Infinity Bay, Coral Sands, Las Sirenas, Mayan Princess and Caribe Tesoro. Found at the furthest point of West Bay, the majority of the residential neighborhoods such as The Meridian, the prestigious Lighthouse Estates and the more casual Latitude 16, Turtle Crossing and Turrets, all offer unbeatable views of the south’s iron shore, and some have community pools. Click here to search for West Bay properties for sale.
Flowers Bay
Flowers Bay, located on of one of Roatan’s most scenic roads, offers an authentic Island way of life. One of the oldest communities on the island, this charming town is located along the southern shore and provides an alternate route between West End and Coxen Hole, getting you there in about 15 to 20 minutes.
Despite being located near the Port of Roatan, the community of Flowers Bay has maintained its traditional way of life. Kids playing in the street, local fruit stands, colorful island wooden homes…Flowers Bay offers a laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. That means outstanding local seafood as well – like that found at Gio’s Seafood Restaurant overlooking the water!
