3 week Solo in Roatán – Utila. (with a possible side trip in the middle) Feedback Appreciated.
Hey everyone,
Planning my first real solo trip for mid to late November/early December. | Nov 12 – Dec 6 time frame but my dates are flexible. (nothing booked at this point)
67M from Canada, recently retired and consider myself in reasonably good shape. Looking for nature, shore snorkeling, hiking, and a laid-back vibe where I can be as busy (or not) as I want. I’m not interested in your typical tourist activities. I’m also considering my PADI open water certification. (I took the course back in my teens but that was half a century ago).
Anyway, my loose plan is 8-9 days on Roatan…West End (I’ve seen recommendations for accommodation at Chillies a number of times), then possibly 3-4 nights on the mainland (I was told to check out Omega Tours Eco-Lodge for hikes ….thoughts? Alternatives? ), and then 5-7 days on Utila….returning on last day to Roatan for flight home.
Activities that I’ve noted:
Roatán : snorkeling (I have my own equip)…both from shore and boat. Half Moon Bay, water taxi to West Bay. I am very interested in a Cayos Cochinos day trip. Hiking ( I noted Carambola Botanical Gardens hike up to the ridge but unsure what else), and I’ve seen mention to check out the east shore and otherwise my intent is to just go on some “walkabouts” and wing it.
Mainland; hiking in Pico Bonito National Park. I haven’t really done any indepth research here yet but know I’d love to hike in the jungle. I’m less interested in their (Omega Ecotour) white water rafting (been there done that) but I am an avid canoeist
Utila – I had a list of potential accommodations but I’ll be darned if I can find it.
Activities – walkabout/ rent a bike, hike pumpkin hill, more snorkeling (diving if I take the course), boat trip to Water Cay.
A few specific questions for the community:
Departure day connection: To err on the side of caution I’m thinking I should take the Ferry back to Roatán the day prior to flight departure (but I’ve also been told leaving the same morning on the Ferry should be fine???
Weather: My understanding is this time frame is towards the end of the rainy season but November is one of the wettest months. Lots of posts with varying opinions but I’m assuming it is similar to other Caribbean locations where it’s more rain showers than all day every day. A little more detail on what I can anticipate would be appreciated.
Other Shouldn’t Miss Activities: Music is a big part of my life so local music scene opportunities would be great. I read to head to Sundowners for potential live music. Favorite snorkel spots, walking trails, places to hang out? I sailed BVI a number of years ago....any opportunities for day trips or locations I should be aware of.
Lastly, while young at heart….I am an old fart….who’s finally getting into travel mode. I will assume the majority I run into will be my kids ages. Any suggestions/thoughts of wisdom specific to the older generation?
I'm still digging but would most appreciate your input.