Flying to Roatán Honduras: Airlines, RTB Airport and Travel Tips

Getting to Roatán is easier than most people expect, with direct flights from several major US cities and a ferry connection from the Honduran mainland. In this guide, we cover every airline that flies direct to Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport, what to know about connecting through San Pedro Sula, and whether the La Ceiba ferry is worth it.

Airlines That Fly to Roatán Directly From the US

American (Miami, Dallas)
Delta (Atlanta)
United (Houston, Denver)

Flying to Roatán from Canada? While there are no direct flights, you can easily connect through these US hubs with only one stop.

Economy airfare to Roatán from the US typically run $600–$800, which is higher than some Caribbean destinations but Roatán is generally cheaper once you’re on the ground, so it balances out. We’ve found business class for around $1,200, which is worth considering if you’re coming from a hub with good availability.

You can also look at connecting though San Pedro Sula on mainland Honduras. But flying into RTB directly from the US is the most convenient option.

Pro Tip: If you’re already exploring Honduras and want to add a stop, search for a local flight on Aerolineas Sosa from La Ceiba.

Roatán Ferry: Getting There From Mainland Honduras

The Galaxy Wave ferry runs twice daily between La Ceiba and Roatán and is about 1.5 hours. We prefer to fly because seas can be rough (take motion sickness meds if needed).

Roatan has the most amazing snorkeling and diving

What to Know About Roatán Airport (RTB)

The international airport in Roatán, Honduras is Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (RTB). It’s super convenient and accessible right from the US. The airport is in Coxen Hole, which is about a 30-minute drive from main beach areas of West Bay and West End. Make sure when you’re searching flights you plug in Coxen Hole or RTB.

RTB is a small airport and most US flights arrive around the same time, which means immigration lines can get long fast. If you’re on the first flight in and sitting near the front of the plane, you can clear quickly. On the way home, the departure terminal has a small gift shop and very limited food and drink options to keep you occupied — the lines get long and Saturdays and Sundays are the busiest days for security. We’ve never waited too long, but don’t arrive so early that you’re stuck with nothing to do.

Getting From Roatán Airport to West Bay and West End

Taxis are readily available at the airport and ferry terminal, with fixed prices based on destination. Just ask the price before accepting the ride. On our last visit it was $30, but was $25 when we had USD. Some hotels offer pick-up service, so it’s worth asking when you book. We find it very easy to just get a taxi outside, especially since the hotel shuttle may be waiting for a bunch of passengers and will take longer. The drive to West Bay or West End takes about 25 minutes.

Make Sure to Bring Cash with You from Home

ATMs are a challenge on the island and USD is preferred by taxis. In many places around the world, we recommend paying in local currency for the best value, but Roatán is an exception to that rule. You’ll get better prices in dollars than lempira.

You can use the water taxi to get between West Bay and West End

Frequently Asked Questions: Visiting Roatán for the First Time

What’s the Best Time of Year to Visit Roatán?

We’ve visited in all seasons and definitely have our favorites. In short:

High season (Dec–Apr): Best weather but higher prices and more crowds. Rainy season overlaps in Oct–Feb, so plan accordingly. We think March and April are ideal.
Shoulder season (May–Jun, Oct–Nov): Fewer crowds, lower prices, mix of sun and showers. We love the end of May for lovely hot weather without high-season crowds or the big rain storms that come in fall and winter.
Low season (Jul–Sep): Hot, humid, and a bit rainy, but the quietest and cheapest.

📌 Read our full guide: Best Time to Visit Roatán

Is Roatán Safe for Tourists?

The short answer is yes, especially in the main tourist areas of West End and West Bay. Most crime against visitors is petty theft, so use the same common-sense precautions you would anywhere.

Key Safety Tips for Roatan Travelers:

Use taxis at night instead of walking long distances.
Don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach.
Watch for boat traffic when snorkeling, especially near Infinity Bay.
Pay attention on West End’s main road, as the traffic and potholes can be tricky.

📌 Read our full guide: Is Roatán Island Safe?

How Do I Plan a Trip to Roatán for the First Time?

Split your stay between West Bay and West End for the best of both worlds.
Use water taxis for a quick, scenic ride between the two during the day.
Always use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reef.
Bring U.S. dollars from home, they’re widely accepted and sometimes necessary.
Check recent reviews for restaurants, as things are always changing.

We created a ready-to-go daily plan for you. Check out our post – One Week in Roatán: The Perfect 7-Day Itinerary – for hotel picks, our favorite restaurants, and our favorite activities.

Trying to Decide If West Bay or West End Is the Best Place to Stay in Roatán?

West Bay is the beachier of the two, with white sand, resort-style accommodations, and world-class snorkeling right from shore. West End has a laid-back, bohemian feel with a wider range of restaurants, bars, and budget options. Our advice is usually to split your stay between both, but you may want to weigh which one fits your style best. We’ve got you covered with our full review of each: West Bay or West End Roatan? Your 2026 Travel Guide