The Vibes - One thing you should know when traveling to Roatan with kids: This is not a fancy island. The low maintenance vibe is part of Roatan’s charm. Leave the strappy sandals and sport coats at home; come with your kids and your flip flops to experience authentic, relaxed island life without pretention. Come for $3 beers and beach shacks, not bespoke cocktails. Travel here for small boutique hotels with personality, and to explore beyond your hotel, not to park yourself at a massive all-inclusive resort. 

But Roatan is a place where everyone is welcome. It's home to a community of divers and expats who fell in love with the island, and who can't wait to show you something. This warmth and helpfulness, combined with casual vibes, makes it easy to share with your kids. 

The Beach and Snorkeling - West Bay Beach is a scene. Dotted with casual restaurants and beach bars, the white sand slopes into the calm sea. The reef begins a few feet offshore. You sort of can't imagine a better beach with kids: calm water, white sand, pizza and ice cream at your fingertips, and ideal conditions for learning to snorkel. It's not only gorgeous, it's tons of fun. 

The Wildlife - There is so much to do in Roatan beyond the beach. A stretch of rainforest lines the spine of the island, setting the stage for wildlife encounters with iguanas, monkeys, and sloths, and adventure activities like ziplining, ATVs, horseback riding, and more.  And because the island is small, none of the activities feel like a huge undertaking with kids.