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We send multiple families to Roatan every year. This Honduran island, tucked into the Caribbean, is more than just a popular cruise ship port – it’s a snorkeling and scuba diving paradise with jungle animal encounters, tons of activities for kids of all ages, laid-back restaurants (and just enough fine dining for a date night or two).
But what really sets Roatan apart, and a reason our clients (and our family!) keep going back, is its unspoiled, laid-back vibe. Unlike more developed Caribbean resort destinations, Roatan feels authentic and welcoming. There are no mega-resorts here – just boutique hotels and luxury accommodations that make it easy for families to settle into vacay vibes.
At Mango Tree Travel, we empower families to choose travel experiences that are exciting and unique—and help make those trips feel optimistic and easy from the start. Our mission is to help you skip the stress and get straight to the fun.
So zip through our top picks for the best places to stay in Roatan with kids and see what strikes your fancy.
When you’re ready, book through us for perks and amenities, and let us help you fill in the blanks for the rest of your travel itinerary!
RELATED POST: If you’re still trying to decide whether Roatan is the right island for you, learn why we love sending families to Roatan.
Luxury ($$$)
Kimpton Grand Roatan Resort & Spa | READ OUR PROFILE |
Ibagari Boutique Hotel (teens only)
Boutique ($$)
XBalanque Resort | READ OUR PROFILE |
Beach House Roatan
Quirky ($)
Tranquilseas
Getting the Lay of the Land: Where to Stay in Roatan
Before you look at specific hotels, it helps to understand the layout of the island. Roatan stretches from west to east, with one main road that runs the length of the island. Each area has its own personality—and knowing what each one offers will help you choose the best spot for your family.
West Bay Beach
This is the crown jewel of Roatan for families—and for good reason. West Bay is home to the island’s most famous beach, a stunning two-mile stretch of soft white sand that gently slopes into calm, turquoise water. The reef is just offshore, making it ideal for snorkeling with kids straight from the beach. The vibe is lively and full of energy, with plenty of beachfront resorts, casual restaurants, and bars. It’s also where you’ll find the best Roatan luxury hotel.
West End
A short water taxi ride from West Bay, West End is Roatan’s bohemian dive village. It’s packed with dive shops, casual eateries, and beach bars, all lining the narrow road along Half Moon Bay. During the day, it’s a fun place to wander with kids, explore the shops, or enjoy another great snorkeling beach. At night, though, it shifts into a more adult scene as the divers come out to play. Great for families with teens who want independence and a little buzz.
Sandy Bay
A quieter stretch just east of West End, Sandy Bay is a peaceful alternative to the busier western beaches. It’s home to a handful of boutique eco-resorts and dive shops, including Tranquilseas. The vibe is serene and unplugged—perfect for families looking for a nature-focused escape. You won’t find a lot of big restaurants or shops here, but that’s part of the appeal.
Mid-Island: Coxen Hole, Mahogany Bay & French Harbour
This central stretch of Roatan includes the island’s main airport, cruise ship ports, and the town of French Harbour. While it’s a functional hub for transportation and shopping, it’s not where we recommend families base themselves. The area tends to be busy, and at the moment, there aren’t any family hotels we particularly endorse here.
The East End
For a completely different Roatan experience, drive east. The island becomes more rugged and untouched, with fishing villages, mangroves, and quiet beaches. Towns like Oakridge, Jonesville, Punta Gorda, and Camp Bay offer a glimpse into Roatan’s roots. If you’re the kind of family that seeks out authentic, off-the-beaten-path adventures, a few nights here could be magical.
What Criteria Did We Use to Select the Best Places to Stay in Roatan?
At Mango Tree, we always look for two things when searching for hotels: Does it have a sense of place? And does something about the property make life easier for families? If the answer to either of these questions is no, it does not get our stamp of approval.
The location of everything is Roatan. All featured resorts are near the island’s best beaches. You can easily get to the reef without long boat rides and you’re in the sweet spot for Roatan’s top family-friendly attraction that make Roatan such a great Caribbean choice for families.
These hotels are just far enough from the cruise ship ports, so you get a quieter vibe with the option of a more private or lively experience. And because they’re beachfront hotels, you’ll always just steps away from the sand and the sea.
And then there’s the staff. The team at these resorts isn’t just friendly – they feel like family. They’ll help you book excursions, recommend the best spots on the island, and do whatever they can to make your trip memorable.
Whether you want a more intimate Roatan boutique hotel or a full-service beach resort, these hotels get it right. They have everything your family needs to relax and explore this beautiful island, making your trip to Honduras one for the books.
1. Kimpton Grand Roatan
The Best Roatan Luxury Resort For Families
If a touch of luxury is what you’re after, the newly renovated Kimpton Grand Roatan Resort & Spa is the perfect pick. Tucked on a stunning stretch of West Bay, this is the only 5-star hotels in Roatan. It’s the kind of place where kids happily bounce between the infinity pool and the calm sea while parents indulge in sunset cocktails or a trip to the spa.
The location is simply unmatched. Sitting right on the reef, this is one of the top resorts in Roatan if you love to snorkel. It’s easy to grab complimentary snorkel gear or a kayak and explore coral life just steps from the sand.
Dining here is designed for everyone. From fresh seafood and Garifuna-inspired dishes at Alera to the resort’s famous smash burger, you’ll find something to keep everyone happy.
And for parents, the spa is absolute magic. With hot and cold plunge pools, soothing ocean views, and locally inspired treatments, the Kao Kamasa Spa is the ultimate place for parents to recharge. Book the babysitting service and indulge in this hotel highlight.
If you’re looking for the best Roatan luxury resort, this is it.
Use our complimentary booking service to receive $100 resort credit, breakfast included, and a top spot on the upgrade list at Kimpton Grand Roatan.
2. Ibagari Boutique Hotel
Our Favorite Roatan Luxury Resort For Families With Teens
For families traveling with teens, Ibagari Boutique Hotel is a rare gem. This adults-only (12+) beachfront resort offers high-end luxury with an artistic soul. Its sleek, modern design and gallery-worthy art collection set it apart from anything else on the island. But what really won us over? The service.
Ibagari is located on a quiet stretch of beach between West Bay and West End. It’s one of our favorite places to stay on the island because you can walk or water taxi to either spot, but your beach area will be much less crowded – a nice retreat at the end of the day. Three of the island’s best restaurants are also on this same stretch of beach (one of which is Luna Muna at Ibagari).
One Mango Tree client stayed at Ibagari with her teenage daughter eager to go scuba diving, and also her grandmother — three generations traveling together. They described the experience as “Four Seasons-level service in a tiny boutique hotel.” Even for an extremely well-traveled family, this hotel left a mark.
For families with older kids who want a truly elevated escape,the beachfront villas are ideal. Each suite is thoughtfully designed, with open-air terraces, breezy layouts, and upscale finishes. The hotel’s on-site dive center is top-tier, perfect for teens eager to explore Roatan’s legendary reef through scuba diving excursions.
When you’re not diving, paddleboards and kayaks are available for calm water play, and the surrounding area is lush with jungle, perfect for hikes or quiet downtime. Dining at Ibagari is a highlight—many guests find themselves returning to the hotel restaurant again and again for its open-air setting and exceptional cuisine.
This is not the spot for toddlers and sand toys. But if your teen is ready to dive and your family wants boutique-level sophistication, Ibagari is the ultimate luxury choice.
Use our complimentary booking service to receive a $25 per day resort credit, a late checkout, and a top spot on the upgrade list at Ibagari Boutique Hotel.
3. XBalanque Resort
Our Favorite Boutique Hotel in Roatan for Families With Little Kids
XBalanque Resort has long been a favorite of ours. I’ve stayed there with my own kids, and send many a happy client to this family-owned boutique hotel. It’s a testament to why we love boutique hotels for families.
XBalanque is Ibagari’s neighbor, on the same calm stretch of beach we love so much. It does not have quite the same luxurious feel, but it does allow kids of all ages and has great two-bedroom suites to accommodate them, with full kitchens too!
With just 12 spacious rooms, staying at XBalanque feels like staying at your own staffed villa. XBalanque can give at-home vibes in paradise. You won’t find many luxury West Bay Roatan hotels that offer this much space and comfort for families.
The owners, Patsy and Dennis, make XBalanque stand out. They’ve poured their hearts into this hotel, and have created a welcoming atmosphere from the moment you arrive. Many members of their staff have worked with them for years, and you’ll be sure they’ll know your names by day two. Their attention to detail and personal touch to every guest’s stay sets this place apart from other Roatan family resorts.
The onsite restaurant includes a kids menu, which makes dining with younger travelers a breeze. The fish tacos are also a delight for parents. For families who want privacy, space, and a little luxury in Roatan at an affordable price point, this resort should top your list.
Use our complimentary booking service to book Xbalanque and receive a copy of our curated Roatan activity and dining guides for families.
4. Beach House Roatan
The Best Boutique Hotel in Roatan for Families with teens Seeking Nightlife
If your family trip to Roatan involves teens, dive boats, and a little nightlife, Beach House Roatan might be the perfect fit. Located right in the heart of West End Village, this charming boutique hotel delivers style, energy, and a touch of Caribbean magic—without breaking the bank.
The rooms are spacious enough for teens and parents to share, and the décor is top-notch: relaxed but refined. While there’s no pool on-site, kids can jump right off the long jetty into the calm, clear waters of Half Moon Bay Beach. And the sunset views? Stunning.
The vibe here is independent and lively—ideal for families who want to explore town by foot, sample different restaurants, and catch the buzz of Roatan nightlife without sacrificing comfort. You’re walking distance from everything, and your home base will still feel quiet and private when it’s time to crash.
Beach House Roatan is the sweet spot between budget and boutique, and best of all comfortable.
5. Tranquilseas
A Family-Friendly EcoLodge For Families Who Dive
Looking for something quiet, cozy, and off the beaten path? Tranquilseas EcoLodge is a peaceful retreat located in Sandy Bay, a lesser-trafficked corner of Roatan that’s perfect for families who want to unplug and enjoy nature at a slower pace.
This intimate property has just nine rooms, recently renovated to elevate their comfort and style. The restaurant is excellent, with a wide variety of options to suit both kids and adults. And while it’s a bit removed from the buzz of West Bay Beach, families who don’t mind a short drive will appreciate the serene atmosphere and relaxed pace.
Tranquilseas also has a fantastic dive shop on site—ideal for families with slightly older kids ready to try scuba diving. It’s family-run, with thoughtful service and a genuinely welcoming vibe. If you’re staying with kids, check out the King Crab, Gecko, or Octopus rooms, which are especially well-suited for families.
There’s no pool or kids club, and not much structured activity onsite. But if your dream vacation involves quiet mornings, reef diving, and sunsets on a quiet beach, Tranquilseas could be the perfect fit for your family.
6. Camp Bay Lodge
A Remote East End Escape for Families Who Love the Wild Side
Camp Bay Lodge is located on the far eastern end of Roatan, nearly two hours from West Bay Beach—and it feels like a completely different world. Almost no tourists make it this far, which means when you arrive, you’ll be rewarded with that “end-of-the-earth” feeling. Camp Bay Beach is remote, peaceful, and completely undeveloped—a rare stretch of untouched sand in the Caribbean.
If that sends chills up your spine (in a good way), you might be the kind of family that needs to work Camp Bay into your itinerary. The lodge itself is family-run and full of charm, with hammocks strung between palm trees, warm hospitality, and space to truly unwind. Recent renovations have elevated the accommodations while preserving the laid-back, unplugged atmosphere.
Guests rave about the attentive staff, great food and drinks, and the natural beauty all around. Days here are spent snorkeling, paddleboarding, strolling the beach, or simply lounging in the shade. If your ideal vacation includes fewer crowds, fewer plans, and more time to connect with nature and each other, Camp Bay Lodge is a gem worth discovering.
