Wildly unheard of and blissfully off the beaten path, Utila might just be the Caribbean and Central America’s best-kept secret. A diver’s haven with a laid-back attitude that fully embraces island life, Utila surprised me with its unexpectedly vibrant food scene and quickly became one of my favourite islands in the region.

Yes, it takes a couple of extra steps (and maybe a tiny plane or a boat ride that tests your core strength) to get here, which is probably why so many travellers skip it. But if you’ve got even a hint of adventure in your soul, I highly recommend giving this little slice of paradise a go.

And according to just about every local I met? Most people who visit never actually leave. You’ve been warned.

Location and How to Get There

Part of Honduras but located about 18 miles off the mainland, Utila takes a bit more of a hop, skip, and a (possibly bumpy) jump to reach, but let me tell you, it’s 100% worth it!

There are two main routes to get to the island: from La Ceiba on mainland Honduras, or from the neighboring island Roatán.

If you’re coming via Roatán, you’re in luck—it’s actually a pretty accessible entry point with several daily flights from the United States. United, Delta, and American Airlines all fly there regularly. You’ll also find flights with TAG Airlines (from Guatemala, Mexico and other cities in Honduras), and Tropic Air offers a few per week from Belize City.

Pro tip: Before your flight, make sure you fill out the online Honduran customs and immigration form. It doesn’t take long, just have your passport and hotel info handy. Once submitted, you’ll get a QR code. Screenshot it, just in case. (That said, no one actually asked for mine last time, but better safe than stuck at immigration pretending you have Wi-Fi.)

From Roatán, you’ve got a few options:

• Take the public ferry, which leaves once a day at 2:00 PM from the ferry port.
  
• Charter a small plane with CM Airlines (a great idea if you’re arriving after the ferry has left and you’ve got a few people to split the cost).
  
• Charter a private boat—I’ve heard Bush’s Tours on Utila can help organise this.
  

I took the ferry on my last visit and was genuinely impressed. It was super well-organised. You can book tickets online, where you’ll receive a QR code as your boarding pass and usually save around 10% compared to buying in person. It also saves time at the port, just hand your bags to the staff, and they’ll give you a paper bag tag (don’t lose it! You’ll need it to collect your luggage on arrival in Utila).

Note: Online ferry tickets are non-refundable, so if your plans might change, it may be safer to buy them at the port on the day. From what I’ve heard, ferries only sell out a couple of times a year, mainly during major holidays.

The ferry ride takes about an hour, and you can upgrade to VIP or First Class for around $5 more. That gets you into an air-conditioned room on the top deck (with better seats and a free drink—yes, even a cold beer).

Motion sickness alert (for those who need it): I don’t usually get seasick, and even I found the return journey a little… lively. The ride over was smooth as a lake, but the way back had a few moments that might challenge sensitive stomachs. If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s worth taking a Dramamine just in case, better safe than queasy! 

The daily ferry is run by Dream Ferries, but Galaxy Wave also offers one or two crossings during the week.

If you’re coming from La Ceiba, both Dream Ferries and Galaxy Wave run multiple ferries a day to Utila, and the ride is also under an hour.

Once you arrive, whether by ferry or plane, just grab a tuk-tuk to your accommodation. No need to book in advance, there are usually plenty waiting, and it’s very affordable to get around. Many hotels also offer their own tuk-tuk service, so it’s worth checking if they can pick you up.

Getting Around

If you’re staying in the center of town, you can actually get to most places pretty easily on foot. While there aren’t any sidewalks, you’ll notice that a lot of people are walking anyway, so you’re in good company.

For spots that are a little further out, or if you’re carrying more than you bargained for, just flag down one of the many tuk-tuks buzzing around the island. They’re everywhere, super affordable, and an adventure in themselves. Just a heads up, they’re cash only. You’ll get a better rate if you pay in the local currency, lempiras, but most drivers will accept US dollars too (and usually with a smile).

If you’re staying a bit longer or just want more freedom and flexibility, you can rent an ATV, scooter, or golf cart to explore the island at your own pace. I went with Rooney’s Rentals, about a 5 to 10 minute walk from the ferry port. They’re well known as the best rental company on the island, but there are other options too in case they’re sold out of your preferred ride.

You can rent by the hour, half day, full day, or week. So even if you don’t want to commit for your entire stay, you can always grab one for an afternoon and go explore some of the more remote corners of the island.

At the time of my visit in June 2025, I paid around $60 a day for a four-person golf cart. I paid the deposit ahead of time through a link they sent me on WhatsApp, which felt a little sketchy until it all worked out perfectly. The remaining balance was due on pickup and is usually cash only, but they let me pay by credit card when I got back to my hotel—proof that a little charm and island patience goes a long way.

Where to Stay

There’s no shortage of places to stay on the island, from laid-back hostels and fun dive shops to boutique hotels and luxury villa rentals. Most hotels and hostels are clustered in and around the main town, which makes it super easy to explore the island’s wide variety of bars and restaurants without needing to venture too far.

• Manurii Garden
  This small boutique hotel really is a hidden gem in Utila. Just 100 meters from the main street and with only a handful of rooms, a stay here feels personal, peaceful, and perfectly tucked away from the buzz of town. The gardens and grounds are beautiful, with several aviaries filled with exotic birds rescued by the owner himself. Add in a large, sparkling pool and a stylish bar, and you’ve got the best of both worlds: location and comfort. Room options range from standard double rooms with shared balconies to larger apartments with kitchenettes if you want to whip up a meal or two.

• Hotel Margarita
  Perfectly located just off Chepes Beach and directly across from Mango Tango, this spot is a great option if you want to be near the water and right in the heart of the action. It’s a solid base for beach lovers and bar hoppers alike. (At the time of writing, reservations can only be made through whatsapp – their number is on their instagram page)

• Utila Lodge
  A long-time favorite for divers, Utila Lodge is right in the center of town and comes with its own on-site dive center. The rooms are surprisingly modern and comfortable, and they offer great dive-and-stay packages for anyone looking to spend more time underwater than above it. You’ll be just a stone’s throw from the ferry dock and some of the island’s best dining.

• The Odyssey Resort
• One of the newer spots on the island, Utila Odyssey offers clean, modern rooms in a quiet yet central location. It now has a Mexican restaurant on-site, which is a handy option if you’re looking for something easy and close by after a day of diving or exploring. If you’re after a unique stay, The Boathouse is perched right above the water and about as close as you’ll get to an overwater bungalow on Utila. It’s a great pick if you’re into peaceful mornings and sea views right from your porch.

Where to Eat

For such a small and remote island, I was genuinely surprised by how many different and varied restaurants there are on Utila. Whether you’re craving tacos, sushi, smoothie bowls, or something a bit more upscale, this little island delivers.

• Mango Tango
  Located on the main street close to Chepes Beach, this spot has a prime waterfront position and an even better menu. You’ll definitely want to make a reservation, and once you taste the food, you’ll understand why it gets booked up so quickly. It’s a little more expensive than some of the other spots in town, but worth it. Don’t skip the daily specials—they change every day and are usually the best thing on the menu.

• Edo’s Place
  Also right by Chepes Beach and on the water, Edo’s is a solid choice for a casual meal. Check out their weekly events like bingo and karaoke—come for the food, stay for the chaos.

• Pink Flamingo
  This was my favourite breakfast spot on the island. It’s just off the main street near the ferry port, and yes, it does feel like you’re walking through someone’s backyard when you arrive. Keep an eye out for the pink and green wood, you’ll find it tucked right on the water’s edge with swings and cosy seating areas overlooking the sea. The menu is pretty extensive, and everything I tried was fantastic. My top pick is the Flamingo Smoothie Bowl. They take credit cards, but only for bills over 250 lempiras and with a 15% surcharge, so bring cash if you want to avoid the extra fee.

• Josie’s Place
  Another great breakfast option, Josie’s Cafe is loved by locals and travellers alike. It has free Wi-Fi, so don’t be surprised to see a few digital nomads working away while enjoying a coffee and a baleada. It’s cash only, but both lempiras and US dollars are accepted. It gets busy during peak hours, so go early if you want one of the outdoor tables.

• Mamma’s Tacos
  Right on the main street but easy to miss, this tiny taco stand is not to be overlooked. Tacos are cooked fresh in front of you and served with a few street-side tables and chairs, perfect for a quick bite or late-night snack. It’s cash only, and hours are irregular, so definitely ask around to see if she’s open.

• Neptune’s
  Only accessible by boat, but trust me, it’s worth the little adventure. Neptune’s runs an hourly boat service from just behind Chepes Beach for about $3–4 round-trip. The food is excellent, I highly recommend the tuna tower; and the snorkelling out front is some of the best on the island. With its long dock, swimming area, and lounge vibes, it’s easy to spend the whole day here.

• Mister Buddha
  An Asian fusion spot just off the main street with a waterfront location and an impressively varied sushi menu. They offer different specials every day (when I went it was conch rangoons and blueberry margaritas), and the sunset views are hard to beat. Despite the prime location, it’s usually not too busy, so you likely won’t need a reservation. As someone who’s gluten free, I expected the usual soy sauce struggle, but the staff went above and beyond. They offered to grill and season a chicken dish specially for me, skipping the soy sauce and breadcrumbs, and it was genuinely delicious. If you’re not gluten free, save room for dessert—they have tempura ice cream and tempura Oreos that looked absolutely insane (in the best way). They also accept credit cards.

• Holy Guacamole
  If you’re in the mood for something casual, colourful, and full of flavour, Holy Guacamole is your spot. Tucked away just off the main drag, this funky little joint serves up fresh, flavourful Mexican-inspired dishes that hit the spot without breaking the bank. The burrito bowls are massive, the nachos are dangerously addictive, and the vibe is fun and unfussy—think picnic tables, island breeze, and the occasional chicken wandering by. Great for lunch or a laid-back dinner, and yes, they’ve got plenty of vegetarian and vegan options too.

Where to Drink

• Rockies Bar
  This one takes a little extra effort to get to, but it’s well worth the trip. Located up on Pumpkin Hill, Rockies has a super fun vibe and a local crowd that knows how to have a good time. You’ll need an ATV, golf cart, or scooter to get there, unless you’re the kind of legend who hikes Pumpkin Hill and celebrates with a cold one at the top! Daisy’s Kitchen is onsite too, open from 12 to 6 p.m. most days, and serves up some seriously tasty home-cooked meals that hit the spot after an adventure.

• Edo’s Place
  Just off Chepes Beach, this bar and restaurant is a go-to for lively events like bingo nights, float parties, and more. With a fantastic location right on the water, affordable drinks, and friendly service, it’s a solid pick whether you’re here for the party or just the sunset views.

• Huffy’s Utila
  Right in the center of town, Huffy’s is more than just a beach bar—it’s a full-on activity hub. Not only do they serve up great food and drinks, but they also rent out all kinds of water gear, from transparent kayaks and paddleboards to wakeboards, kneeboards, and even wakefoils. You can also book private charters, subwing tours, tubing adventures, and trips to Water Caye or Cayos Cochinos. It’s also one of the best places on the island to park yourself with a laptop if you’re a digital nomad or just need to catch up on a few emails between mojitos.

Things to Do in Utila

• Visit Water Caye
  This was hands down my favourite day in Utila. Water Caye is a tiny, uninhabited island about 15 minutes by boat from Utila’s coast. You can visit for the day, and all you’ll need to do is pay for the water taxi over. I booked through Bush’s Tours, although SunBliss Tours and Huffy’s also run trips there. Bush’s provided snorkel gear and even a cooler so we could bring our own drinks and snacks; total cost was $25, which felt like a steal.

There are flushing toilets on the island (yes, that deserves a mention), but not much else, so come prepared. Bring towels, sunscreen, food, drinks, and plenty of water, basically everything you’d want for a chill day on a deserted island. Most tour operators require a minimum number of people to run the trip, so I recommend planning this for earlier in your visit just in case you need to wait a day or two to meet the minimum.

• Spend the Day at Neptune’s Bar and Restaurant
  This is such a fun and easy day out. Neptune’s is located in Coral Beach Village and is only accessible by boat. Thankfully, the restaurant runs its own scheduled boats from the main town in Utila multiple times a day, every hour (except at 3 p.m.). The old pier got washed away, but the new one is just opposite Edo’s, on the far side of Chepes Beach. Don’t worry, there are signs, and it’s pretty hard to miss.

The round-trip boat ride costs 100 lempiras per person. You pay at the restaurant when you close your tab, and they’ll check for your return ticket when it’s time to head back. Make sure to arrive about 10 minutes early for the return boat, especially around 4 p.m. when it gets busy. Otherwise, you’ll be stuck waiting another hour, which may or may not be a bad thing depending on how comfy your hammock is. There’s plenty of parking near the dock for scooters or golf carts, and if you’re tuk-tuk-ing around, there are always a few waiting when the boat comes in.

Once you arrive, just keep walking straight, then take a right when you hit the beach. You’ll likely be greeted by a server and handed a menu, after that, you’re free to sit wherever you like. There are tons of picnic tables, loungers, and hammocks scattered along the beach, plus some indoor seating with AC if you need a break from the heat.

There’s a long dock that’s perfect for jumping off (with steps to climb back up), and the water here is so clear and blue it honestly looks filtered. The snorkelling is excellent, some say it’s the best on the island—so wear your swimsuits and bring your snorkel gear.

The food and drinks really exceeded my expectations. The cocktails were creative and delicious, and the fresh fish dishes were amazing. I highly recommend the tuna tower. It was fantastic.

• Hike Pumpkin Hill
  For a bit of adventure, hike up to Pumpkin Hill, the highest point on the island. It’s not a long hike, but it can be a sweaty one, bring water, wear good shoes, and be ready for some seriously good views at the top. Bonus points if you bring a drink to toast your effort, or stop by Rockies.

• Rent a Golf Cart, ATV, Scooter or Bike Around the Island
  Utila is much more than just the main street, and I really enjoyed driving around and checking out some of the more remote parts of the island. While you can’t reach every corner by road as some areas are boat access only but you can cruise out to Pumpkin Hill, explore the southeast coast, or just bar hop your way through the day.

Within a few hours of exploring, I was already looking up local real estate listings, which made this little adventure a great excuse for some informal house hunting. Spoiler alert: you can find some real bargains here, especially compared to some of its fancier Caribbean neighbours.

• Visit Utila Chocolate Company
  I’ll admit, I did not expect to find a chocolate factory on a remote Honduran island, but here we are. Utila Chocolate Company is a short drive from town, and you can easily get there by tuk-tuk or with a rental golf cart or ATV. They offer free samples and tastings, and it makes for a fun and tasty little outing. Check their opening hours before you go, as they’re not open every day and usually only for a few hours at a time.

• Visit the Iguana Research Centre
  A unique and educational stop, the Iguana Research and Breeding Station is home to the endangered swamper iguana, a species found only on Utila. It’s a great way to learn more about the island’s ecology and support local conservation efforts. The visit is short and sweet but super informative. Great for families, animal lovers, or just anyone who wants to meet a prehistoric-looking lizard in person.

Practical Tips and Tricks

• Cash is still king in Utila, so I highly recommend bringing some with you. The local currency is the Honduran Lempira, and while most places will accept US dollars, the exchange rate isn’t always in your favour. More and more places are starting to take credit cards, but expect a small fee to be added for using one. That said, many smaller spots still only accept cash, so it’s best to come prepared.

• Good news for travelers from the US: the electrical outlets are the same as back home, so you won’t need to pack an adapter. One less thing to forget in your suitcase.

• While Utila is part of Honduras, the official language here is actually English. Most locals are bilingual, though, and speaking a little Spanish will definitely come in handy, especially if you’re staying for more than a few days or want to explore more local spots off the tourist trail.

• There are no cars on the island. Instead, people get around by scooter, ATV, motorcycle, or golf cart. It can get a little hectic on the main street, especially right after the ferry comes in, but the island’s laid-back vibe more than makes up for it. Honestly, it’s a refreshing break from the usual traffic and chaos most of us are used to.

• If you’re self-catering, there are several grocery stores around town. Thanks to the island’s sizable expat community, you’ll likely spot a few familiar brand names from home, but don’t expect a huge selection. Think Circle K in terms of size. Ambrosia and Bush’s stood out to me as having more American and Canadian products, but you’ll pay a premium for them. The local stores with mostly regional brands and produce are significantly more affordable.

• Laundry day doesn’t have to be a hassle. There are a number of laundromats around town, especially along Main Street, and they’re very reasonably priced. It’s even cheaper if you choose not to use a dryer, but in the summer months, with the humidity so high, air drying can take forever and things never really feel dry. Your call, but if you’re anything like me, the thought of damp clothes is just not the tropical vibe you’re going for.

Whether you’re here to dive, snorkel, eat your body weight in tacos, or simply do absolutely nothing in a hammock by the sea, Utila has a way of pulling you in and making you feel like you’ve stumbled onto a secret. It’s laid-back, quirky, and full of charm, with just enough adventure to keep things interesting. If you’re considering a trip, take this as your sign to book it—you won’t regret it. And if you’ve already been, let me know your favourite spots or tips in the comments. I’m always looking for an excuse to go back.

You can find out more about my stay on my “Utila” Highlights on Instagram @chase.the.rainbows.

Disclosure: chasetherainbows.com participates in affiliate advertising programs as a way to earn revenue. Some links to products and services are affiliate links. I will earn a commission if you click an affiliate link and finalize a purchase. Thank you for your support.