Paradise Beach Divers

[R_P]

Headed to Roatan in February and staying at Paradise Beach Hotel. Trying to read up as much as possible to make an enjoyable trip (already know to bring bugspray). Any experience with the on-site op that anyone can share? Mostly a vacation with diving is the plan, but I am open to more underwater time than the wife (also certified) and kids (might have coursework and pool work done before arrival for OW referral). There is a possibility of a second family joining but they would be a resort course if anything, but probably a better chance that they are drinking by the beach/pool and snorkeling.

As far as gear, since most dives seem to be boat dives, is there a situation that I would need fins/booties like Bonaire or would the nicer to pack full foot fins be fine like Cayman?

Will also be keeping an eye on Scooterman9's thread as he seems to be in a similar situation

Thanks,
Rich

 

[R_P]

Thanks for the reply. Full foot it is. I am barefoot as much as possible (to the extent that my friends would tease me that I should have a Nike swoosh tattooed on my feet) and can deal with some rocks. Shore dives in Bonaire was about the only time I break out the booties unless it's cold.

I would expect to walk to the boat from the beach in front or a slight walk up the beach to a boat. Naboo looks kind of like it could fit. I've been trying to look at some ops nearby, but first trip to Roatan and the more first-hand knowledge of places I can gather, the better. I'm looking for something that is not going to be overrun with cruise shippers (read that as packing too many people on a boat), will let me dive my computer, has fun and personable crew, will offer night dives, and ideally a cold beer for the boat trip back. I will say the webpage for West Bay Divers has some interesting options for 'special trips' to Guanaja, Utila, and Cayos Cochinos, just not sure if they are worth the cost.

Looking through old threads for info on SB but a lot seems to be from years ago.

Recommendations for good restaurants (mostly West bay or West End)?
We should be a group of 5, but possibly a group of 10- would places be able to accommodate a larger group easily?
Recommendations for good sunset bar (live music is a plus)?
Recommendations for any topside activities teens would like? (I own boats and jetskis so no need and have been zip lining in Costa Rica)

Rich

 

[CajunDiva]

Love the owners of Las Rocas Diver Center! We are visiting for the first time since Covid and can't wait! Will also visit Media Luna the week after. It's been so long since we've been to Roatan - will be sure to post a report after our visit

 

[Gdog]

Headed to Roatan in February and staying at Paradise Beach Hotel. Trying to read up as much as possible to make an enjoyable trip (already know to bring bugspray). Any experience with the on-site op that anyone can share? Mostly a vacation with diving is the plan, but I am open to more underwater time than the wife (also certified) and kids (might have coursework and pool work done before arrival for OW referral). There is a possibility of a second family joining but they would be a resort course if anything, but probably a better chance that they are drinking by the beach/pool and snorkeling.

As far as gear, since most dives seem to be boat dives, is there a situation that I would need fins/booties like Bonaire or would the nicer to pack full foot fins be fine like Cayman?

Will also be keeping an eye on Scooterman9's thread as he seems to be in a similar situation

Thanks,
Rich

To each his own on that. Bonaire, yes, absolutely need tough bottomed booties. Not so much for Roatan. However, I am not a fan of full foot fins. But I see plenty of both options on the dive boats around Roatan. For me, I like to be able to pull the fins off and walk down the dock or beach and not be barefoot. Just my 2 psi....

 

[R_P]

I was watching the Bananarama webcam this morning and saw the Naboo boats. I am between Paradise, Naboo or West Bay at this point.
As far as snorkeling off the beach- is there anything to see and how bad is the boat traffic and being seen by them? Do we need a marker float or are they far enough away from the reef area?

 

[R_P]

3rd week of February so hoping weather cooperates

 

[Gdog]

3rd week of February so hoping weather cooperates

We will be in West End at that time as well. I would say, yes, boat traffic is always a concern, be sure to carry an SMB. In my opinion, the worst place is in front of Las Rocas, as the boat channel is right next to the shore. Ive been on boats that had to stop because the capitan noticed snorkelers in the water in the middle of the channel with no markers. Just use caution.
Additionally, the cliffs at the south end of the beach are likely the best snorkel area in West Bay. Its also a very popular dive location and one of my favorites.