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

 

[therookie]

Welcome to ScubaBoard @R_P !

I see both full foot and open heel fins in pretty much equal measure on the boats I've been on around Roatan. For fins I use (and travel with) full foot fins. From Paradise Beach I would guess you will be boarding the boat from the beach right in front of the hotel (that's what we do with our shop of choice that is just up the road from there) and that's all sand. I use neoprene socks with the fins to prevent chafing towards the end of the trip and for a bit of extra warmth to prevent foot cramps. Also we do have a little bit of a walk down a road that has a fair bit of rock on it - the socks give just enough protection for my tender feet to make a big difference. There's never been a situation where I thought "Oh, man, I wish I had boots for this" though - the socks are purely a comfort thing.

Sorry, no personal experience with the on-site op.