What to wear and pack for Roatan vacation

What To Pack For Your Trip To Roatan

Welcome to Roatan! Whether it’s your first time here or you’re returning, you’ll find that Roatan has a super casual, laid-back vibe. With tropical, sunny weather year-round, you’ll want to pack light and dress for comfort. This is a great time to practice your carry-on only routine! 🙂

Reef16 provides beach towels plus a full size washer and dryer, so you don’t need to overpack!

What Clothes Do We Pack For The Beach?

With stunning beaches like Half Moon Bay Beach just a 5-10 minute walk from Reef16, you’ll be spending lots of time by the water. For beach and snorkeling days, pack:

  • Swimsuits: Bring a few pairs since you’ll be in the water often.
  • Cover-ups & Sundresses: Lightweight, breathable, and easy to throw on after a swim.
  • Flip-Flops: Easy to slip on and perfect for walking in the sand.
  • Sun Hats & Sunglasses: Protect yourself from the strong tropical sun.
  • Snorkel Gear (optional): Half Moon Bay Beach is calm, flat, and perfect for all ages, making it an ideal place for snorkeling.

What To Wear To Explore Roatan

There are many dirt and gravel roads on Roatan, so fancy footwear is definitely not recommended. Plus, the pop up Caribbean rain showers can happen anytime so being prepared with some rain gear is always a good idea when exploring the island.

  • Lightweight, Weather-Wicking T-Shirts and Shorts: Stay cool and comfortable.
  • Casual Sundresses for women: Easy, breezy, and perfect for exploring.
  • Birkenstocks or Light Sneakers: Good for walking on dirt roads and keeping your feet comfortable. We personally all wear rubber Birkenstocks or slides much of the time as they are comfortable and washable! We suggest keeping the fancy sneakers at home.
  • Rain Jacket or Poncho. Bring the lightest possible rain jacket you can find or a poncho.

Diving and Snorkeling

Roatan is famous for its diving and snorkeling spots, so you’ll want to be prepared:

  • Rash Guards: Essential for sun protection, especially when snorkeling or diving. Many dive shops and resorts sell branded rash guards, and you can easily find one walking around West End. Plus, covering up with SPF clothing means that everyone wears that much less sunscreen which can harm our fragile reef.
  • Quick-Dry Shorts & Swim Shirts: Easy to wear in and out of the water.
  • Local Dive Shops, West End Shops and West Bay Resorts offer a variety of gear and clothing if you forget anything!

What To Wear Out To Dinner in Roatan

Even the best restaurants in Roatan are laid-back, so keep it casual:

  • Women: Casual sundresses or shorts with a nice top. Lightweight linen pants or shorts are also terrific. Really, anything goes on Roatan.
  • Men: Polo shirts, short-sleeve button-downs, or a clean T-shirt will do.
  • Kids: Comfortable, everyday outfits work perfectly.

Keep in mind that after dusk you will want to bring some bug spray!

What To Wear Exploring Roatan

If you’re planning to hike or explore the the island:

  • Breathable, Quick-Dry Clothing: Lightweight materials are best for the tropical heat.
  • Sneakers or Hiking Sandals: Essential for comfort and stability on trails or zip lining.
  • Sun-Protective Gear: Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must.
  • Rain Gear: Just throw a poncho or lightweight rain coat in your bag and you’ll be ready to go.

Where Can We Buy Clothes on Roatan?

If you need any essentials, you’ll find plenty of shops in West End and West Bay. From dive shops selling rash guards to local boutiques offering swimsuits and summer clothes, there’s plenty of options within walking distance.

Visit us in Roatan!

Reef16 is a new luxury penthouse oceanfront rental in West End, Roatan. We love being surrounded by the ocean and can’t wait for you to experience it too!

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