Utila Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Going

There are some places in the world that can’t be captured in words or photos—Utila is one of them. This tiny island off the coast of Honduras has a magic that needs to be felt, a vibe that pulls you in and makes you never want to leave. It’s a place where time slows down, where flip-flops are optional, and where every sunset feels like a private show just for you. 

Whether you’re here to dive with whale sharks, soak in the laid-back island life, or stare at the unfiltered starry sky at night, Utila has a way of wrapping around your soul. 

But before you go, there are a few things you should know to make the most of your adventure. From island quirks to travel tips, here’s everything you need to prepare for the unforgettable journey that is Utila.

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Ferry or Flight: Two Ways to get to Utila

The easiest and fastest way to get to Utila is by flying directly into Roatan’s Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport, with direct flights from major cities in the U.S., Canada, and Central America. 

From Roatan, it’s a short hop to Utila! You can catch a ferry from Roatan to Utila, which takes about an hour. The boat ride is a scenic trip across the bay, with stunning views of the Caribbean waters surrounding both islands.

Alternatively, you can catch a flight from Roatan’s airport to Utila, which is a quick 12-minute flight. There are two companies you can book with, either Bay Island Air Charters (which we used) or by contacting Bush’s Travel. Flights cost the same from either company, and will become less expensive if you can find someone to share the ride with you.

If you’re coming from the mainland, you can take a ferry aboard Dream Ferries from La Ceiba, which also takes an hour to reach. This is the most economical way as it costs roughly $31 USD one-way/$62 USD round-trip (plus save 10% if you book online in advance). You can also charter a flight with either company listed above.

The adventure coming from the mainland is getting to La Ceiba, since flights land in San Pedro Sula, which is roughly a 3.5 – 4 hour journey by bus or taxi driver. We didn’t go this route so I can’t speak to its ease or safety.

For sake of ease, your best way to get to Utila (in our opinion) is flying to Roatan then ferrying over to Utila. Flights from Toronto don’t make it in time to catch the ferry, so it’ll require an overnight stay in Roatan first. Or, if you have the time, experience the best of both of the islands!

Cash is King

The official currency in Honduras is the Honduran Lempira (HNL). In Utila, most prices are listed in Lempira (referred to as ‘Limps’), unlike Roatan where US dollars are more common. However, larger expenses, such as diving school courses and fees, are often quoted in USD, though you can usually pay in Lempira if preferred.

Be prepared to pay cash for most things on the island. If you are paying by card, expect to pay anywhere from 4-6% extra in credit card processing fees.

Since you can’t get lempira at home (at least in Canada) we knew we had to either 1) go to the bank with USD to exchange it or 2) withdraw lempira from the ATM. Both present challenges.

As a Canadian, if you have to buy USD then exchange to lempira, you’re losing out on the exchange twice. However, this is certainly an option if you don’t want to travel with your debit card.

However, be prepared to be at the bank all day. It’s a social thing and can literally take hours to exchange your dollars. Everyone knows everyone here, and as everything is done at the bank these days, lineups can be down the street if you don’t time it right.

The bank opens at 9:30 am, and you can exchange $200 USD/day. Bank notes must be pristine without any tears or writing on them, or they won’t be accepted. You also need to bring your passport for ID to exchange any currency.

Debit cards on the other hand can be convenient, as long as they’re marked with “Plus” or Visa Debit. HOWEVER! ATMS frequently run out of cash, and power outages do occur. We were stuck the first day with the bank being busy and the power being out, so we had to wait part of the day to return for the ATM to work.

You will be charged a processing fee ($5/CAD for us) and can take out multiples of 100 lempira at a time. My debit card wasn’t working and we had to use Dana’s Visa Debit, so it’s not always entirely reliable, either.

It’s the Best Place to Learn How to Dive

Whether you’re just starting out with diving, advancing through your PADI or SSI certification, or an experienced diver eager to explore some fun dives on the world’s second-largest barrier reef, Utila is the place to be.

It remains the most affordable destination globally for learning to dive, with PADI/SSI Open Water courses starting from $290 USD, depending on the dive shop. It’s also the most cost-effective location for those aiming to become dive masters or instructors.

With over a dozen dive shops (including two places that offer freediving certifications), a variety of fun and specialty dive packages, and significantly lower prices compared to other diving hotspots in Central America and the Caribbean, Utila offers great value for both beginners and seasoned divers.

Many of these places offer accommodations as part of the package, which adds even more incentive to come and get certified!

English is widely spoken

While Spanish is the official language of Honduras, don’t worry—most people in Utila speak English! 

Utila is a hotspot for international dive masters, so you’ll find people from all over the world, making communication easy for English-speaking visitors. The only time we encountered any differences was ordering snacks from the roadside vendors (knowing a little bit of Spanish helped)!

When you visit can make a Difference

If you’re planning a trip to Utila, timing is key. While the dry season runs from March to August, November and December can be some of the rainiest months. 

April can be one of the busiest months due to Semana Santa (Holy Week), when many locals and travelers flock to the island for the festivities. While the island comes alive with energy and events, it also means more crowds (double what the island usually has!), especially around popular beaches and dive spots. 

Getting around is Easy

One of the best things about Utila is how small and easy it is to explore! The main mode of transportation here isn’t cars—it’s motorbikes, scooters, bicycles, and golf carts. Most visitors rent scooters or golf carts to zip around the island, but if you prefer to take it slow, you can easily walk to most places in town. Tuk-tuks are also available for quick and cheap rides if you’re carrying luggage or just don’t feel like walking in the heat.

There are two places to rent from: Bodden Rentals (where we got our cart from, and just cross from the ferry dock) and Roneey’s Rental Shuttles and Tours.

Utila is a Fantastic Budget Location

If you’re dreaming of a tropical escape without draining your bank account, Utila is the perfect budget-friendly paradise! Known as the backpacker’s gem of the Bay Islands, this laid-back tropical haven offers everything from affordable beachfront hostels to delicious street food that won’t break the bank.

Whether you’re diving into the world’s second-largest barrier reef for a fraction of what you’d pay elsewhere or sipping a sunset cocktail at a beachfront bar with happy hour deals, your money stretches further here. 

Plus, with plenty of free and low-cost activities—like snorkelling right off the shore, hiking to the top of Pumpkin Hill, or just soaking up the island’s chill vibes—you’ll have an unforgettable adventure without splurging.

Getting around is just as budget-friendly! Tuk-tuks are cheap (although they can add up), but most visitors opt to explore on foot or rent a bicycle.

And when it comes to food, you can feast on delicious baleadas (Honduran stuffed tortillas) for under $2 or enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants without worrying about an overpriced bill.

Bring more Sunscreen (& Aloe!) than You Think

I’ve learned this lesson SO many times – bring more sunscreen and aloe vera  than you think. This little island paradise is all about soaking up the sun, whether you’re diving, lounging on the beach, or cruising around on a scooter.

But that tropical sun is no joke, and you’ll burn faster than you think, especially if you’re zipping around on a golf cart with a breeze or snorkelling. 

SPF 50 is my usual go-to (and don’t worry about not getting a tan at all, people have said this is the darkest I’ve ever been haha!), and consider reef-safe sunscreen to protect the island’s stunning coral reefs.

Dana swears by wearing a rash guard (which helped a ton since he often burns). We also encountered jellyfish – and the rash guard would certainly help prevent any stings!

And aloe vera is your soothing saviour after a little too much sun (because it will happen). So stock up before you go—sunscreen is pricey on the island.

Tipping is Optional (but I strongly encourage it!)

Tipping in Utila is a way to show appreciation for great service, but it’s important to remember that in Honduras, it’s actually illegal for employees to ask for tips.

While it’s not mandatory, leaving a tip is a nice gesture if you’ve received excellent service, whether from a local guide, restaurant staff, or a tuk-tuk driver. 

The general rule of thumb is around 10% of the bill, but of course, it’s always up to you to decide based on the experience. Just make sure that if you do leave a tip, it’s your choice, not something that’s been requested. Some restaurants may include it on the bill (for large groups), so double check your receipt before paying.

Pack Water Shoes

You may think you’ll be ok without them, but believe me, you will want to pack water shoes! The beaches aren’t powdery white soft sand – rather there’s seashells, larger rocks, and of course, sharp coral. 

Many of Utila’s best swimming spots have rocky or uneven entry points, so ditching the flip-flops for sturdy water shoes means fewer slips and no painful stubs on sharp coral or rocks!

Plus, if you’re planning on visiting the famous Water Cay or kayaking through the mangroves, they’re perfect for hopping in and out of the water with ease. Pack a lightweight, quick-drying pair, and your feet will thank you!

Be Prepared for the Sand Flies

Ah, the infamous sand flies of Utila—tiny but mighty little nuisances that can turn a beach day into an itchy nightmare if you’re not prepared. But you can outsmart them (or at least try to)!

I knew about them, prepared for them, and was still afflicted by them, but perhaps not as bad as it could’ve been.

So just a note, you can take all the precautions in the world but you still may be bitten. Here’s my best tips for preventing sand fly bites.

• We brought an array of sprays and oils – I use the recommended Picaridin spray I got off Amazon (which is DEET-free, as I read that DEET doesn’t deter them – but it’s still good to have for mosquitos!). I also brought OFF cream (botanicals version). 
• Our piece-de-resistance was our coconut oil + essential oil combo. We used a reusable travel bottle and loaded it up with coconut oil and eucalyptus oil. Just be sure to double bag it so it doesn’t leak in your suitcase! A little goes a long way, and basically drowns the sand flies (you may even see the little black specks that they are)!
• Sand flies love dawn and dusk, so try to cover up during those times with lightweight, long-sleeved clothing. Sitting on a towel instead of directly on the sand can also help keep them at bay.
• If you do get bitten, resist the urge to scratch—apply vinegar, aloe vera, or antihistamine cream (like an anti-itch cream or After-Bite) to soothe the itch. 

A little preparation goes a long way, and it’s better to be prepared than do nothing at all, so don’t let these tiny terrors ruin your island adventures! 

You Can Get Laundry Done in Town

If you’re staying at a place that isn’t equipped with laundry facilities and need a refresh of your clothing, head downtown.

There are a few laundry services in Utila offering wash and fold service – and some even have same-day pickup and delivery. Prices range as a flat fee from 150 – 200 lempira (around $5-$8 USD).

You’ll Have to Buy Water

Tap water isn’t safe to drink in Utila. Like much of Honduras, the island’s tap water isn’t safe for drinking due to potential contamination. Instead, stick to bottled water or refill your reusable bottle at filtered water stations, which are widely available at hotels, hostels, and dive shops. Many restaurants also serve purified water, so just ask! 

Staying hydrated is essential in the tropical heat. Play it safe—purified water only – and this goes for brushing your teeth, too!

There are Enough of Grocery Stores

Grocery shopping in Utila is a mix of small markets, convenience stores, and local produce stands, offering a charming and practical way to stock up on essentials.

While you won’t find large supermarkets, stores like Bush’s Supermarket and Caribbean Market carry a good selection of dry goods, snacks, and household items. 

For fresh produce, look for fruit and veggie trucks that make rounds daily or check out local vendors selling tropical favourites like mangoes, avocados, and plantains.

Availability can vary depending on the season and recent shipments from the mainland (generally Tuesdays and Fridays), so it’s best to shop early for the best selection. If you’re craving fresh seafood, fishermen often sell their daily catch straight from the docks.

Plan Ahead to See the Highlights!

To make the most of your time on the island, a little planning goes a long way! Iconic spots and top things to do in Utila like visiting Water Cay—a dreamy, uninhabited island with powdery white sand and crystal-clear water—require a boat ride, so organizing a trip in advance ensures you don’t miss out.

Companies like Sunbliss Tours, Huffy’s, and Bush’s offer day trips and quote their pricing based on a minimum of 6 people.

Another must-visit is Neptune’s, a beachfront paradise only accessible by boat, where you can sip cocktails, lounge in hammocks, and snorkel right off the dock in a vibrant coral reef. Since these spots aren’t walkable from downtown, checking the boat schedules guarantee you experience the best of Utila’s tropical magic!

Some places like Bando Beach are closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays, the Utila Chocolate Company is closed Sundays and Thursdays, and restaurants may operate on usual hours too, so it’s best to pre plan your days (or at least have an idea of what you want to see) so you don’t miss out!

You can’t Flush Toilet Paper

When you’re in Utila, it’s important to keep in mind one little quirk: don’t flush toilet paper! 

Due to the island’s plumbing system, flushing paper can clog the pipes and cause some serious problems. Instead, you’ll find waste bins next to the toilet, where you can safely dispose of your paper. 

It might take a little getting used to, but it’s a small adjustment to help keep the island’s infrastructure running smoothly. Think of it as part of the local charm! 😂

You’ll be Forced to Relax

Utila has a way of making you forget about the rush of everyday life and embrace the art of slowing down. With no traffic lights, no towering resorts, and a culture that thrives on the island’s laid-back pace, you quickly learn that there’s no need to hurry. 

We have called these the forever days. Time moves slower here. We’ve been going to bed early and waking up with the sunrise around 5:30 am. It’s hard to put into words what this place is like.

The island’s charm lies in its simplicity, encouraging you to trade schedules for spontaneity and WiFi for real, unfiltered moments. Utila is so special.

We’ve enjoyed peaceful waterside breakfasts, stories of pirates and buried treasure, snorkelling, freshwater caves, eating homemade ice cream at the Utila Chocolate Co, stargazing, lazing under the shade of palm trees, and having no choice other than to relax. Utila has been the place I have been searching for.

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