Visitors worldwide come to this idyllic spot to scuba dive and relax in the sun. There’s plenty of incredible marine life below the waves, and the coral reefs are simply breathtaking. On the islands themselves, you’ll find a few small restaurants and bars and some basic accommodation options.
What Is Cayos Cochinos Famous for?
Cayos Cochinos is best known for its natural beauty, above and below the water. The islands are surrounded by clear waters and fringed with white-sand beaches. Under the surface, there’s an incredible array of marine life to be seen, making it a popular spot for scuba diving and snorkeling.
Since it is part of the second-largest barrier reef system in the world, there’s plenty to see for divers of all levels of experience. It is also a somewhat remote location, so it’s the perfect place to relax and get away from it all. Cayos Cochinos is also the home to pink boa constrictors, so you may spot one of these beautiful creatures on your visit if you’re lucky.
What Is the Cayos Cochinos National Marine Monument?
The islands are considered to be protected areas. It covers 2 sq km (494 ac) of land and sea, including the two main islands and the surrounding cays.
The monument was created to protect the delicate marine ecosystem and the many species of fish, coral, and other creatures that call it home. The Honduran Coral Reef Foundation manages it.
Where Are the Cayos Cochinos Located?
Cayos Cochinos is located between the mainland of Honduras and the Bay Islands. It is considered a municipality of Roatan and is about 30 km (19 mi) from La Ceiba. The Caribbean Sea surrounds the archipelago making it the perfect spot for a beach getaway.
How Do You Get to Cayos Cochinos?
Since Cayos Cochinos is located off the coast of Honduras, the only way to get there is by boat. A few different companies offer boat trips from Utila, La Ceiba, or Roatan.
The journey takes about an hour, so it’s best to leave in the morning to make the most of your time on the islands. Alternatively, you can charter a boat for the day if you want a more private experience.
How Much Does It Cost to Go to Cayos Cochinos?
There is an entrance fee of $13 (£10) to visit the islands. This fee goes towards the marine park’s maintenance and helps protect the delicate ecosystem.
Other than this, there is no additional cost to visit the islands. However, you will need to pay for your boat trip and any food or drinks you consume while there.
How Far Is Cayos Cochinos From Roatan?
The distance from Roatan to Cayos Cochinos is about 40.2 km (24.9 mi). The journey by boat takes around forty minutes to an hour, depending on the schedule and the boat company you travel with.
As you ride from Roatan to Cayos Cochinos, you’ll see the coastline and the many cays that make up this stunning archipelago. Wild dolphins are sometimes spotted swimming alongside the boat, so keep your eyes peeled!
How Do You Get to Cayos Cochinos From Roatan?
You can either rent a sailboat or arrange a transfer with your hotel or tour company. The price depends on the size of your group and the type of boat you choose. Some offer a one-and-a-half-hour tour of the island, while others will just drop you off for the day.
Can You Stay on Cayos Cochinos?
While there are a few small restaurants and bars on the islands, there is only one resort in Cayos Cochinos, the Turtle Bay Eco Resort. Other than this, there are no other places to stay on the islands.
So, if you’re looking for a place to spend the night, you’ll need to head back to Roatan or La Ceiba. However, if you’re just looking for a day trip, you can quickly return to the mainland in the evening.
Where to Stay on Cayos Cochinos
The only place accommodation on Cayos Cochinos is the Turtle Bay Eco Resort. The resort offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea. However, don’t expect to find any luxury here. The rooms are simple, and the internet might be patchy.
If you’re looking for a more luxurious stay, you can head back to Roatan or La Ceiba. There are plenty of hotels and resorts to choose from, so you’ll be sure to find something that suits your needs.
Why Visit Cayos Cochinos
There are many reasons to visit Cayos Cochinos. The islands are beautiful and offer a unique opportunity to see various marine life. Many people come here to snorkel or scuba dive as the coral reef is teeming with colorful fish.
Others come to relax on the sandy beaches or take a boat trip around the archipelago. Whatever your reason for visiting, you’re sure to fall in love with this little piece of paradise.
