Nestled along the pristine shores of Roatán, Honduras, the newly unveiled Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa is a shining jewel in the crown of Central America’s luxury travel scene. This stunning property invites guests into a realm of unspoiled natural beauty, elevated hospitality, and immersive cultural experiences—making it a must-visit destination for discerning travelers seeking an unforgettable, off the beaten path escape.
So, why visit Roatán, Honduras? Beyond the idyllic setting of the Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa, this island paradise offers something for everyone in a unique, under the radar setting. With its shimmering turquoise waters, lush jungles, and captivating underwater world, Roatan is a dream destination for nature lovers, those seeking ultimate rest and relaxation, and adventure seekers alike.
Part of the Bay Islands, Roatán is a picturesque island located about 40 miles off the northern coast of Honduras, nestled in the Caribbean Sea. The Honduras island is roughly 37 miles long and 5 miles wide at its widest point. It boasts a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, making it an appealing destination for beachgoers and adventurers alike.
The Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa, located on West Bay Beach in Roatán, Honduras, underwent significant development before its official opening in October of 2023. The property was originally known as the Grand Roatán Caribbean Resort. In August 2019, Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants announced plans to reimagine and expand the existing resort, and they’ve done just that. The property now features 119 guest rooms, suites, and condos, along with various amenities, including impressive restaurants, bars, a beautiful and well-appointed spa, and expansive meeting spaces.
The guest accommodations in the hotel’s main building are nothing short of spectacular. Spacious, modern, and thoughtfully curated, each room and suite offer panoramic ocean or garden views, spa-like bathrooms, and state-of-the-art amenities. The property’s amenities cater to every whim. Guests can relax at the infinity-edge pool that seems to blend seamlessly with the ocean or rejuvenate one’s body and spirit at the world-class spa, offering treatments inspired by local traditions. The resort’s private stretch of white-sand beach provides the perfect backdrop for lazy sun-soaked days or thrilling water sports adventures, including snorkeling along the world’s second-largest barrier reef or enjoying the resort’s complementary glass-bottom kayaks (a personal favorite of my seven-year-old daughter’s!). West Bay Beach is often ranked among the most beautiful beaches in the world, with soft white sand and clear, shallow waters.
For those with a taste for exploration, the resort offers curated experiences that immerse guests in the wonders of Roatán. Embark on a guided kayak tour through the island’s lush mangroves, enjoy a sunset catamaran cruise, scuba, snorkel and/or spend time with dolphins, or visit local communities to learn about the island’s vibrant Garifuna culture. Roatán is a diver's paradise, sitting atop the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second-largest coral reef system in the world. The reef teems with marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, rays, and even whale sharks. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, every moment is sure to be infused with the charm and warmth of Honduran hospitality.
The Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa also shines as a venue for celebrations and events (we happened to celebrate both Christmas and New Years at the property with an array of fun, festivities to enjoy), with versatile spaces overlooking the ocean or nestled within the tropical gardens. From intimate weddings to corporate retreats, the dedicated events and marketing team ensures that every detail is flawlessly executed.
When it comes to dining, the Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa takes you on a culinary journey. The resort features a variety of dining venues including Alera, Sea Cat, and the Drop Off, that showcase locally sourced ingredients and bold Caribbean flavors. From fresh seafood ceviche at the beachfront bar to fine dining under the stars at their signature restaurant, every meal feels like an indulgent celebration of Roatán’s rich culinary heritage.
Roatán, Honduras, boasts a vibrant culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural heritage and an abundance of diverse flavors, providing visitors with an authentic taste of the island's gastronomy. Some of the most notable restaurants included Luna Muna, situated within the Ibagari Boutique Hotel on Tamarind Drive, between West Bay and West End. The restaurant provides an open-air dining experience, surrounded by nature and just steps away from the beach, making it an ideal spot to enjoy the island’s stunning sunsets. Lotus, located in the same area, is a distinguished establishment within the Xbalanque Resort. Situated beside the resort's infinity pool, Lotus Restaurant provides outdoor dining with sweeping ocean views. Sea Salt was another standout, specializing in locally sourced seafood, family style dining, and some of the freshest and most intriguing ingredients the island has to offer. Argentinian Grill, offering grilled meats and seafood (the double lobster tails surf and turf was a standout!) in a casual beachfront setting was another notable restaurant not to be. All in all, the high-quality dishes, combined with picturesque beachfront settings, made for very memorable dining experiences in Roatán.
The island of Roatán is easily accessible via direct international flights from several U.S. cities. Its international airport is Juan Manuel Gálvez Airport (RTB). Roatán is an exceptionally safe island, distinct from mainland Honduras. Roatán has consistently proven to be a secure and welcoming destination for travelers from all over the world. Daily, they host thousands of cruise ship visitors, many of whom leave with cherished memories and a desire to return. The island is considered a safe haven for Hondurans and Central Americans alike – as of the last decade, it has been booming with expats making Roatán home. With that, real estate development is also on the rise due to the peaceful nature of the destination and many celebrities including Michael Douglas and Cameron Diaz have homes on the island.
In a world where authentic, eco-conscious luxury is increasingly sought after, the Kimpton Roatán stands out as a beacon of what’s possible. The resort goes beyond offering a place to stay; it creates a sanctuary where guests can connect with nature, the local culture, and themselves. The hotel is designed with safety and relaxation as top priorities. From the luxurious beachfront setting to the serene spa, and throughout every area of the property, The Kimpton ensures a secure and safe environment for their guests to unwind and enjoy the vacation of a lifetime. The staff is doting, attentive and ready to assist with anything within the realm of possibility to make a stay extra memorable.
Whether you're celebrating a milestone, embarking on a romantic getaway, or simply looking to reset, the Kimpton Grand Roatán Resort & Spa promises an experience you’ll cherish for a lifetime. It’s not just a resort; it’s an invitation to fall in love with Roatán. And once you do, you may never want to leave (and/or you’ll be longing to return!).
