Utila Caye trips

The Utila Cays are a collection of 12 tiny islets located off the southwest corner of the main island. It is possible to rent a private island - Sandy Caye and Diamond Caye both have a cabin available. If you wanted a complete escape from civilization, Water Caye is the ideal tropical beach paradise, several hundred metres long surrounded by piercingly blue water and coral reef- the only occupants here are the coconut palm trees to shade you from the Caribbean sun or support your hammocks.

Sea Kayaking/Snorkeling

During your time diving with us at the Utila Dive Centre you will have access to our kayaks and our snorkelling gear free of charge. The fringing reefs on the Southside of Utila are ideal for snorkeling or free diving, especially offshore from the old airport or at the other end of town at Blue Bayou. Next to Blue Bayou is the southern entrance to the cross-island canal, ideal for an afternoon of kayaking. Bordering this waterway are lush mangroves that provide home to an array of wildlife, the most thrilling of which being the freshwater crocodile. Although sightings are not too common a glimpse of this large reptile is not unheard of. Half way up the canal is a small dock where a trail leads to Turtle Harbour Pond, the site of a small pre-Colombian ruin. On the north side of the island west of where the canal opens out are some secluded beaches for sunbathing or snorkeling.

Horseback Tours/Freshwater caves

If you would like a break from water sports you could explore Utila's bush covered wilderness on horseback or by bicycle. Aladdin's cave is a popular destination with a large freshwater pool inside for cooling down during your mounted trip. On the north side of the island is Pumpkin Hill beach accessible by a 5km dirt road through the island. Much of the coast here is covered with fossilized corals and rocks but there are still plenty of good sandy spots for relaxing or snorkeling. Near the beach is Pumpkin Hill itself, 270 ft high and riddled with caves, one of which is the spacious Brandon Hill Cave, and local myth has it containing Pirates Treasure from centuries ago. Closer to town is Stuarts Hill, like Pumpkin Hill it is a former volcano. From the top are great views of town and the south side of the island, and nearby are the barely visible remains of a pre-Columbian ceremonial site.

Iguana Research and Breeding Station

If you need a break from diving this makes for an interesting expedition. Watch the several different species of bizarre looking swamp creatures feed and wander around their natural habitat. The station has several species of iguana including Ctemosaura baberi found only in the mangrove swamps of Utila.

Paintball

New to Utila, this activity has proven to be very popular on the island. The volcanic formations and dense jungle on the Northside make an ideal setting for this exciting pursuit where two teams of up to twelve people can enjoy an afternoon out of town. Sessions can be arranged at Tranquila Bar or through Utila Dive Center.

Jetskiing

A variety of jetskis are available for rent, ranging from 750cc to 1200cc. Prices depend on duration of rental and engine size and can be organised at Chepes beach just outside of town. 

Fishing

Both deep-sea fishing and fly-fishing are common in Utila. Among the species found in the shallows near shore are bonefish and permit, which are caught all year round, and grouper, snook, and all sorts of snapper, including yellow tail and red. Tarpon has a limited season, generally from February through June. Deeper waters have mackerel (king and Spanish), bonito, black fin tuna, Wahoo, kingfish and seasonally marlin, while goliath grouper can also be found offshore. Fishing trips can be organized through Utila Dive Centre on one of our quick skiffs or with local fishermen.

Water sports

Windsurfing, water skiing and wakeboarding are all common activities available to any of our visitors that would rather spend some time on the water instead of under the water. The prevailing easterly wind provides ideal conditions on the south side of the island for any windsurfing enthusiast. The Eastern Harbour Bay can play host to the perfect setting for water skiing and wake boarding, or for those looking for more of a challenge the waves off Iron Shore would make for some more serious action.

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