The island of Utila is renowned as a budget friendly choice for those who want to learn how to dive, and a thriving tourism industry has developed as a result.
Arise early and head for a light breakfast at Rio Coco Cafe ($10), but don’t overeat as you will be spending a good few hours at sea. Certified divers can head out on a one-day package to see the best of what Utila has to offer (approximately $45), while those without a certificate can go snorkeling around the nearby reefs.
After returning to land, make your way to the Jade Seahorse restaurant for a late lunch, and marvel at the intricate treehouse construction ($10). Climb down from its mystical surroundings before taking a stroll along the main street to the small beach, where you can swim some more or just relax on the sand.
Jade Seahorse © Micah MacAllen | Flickr
Dive courses may start early every day but that does not stop the nightlife on Utila from being famously raucous. Dinner and drinks at the Mango Inn ($15) will get you in the mood for a night at the Skid Row Bar. If you’ve got the stomach for it, take on the Skid Row Challenge ($10), which involves downing four shots of the local firewater, guifiti.
Successful participants walk away with the Skid Row vest ubiquitous among travelers in Central America, as well as a pounding headache the morning after. Finish your night at Tranquila Bar, which is anything but, especially on Tequila Tuesday (shots $3).
Read This Next
All Reads on This Topic
Read Them All
#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedCruises
May 12, 2025HX Expeditions Launches New Culinary Program to Celebrate the Flavors of Greenland
HX Expeditions recently announced a partnership with renowned Greelandic chef Inunnguaq Hegelund to develop a culinary program celebrating the rich and diverse flavors of Greenland. The program will include curated menus, collaborative recipes and culinary lectures, and it will launch May 24 aboard MS Fridtjof Nansen.
Sponsored Content
AmaWaterways’ Specialty River Cruises
When you embark on a river cruise with award-winning AmaWaterways, unpack once and step aboard a world of unparalleled experiences. With enriching excursions, exquisite locally sourced food and wine, nightly entertainment and more included in the fare, you will learn why AmaWaterways has the most returning guests out of any river cruise line.
Hotel
May 12, 2025Maldives Resort Introduces New Conservation Package for Manta Ray Season
Just because Earth Day already passed doesn’t mean you can’t still put sustainability first during travels. Plan an eco-friendly trip to Seaside Finolhu Baa Atoll Maldives, a resort currently offering a new marine conservation package blending adventure, natural beauty and meaningful connection.
Cruises
May 12, 2025What to Expect from World’s Largest Cruise Terminal
MSC Cruises recently inaugurated the world’s largest cruise terminal — MSC Miami Cruise Terminal at PortMiami. The terminal, which measures nearly 500,000 square feet, can process up to 36,000 cruise passengers daily. Despite the crowds, though, this terminal was built with a stress-free experience in mind.
Hotel
May 9, 2025Nobu Expands into Oman
Well-known luxury hospitality brand Nobu expands into Oman with the new Nobu Hotel, Restaurant and Residences Muscat. The property is being developed in partnership with Oman Tourism Development Company and Enevoria Development, and follows Nobu’s recent announcement of a property set to debut in the United Arab Emirates. Other Nobu projects are also currently underway in Saudi Arabia and Egypt.
Hotel
May 9, 2025Sound Baths: The New Vacation Must-Have and Where to Find Them
Sound therapy is sweeping the nation and has even infiltrated the luxury travel market. More and more travelers seek out sound bath experiences to help reduce pain and tension, improve heart rates and moods, and lower depression. These luxury hotels embrace the trend:
ShareThis