How to Get from Roatán Airport (RTB) to West Bay & West End

Flying into Roatán and staying in West Bay or West End? Here is exactly how to get from the airport (RTB) to your hotel — the distance, the drive time, real taxi and shuttle prices, and the easiest way to arrive without stress.

Roatán’s two most popular areas — buzzing, beach-perfect West Bay and laid-back, walkable West End — sit close together on the calm west side of the island, about a 20–25 minute drive from the airport. Getting there is simple once you know your options. This is the local, no-nonsense breakdown.

Roatán airport (RTB) at a glance

Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport (RTB) is a small, single-terminal airport near Coxen Hole, in the center of the island. Arrivals are quick: clear immigration, collect your bag, and walk out to the pickup area where taxis and pre-arranged drivers wait. From here, West Bay and West End are both a short hop to the west.

Airport to West Bay: distance, time & price

West Bay is about 8 miles from the airport — roughly 20–25 minutes by car. A negotiated taxi typically runs $30–40 for the vehicle. Because the road passes through Coxen Hole and West End before reaching West Bay, traffic can add a few minutes at busy times. West Bay is home to the big resorts — Infinity Bay, Mayan Princess and the Kimpton Grand Roatán — so it is the most common transfer request on the island.

Airport to West End: distance, time & price

West End is slightly closer and a touch cheaper — an authorized airport taxi is around $25 for the vehicle, about a 20-minute drive. West End is the island’s relaxed dive-and-dinner village: walkable, full of restaurants, and the launch point for most snorkel and dive trips. Not sure which side is for you? Read our honest West Bay vs West End guide.

Going further: Sandy Bay, French Harbour & the East End

Staying elsewhere? Sandy Bay (marine parks, boutique hotels) sits between the airport and West End. French Harbour and the East End resorts are east of the airport and a longer ride, so expect a higher fare. A zone-based private transfer keeps these longer trips to one clear flat price — see all the zones on our transportation page.

Your options compared

Three ways to cover the airport-to-hotel leg:

Option	Price to West Bay	Wait time	Best for
Airport taxi	~$30–40, negotiated	Short	Solo travelers who like to haggle
Shared van	Lower per person	20–45 min to fill	Backpackers, flexible schedules
Private transfer (pre-booked)	Flat rate per vehicle	None — driver waits	Families, couples, first-timers

The stress-free way: a pre-booked private transfer

The easiest arrival by far is a private transfer booked before you fly. Your driver tracks your flight, meets you at arrivals holding a sign with your name, and takes you straight to your hotel for a flat price you already agreed — no queuing, no negotiating, no shared stops. Pick a private SUV for couples and small groups, a 9-passenger van for families, or the premium SUV Black Service. For a full look at shuttle types, prices and booking, see our Roatán airport shuttle guide.

Tips for a smooth arrival

• Always agree the fare before getting in a taxi — Roatán taxis are unregulated.
• Book ahead if you land at night or have a tight connection; a waiting driver removes all the stress.
• Traveling with kids? Ask for free car seats when you book.
• Give your flight number so your driver can track delays.
• West Bay’s calm water and reef make it ideal for families — see the best beaches in Roatán.

New to the island and wondering about safety? Our is Roatán safe guide covers everything, and our getting to and around Roatán guide explains ferries, taxis and rentals.

Airport to West Bay & West End FAQ

How far is Roatán airport from West Bay? About 8 miles, or 20–25 minutes by car.

How much is a taxi from Roatán airport to West Bay? Typically $30–40 for the vehicle, negotiated. To West End it is around $25.

Is it better to pre-book a transfer? For families, night arrivals, or anyone who wants a fixed price and zero waiting — yes.

Can one transfer cover my whole group? Yes — a private SUV seats up to 4 and a van up to 9, all for one flat fare.

Ready to arrive the easy way? Book your Roatán airport transfer or message us on WhatsApp.