Tranquilseas Roatan Review: Staying with Sandy Bay’s Eco Lodge

I first stayed with Tranquilseas Roatan Hotel back in 2021 when I collaborated with the resort on an Instagram campaign. From the moment I arrived, I knew this place was something special.

The staff welcomed me like family, the ocean views were breathtaking, and the peaceful, tucked-away location made it the perfect escape. When I got the chance to return in January 2025 for a four-night stay, I didn’t hesitate for a second!

If you’re looking for a serene, eco-friendly getaway in Roatan, this is it. Tranquilseas is more than just a boutique hotel—it’s a place that truly cares about the island, from rainwater collection to biodegradable products and support for the local community.

And if that’s not enough to convince you, their on-site restaurant, The Sunken Fish, might. With a new chef in charge as of 2024, the food is better than ever—easily some of the best meals I’ve had on the island.

I spent four blissful days soaking up the laid-back luxury, stunning surroundings, and genuine hospitality that make Tranquilseas so special—and now, I can’t wait to share my experience. Here’s everything you need to know about staying at Tranquilseas Eco-Lodge for your next Roatan vacay.

*Tranquilseas Eco-Lodge & Dive Center graciously offered me a 4-night complimentary stay at their hotel for the purposes of this review.

Introducing Tranquilseas Eco-Lodge & Dive Center

Nestled in Sandy Bay, just before you reach Roatan’s popular West End, is Tranquilseas Eco-Lodge & Dive Center—a boutique resort offering a sustainable and peaceful escape amidst jungle greenery and gorgeous ocean views.

The neighborhood is home to a mix of locals and expats, with a long, beautiful stretch of beach and some of the best snorkeling on the island.

The resort’s current owners—Pavel, Karolina, and their son, Cedric—took over in October 2018 and have since transformed it into one of Roatan’s most unique boutique hotels! Sustainability, community support, and top-tier hospitality are at the heart of everything they do, and it’s clear from the moment you arrive.

Every time I’ve stayed with Tranquilseas, they’ve made it clear how much they value their guests. Every member of the staff is warm, welcoming, and ready to help with anything you need at the drop of a hat.

For anyone looking to unwind in a serene, eco-conscious setting away from the busier West Side, Tranquilseas might just be the perfect choice for you. Above all else, you can feel good about staying here, knowing that the resort is deeply committed to preserving the island’s natural beauty and supporting the local community.

Meet the Owners

Tranquilseas is the passion project of Pavel and Karolina—a family who followed their dream of living the island life all the way to Roatan. Their journey started in Bali, Indonesia, but after realizing it wasn’t quite the right fit, they set their sights on the Caribbean. A leap of faith led them to Roatan, and in October 2018, they became the proud owners of Tranquilseas Eco Lodge and Dive Center!

From the moment they set foot on the property, they knew it was something special. They’ve spent the years since pouring their hearts into creating a boutique eco-lodge that blends sustainability, comfort, and island hospitality.

Today, Tranquilseas is a true reflection of their vision—offering guests a peaceful, eco-conscious retreat on one of the most beautiful islands in Central America. Learn more about their story.

What Makes Tranquilseas Eco-Friendly?

Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword at Tranquilseas—it’s woven into everything they do.

As strong supporters of the Roatan Marine Park, a non-profit organization committed to conserving the natural environment on Roatan, the resort actively contributes to conservation efforts that help protect the island’s marine life, educate the local community, and preserve Roatan’s lush natural beauty.

Through all of their sustainability initiatives, Tranquilseas proves that luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand. Their eco-conscious approach allows guests to enjoy paradise responsibly, knowing their stay supports a resort that truly cares about keeping Roatan beautiful—for both visitors and future generations.

👉🏼 Tranquilseas checking all your boxes? Book your stay before it fills up!

If you’re interested in learning more about how you can get involved in Roatan’s conservation efforts, stay tuned for a blog post collaboration with the Roatan Marine Park coming soon! Subscribe below to get an email when it’s published 👇🏼

Beach Cleanups

Keeping Roatan beautiful is a daily priority at Tranquilseas. The staff rakes and cleans the beach every morning, and whenever bad weather rolls in, they use the downtime to clear out whatever the ocean washes up—plastic bags, bottles, flip-flops, and tons of microplastics.

More often than not, guests jump in to help—grabbing a bag and pitching in. It’s a small, but powerful way to lead by example and protect the island for future visitors.

Rain Traps

Tranquilseas takes water conservation seriously, using multiple rain traps throughout the property to collect and repurpose rainwater.

On top of that, they’ve implemented a sophisticated wastewater treatment system to ensure minimal environmental impact. Every time you turn on a faucet or take a shower during your stay, rest assured that each drop is being used as efficiently as possible.

Biodegradable Everything

When you live on an island surrounded by the largest coral reef in the Western Hemisphere, you have to pay attention to the products you use. This means cutting out chemicals like oxybenzone, octinoxate, parabens, triclosan, bisphenol A (BPA), certain phthalates, and some heavy metals that can harm marine life.

These chemicals are often found in sunscreens, cosmetics, cleaning products, and plastics that can enter the ocean through wastewater runoff.

At Tranquilseas, they take biodegradability seriously. All cleaning detergents are biodegradable and eco-friendly, ensuring they don’t contaminate the local groundwater. Reef-safe sunscreen is sold in their on-site dive shop, and even wastewater is repurposed to nourish the lush tropical gardens.

To cut down on plastic waste, Tranquilseas provides water dispensers in all rooms and at The Sunken Fish restaurant. Honestly, for an island that doesn’t produce drinkable tap water, you’d think more Roatan resorts would implement this, but it’s actually pretty rare.

Guests receive a reusable water bottle upon arrival, making it easy to stay hydrated without relying on single-use plastic. It’s a small but impactful way to help reduce the millions of tons of plastic waste generated by bottled drinks each year!

Electricity Consumption

Reducing environmental impact means keeping energy use to a minimum. The resort is currently running about 60% of its energy via solar panels and heats all of its water using solar energy, thanks to thermal collectors installed on the roof.

Support for the Local Community

Tranquilseas isn’t just committed to protecting the environment—they’re also dedicated to uplifting the local community! The resort was built using local materials by local tradesmen, ensuring that the development directly benefited Roatan’s economy while also creating an authentic island experience for guests.

Beyond construction, Tranquilseas prioritizes fair wages and strong job benefits for its staff, helping them to support their families and build sustainable livelihoods.

Let me just say—whoever is doing the hiring for the resort, is killing it. Every single staff member I met during my stay was incredibly kind, accommodating, fun, and just a joy to be around!

👉🏼 Already falling in love with Tranquilseas? Make it official—book your stay!

Staying with Tranquilseas Roatan

I arrived exhausted and sweaty…but giddy as hell to be back in Roatan.

The second I stepped onto the property, someone was there to grab my bags and show me to my room—already running A/C and set up with stunning ocean views. All I wanted was a shower and a tropical drink, and they more than delivered…with two drinks and one of the best plates of tiradito I’ve ever had on the island.

In this section, I’ll walk you through every step of my stay at Tranquilseas Roatan—from the location and rooms to the little details that made it so special.

The Location

Tranquilseas is tucked away in Sandy Bay, a beautiful, laid-back stretch of Roatan where locals and expats live side by side. (If you’re worried about safety in Roatan, don’t be—this area is super safe!)

Unlike the busy tourist hubs of West End and West Bay, Sandy Bay offers peace, quiet, and a more authentic island feel. The resort itself sits right on the beach, just steps from some of the best Roatan snorkeling, with uninterrupted ocean views that make it clear why this is one of the best places to watch a Roatan sunset.

If your idea of paradise is quiet mornings, unspoiled beaches, and zero crowds, Tranquilseas Roatan might just be your perfect match.

However, if you’re looking for a spot where you can walk to Roatan bars, restaurants, and dive shops in minutes, you may be better off in West End or West Bay. That said, getting to the west side for a night out is easy—just walk up to the main road and flag down a cab. Just be sure to confirm the price before you hop in!

The Rooms

Because we planned this collaboration a little last-minute, I actually got to stay in two different rooms during my 4-night stay—which ended up working out for the best. It gave me a better feel for the renovations and let me experience even more of what Tranquilseas has to offer!

With just 9 rooms, this is a truly boutique experience, and each space is uniquely designed to accommodate different needs. During my stay, I got to experience both the Gecko room and the Dragonfly room, and I’ll break down the details of each below.

Gecko

I spent my first night at Tranquilseas in the Gecko Room. I was only there for one night out of my 4-night stay because it was way more space than I needed as a solo female traveler.

However, if you’re visiting with friends or as a family with kids, this room would be perfect for your stay in Roatan.

The bathroom and shower area was beautifully designed, featuring a mosaic gecko on the wall (you can see it in the photos below—click to enlarge!). There was also a spacious sink area, which any girl who’s ever tried to get ready in a tiny bathroom can appreciate.

The room itself had a cozy sitting area, but the real star of the show was the huge balcony with stunning ocean views—the perfect spot to relax with a coffee (or a cocktail).

Dragonfly

After my first night, I checked out of Gecko and moved into Dragonfly (which made way more sense for a solo traveler). Even though it was cozier, it still had plenty of space, especially in the bathroom—there was a huge shower, a massive sink area, and a separate little room for the toilet.

The main room featured a four-poster bed with a canopy and insane ocean views that made waking up every morning feel like a dream. The massive balcony was another highlight, complete with a cute little swinging chair—aka the perfect spot to unwind with a glass of wine (which, as you can see below, is exactly what I did).

Be sure to pack your waterproof speaker for Roatan to maximize those patio vibes.

The Property

With gorgeous ocean views, top-tier amenities, and a laid-back island vibe, Tranquilseas is designed for total relaxation. The heart of the property is The Sunken Fish, the hotel’s on-site restaurant and bar that wraps around the main building.

There’s a spacious indoor area for rainy days, but the real magic is out on the gorgeous oceanfront patio, where you can sip a cocktail with unbeatable views. It’s no wonder the Tranquilseas Roatan reviews are overwhelmingly positive.

Downstairs, you’ll find a swimming pool lined with comfy beach chairs and swinging seats where you can order a drink and relax in the sun. There’s also a long wooden deck over the ocean with two levels—the top is used for yoga classes, while the lower level has plush lounge chairs and even a hammock net stretched over the water.

If you need any last-minute gear, the on-site dive shop has you covered with reef-safe sunscreen, rash guards, masks, and more. You can also book snorkeling trips right from the shop, making it easy to experience the island’s incredible marine life.

👉🏼 Heard enough? Lock in your stay with Tranquilseas Eco Lodge Roatan today!

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Guest Amenities

At Tranquilseas Roatan Resort, guests can enjoy a multitude of luxurious amenities both in their rooms, and around the property. Some of the most popular include…

• Outdoor swimming pool
• Airport shuttle (which makes getting to and leaving Roatan a breeze)
• Room service
• Free parking
• On-site restaurant
• On-site dive shop
• Stellar breakfast
• Beachfront property
• Air conditioning
• Concierge service
• Currency exchange (although you can use USD in Roatan, as well as the local currency: the Honduran lempira)
• 24-hour security
• In-room safety deposit boxes

Upgrade to All-Inclusive

Not only is Tranquilseas one of the best places to stay in Roatan, but it’s also one of the few hotels that offers an all-inclusive Roatan vacation. 

Browse the holiday packages available for upgrades!

• 7 nights for the price of 5 nights (basic all-inclusive package)
• 7 nights diving & accommodation (includes 10 dives)
• 7 nights yoga & recreation (5 yoga classes, 2 massages)
• 7 nights romance package (2 couples massages, romantic 3-course meal, champagne & fruit upon arrival)

On-Site Restaurant: The Sunken Fish

I first tried the food at The Sunken Fish when I lived in Roatan back in 2021, and it was phenomenal—but on my most recent trip in January, it completely blew my mind.

In 2024, Tranquilseas brought in a new chef from Guatemala, and he has taken the menu to an entirely new level. I had some of my favorite dishes I’ve ever eaten on the island here, and I can confidently say The Sunken Fish is one of the best restaurants in Roatan.

Even if you’re not staying at Tranquilseas, you need to stop by for a meal. Browse some of my favorite dishes below, but whatever you do, do not leave without trying the tiradito with the fresh catch of the day, the breakfast baleada, the tuna and avocado tartar, and the Saturday night BBQ (which I’ll talk more about below).

Saturday BBQ Night

During my most recent stay at Tranquilseas, I finally got to try their Saturday Night BBQ. I can’t believe I waited this long!

The menu lets you mix and match your meal, choosing from options like lobster, octopus, beef tenderloin, snapper, shrimp, and more, plus a selection of sides and sauces. I went for the lobster and octopus, and both were grilled to perfection.

What makes it even better? Since Tranquilseas is an eco-lodge, you can be sure they follow the Roatan Marine Park’s Responsible Seafood Guide to the letter. So, you can enjoy the freshest grilled seafood, guilt-free.

On-Site Dive Shop: Best Dive Roatan

One of the perks of staying at Tranquilseas is their on-site dive shop, Best Dive Roatan, which makes it ridiculously easy to book and show up for your dives without ever leaving the property. Their speedy, well-equipped dive boat is captained by an amazing crew, and their dive masters are top-tier.

During my latest stay, I went diving with Juan, who was an absolute rockstar. The conditions were perfect—sunny skies, crystal-clear water, and we even spotted sea turtles at both dive sites: Seaquest and Half Moon Bay Wall!

If you didn’t pack all your dive essentials, Best Dive Roatan has you covered. Their shop carries reef-safe sunscreen, reef-friendly hair care, swimsuits, rash guards, and offers full equipment rentals, so you can gear up on-site and dive stress-free.

Explore Roatan Through Tranquilseas

If you want to experience some of the best activities in Roatan without the hassle of planning, Tranquilseas has you covered.

From snorkeling and fishing trips to yoga sessions and island-hopping adventures, you can book it all directly through the resort—no extra research or coordination needed. Just pick your adventure and let them handle the rest!

Snorkeling Trips

If diving isn’t your thing, you can still experience Roatan’s incredible marine life on a snorkeling trip. The hotel can arrange a simple boat excursion for snorkeling or help you combine it with a half-day or full-day island tour for an even bigger adventure. (More details below re: Pigeon Cay).

Yoga Classes

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing group session or a personalized one-on-one class, Tranquilseas offers yoga options to fit your vacation vibe.

Classes are held in their beautiful outdoor pavilion with ocean views, pictured below. For more info on class schedules or booking a private session, just check with reception anytime!

Fishing

If you’re a fishing enthusiast (I’m not because I like my day to start around 10:00 AM, not 4:00 AM), you’ll be excited to learn that Roatan’s deep waters are renowned for offering some of the best fishing spots in the Caribbean.

Species like yellowfin tuna, wahoo, mahi-mahi, and yellowtail snapper are frequently caught around the island, and the chefs at The Sunken Fish will cook up whatever you catch when you return!

Tranquilseas can arrange early morning fishing trips between 5:00 AM and 6:00 AM, led by experienced captains who know all the prime locations. Ask reception about scheduling a fishing trip.

Day Trips

Tranquilseas offers some incredible day trips to help you experience more of Roatan and the surrounding islands. Weather permitting, they can arrange excursions to Cayos Cochinos, which has been on my bucket list for years—but so far, the weather has never fully cooperated. Fingers crossed for my next trip!

This year, we were lucky enough to go on their Pigeon Cay snorkeling trip, which was hands down one of the coolest things I’ve ever done in Roatan (more on that below).

Other day trips offered through the resort include Little French Key, Big French Key, Camp Bay Beach, catamaran trips, snorkeling with dolphins at Bailey’s Key, glass-bottom boat tours, ziplining, and full-day island tours by car or boat.

Our Pigeon Cay Day Trip

For an unforgettable adventure in Roatan, a boat trip to Pigeon Cay is a must, especially if you love snorkeling. During my most recent trip to Honduras in February 2025, I finally got the chance to go—and let’s just say, it instantly became one of my favorite experiences on the island.

The journey starts with a long boat ride out to Roatan’s East End, which can get a little choppy depending on the weather. (Pro tip: if you’re prone to seasickness, bring some non-drowsy Dramamine). But once you arrive, it’s worth every second—a tiny sandbar surrounded by the clearest, most vibrant turquoise water you can imagine.

The best part? The nurse sharks. The moment we jumped into the water, we were greeted by six friendly sharks gracefully swimming through the shallows. They were so calm and curious and completely unbothered by our presence. (Check out the pics below—tell me they’re not the cutest!)

After snorkeling, we made our way to a local spot for lunch, where we feasted on grilled lobster tails, rice and beans, and crispy fried plantains. On the way back, we stopped at a sunken shipwreck for another snorkeling session, where I spotted a couple of cute lil’ squids darting through the water.

The crew made the entire experience seamless, keeping us stocked with fresh fruit, cold beers, and soft drinks throughout the trip. If the weather cooperates (ours didn’t fully), this is easily one of the top excursions in Roatan. If you’re thinking about booking, I highly recommend talking to reception to coordinate your Pigeon Cay day trip!

Is Tranquilseas Right for Your Trip?

Not every hotel is a perfect match for every traveler, and Tranquilseas is no different. If you’re looking for a luxurious stay in a tranquil, relaxing environment where you can wake up to birdsong and the sound of waves —then go ahead and book your stay, because Tranquilseas is perfect for you.

However, if you’re looking for a bustling atmosphere in the main tourist areas—this might not be the right hotel for you. Check out the lists below for a more thorough breakdown:

Tranquilseas is perfect for you if…

• You prioritize peace, quiet, and relaxation on your vacation
• You book accommodations with sustainability top-of-mind
• You plan on renting a car for the duration of your Roatan trip
• You’re looking for a more “local” vibe outside of the main tourist areas without compromising comfort or luxury
• You want everything in one place: accommodation, restaurant, bar, all-inclusive upgrades, dive shop, excursions, etc.
• Top-notch service is #1 on your list of priorities

Tranquilseas might not be the right fit for you if…

• You’re traveling solo and looking to meet other solo travelers
• You’re traveling on a strict budget that can’t accommodate Tranquilseas prices
• You prioritize walkability in an accommodation and want to be in the center of everything
• You’re a night owl looking to experience Roatan’s best nightlife

If Tranquilseas sounds like the right fit for you, keep reading to learn how to book your stay!

Book Your Stay with Exclusives for Madison’s Footsteps Readers!

Ready to book your next epic Roatan vacation with Tranquilseas? Book your stay today, and don’t forget to mention Madison’s Footsteps at check-in to score these exclusive perks:

✅ Welcome drink
✅ Free use of kayaks and paddleboards
✅ 10% off diving and snorkeling activities

Keep in mind, the hotel books up quickly during the high season! Book ahead of time to make sure you can secure your ideal dates and room.

Final Thoughts

After four incredible nights at Tranquilseas in 2025 (and another three back in 2021), I can confidently say this is one of the best accommodations in Roatan.

From the stunning beachfront location and luxurious amenities to the outstanding food at The Sunken Fish and top-notch diving with Best Dive Roatan, every detail is designed to make your stay unforgettable. Plus, their commitment to sustainability and support for the local community makes your time there even better

Of course, this resort isn’t for everyone. If you’re looking for a walkable location with lots of nightlife, you may prefer staying in West End or West Bay. But if your idea of paradise is a quiet, beachfront retreat with top-notch service and a relaxed island vibe, then Tranquilseas is the perfect choice.

I hope my Tranquilseas Roatan review helped you decide if this eco-lodge is the right fit for your trip. If you’re ready to book, don’t forget to mention Madison’s Footsteps at check-in to grab your exclusive perks!

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