Most travellers who visit Utila to learn to dive will sleep in the basic shared dorms provided by their dive school.
That set-up won’t be ideal or desirable for everyone.
Backpackers with more budget and couples looking for nicer digs whilst they get their PADI, don’t have to stay in the complimentary diver dorms included in your course price. Similarly, those visiting on a two-week vacation or experienced divers just planning on fun dives may prefer to be based in their own place, something a little nicer, or a guesthouse away from the dive school environment.
Thankfully, there’s a wealth of alternative Utila accommodation for different travel styles and budgets.
Based on our own experiences on the Honduran island and researching countless reviews, listings and recommendations, we’ve done the hard work for you and curated this article. From boutique hotel rooms and budget-friendly apartments in the centre of town, to luxurious beach houses, hostels, and isolated cabins, this is where to stay in Utila!
Utila Hotels & Guesthouses
Manurii Boutique Hotel | This stunning hotel is located on a quiet road just a stone’s throw from Main Street. Beautifully presented rooms, tropical gardens & pool area, as well as excellent reviews. If looking to indulge a little, definitely one to look into! Find out more here.
Mango Inn Resort | Solid wooden cabins with accents of blue and white, a large and lovely pool area and an on-site restaurant (previous guests rave about their pizzas). Centrally located but away from Main Street. Find out more here.
Turtle Beach Sanctuary | A collection of three luxurious ocean-front bungalows, located on the picturesque white sand Turtle Beach, in the north east of the island. Absolutely beautiful, the staff go above and beyond to cater to their guests - makes an ideal honeymoon destination. Find out more here.
For those that crave luxury but would prefer to be closer to the action is, check out brand new Ivory Suite.
Vive Utila | For a more intimate experience away from the hustle and bustle (it’s around a few kilometres from town), consider staying at this small boutique guesthouse owned and run by Utila natives for a real local’s touch. Find out more here.
Pumpkin Hill Hotel is also a good option for those that crave a more off-the-beaten-track location.
The Odyssey Resort | This lovely waterfront hotel - with a nod to the nautical in its design - also provides fun dive experiences, so is ideal for those that already have their PADI. Great location and guests have access to a shared kitchen. Find out more here.
Utila Apartments and Airbnbs
Paradise Regained | Offering a number of beachfront studios and apartments (you can snorkel just off the deck!) in a quiet part of the island - but just a 15-minute walk to the centre of town. The reviews are numerous and excellent! Find all listings here.
Treehouse | Designed by a Scandinavian architect, this two-storey treehouse set within the boughs of a giant fig tree is probably the most unique stay on Utilla - and probably our favourite in this article! Not at all suitable for children or those whose mobility isn’t perfect, but a wonderful escape to nature and a beautiful place to stay. Find out more here.
If different is good, be sure to also check out the Artist’s Retreat.
Coco Cabana | Two self-contained bungalows a short walk from Chepe’s Beach. Basic kitchen facilities but good space and gorgeous terrace area. Both well-priced too. Check out listing one and listing two.
Second Wind | This large open plan, one-bedroom, high-spec luxury apartment is located right on its own private beach. Offers two private decks with views out over the water. Read the outstanding reviews and find out more here.
If the idea of being on the beach sounds perfect but a little out of your budget, consider Purple Jawfish or Whaleshark Bungalow - small but perfectly formed!
Namaste Island Abundance | Set within a lush garden, this beautiful one-bedroom house has lots of space, pleasant terraces and good facilities. Its location within the Country Hill area is calm and serene, but the town can be reached within 20 minutes on foot. Excellent value. Find out more here.
Seabreeze Apartments | A collection of comfortable, bright and sunny fully furnished one bedroom apartments. Located in the heart of Utila, opposite Underwater Vision, who they’re able to organise dive packages with. Find full listing here.
Sandy Bay Beach House | A gorgeous two-bedroom island style house located past Chepe’s Beach. Large open plan living space, vaulted ceilings and deck offering fabulous views. Find out more here.
Casa Miradora | Requiring a boat ride to access, this two-bedroom house won’t suit everyone, but its private beach and serene location may make it perfect for some! Beautifully decorated and with views to die for. Find out more here.
If you don’t mind the limitations of being a boat ride away, be sure to check out The Coral House on Treasure Island. With four bedrooms it’s ideal for a family and the owners can arrange pick-ups and excursions.
Coral House | This cute little two-bed Caribbean house is set back from the main town, but just a 10-minute walk to all amenities. Comfortably furnished, it sits amongst gardens and has its own balcony and hammock. Good value. Find out more here.
LA Utila Studio | Cheap, cheerful and centrally located. Nothing to get excited about but good for those on a budget and even has a pool. One of several studios in the same building. Find out more here.
Other good options for those on a budget include: Harbor Bay, Starfish Apartment, Sandy Bay Stay and Blue Dream Lagoon.
Utila Hostels
La Hamaca Hostel | Pretty much the only hostel on the whole island, and the best place for backpackers to stay if not getting your Open Water or Advance diving qualification. Lovely privates and decent dorms, the best feature is cool large deck, bar and chill-out area. Find out more here.
