Utila
Cay Trips
The Utila Cays are a collection of 12 tiny islets located off the southwest corner of the main island. Probably the most popular is Water cay. If you wanted a complete escape from civilization, this is the ideal tropical beach paradise with splendid, coconut-lined beach surrounded by azure waters and coral reefs, a perfect place to string a hammock and forget about the world for a while.
Just off Water Cay is the twin cays Pigeon and Jewel. Joined by a bridge, these tiny cays houses a small fishing village with more than 1,000 inhabitants. The quaint village covers every inch of land on these two cays and is a popular day trip, especially to stop in between dives for the islands famous fish burgers.
It is even possible to rent your own private island - Sandy Cay and Diamond Cay both have a cabin available.
Fresh Water Caves
Venture with one of the local guides into Utila's fresh water cave system. There is a large freshwater swimming hole just inside Aladdin's cave. The pool makes it a very popular destination in the summer, for it remains perfectly cool even when the thermometer hovers around 100° F. Another popular cave is Brandon Hill Cave, which, according to local legend, hides the treasure of Pirate Captain Morgan from centuries ago.
Horseback Tours
Utila is now home to two ranches which offer horseback tours of the island. A nice break from water sports, riders can explore Utila's bush covered wilderness. 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 a secluded day of relaxing or snorkeling. Near the beach is Pumpkin Hill itself, 270 ft high and riddled with caves, 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.
Paintball
New in 2004, paintball has come to Utila. Two teams of up to twelve people can battle it out in the bush and among the volcanic formations and dense jungle on the island's uninhabited north side.
