Things To Do
in Tela

Tela, Honduras is a vibrant coastal town located on the Caribbean Sea, known for its beautiful beaches and rich Garifuna culture. This tropical paradise boasts stunning natural landscapes, including lush mangroves and coral reefs, making it a favorite for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Tela is also famous for its warm hospitality, delicious seafood, and lively musical scene, offering visitors a glimpse into the local way of life.

With its mix of relaxation and cultural experiences, Tela is an ideal destination for those looking to unwind and explore.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Tela
morning
:

Start your day with a walk along the beach, enjoying the sunrise and the sound of the waves. Visit the Tela Marine Biological Station to learn about local marine life.

afternoon
:

Head to La Ensenada beach for some sunbathing and swimming. Enjoy a beachfront lunch at a local restaurant.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a stroll through the town and enjoy some live Garifuna music at a local bar.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Punta Sal National Park for an early morning hike and bird watching.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets in Tela and try some street food for lunch. Visit the Garifuna Museum to learn about the local culture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a traditional Honduran restaurant and take in the local nightlife at a dance venue.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Restaurant$10
🏨Mid-range Hotel Night$50
🚌Local Bus Fare$0.50
🥥Coconut Water$2
🛍️Souvenir$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful beaches and natural scenery
  • Rich cultural experiences and local traditions
  • Affordable travel destination
  • Limited healthcare facilities
  • Some areas may experience safety concerns at night
  • Public transportation can be inconsistent
  • "Hola" - Hello
  • "Gracias" - Thank you
  • "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "Por favor" - Please
  • "Adiós" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Tela

Visit one of these nice places.

Punta Sal National Park

An incredible location for capturing the diverse flora and fauna, including stunning beaches and mangroves.

Tela Beach

The picturesque beach with golden sands and clear blue waters, perfect for sunset photography.

Garifuna Museum

A cultural heritage site that provides great opportunities to capture the essence of the Garifuna community.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tela

Tela offers a rich culinary experience, blending fresh seafood with traditional Honduran flavors that reflect the town's diverse cultural heritage.

Tela Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Ceviche

A refreshing dish made from fresh fish marinated in citrus juices, typically served with onions and cilantro.

Must-Try!

Baleadas

A popular Honduran dish made with flour tortillas, filled with refried beans, cheese, and cream.

Tapado

A hearty seafood stew featuring a variety of local fish, shellfish, and coconut milk.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tela Market

A bustling market where locals sell fresh produce, seafood, and street food. It's a great place to sample local flavors.

Street Vendors

You'll find vendors selling snacks like fried plantains and pupusas along the beach and in town.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tela has a tropical climate with a wet and dry season. The dry season (November to April) features warm temperatures averaging 25-30°C (77-86°F) and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities. The wet season (May to October) is characterized by higher humidity and frequent rain showers, with temperatures remaining warm. Overall, expect pleasant weather year-round, but be prepared for occasional tropical storms during the wet season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greeting

A warm handshake or hug is a common greeting; be friendly and smile.

Dress Code

Casual beachwear is acceptable, but it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting local communities.

Respect for Culture

Show appreciation for the Garifuna culture and traditions, which are an important part of Tela's identity.

Safety Guide

Safety

While Tela is generally safe for tourists, it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid displaying valuables and be mindful of your surroundings, especially at night. It's best to travel in groups and stick to well-lit areas. Ensure you have travel insurance and know the location of the nearest medical facilities in case of emergencies.

Tipping in Tela

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is common in restaurants, typically around 10-15% of the bill. It’s appreciated but not mandatory.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some establishments accept credit cards. It's recommended to have cash on hand for small vendors.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - April)

Expect warm and dry weather, perfect for beach activities and outdoor exploration. This is the peak tourist season.

Wet Season (May - October)

Expect higher humidity and occasional rain showers. While the landscape is lush, outdoor plans may need to be adjusted.

Hurricane Season (June - November)

While not every year sees hurricanes, it’s important to keep an eye on weather forecasts during this time.

Holiday Season (December)

Expect festive celebrations and local events. It’s a great time to experience the culture, but accommodations may be booked.

Nightlife Guide

Tela at Night

Tela has a lively nightlife scene, with various bars and clubs featuring local music, particularly Garifuna rhythms. Many venues offer live performances, making it a great place to dance and socialize. The beachfront bars are especially popular, providing a relaxing atmosphere with ocean views. Activities often go late into the night, providing a vibrant experience for visitors.

Hiking in Tela

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Cerro de la Cruz Trail

A challenging hike that rewards you with panoramic views of Tela and the Caribbean Sea, best suited for experienced hikers.

Punta Sal Trail

A scenic trail through Punta Sal National Park, offering opportunities to observe wildlife and enjoy the coastal scenery.

Airports

How to reach Tela by plane.

Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

Located approximately 30 minutes from Tela, this airport services domestic flights and limited international connections, making it the primary gateway for travelers to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tela is fairly walkable, especially around the main areas such as the beach, town center, and local markets. Sidewalks are generally present, but may vary in condition. Many attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore the town on foot. However, it's advisable to stay vigilant and be cautious of traffic in busier areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Garifuna Community

The Garifuna people have a rich cultural heritage and play a significant role in Tela's identity, contributing to its music, dance, and cuisine.

Mestizo Population

The Mestizo population, a mix of indigenous and Spanish descent, forms a large part of the community, influencing the town's traditions and lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Soccer

Soccer is the most popular sport in Tela, with local teams and community leagues actively engaging the youth.

Baseball

Baseball has a strong following in Tela, with many locals playing in informal games and organized leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tela is generally light, especially compared to larger cities in Honduras. Most people rely on walking, bicycles, or local buses for transportation. Roads may be narrow, and occasional congestion can occur during peak hours, but overall, it's manageable. Public transportation options are available, but schedules may vary, so it's best to plan ahead.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tela.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While seafood is prevalent, many restaurants offer vegetarian options such as rice and beans or vegetable soups.

Gluten-Free

Some local dishes can be adjusted to be gluten-free, but it's recommended to clarify dietary needs with restaurant staff.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Tela is limited, with a few clinics and a small hospital available. For serious medical emergencies, traveling to larger cities like San Pedro Sula may be necessary. It's recommended for travelers to have adequate travel insurance that covers medical expenses and to keep a list of nearby medical facilities on hand.

Discover Honduras

Read more in our Honduras 2025 Travel Guide.

Honduras Travel Guide