Things To Do
in Tela
Tela is a coastal town located on the Caribbean coast of Honduras known for its beautiful beaches and lush tropical surroundings. It is part of the Tela Bay area, which includes several national parks and protected areas that showcase the region's biodiversity. Tela is a popular destination for eco-tourism and offers opportunities for activities such as snorkeling, diving, and hiking.
The town also has a rich history, with remnants of Spanish colonial architecture and Garifuna culture evident in its streets and traditions.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Parque Nacional Punta Sal, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and wildlife. Take a guided hike to immerse yourself in nature.
Head to a local restaurant for authentic Honduran cuisine such as baleadas and seafood dishes. After lunch, relax on Tela's stunning beaches.
Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the beach as the sun sets. Consider visiting a waterfront tiki bar for a refreshing drink.
Spend your morning soaking up the sun at the famous Tela beach. Bring a book or play beach volleyball with friends.
Try out water sports like snorkeling or paddleboarding in the clear waters. Enjoy a beachside lunch with fresh ceviche.
Have a delightful seafood dinner at a beachside restaurant. Watch the stars come out as you relax by the ocean.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful beaches and Caribbean coastline.
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Access to diverse natural attractions, including national parks and marine reserves.
- Friendly and welcoming local community.
- Affordability of living and visiting compared to other tourist destinations.
- Limited infrastructure and public services.
- Higher crime rates in some areas, affecting safety.
- Hurricanes and tropical storms can pose environmental threats.
- Limited job opportunities and economic development.
- Healthcare facilities may not meet the standards of larger cities.
Best Activities in Tela
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the vibrant underwater world of the Tela Bay while contributing to marine conservation efforts.
Embark on a jungle adventure and discover stunning coastal views and diverse wildlife in this coastal national park.
Discover a vast collection of tropical plants and trees while enjoying a peaceful stroll through the lush gardens.
Relax on the pristine beaches, go bird watching, or take a kayak tour through mangrove forests, all within this beautiful national park.
Paddle through the picturesque landscapes and enjoy the tranquility of the Lancetilla River.
Tours
Uncover the best of Tela with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Tela
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the Caribbean Sea and opportunities for photographing coastal landscapes and wildlife.
Scenic spot for capturing the beauty of a lagoon surrounded by lush vegetation and diverse birdlife.
A cultural and picturesque setting, providing opportunities to photograph traditional Garifuna life and vibrant village scenes.
Beautiful stretch of beach with palm trees and clear waters, perfect for capturing serene coastal views and sunsets.
Abundant with mangroves, rivers, and diverse wildlife, offering great photo opportunities for nature and landscape enthusiasts.
Food in Tela
Tela Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Garifuna coconut-based seafood soup, usually made with fish, shrimp, plantains, and other vegetables. Doña Berta's Kitchen is highly recommended for an authentic taste of Tapado.
Must-Try!
A flour tortilla filled with refried beans, cheese, and your choice of protein, such as eggs, avocado, or meat. Look for street vendors or pop into El Principado for a satisfying Baleada.
A savory conch soup with coconut milk, spices, and vegetables. La Fogon de la Abuela is known for serving a delightful Sopa de Caracol.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Tela better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Visit this bustling market to explore a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, spices, and local snacks. Don't miss the opportunity to sample street foods like Pastelitos (stuffed fried pastries) and Rondon (a hearty seafood stew).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tela, it's important to greet people with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, depending on your familiarity with the person.
It is customary to show respect to elders by using formal language and addressing them with their titles, such as 'Señor' or 'Señora'.
When visiting Tela, it's respectful to dress conservatively, particularly in rural areas, to align with the local cultural norms.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Tela with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Tela
Ensure a smooth experience
In Tela, Honduras, tipping is not always expected but is appreciated, especially in tourist areas and at higher-end establishments. A 10% tip may be added to the bill at some restaurants, but it's still customary to leave a small additional tip for good service.
Cash is the most commonly accepted form of payment in Tela, Honduras. Some businesses may also accept major credit cards, but it's always best to carry some cash, particularly in smaller establishments and outside tourist areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Tela.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The dry season is the best time to visit Tela, Honduras, as the weather is warm and there is minimal rainfall. This is an ideal time for outdoor activities and beach relaxation.
During the green season, Tela experiences more rainfall and lush vegetation. While there may be occasional showers, the landscape is beautifully green, making it a great time for nature lovers and bird watching.
Tela at Night
Hiking in Tela
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic area located near Tela, offering several hiking trails along the Cangrejal River with opportunities to explore lush vegetation and local wildlife.
This national park features various hiking trails that lead through diverse ecosystems, waterfalls, and panoramic views, situated about an hour’s drive from Tela.
Located to the south of Tela, this park offers hiking opportunities through tropical forests and mountainous terrains, perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
A popular hiking destination near Tela, known for its hiking paths leading to stunning viewpoints overlooking the region.
This hike offers a moderately challenging trek that leads to breathtaking views and is located close to Tela, making it an ideal spot for day hikes.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Tela through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Tela by plane.
Located in Tegucigalpa, approximately 160 kilometers from Tela, Toncontín is the main airport serving the capital city of Honduras.
Situated in La Lima, approximately 40 kilometers from Tela, this airport serves as an important gateway for international travelers to Honduras.
Located in San Pedro Sula, around 50 kilometers from Tela, this airport is an important hub for domestic and international flights in the region.
About 80 kilometers from Tela, this airport serves the nearby island of Utila and accommodates mainly regional flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Tela, consisting of individuals of mixed Indigenous and European descent.
An Afro-Indigenous group known for their unique culture, language, and music, primarily residing along the Caribbean coast.
Various Indigenous groups, including the Lenca and Chortis, though they represent a smaller percentage of the population.
A smaller demographic group consisting mainly of descendants of Spanish and other European settlers.
Includes expatriates and immigrants from various backgrounds who have settled in Tela.
The Soul of Tela
Discover the essence of Tela through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Tela, as in much of Honduras, with both professional and amateur leagues and a passionate community of fans.
Baseball enjoys significant popularity in Tela, with local teams and games being a common sight, reflecting the sport's regional popularity in the Caribbean coast of Honduras.
Basketball has a growing following in Tela, especially among youth, with many local courts and informal games played regularly.
Due to the coastal environment, beach volleyball is popular in Tela, with many locals engaging in the sport on the beaches.
Swimming is a common activity in Tela, not only as a sport but also as a recreational activity, given the area's beautiful beaches and natural pools.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tela.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While many traditional dishes feature meat or seafood, some restaurants in Tela offer delicious vegetarian fare, such as plantain-based dishes, fresh salads, and vegetable stews. Vegans may find options like coconut rice and beans, fried plantains, and vegetable fritters to enjoy.
Given the reliance on fresh produce and seafood in Honduran cuisine, individuals following a gluten-free diet can find plenty of naturally gluten-free options. However, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out.