Things To Do
in Tela
Tela is a laid-back Caribbean town on Honduras’ northern coast, framed by turquoise waters and palm-fringed beaches. It serves as a gateway to lush tropical reserves like Lancetilla and Pico Bonito, while offering fresh seafood, markets, and a relaxed pace. Garifuna influence colors the region’s music, cuisine, and coastal culture, adding a distinct and welcoming vibe.
With a convenient location between nature reserves and the coast, Tela is a practical base for day trips and beach days alike.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh tropical fruit and Honduran coffee. Afterwards, stroll through the vibrant streets of Tela's historic center, where colonial architecture tells stories of the past. Visit the Central Park and take in the lively atmosphere, filled with local vendors and artists showcasing their crafts.
After lunch at a traditional Garifuna restaurant, continue your exploration by heading to the Tela Museum, where you can learn about the rich cultural heritage of the region. Spend some time at the nearby Caribbean Sea, lounging on the beach or taking a refreshing swim in the warm waters. As the afternoon sun begins to set, enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach, soaking in the stunning views.
For dinner, treat yourself to a seafood feast at a beachfront restaurant, with the sound of waves in the background. After your meal, consider attending a local cultural show featuring Garifuna music and dance, immersing yourself in the vibrant traditions of the area. End your evening with a peaceful stroll along the shore, as the stars twinkle above the tranquil waters.
Start your day with a hearty breakfast, then head to the beach for a fun-filled morning of water sports. Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the beautiful coastline, discovering hidden coves and enjoying the gentle sea breeze. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at windsurfing or jet skiing for an adrenaline rush.
After a morning of excitement, relax with a beachside lunch featuring fresh ceviche and tropical drinks. Spend the afternoon lounging on the soft sand, soaking up the sun, or take a beach volleyball game with locals for some friendly competition. Alternatively, consider taking a boat tour to nearby islands for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a refreshing cocktail at a beach bar, watching the sky turn shades of orange and pink. For dinner, indulge in a beachfront barbecue, where you can grill your own seafood while listening to the sounds of the ocean. Conclude your day with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and enjoying the cool night breeze.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi (1-way within town) | $1-3 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (per night) | $40-70 |
| 🥗Groceries for simple meals | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal scenery and diverse wildlife
- Warm, welcoming communities with Garifuna culture
- Limited nightlife compared to larger coastal cities
- Heat and humidity can feel intense on some days
- "Hola" - Hello
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Tela
Visit one of these nice places.
Sunrise and sunset seascapes with the Caribbean as a backdrop; great for long exposures and candid street scenes.
Lush rainforest trails, towering trees and vibrant flora—perfect for macro and landscape shots.
Mangroves, coastal shorelines and wildlife in a protected coastal landscape.
Cliffside vantage points and blue-water beaches with dramatic horizon shots.
Food in Tela
Tela Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried fish served with a creamy coconut sauce, typically accompanied by rice, tostones or cassava.
Must-Try!
A Garifuna coconut milk fish stew with cassava, yams, and peppers—bold, hearty, and deeply regional.
A comforting Honduran staple: a thick flour tortilla filled with beans, cheese and optional eggs or avocado.
Fried yuca served with pork crunch and a tangy sauce—popular street fare.
Fried green plantains served with a garlic or bean dip, common as a side or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market with fresh produce, seafood, and everyday Honduran eats; great for sampling snacks.
Harborfront stalls offering fried fish, plantains and other beachside bites with sea views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Start conversations with a warm hello or good morning; polite conduct is valued, and modest dress is appreciated in town centers.
Be respectful of Garifuna music and ceremonies; ask before photographing people or performances; avoid loud behavior in sacred spaces.
Light, breathable clothing is practical; swimwear for beaches is fine, but cover up when moving through town centers.
Safety
Tipping in Tela
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, 10–15% is customary if service isn’t included; guide and driver tips are appreciated but discretionary.
Cash (USD widely accepted) is useful; many places accept local currency or credit cards in larger establishments; ATMs are available in town.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, sunny days with low rainfall; ideal for beach time, snorkeling and long outdoor walks.
Short, daily tropical showers are common; trails can be slippery but landscapes are lush and photography can glow with diffused light.
Increased risk of tropical storms; monitor forecasts and be flexible with outdoor plans.
Tela at Night
Hiking in Tela
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Accessible rainforest paths through one of Central America’s largest botanical gardens.
A range of rainforest hikes with viewpoints, waterfalls, and rich biodiversity near La Ceiba.
Scenic river canyon trails with viewpoints and opportunities for wildlife sightings a short drive away.
Airports
How to reach Tela by plane.
La Ceiba; approximately 40–60 minutes by road from Tela; serves domestic flights and some international connections.
San Pedro Sula; major international hub; typically a 2–3 hour road transfer to Tela depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest local demographic with mixed Indigenous and European heritage.
A distinct Afro-Caribbean community shaping music, cuisine and coastal traditions.
Smaller communities and visiting travelers contribute to a diverse, welcoming scene.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The region’s most popular sport with local leagues and casual pickup games.
Common on Tela’s beaches during warm afternoons.
Sport fishing, snorkeling, diving and other aquatic activities are popular with visitors.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tela.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Opt for bean and cheese arepas or baleadas with beans and avocado; request vegetable sautés and avoid fish-based dishes when needed. Many places can accommodate vegetarian requests with advance notice.