Utila Remains A Place of Charm
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Utilla has always been sought after!
As early as the beginning of the sixteenth century, two of the then dominant world empires sought to control this island paradise.
The first people to populate the islands were the Paya Indians, a simple people who kept to themselves.
However, in 1502, Christopher Columbus enslaved the native habitants and claimed the Bay Islands for the Spanish Empire naming Utila - Isla de Piños.
English pirates began invading the islands in search of Spanish treasure and many stayed making Utila home. England and Spain struggled back and forth for control of the islands. Even the Dutch and French tried forays into trying to control this exquisite group of islands. The English-Spanish struggles continued until England agreed to a treaty granting the islands to the Spaniards.
In 1814 Spain and England adjusted their peace treaty to leave the Islands under the jurisdiction of Honduras. It was not until April 1861, that a decree was finally issued that proclaimed the Bay Islands to be part of the Republic of Honduras. In 1872 the Bay Islands (Nicknamed “The Garden of the West Indies”) became politically and geographically, a Department of Honduras.
The Unique Culture and Charm of Utila
Utila is a very special place! Visitors to Utila describe the inhabitants as welcoming, friendly, hospitable and uniquely charming.
Over the last 300 years, Utila has hosted a wonderful mix of visitors; fishermen, marooned Carib slaves, adventure seekers, turtle hunters, log cutters and pirates.
Today's Visitors Enjoy A Key West of Twenty Years Ago
Today's visitors come from all over the globe.
There are fewer than 25 cars on the island and as a result exploration is either by bicycle or on foot.
Given its proximity to the reef, it is not surprising that dive enthusiasts come from all over the world to the over 17 dive shops and resorts on Utila.
Visitors also enjoy two sandy beaches that host a variety of water sports activities such as sailing, kayaking, kite boarding, and snorkeling.
The mangrove lagoons provide outstanding watching.
For others, climbing Pumpkin Hill, exploring the freshwater caves, visiting the Iguana Station or taking a guided natural history hike makes for a great adventure.
A day trip to the Cays with a picture-postcard island beach along with a stop at a local fishing village is a must for all visitors as well as a Whale Shark spotting trip.
The nightlife of Utila is equally diverse. At night the small town centre becomes an eclectic mix of resort divers, vacationers and locals along with small vendors selling their wares.
