Central America packs a lot into a relatively small space. Seven different countries with their own culture, food, landscapes and people means a lot of opportunity for adventure. Whilst Costa Rica and Belize are the most well known, the real essence of the place lies in the secret gems that go under the radar. For this we are heading to the lesser known islands of Central America. With islands in the Pacific and the Caribbean they are not short on tropical beaches, so take your pick from these gems far from the main tourist trail.
Best time to visit Central America
The best time to visit Central America is typically in the dry season from November to April. In Costa Rica the Caribbean side is best from September to November and in Guatemala there is a rainy season from May to October that you might want to avoid.
Utila, Honduras
Let’s begin our island hopping around Central America in Utila, Honduras. Known as a diving mecca, Utila offers affordable diving courses, pristine beaches and a ‘go-slow’ attitude. It’s the smallest of the Islas de la Bahia, sitting pretty in the Western Caribbean Sea on top of the second largest coral reef in the world. The bay location means the water is always warm and it’s avoided the big hotels and development of other Caribbean islands. What it lacks in luxury and convenience it makes up for in authentic island life, roadside shacks selling tropical fruit, and restaurants on wooden docks selling fresh seafood and rum.
Ometepe, Nicaragua
There is something magical about Ometepe, an island formed by two volcanoes in the middle of vast Lake Nicaragua. Freshwater sharks patrol the clear waters, fireflies light up the nights and a huge array of tropical birds and butterflies flit through the island's jungle. And from every viewpoint, the two volcanoes rise out of the mists on the horizon. Told you it was magical. And it’s not just us who think so, Ometepe attracts backpackers and adventurers as well as those looking to tap into its magic at spiritual and meditation retreats. Whether you are searching for yourself, some adventure, or to unplug in nature, there is something for everyone on Ometepe. Hike to waterfalls, do a cacao ceremony or just lay in a lakeside hammock. It’s a place you really have to experience to believe is real.
Cayos Cochinos, Honduras
Far off the tourist trail, only around 100 people inhabit these lesser known islands of Central America. The local island families and Garifuna people have lived here for centuries, existing as fishing communities. Now, the islands are part of a heavily protected marine reserve, with no commercial fishing or diving allowed, meaning a truly pristine and authentic Caribbean experience. You can take a day trip here from Utila or Roatan, or to immerse yourself in the local culture, stay over in one of the two villages - East End on Cayo Mayor or Cachahuate Cayo. Don’t expect running water or electricity but do come for an incredible sunset, to meet a welcoming community happy to share their culture, and a Caribbean island experience it is rarer and rarer to find.
Corn Islands, Nicaragua
The Corn Islands prove that you don’t have to be rich to live the Carribean dream. This laid back secret gem in Central America might make you believe material things are overrated anyway, when it’s easy to exist on sun, sea, coconuts and $12 dollar lobster. It may not be the easiest to get to but the rewards are worth it. Take an internal flight to Big Corn Island where most people jump straight on a boat and head to Little Corn, one square mile of tropical sand and no cars. Some restaurants and bars, a bakery, hammocks, the beach and the calm Caribbean Sea. That’s about it. Kick off your shoes and only put them back on when you head back to the mainland.
San Blas, Panama
The San Blas Islands are a string of 365 idyllic Caribbean isles that will make you feel like Robinson Crusoe. It’s got all the Caribbean hallmarks; white sand, crystal clear water and swaying palm trees. But what makes these islands truly unique is the Guna people that call them home. Indigenous to the Guna Yala region, they have maintained a strong autonomy with their own governance system, language and a deep spiritual connection to nature. They are unique for their matriarchal society, where women hold significant roles in decision making. Visiting them won’t look like a commercial island vacation. You’ll be sleeping in thatched huts and welcomed with typical fish and plantain soup or red snapper with coconut rice. It’s guaranteed to be an island hopping Central America adventure you’ll remember forever.
Conclusion
From volcanoes to coral reefs the lesser known islands of Central America are waiting to be explored. Away from the commercialized larger islands, you can still find real and raw Central American culture, unspoiled nature and a simple island life you’ll be missing as soon as you get back home.
Written by Laura Sedlak
