Roatan may be known for its beaches and bustling tourist areas, but some of the island’s most captivating experiences lie on its quieter, more secluded side. Two small villages on the southern coast, Jonesville and Oak Ridge, offer a different kind of island adventure. Here, visitors get a glimpse into the local way of life, away from the crowds. Travelers Chris Burry and Madeline Hibberd discovered these gems during their journey through the Bay Islands, and their time in Jonesville and Oak Ridge was filled with the kind of authentic encounters and natural beauty that make Roatan so special.
After spending time in Roatan’s busier areas, Chris and Madeline arrived at Jonesville Point Marina, a small but charming spot where the quiet pace of local life is immediately felt. Managed by Sherri and Brian Visker, the marina offers a warm welcome and a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for travelers looking to unwind. With its cozy bar, the Trico Bar, Jonesville Point Marina quickly became their base for exploring the area.
Every Tuesday, the marina comes to life with live music and “Trico Tuesdays,” a local tradition where residents and visitors gather to enjoy music, food, and conversation. Chris and Madeline joined in on the fun, meeting fellow travelers and locals alike, all while enjoying the sounds of local musicians. With live music, a full bar, and friendly faces all around, the Trico Bar is more than just a place to grab a drink—it’s a gathering spot that embodies the spirit of the community.
The marina is well-equipped with essentials, from free internet and hot showers to assistance with errands around the island. Chris and Madeline were able to use local taxis arranged by the marina to stock up on groceries and essentials, making their stay convenient and stress-free.
Not far from Jonesville, the village of Oak Ridge offers a unique experience. Often called the “Venice of Roatan,” Oak Ridge is a waterfront community where the primary mode of transportation is by boat. This small village is a maze of canals and waterways lined with colorful wooden houses, giving it a distinct charm that’s unlike anything else on the island.
Chris and Madeline took their dinghy through Oak Ridge’s winding mangrove channels, navigating alongside locals in their skiffs. With houses perched above the water on stilts and boats bobbing gently along the docks, Oak Ridge feels both welcoming and remote—a place where tradition and nature coexist. The mangrove-lined channels provide both shelter from the elements and a sense of privacy, with each turn revealing a new view of this quiet waterside community.
As they explored, Chris and Madeline noticed that many residents relied on small boats not only to get around but also to run daily errands, visit friends, and transport goods. In Oak Ridge, life is centered around the water, and this unique lifestyle adds a special charm to the community. Locals were friendly and often waved or shared a smile as Chris and Madeline passed by, adding to the welcoming feel of the village.
One of the most memorable aspects of their time in Jonesville and Oak Ridge was the strong sense of community that Chris and Madeline felt. While Roatan’s popular tourist areas often cater to visitors, these smaller villages feel rooted in tradition and hospitality. The locals in both Jonesville and Oak Ridge were quick to offer help, share stories, and make Chris and Madeline feel like part of the community.
At Jonesville Point, the marina’s Trico Bar is more than just a stop for visitors—it’s a gathering place for the entire community. Here, Chris and Madeline met residents who had lived on the island for generations, sharing stories of their families, their heritage, and the island’s history. They learned about the challenges and rewards of life on Roatan, where neighbors often depend on each other, and everyone has a role to play in supporting the community.
One of the highlights of Chris and Madeline’s visit was exploring the mangrove channels that connect Jonesville, Oak Ridge, and the surrounding areas. These channels, carved naturally through dense mangrove forests, offer a peaceful and scenic route for travelers and locals alike. Guided by the knowledge of local boaters, they weaved through the twists and turns of the channels, surrounded by towering mangroves and the sounds of nature.
The mangrove channels provide both beauty and protection, sheltering the villages from rough seas and storms. For Chris and Madeline, navigating these waters felt like stepping into a different world, one where the hustle and bustle of modern life faded away, replaced by the sounds of lapping water and rustling leaves. It was a reminder of the natural beauty that defines the Bay Islands and the ways in which the local communities live in harmony with their environment.
Chris and Madeline left Jonesville and Oak Ridge with a newfound appreciation for the quieter side of Roatan. These villages offer a glimpse into the everyday life of the island’s residents, where community and tradition come together in a beautiful setting. Unlike the busier parts of Roatan, Jonesville and Oak Ridge feel untouched by tourism, giving visitors the chance to experience Roatan as the locals do.
For anyone seeking an authentic island experience, a visit to Jonesville and Oak Ridge is a must. Whether you’re exploring mangrove channels, relaxing at the Trico Bar, or simply soaking in the peaceful waterfront views, these villages offer a side of Roatan that’s rich in culture, hospitality, and natural beauty.
