Parque Nacional Jeanette Kawas/Punta Sal

Description:

• Parque Nacional Punta Sal was renamed after the Honduran activist and president of Prolansate, Jeanette Kawas Fernández, who was killed after establishing the park amid controversy from business groups who claimed the land. Few will argue, though, about the amazing biodiversity in the 782-sq.-km (484-sq.-mile) park. Wildlife found here includes marine turtles, dolphins, manatees, caimans, migratory birds (which are easiest to spot Nov-Feb), ocelots, peccaries, monkeys, and many others.

  On the western end of the Bay of Tela, the park is divided into two parts: the lagoon and the peninsula. Acting as a barrier for Tela Bay from the nortes, strong winds that blow in the winter months, the peninsula is made up of a triple threat of postcard-perfect beaches, pristine coral reefs, and lush green jungle -- dolphins and howler monkeys are regularly seen during the snorkel tours here. Micos Lagoon is separated by a small sandbar from the ocean. Surrounding it are numerous canals that weave through mangrove forests where hundreds of bird and animal species can be seen.

  Nearly every tour operator in Tela, including Garífuna Tours (tel. 504/448-2904; www.garifunatours.com) and Caribe Expeditions (tel. 504/448-2083; www.caribeexpeditions.com) leads almost-daily tours to either the peninsula or the lagoon. You can also hire a boat in Miami, though prices are similar and will not include transportation from Tela.

• © Frommer's 2013

Awards:

Frommer's

•  Very Highly Recommended 2010