Though it lies just 12 kilometers east of Roatan, Guanaja has very different terrain and vegetation. When he discovered the island on his fourth voyage, Christopher Columbus christened it the “Island of Pines.” Though there are a few patches of pine on Roatan, Guanaja is the only one of the Bay Islands whose foliage is dominated by pine trees. Guanaja is also hillier than Roatan and includes Michael Rock Peak, the highest point in the Bay Islands at 1,350 ft.

Guanaja's charm lies in its seclusion. As of 2006 there were only 3 cars on the island and only one small road on the island linking the towns of Mangrove Bight and Savannah Bight. Nearly all transportation is done by boat. A wonderful climate, cool breezes, white sand beaches and crystal clear waters make the island a delight. Guests can roam the miles of unspoiled beaches and lush mountains covered, hike to waterfalls, dive and snorkel on the virgin coral reefs, or kayak, sail and fish.

Guanaja was the only one of the Bay Island to suffer serious damage from Hurricane Mitch in 1998, which damaged the town on Mangrove Bight on the north side of the island. Islanders have since rebuilt and life is back to normal. The majority of Guanaja's 10,000 souls live on one key called Guanaja Town or Bonacca.

Most of the island's upscale, dedicated dive resorts are located on isolated points around the island, accessible only by boat, making the Guanaja experience uniquely private and relaxing. Guanaja's 45 dive sites are known for healthy reefs, pinnacles and volcanic caverns, and the wreck of the Jado Trader.

In addition to great diving, Guanaja offers a unique and private experience for those wishing to explore above the surface of the sea:
Hiking - A number of trails cross Guanaja, moving up into pine-covered hills and down again onto the beaches. Trails are not marked, but easy to follow, and locals can point you to the trailheads.
The Waterfall - Big Gully Falls, known to the Islanders as simply "the waterfall", is one of those scenic spots that make a perfect photo opportunity. A ledge cuts across the face of the falls, perfect for striking an exotic pose as the water falls around you. The 30-minute hike up to the falls from Michael Rock Beach is a popular activity.
Kayaking – Many of the islands dive resorts have kayaks for their guests, and non-guests can rent them as well. The Bayman Bay Club rents sit-on-top sea kayaks that you can paddle south to the beautiful Soldado Beach (where Columbus is said to have landed) and up into a lazy stream that comes out of the hills. Or you can paddle north for a few minutes with your snorkeling gear to Michael Rock, where there are some nice, shallow reefs and one of the island's best beaches.
Fishing - Bone fishing on the flats on the south shore reefs is superb, and many dive resorts offer guided fishing excursions. Deep-water fishing is also available.

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