Cayos Cochinos

The Cayos Cochinos are a pair of small coral islands and surrounding reefs in the Bay Islands Department off the northern coast of Honduras. The group forms a distinct marine area noted for coral formations and coastal wildlife.

Clear, shallow reef systems and seagrass beds attract snorkelers and small-boat ecotourism; seabirds and reef fish are commonly seen close to shore. One cay remains inhabited by a small Garifuna community where traditional fishing and craftwork are still practiced, while other cays are largely undeveloped.

Local communities have used the cays for fishing for generations. The islands and surrounding waters have since been managed for conservation to protect coral reefs, fisheries and traditional livelihoods.

The cays lie in the western Caribbean Sea off northern Honduras, within the Bay Islands administrative area, roughly north of the mainland port of La Ceiba.

• Getting there: Boat access is typically from mainland ports on Honduras's north coast, most commonly La Ceiba.
• Marine life: Coral reefs and clear shallow waters make the area important for snorkeling and marine biodiversity protection.

What to See #

• Cayo Cochino Grande: The larger cay within the group, featuring rocky shorelines, fringing coral reefs and the main area for day visits and snorkeling.
• Cayo Cochino Menor: A smaller, low-lying coral cay with sandy beaches and reef patches that are popular for shallow-water snorkeling.
• Cayo Chachahuate: A small inhabited cay with a traditional Garifuna community that maintains local fishing and craft traditions.