Midway between Coxen Hole and West End, SANDY BAY is an unassuming community with a number of interesting attractions. The Institute for Marine Sciences (Sun-Tues & Thurs-Sat 9am-5pm; US$3), based at Antony's Key Resort , has exhibitions on the marine life and geology of the islands and a museum with useful information on local history and archeology. There are also bottle-nosed dolphin shows (Mon, Tues, Thurs & Fri 10am & 4pm, Sat & Sun 10am, 1pm & 4pm; US$4), and you can dive or snorkel with the dolphins (US$100 and US$75 respectively; must be booked in advance on 445 1327). Across the road from the institute, several short nature trails weave through the jungle at the Carambola Botanical Gardens (daily 8am-5pm; US$3), a riot of beautiful flowers, lush ferns and tropical trees. Twenty minutes' walk from the gardens up Monte Carambola, the Iguana Wall is a section of cliff that's a breeding ground for iguanas and parrots. From the top of the mountain you can see across to Utila on clear days. Bordering the gardens, Sandy Bay's newest attraction is the Tropical Treasures Bird Park (Mon-Sat 10am-5pm; US$5, including guided tour), with toucans, parrots and scarlet macaws.

There are several places to stay in the Sandy Bay area, all of which are clearly signposted, including the attractive Beth's Hostel (tel 445 1266; US$15-25); the Oceanside Inn (tel 445 1552; US$40-60), with large rooms and a good restaurant; and three dive resorts, the best of which is Antony's Key Resort (tel 445 1003, fax 445 1140, www.anthonys-key.com ; weekly packages from $600), one of the smartest places on the island, with cabins set among the trees and on a small caye. Popular places to eat include Rick's American Café , set on the hillside above the road and serving giant US-style burgers, and Monkey Lala , next door, offering superb seafood.