4. Roatan, Honduras

The largest of the Bay Islands, Roatan lies a short ferry ride off the coast of Honduras (it also has direct flights). The island is adjacent to the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the second largest in the world and the largest in the Western Hemisphere. As a result, Roatan is ideal for active expats who want easy access to a wealth of aquatic adventures. In addition to scuba diving and snorkeling, you can spend your time island hopping, sport fishing or kayaking through the mangroves. On land, there are zip-lining tours of the canopy, ATV rentals, jungles to explore and indigenous villages to visit. If a less heart-pumping lifestyle is more your speed, there are plenty of remote spots far removed from the cruise ship docks and tourist operations of the busy West End. On Roatans northern shores, you can find a stretch of deserted beach to enjoy a picnic or a relaxing swim. There are plenty of properties for sale and, according to Steve Hasz of Roatan Life Real Estate, prices are often far below those of other Caribbean locations.

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Slide Show: 10 of the best tropical islands for retirees