West End
If you want to explore the island for a day or two, a great option is to rent a mountain bike, scooter, or motorcycle. Captain Van's (tel. 504/2403-8751; www.captainvans.com) has locations in both the West End, on Main Street near the Baptist Church, and the West Bay Mall. Prices begin at L170 ($9) per day for a bike and L740 ($39) per day for a scooter.
West Bay
The 1.5km (1 mile) West Bay Beach is the main attraction here and one of the region's best beaches. The water resembles an aquarium of sorts, since you can see right down to the bottom and watch brightly colored marine life pass you by. Many of the resorts have beach chairs and umbrellas set up in the sand, although you may need to pay a fee and get a wristband to use them. Apart from snorkeling, you can rent wave runners or go parasailing, ride a paddle boat, or water-ski.
Oakridge & Jonesville
Boatmen line the road into Oakridge, flagging down cars and taxis with tourists for informal tours of the mangroves and seaside villages. A narrow channel has been cut through the thick web of mangrove forests for access to some residential areas. Parts are dirty, though lately, the locals have been adamant about trying to keep the mangroves clean. There is fine bird life in the mangroves, even the occasional boat-billed heron. Alligators once lived in these parts, too, though sightings are rare these days. Just watch out for duppies! (Duppies are a sort of island ghost -- for more info,) Sometimes, you have to bargain hard to get a good price. Prices are based on distance traveled. Most will combine a trip to the mangroves (L285-L475/$15-$25) with a stop at the Hole in the Wall restaurant (L475-L760/$25-$40 combined). Ask for Eric for an honest and reliable driver and guide.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.