While only 21km (13 miles) east of La Ceiba, the laidback Garífuna community of Sambo Creek seems like a world away. Several tourism initiatives spurred by NGOs and Peace Corps workers have increased tourism significantly. Some travelers even prefer to base themselves here, as there are decent tourist facilities, as well as a clean beach and several excellent traditional Garífuna seafood restaurants. Boatmen can even arrange trips to the Cayos Cochinos if you get a group together. Several residential communities popular with expats and several good hotels that are a far better value than anything in La Ceiba fringe the town. The pollution and debris that plagues La Ceiba's city beaches are rare here, and the community is active in keeping the sand clean -- which is why many Ceibeños come here for a swim.
