Tourist destination
Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo
Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo are islands located in the Jardines del Rey chain in central Cuba. Known for their white sandy beaches and coral reefs, the north coast of these islands features all-inclusive resorts. Natural attractions include lagoons and swamps that house birds like the white ibis and one of the largest native colonies of pink flamingos in the Americas.
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Cayo Coco is an island of 370 km², making it the fourth largest in Cuba. It is located in the province of Ciego de Ávila, specifically in the municipality of Morón, and is part of the «Jardines del Rey» chain, which includes Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Coco, Cayo Cruz, and Cayo Romano, located in the Sabana-Camagüey Archipelago. Cayo Coco is connected to the mainland by a 17 km artificial road known as the pedraplén, which caused environmental protests due to its disruption of marine life cycles. Despite initial concerns, flamingos continue to inhabit the area. The island also has its own international airport, the Jardines del Rey International Airport, which has made travel easier since 2005.
Cayo Coco is one of Cuba’s top tourist destinations, along with Varadero, Cayo Santa María, and Cayo Largo, and boasts excellent all-inclusive hotels. Its beaches, such as Playa Larga, Playa Flamencos, and Las Coloradas, are among the most beautiful in Cuba, with Playa Pilar, in nearby Cayo Guillermo, being the most famous.
Cayo Guillermo is also a popular destination with several all-inclusive resorts and the stunning Playa Pilar. This small island, part of Jardines del Rey, is connected to the mainland by a causeway from Turiguanó. The region has seen rapid growth in tourism infrastructure, including hotels, ports, nautical bases, and ecotourism programs.
What are the best beaches in Cayo Coco?
The main attraction of Cayo Coco are its beautiful beaches with fine sand and crystal-clear waters. The most spectacular include Playa Las Coloradas, Playa Larga, and Playa Flamencos. Playa Larga is the most well-known, with 2.5 km of length, perfect for relaxing and enjoying breathtaking views. Playa Flamencos is famous for its tranquil environment and the ability to walk 200 meters into the sea. Playa Las Coloradas is a paradise with calm turquoise waters.
What activities can I do in Cayo Coco?
The biggest attraction in Cayo Coco is its underwater life. Diving and snorkeling are popular due to its exotic coral reef and colorful fish variety. Cayo Coco also has a diving center offering equipment and guides. It is one of the world’s best-known diving destinations, with underwater caves and coral reefs. Other activities include catamaran rides and water sports.
How can I get to Cayo Coco?
To get to Cayo Coco from Havana, you can take a road transfer, which takes approximately 7 hours, or a direct flight from José Martí International Airport to Jardines del Rey International Airport. There are also direct international flights. To make the journey more pleasant, consider stopping in the city of Trinidad, whose historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
What are the best hotels in Cayo Coco?
Some of the best hotels in Cayo Coco include Melia Jardines del Rey, Meliá Cayo Coco, Pullman Cayo Coco, and Trip Cayo Coco.
What are the best beaches in Cayo Guillermo?
Although smaller than other islands, Cayo Guillermo boasts abundant wildlife, stunning dune landscapes up to 15 meters high, and some of the best beaches in Cuba. Playa Pilar is the most famous, with its wide stretch of white sand and turquoise waters. Playa El Paso is ideal for diving, and Playa del Medio is the most secluded and peaceful.
What activities can I do in Cayo Guillermo?
Diving is a highlight in Cayo Guillermo, with impressive coral reefs and diverse marine life. It is also one of Cuba’s top destinations for deep-sea fishing, with options to catch barracudas and mackerels. You can also take boat excursions, such as the Catamaran Safari to Cayo Media Luna, which includes lunch and is great for the whole family.
How do you get to Cayo Guillermo?
To reach Cayo Guillermo from Havana, you can take a flight to Jardines del Rey International Airport or a private or shared transfer. The road journey takes 7 to 9 hours, and shared transfers run once a day.
Which hotels in Cayo Guillermo are good for families?
The recommended family-friendly hotels in Cayo Guillermo are Iberostar Selection Playa Pilar, Iberostar Daiquiri, and Melia Cayo Guillermo, which have received excellent reviews from travelers.
What are the best 5-star hotels near Playa Pilar?
- Iberostar Selection Playa Pilar
- Melia Cayo Guillermo
- Grand Muthu Cayo Guillermo
- Cayo Guillermo Resort Kempinski
