Tourist destination
Cayo Santa María and Cayo Ensenachos
Located in Villa Clara province, Cayo Ensenachos is a small island near Cayo Santa María and the smallest of the Northern Cays of Cuba. Despite its size, it is a true paradise with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. The main attractions are Playa Los Ensenachos and Playa El Mégano, both featuring calm waves and breathtaking shades of green and blue.
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Cayo Santa María is known for its rolling hills and rocky formations that enhance its scenic beauty. With an elongated shape stretching over 13 km in length and up to 1.6 km in width, it offers a distinctive coastal experience. Its northern shoreline boasts over 10 km of fine white sand beaches and turquoise waters, with hotels seamlessly integrated into the natural surroundings, making it one of Cuba’s top tourist destinations.
While the northern coast is dominated by beautiful beaches, the southern area consists of mangroves and marshes, forming small inlets like La Oliva, Pelo de Oro, and Santa María. Some of its most notable points include Punta del Este de Santa María, Punta Matamoros, and Punta Madruguilla.
Cayo Santa María’s beaches feature golden sand and remarkably clear waters, occasionally interrupted by small rock formations that enhance their natural appeal. From Playa Cañón to the entrance of the Santa María inlet, the coastline maintains perfect harmony with the marine ecosystem. One of the highlights is Playa Las Gaviotas, part of the Cayo Santa María Wildlife Refuge, an untouched beach isolated from hotel developments, offering calm waters and a peaceful atmosphere ideal for relaxation.
How can I go to Cayo Ensenachos?
The main route to Cayo Ensenachos is via the Pedraplén, a causeway built over the sea that connects the Cuban mainland with the northern cays. This road passes through Cayo Las Brujas, Cayo Ensenachos, and Cayo Santa María. Another option is to fly into Cayo Las Brujas Airport or Abel Santa María Airport in Santa Clara and then take the Pedraplén. If traveling from Havana, the journey is long, so making a stop along the way might be a good idea.
What are the best beaches in Cayo Ensenachos?
The turquoise Caribbean waters make these cays a spectacular destination. Playa Los Ensenachos, stretching 1 km, is a pristine haven perfect for sunbathing and snorkeling. Nearby, Ranchón Pelícano offers dining options. For a different experience, Playa Mégano provides more services and entertainment. Its proximity to several hotels and restaurants creates a livelier atmosphere. This beach also spans 1 km and is near a water sports center.
How do you get to Cayo Santa María?
Traveling by land from Varadero to Cayo Santa María takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, while the trip from Havana takes a little over 6 hours. By air, a flight from Havana to Cayo Santa María takes around 45 minutes.
What is the best time to travel to Santa María fell?
Cayo Santa María enjoys pleasant weather year-round, making it a great destination any time of the year. The average temperature in July reaches 30°C, while in January it drops to 25°C. Water temperatures range between 26°C and 32°C, ensuring ideal swimming conditions at any time.
Which hotels in Cayo Santa María are good for families?
Recommended family-friendly hotels in Cayo Santa María include Hotel Playa Cayo Santa María, Grand Memories Santa María, and Grand Aston Cayo Las Brujas Beach Resort & Spa, all praised for their amenities and services catering to visitors of all ages.
