tour cuba a cayo largo

Cayo Largo del Sur: A Local’s Guide for Travelers [2024]

Located far from the mainland of Cuba, the tiny, sandy island of Cayo Largo del Sur barely surfaces from the Caribbean Sea, revealing pristine white sands along crystalline waters. Despite being easily among the most sought-after destinations in Cuba for travelers , is the distance to Cayo Largo worth the trip? We certainly think so!

As locals, we’ve visited plenty of pretty beaches in Cuba , but Cayo Largo del Sur is home to what are undeniably the very best beaches in Cuba. Read on for our local tips on where to stay in Cayo Largo and all the best things to do in Cayo Largo for the ultimate beach vacation.

This post contains affiliate links that may reward me monetarily or otherwise when you use them to make qualifying purchases – at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, please read our  disclosure policy .

Cayo Largo del Sur

Located off of Cuba’s southern coast in the Canarreos Archipelago, Cayo Largo is actually closer to Isla de la Juventud , the second-largest island that makes up part of the nation of Cuba, than it is the mainland of Cuba.

However, its pristine white sand beaches mean that it’s worth the visit. In fact, the tiny island is home to two of the very best beaches in Cuba – Playa Paraiso and Playa Sirena.

Given its remote location, accessing Cayo Largo del Sur can be a bit more challenging than it would be to visit the beaches of Varadero or Holguin . Most travelers visit by way of the island’s Vilo Acuña Airport, which receives flights from the mainland and a few select international destinations. New international flights are making it easier than ever to access the island.

Visiting Cayo Largo del Sur

Before the 1980s, Cayo Largo del Sur was little more than a tiny white sand island south of Cuba, home to no permanent residents and infrequently visited. When Cuban tourism and the eager hospitality industry identified the island’s tourist potential given its natural beauty, that all began to change – fast.

As hotels sprung up along the beachfront and an airport brought easier access to the island, this untouched cay quickly transformed into one of Cuba’s most coveted travel destinations. Today, the island remains one of the most popular destinations for travelers visiting Cuba in search of beautiful beaches and white sand shores.

With Blue Diamond Resorts announcing its acquisition of the tourist infrastructure of the island, Cayo Largo is now experiencing a major renewal of interest from travelers excited to see what this hidden gem has to offer. With the first few newly-renovated properties reopened at the end of 2022, Blue Diamond Resorts’ leadership has already been a game-changer in tourism on the island.

Is Cayo Largo Worth Visiting?

Cayo Largo del Sur is well worth a visit. Though it takes a bit more planning and preparation to arrive at this remote cay, the natural beauty, great resorts, affordable excursions, and incredible activities offered here make the trip unlike any other.

This tiny cay boasts some of the most stunning beaches in the Caribbean , and with its growing popularity and increasingly easy accessibility from the rest of Cuba and beyond, the time is now to plan your visit !

Cuba Travel 101

• Currency in Cuba: A Local’s Guide for Travelers
• How to Get Wifi in Cuba [Updated!]
• Is Cuba Safe? Updated Cuba Safety Guide
• Ultimate Cuba Travel Guide – A Local’s Advice for Travelers

Beaches in Cayo Largo del Sur

Cayo Largo del Sur is known as one of the best beach destinations in the Caribbean and certainly among the best places to hit the beach in Cuba. Despite being such a tiny cay, Cayo Largo del Sur has a number of Cuba’s best beaches .

These are some of the island’s best beaches – a trip to the cay isn’t complete without visiting all of them :

Playa Paraiso

Playa Paraiso – or, Paradise Beach – truly lives up to its name with powdery white sand and perfectly calm, blue waters. Despite being the most famous beach in Cayo Largo del Sur, it never feels crowded, even at the height of the travel season.

Playa Paraiso has a beach bar for drinks and lunch, as well as easy access to umbrellas and beach chairs if you’re ready to find your spot on the sand for the day. You can rent or bring your own snorkeling equipment, though with the sandy bottom under the waves, you’re not likely to see much other than tropical fish and fresh starfish here and there.

Playa Sirena

Just 20 minutes north of Playa Paraiso is another one of Cayo Largo’s most famous beaches worth a visit: Playa Sirena. Yet another beach to crack the list of the top beaches in Cuba, Playa Sirena is truly impressive and worth a visit, even if you’re staying on the other side of the island.

Perfectly white sand and calm turquoise waters, as far as the eye can see, make this an impressive spot that feels like it’s been pulled straight from a postcard.

Playa Sirena has a good amount of beach amenities available including beach chair and umbrella rentals, and a restaurant and bar on site. You’ll also find vendors renting water sports equipment and snorkeling gear, so there is plenty to do here beyond just relaxing on the sand.

Read More: 12 Best Beaches in Cuba

Travel Essential

Don’t think about traveling to Cuba without a good  VPN (Virtual Private Network) . Using a VPN while connecting to the internet is an easy way to keep your personal information safe from hackers and trackers.  We’ve used  NordVPN  for years and couldn’t recommend it more – it’s a must for safety online, especially in Cuba. 

Things To Do in Cayo Largo del Sur

1. go diving from marina marlin cayo largo.

Beneath Cayo Largo’s tranquil turquoise waters lies an unexpected abundance of marine life. In fact, Cayo Largo is known as one of the best places to scuba dive in Cuba for its proximity to incredible reefs and even a number of shipwrecks.

Most hotels on the island book travelers on excursions with the dive center located at Marina Marlin Cayo Largo, making them the go-to dive instructors and guides on the island. Whether you’re looking for diving courses if you’re not yet certified or a special dive to memorable destinations, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from.

2. Visit the Sea Turtle Hatchery

One of the most popular things to do in Cayo Largo del Sur is to visit the island’s sea turtle hatchery. Just one block from the island’s marina, you’ll find the sea turtle hatchery, a must-visit destination if you’re looking to get up close and personal with these gentle creatures.

Go on the journey with staff to learn about the process of raising the turtles from the time they hatch until they’re a bit older when they are re-released into the wild. You’ll see everything from tiny hatchlings to large turtles, depending on the season. You can even handle them!

3. Spot Crocodiles At the El Torreon Nursery

If getting closer to some slightly more dangerous wildlife in Cayo Largo sounds a little bit more your style, consider taking an hour out of your itinerary to visit El Torreon Nursey to spot some crocodiles. Also known as “Vivero Torre,” this spot has grown into a tourist attraction primarily because of its crocodiles, but it offers a great window into local flora and fauna beyond just its most famous residents.

The nursey’s operator offers excellent tours to spot crocodiles in the mangroves, as well as other animals like iguanas, turtles, and more. Visiting is also a great opportunity to get to learn more about the plants on the island, including trying the aloe from the property, sold fresh.

Travel Insurance

Cuba requires that all travelers have proof of a comprehensive travel insurance policy in order to enter the country. Check out our guide to travel insurance for Cuba for more details. We recommend these brands for Cuba travel insurance:

• Visitors Coverage : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries, though not currently available to residents of New York and Maryland in the United States.
• Insubuy : Coverage for Cuba travel available to citizens of all countries and states of the United States.

Where To Stay in Cayo Largo del Sur

Cayo Largo del Sur offers a total of eleven resorts and hotels to choose from – and at different price points. It can even be a relatively accessible vacation destination for travelers. The island is an exclusively resort-focused spot (no casas particulares here!); these are the resorts in Cayo Largo del Sur we recommend you choose from:

Grand Memories Cayo Largo ($$ – $$$)

One of the nicest all-inclusive resorts on Cayo Largo del Sur, Grand Memories Cayo Largo is a hand-down favorite with guests on the island looking for an all-inclusive experience with all the bells and whistles of a five-star resort , with a white sand beachfront to steal the show.

Rooms have been recently refurbished, and many offer incredible ocean views from private patios overlooking some of the best beaches on the island. The resort also offers dedicated adults-only swimming pools and family-friendly pools, as well as a spa, clubhouse, kids club, and sports courts. It makes planning a multigenerational trip a breeze.

Reviews and Bookings: Grand Memories Cayo Largo

Memories Cayo Largo ($$)

One of the recently renovated properties on the island to reopen with a new look in November 2022, Memories Cayo Largo is one of the best resorts on the island. With 296 newly-renovated rooms and three restaurants, the resort has tons to offer travelers and even return visitors.

Memories Cayo Largo is a popular destination, but it never feels overly crowded, meaning no need to fight over beach chairs or pool loungers. If you’re looking for a little more privacy, or you’re traveling with a larger group, consider staying at the Memories Villas instead! These laid-back ocean-view villas nestled along the coastline are a great way to enjoy the island as if you had it all to yourself.

Reviews and Bookings: Memories Cayo Largo

Starfish Cayo Largo ($$)

Yet another one of the recently renovated resorts in Cayo Largo del Sur, the beautifully redone Starfish Cayo Largo is a great option for travelers with families. With five different dining options, dedicated swimming pools for adults and families, and a kids club, it’s hands down the best family resort on the island.

Not traveling with the family in tow? Don’t count out Starfish Cayo Largo. While it has a lot of great amenities for children and teens, you’ll find plenty of travelers here without kids as well, as the resort has plenty to offer for all ages.

Reviews and Bookings: Starfish Cayo Largo

Plan a Trip to Cuba

• The Cays of Cuba: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
• 47 Best Things To Do in Havana, Cuba
• How to Get Cuba’s Tourist Visa

Getting to Cayo Largo del Sur

While getting to Cayo Largo del Sur can be a bit more of an endeavor than it is to get to Havana or another one of Cuba’s largest cities , it’s a journey that is well worth the trip!

The island’s Vilo Acuña International Airport receives regular flights from Havana and Varadero, meaning that many travelers can add Cayo Largo to their Cuba itinerary without much of a hassle. While flights aren’t on a daily basis, service from other cities in Cuba shows signs of expanding soon.

You’ll also find an increasing number of international flights available directly to the island. Interestingly, Cayo Largo del Sur receives direct flights from many Canadian cities , making this a popular direct trip for Canadian travelers.

While 99% of travelers reach Cayo Largo del Sur by plane, it is possible to reach the island by boat. However, most travelers who reach the island by boat have access to their own vessels or arrange private excursions. It’s possible, but not very common! For most, flying straight to the island is the only true option.

Carley Rojas Avila

Carley Rojas Avila is a bilingual travel writer, editor, content marketer, and the founder of the digital travel publications Home to Havana and Explorers Away. She is a serial expat and traveler, having visited 40+ countries and counting. Carley has written for publications like Travel + Leisure, MSN, Associated Press, Weather Channel, Wealth of Geeks, and more. Find her front row at a Bad Bunny concert, befriending street cats, and taste-testing every pizza in Havana.

Havana & Cayo Largo

  itinerary:, day 1 welcome to havana.

Arrive at Havana International Airport. Private transfer Havana Airport to the accommodation. Accommodation at Havana, Plan BB, 2 nights. Meals included: None

Day 2 Havana

Breakfast 0900 Hrs . Exclusive tour 3 in 1: Panoramic Tour in Old Cars: View of Malecon (the Sea front Promenade) and tunnel under the bay, Vedado area, the Cristhophe Columbus cemetery and The Revolution Square. On your way you will see the University of Havana, the stairway and Alma Mater statue, La Rampa, the Coppelia ice cream parlor, the Yara Movie, the theatre and Havana Libre Hotel. 3 hours walking tour by the Historical Centre, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Clients will visit 4 squares: the Main Square, Cathedral Square, Saint Francis of Assis square and Old Square. On the way you will appreciate important buildings such as the Royal Force Castle, the Templete and the General Captain Palace, the Ambos Mundos hotel, Havana?s first University San Geronimo de la Habana, and the Bodeguita del Medio Restaurant Lunch in Bodeguita del Medio w/ one drink where Hemingway used to enjoy one of his favorite drink “Mojito”. The menu includes Welcome drink Mojito, First dish, Main Dish (Pork, chicken or fish), rice, beans, Salad, desert and coffee with one national drink. ***Not included transfer back to the accommodation. Meals included : Breakfast & Lunch

Day 3 Havana - Cayo Largo

Collective Transfer from accommodation in Havana to Havana’s Airport Flight Ticket to Cayo Largo Collective Transfer from Cayo Largo Airport’s to Hotel in Cayo Largo Accommodation: Hotel in Cayo Largo, 4 *, Plan All Inclusive, 6 nights Meals included: Breakfast & All Inclusive Plan in Cayo Largo

Day 4 – 8 Cayo Largo

Free days to enjoy the Sun & the Beach. Meals included: All Inclusive Plan

Day 9 Cayo Largo - Havana

Collective Transfer from Hotel in Cayo Largo to Cayo Largo Airport Flight Ticket to Havana Collective Transfer from Havana Airport’s to accommodation in Habana. Accommodation at Havana, Plan BB, 2 nights.

Day 10 Havana

Free Day 20:30 Hrs : Show & Dinner at Cabaret Parisien (show + one cocktail + dinner in cabaret with one drink). (Round Trip Transfers are not included) . Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 11 Havana – Havana airport

Private Transfer to Havana Airport (4 hours in advance the departure flight) Meals included: Breakfast

  Included:

• Personal Assistance by Mundi Tours Staff
• Transfer, excursions and visits specified in the program
• English speaking tour guide during the excursions
• Meal Plans specified in the program
• Show & Dinner at Cabaret Parisien
• Domestic Flight ( Round Trip ) Havana - Cayo Largo del Sur

Not Included:

• International Flight
• Medical insurance
• Tips or any other service not indicated in the program.

Booking form

Other programs.

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CUBA NATURE AND CULTURE

Authentic Cuba

Cuba Salsa Tour

Havana + Varadero PLUS

HAVANA & CAYO SANTA MARIA

HAVANA & VARADERO

Peru with Colca

Cuba Nature Tour

THE 10 BEST Cayo Largo Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in cayo largo.

• Scuba & Snorkeling
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Budget-friendly
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Diving Center Cayo Largo del Sur

Experience the Cayo Largo Lagoon in Cuba on a Boat Tour

When Is the Best Time

The lagoon in Cayo Largo fulfils all your expectations of the Caribbean. The water is crystal clear in blue turquoise colours, teeming with marine life and the temperatures are summery. Cayo Largo is located south of Cuba and accessible by plane from Havana.

The best time to visit Cayo Largo and Cuba is during the drier season from November to April, but this time is also the peak season. During shoulder season, May and June it is less crowded, prices are lower, and turtles come ashore laying eggs. We gave it a try in June, and although a bit scorching it was a wonderful visit, and we spent much time in the Caribbean Sea. Showers may occur more often at night or in the morning. Hurricanes are likely to occur from August to October.

Best Months to Visit

Related Topics

Location and Tips

Cayo Largo is a year-round destination. The advantage of the dry season it is less hot and fewer mosquitos occur. In June, we travelled to Cayo Largo and got eaten up at the airport. Take precautions before you take the plan however, our stay at Cayo Largo was fantastic, and snorkelling was outstanding.

We even spotted two huge sharks and a stingray. Don't miss out on the full-day catamaran tour. It was the highlight of our vacation. We got delicious crayfish for lunch and spent some additional time in a beautiful lagoon. Cuba and its small islands in the south are a paradise.

Rene North Rhine

You shouldn't miss this beautiful island. Great spot for sharks, huge manta rays, turtles.

Cayo Largo Cuba, Western Cuba

Refresh and unwind in the secluded utopia of cayo largo.

A gem among the little over 300 islets that can be found off the coast of the island country of Cuba, Cayo Largo looms large as being a Cuban paradise still largely untouched. This serene island is the second largest that can be found within the Canarreos archipelago and is the perfect escape from commercialized tourism that is often found among the pristine Caribbean beaches of Cuba.

From tip to tip the island measures a short 25 km and houses some of the best all-inclusive hotels to be found in Cuba. This island does boast of a seemingly untouched paradise as construction of the small set of hotels on this island began only 50 years ago in the year 1977 and keeps the tourist industry at bay by developing only on a small strip of land, rather than the entire island.

Cayo Largo is perfect for the naturists who loved an unspoiled backdrop to their sunbathing, snorkeling, and diving. The atmosphere is largely laid-back and has only a few developments in terms of infrastructure – such as a museum, a bank, a turtle rescue center, and a selection of smaller restaurants.

The only permanent inhabitants on the islands are the iguanas and large sea turtles, which you can see plenty of among the endless stretch of beaches along the coast of this small resort island. In fact, between July and September, you are privy to a once-in-a-lifetime view of turtles burying and hatching their precious eggs among the fluffy white sands.

Besides watching this astounding sight, what most visitors spend their time doing while on this gorgeous paradise is diving, snorkeling, tanning, eating, and sleeping. The laid-back attitude of the resorts and island require nothing else of their visitors, and with a colorful stretch of coral reef and an abundance of tropical marine life, Cayo Largo the best diving vacation spot in the Caribbean.

At a glance

$110 / 101€ in Cayo Largo

Experiences nearby

Getting there & away, cuba tour planner.

Ready to plan your tour to Cayo Largo, Cuba? Get your customized and free itinerary within minutes, we'll guide you through each step!

A Guide to Cayo Largo del Sur, Cuba

Cayo Largo del Sur, also known as Cayo Largo, is situated on the eastern edge of the Canarreos Archipelago, and it’s a small paradise on earth for those who love beaches and relaxation. However, it’s important to note that the island is exclusively dedicated to all-inclusive resorts and is mainly inhabited by tourists. If you’re looking to experience the authentic Cuba, this might not be the place for you.

How to get to Cayo Largo? Where to stay? What to do on the island? We’ll tell you everything!

💡 Planning Your Trip to Cuba 💡

✈️ Flights: To find the best deals on flights, Captain Ulysses highly recommends using Skyscanner or Omio .

🇨🇺 Visa: Before you depart, be sure to apply for your tourist card (which is your visa for Cuba). You can easily order your tourist card online through CubaVisa .

🛏️ Accommodations: To book your accommodations in Cuba, the Captain recommends Expedia .

📸 Activities: To book your activities, the Captain highly recommends Civitatis .

Cayo Largo in a Nutshell

Although some historians speculate that Christopher Columbus may have briefly set foot on Cayo Largo, the island remained empty and uninhabited until the 1980s, when the first tourist resorts were built.

Technically, the island is still uninhabited: Cubans who work there alternate 20-day periods on the island with 10 days off when they return home to the Isle of Youth or the main island of Cuba.

Cayo Largo is therefore a purely tourist destination designed to allow visitors to enjoy its paradisiacal beaches and crystal-clear waters in complete serenity. It is a friendly and relaxed beach resort, in contrast to Varadero , Cayo Coco , or Cayo Santa Maria , without nightclubs or large shopping centers. The focus is on calm and tranquility.

Cayo Largo is also known as a naturist and gay-friendly destination, with several naturist spots, including one of the world’s most beautiful naturist beaches.

Getting to Cayo Largo

To reach Cayo Largo, head east from the Isle of Youth, off the south coast of Cuba. There are two options to get to the island:

By plane: The island has a small airport, Vilo Acuña Airport, which is served by domestic and international flights. For more information, click here.

By boat: It is possible to arrive at Port La Marina Cayo Largo del Sur.

Getting around Cayo Largo

To get around Cayo Largo, there are plenty of options:

A mini train-bus (called trencito) shuttles between the hotels and the main beaches of the island.

Many taxis wait near hotels and tourist sites (10 to 15 CUC per trip).

You can also rent bicycles, scooters, or a car from your hotel.

What to do in Cayo Largo?

Although Cayo Largo may not offer a glimpse of the true face of Cuba, it certainly provides plenty of opportunities for relaxation and leisure.

The beaches of Cayo Largo

One of the biggest draws of Cayo Largo are its beaches! The island boasts some of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

The two most famous beaches are Playa Sirena and Playa Paraiso. Here, visitors can enjoy fine sand, relaxation, and water activities. Playa Los Cocos, Playa Luna, Playa Blanca, Playa Tortuga, and Playa Punta Mal Tiempo are also popular and more secluded.

Several beaches on the island also offer designated naturist areas.

Fishing and water activities in Cayo Largo

Like Cayo Coco, Cayo Santa Maria, Cayo Guillermo, and Varadero, Cayo Largo is a little paradise for fishing and water activity enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy snorkeling, kayaking, catamaran rides, and more.

Deep-sea fishing excursions can also be arranged at the International Marina Cayo Largo for around 350-370 CUC for 4 hours and 4 people. Scuba diving is also possible at Cayo Largo for 40 CUC per dive or 340 CUC for 10 dives (+ 10 CUC for night dives).

Fauna & Flora of Cayo Largo

Cayo Largo is a must-visit destination for its exotic and diverse wildlife and flora. The island boasts a remarkable variety of birds, as well as turtles, iguanas, and crocodiles.

Hiking in Cayo Largo

Take a 7-kilometer hiking trail along the coast between Playa Sirena and Sol Cayo Largo Hotel to discover the breathtaking landscapes of Cayo Largo.

Centro de Rescate de Tortugas Marinas

Located in the northwest of Cayo Largo, the Marine Turtle Rescue Center is devoted to the protection of marine turtles that nest on the island each year. Visitors can learn about the center’s work and residents (admission is 2 CUC per person). From April to September, you can also observe the nesting and participate in the egg collection with a specialized guide. To learn more and book your visit, head to the marina.

Vivero de Crocodrilos

The oldest building on the island, the Vivero de Crocodrilos tower dates back to 1951. This small nature reserve is a great place to explore some of the island’s species, including crocodiles, iguanas, and turtles.

Excursions from Cayo Largo

For those looking to explore beyond Cayo Largo, there are a few excursions available from the island.

The most popular excursions among tourists include:

Havana (by plane), but be prepared to spend a significant amount of money (210 CUC per adult for a day).

Cayo Iguana: a small rocky island located near Cayo Largo that’s known for its population of iguanas. The excursion lasts approximately one hour and costs 15 CUC.

Los Cayos de San Felipe: an archipelago situated about thirty kilometers north of Isla de la Juventud. The area is covered with mangroves and is home to Cuban hutias, an endangered species of arboreal rodent. To book, visit the Marina Internacional Cayo Largo.

👉 Book now:

✈️ Flights 🇨🇺 Visas 🛏️ Accommodations 📸 Activities

Dawn | Alessandro Caproni

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• Explore In Just 1 Day

Cuba, A Day Trip To Cayo Largo

Published May 22, 2021 · Updated May 25, 2021

My day trip to Cayo Largo  Cuba  was the absolute best I’ve ever lived so far and spending even just a day at Playa Paraiso and Playa Sirena is still a big winning lottery ticket. Based on this statement, it is now easy to understand why I chose the Cuban adventure to be my first article of Explore in just 1 day series.

Learn all about Cayo Largo from the answers to the most important questions about this exotic destination:

What and where is Cayo Largo and what to expect

Why should you go see cayo largo, cuba, when to go to cayo largo, cuba, how to book trips and hotels with agencies in cuba, is it easy to reach cayo largo, can i get to cayo largo by boat.

And also tips about:

First step on the way to Cayo Largo

The beautiful island of cayo largo and the breathtaking beaches around it.

Playa Sirena and Playa Paraiso – one of the most beautiful beaches in the world 

What not to forget or miss on your 1 day trip to Cayo Largo

At the end of the day in Cayo Largo

Playa Paraiso in Cayo Largo del Sur Cuba

The following article will not be advertising anything. It is only an accurate description of the way I chose to spend a day in Cayo Largo.

I will show you a totally different side of Cuba, well, different from what you usually get from this exquisite destination anyway.  I have a feeling that only a few made it to Cayo Largo and that’s a shame, as the island is pure bliss.

Still, what makes the place truly charming and feels surreal is exactly very few tourists hard to spot and the airy atmosphere.

Ready to learn more about Cayo Largo – home island of some of the best beaches in Cuba –  how to get there and what to do on the island? ⠀

My significant other exploring Cayo Largo in 1 day and inventing outdoor activities

Cayo Largo is a less known destination. Why’s that? Don’t make the wrong assumption that it is probably not popular because it’s not much to see/do there. Nobody says that about the Maldives, right? The problem is the lack of proper advertising and also the very few transport options to the island.

A Perfect Maldives Trip – 28 Tips

Cayo Largo, or Key Largo if you like, is located in the south coast of Cuba. It looks like Paradise on Earth, but, aside form the snorkel, sunbathing and enjoying the beaches, you can’t find anything else. There are few hotels on the island, therefore you need to book in advance.

Cayo Largo is unique and I see it as one of the best beach destinations, next to places like the Maldives, Seychelles, Bora Bora or other similar exotic destinations.

Castaway in the Maldives?

As for your expectations, may I remind you this is a true Paradise, quite remote and wild, and the whole beauty is that you enjoy the views and forget about anything else.

Visiting Cuba has been a long-time dream, let’s say like 10 years long before I landed in Havana. But it came with an advantage: I had time to do my homework. And, trust me, Cuba is a destination to go with your homework done.

Although today I will focus on Cayo Largo, you probably want to know it was part of a bigger Cuban tour. When you are there, you want to see as much as possible.

I had an itinerary in mind and knew almost everything I had to do, but reaching Playa Paraiso in Cayo Largo seemed to be a big fail. I wanted to see this breathtaking beach with my own  eyes, after finding some random photos and videos on the internet.  Booking from home (or from Europe, if you like) was impossible.

I thought I should just accept this won’t happen and move on with my itinerary  but then I entered a Cubatur travel agency in Santa Clara.

Anytime, really, despite the risk of bad weather between June and November. The hurricanes reach the Northern Cuban coast. Cayo Largo is not really affected by these.

Cuba is one of the 22 best winter destinations. Check the other ones too!

Usually, the northern part of the country is severely hit by the hurricanes, including Havana. Cayo Largo is in South, overlooking the Caribbean Sea. Here, the weather is bliss all year round. Of course, a rainy season is still a rainy season. Still,  isn’t rain more beautiful on a vacation than home?

If seeing Cayo Largo is a one lifetime opportunity during summer – autumn, go for it!

Cubatur is the National travel agency and you will often see everywhere around there. Don’t mind the outdated look, the staff are doing a wonderful job despite the lack of high tech features of the system. Sometimes it can be a little line but it’s worth the wait.

I happened to be in Santa Clara when I decided to ask the agency for an All Inclusive hotel in Varadero and a 1 day trip to Cayo Largo, Cuba. With  just an worn out catalog and a couple of phone calls, I was all set and ready to enjoy both destinations. All within minutes. I could not believe how easy it was!

I had a yellow ticket and all was left to do was to make a confirmation phone call a day prior to the trip, like a check in. Easy. Just go to another Cubatur agency and ask for help or dial from your hotel room. It is very important not to miss the confirmation phone call. And also very important not to lose the yellow ticket like I almost did…

You can go to Cayo Largo either from Havana or from Varadero.  Given my itinerary, I took the tour from Havana. OK, I admit, I also miscalculated, as I could have left from Varadero even easier. Oh, well, holiday mistakes are funny after a while.

No, not really. First, because you simply cannot book from home anything like  domestic flights or day trips. Maybe other travelers found a way, I did not, not in 2016/2017 anyway. You need to be there in order to be able to book some things and I recommend you to go this way. You don’t have to wonder what’s included in your package when you can actually go stress free and stick to the plan.

The online prices are higher than what you are offered at the agency in Cuba. For example, flights (and only flights) for two adults are around $500 if booked online, from outside Cuba, while the agency there has a day trip for two at the same price .

A day trip to Cayo Largo includes a bus transfer to/from airport, a flight to the island, another bus taking you to the pier, a catamaran for the day and free lunch and drinks. And, if you are really lucky (yes, like I was), you get a free dinner too, at hotel Sol Cayo Largo.

The nicest way to reach the island is, in my opinion, by boat. On a shared car from Vinales to Trinidad I met a French couple heading to Cienfuegos, to their boat. From Cienfuegos they were sailing to Cayo Largo. I was so close to abandon all of my plans and join them. I had nothing booked for Cayo Largo at that time.

In the end I decided to stick to my plans and I got lucky with the travel agency in Santa Clara. Patience is a virtue, you’d say? Maybe, but usually try to follow your instinct.

The only answer to this question is always a no. Tourists can only reach Cayo Largo del Sur by plane. Period. But is it really so?

On my trip to Cuba in 2017 I’ve met a French couple traveling around the country and stating they had a boat waiting in Cienfuegos. From that point, their next destination was – exactly – Cayo Largo del Sur!

Apparently, there is the possibility to sail to Cayo Largo, but it’s nothing official and definitely not easy. My suggestion is to fly there and not waste more precious time trying to find other ways.

A day trip to this heavenly destination starts from one of the main hotels in Havana. If you stay at a casa particular , just make sure you choose one of the listed hotels and get there around 4:30 am. That’s right, the tour starts very early in the morning.

A comfy and modern air conditioned bus will be collecting the travelers on a ride to Baracoa Domestic Airport. It is the moment you meet your guide. You sure won the Jackpot if your guide is Teresa!

My collection point was Hotel Parque Central and I chose it based on the vicinity of my guest house.

Disappointing visibility level through the ATR42 window during the 1 day trip to Cayo Largo, Cuba

The domestic airport is small and it’s quite funny to find the lights off and the main door locked. It could easily give the feeling you are in the wrong place, but you’re not. In a few minutes you’ll be given the ticket (no seat assigned, just act quick on boarding) This was the moment I’ve learnt I was going to fly with Aerogaviota, a first timer in my case!  No worries, no stress about the seats, there’s plenty of room for everybody, just don’t expect to see a lot on the window anyway. Why’s that? Because it’s still too early, because of potential clouds or fog and… last but not the least – the ATR windows are pretty dirty. Bummer.

I’m not sure I should write about this or simply let the photos and videos speak for themselves. If they don’t make you crave for it, then you are not a beach person.

As we were about to exit the small airport in Cayo Laro, we’ve been charmed by a couple of salsa dancers and a live band. We immediately fell in love with this kind of Cuban welcome.

Nothing but joy when seeing one of the pristine beaches around Cayo Largo

A few minutes later, our small group, 10 people and a guide,  stopped by the Turtle Rescue Center. This  was a really touching experience and we learned so much about the endangered species.

Half an hour later, we’ve been presented the catamaran that gave our day a big boost.  The cruise is simply perfect, including free drinks, yes, even alcoholic drinks, free snorkeling gear and a few amazing stops near pristine beaches like you’ve never seen in your life, I assure you.

What else is included, you may ask? A perfect day trip, guaranteed!

Check my short video about making new friends while cruising. (personal archive)

Playa Paraiso and Playa Sirena

As soon as you reach the main destination of this cruise, you will take a lunch break at the buffet/terrace next to the beach. The meal and a drink are free and of  your choice. Just don’t waste too much time here because…

Well, because just a few meters away, there’s a Paradise waiting for you!

The crowds will go straight to the beach across the restaurant. It’s best to let them do so. Instead, turn left, pass the salty showers, follow the sandy alley and cross to Playa Paraiso. You’re welcome!

You will have around 4 hours to wander around or just chill. Playa Paraiso is remote and wild, but Playa Sirena has sunbeds and umbrellas and, of course, the restaurant you had lunch at. It is completely up to you what to choose.

I went for the spectacular and chose Playa Paraiso.

What to pack for a day trip to Cayo Largo

• The sunscreen – under no circumstances, please, I beg you, do not forget this life saver home!
• Sunglasses and even a hat or scarf could come in handy.
• Pills in case of migraines or seasick.
• Your own water bottle, just in case.
• Exploring the island on your own. Don’t fear of leaving the group behind, just go look for the truly heavenly beaches yourself.
• Perhaps is nice to have a towel but I didn’t find it necessary. The Paradise is so remote and wild, you will easily forget about the modern essentials . Just don’t forget the sunscreen!
• A camera or a phone to take some photos, otherwise no one will believe you.
• To let yourself carried away and try to become one with the island. I can’t tell you how to do this, you need to get there and you’ll figure out.

If you like Cayo Largo, then you will want to check Varadero as well!

Cuba, A Day Trip To Varadero

Classic car in Cayo Largo Cuba

In the afternoon, everybody will get to the ferry, free of charge, and then the bus will take you back to the airport. Unless… well, unless the 6 pm plane is fully booked and you need to wait for the 9 pm one. But hey, why not spending even more time on the island and get a delicious complimentary dinner at Hotel Sol Cayo Largo? Exactly, why not.

This is what I did on my 1 day trip to Cayo Largo, Cuba. Would I repeat? Anytime! Will I? For sure!

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Tags: 1 day trip, 1 day trip Cayo Largo Cuba, atr42, beach, castaway, cayo largo, cayo largo by boat, cayo largo del sur, cuba, cuba isles, cuba travel agency, cubatur, day trip, how to book hotels flights trips cuba, instagramable places, island, ocean, paradise beach, playa paraiso, playa sirena, remote island, short stay, starfish, sunny day, travel blog, travel blogger, travel photography, traveler, traveling around the world, wild paradise

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"A CUBAN EXPERIENCE" Tour

General Information

• Category : Half day tours
• Modality : Landing tours
• Duration : 5 hrs
• Departure time : 11.00 hrs - 14.30 hrs
• Tour guide : Yes
• Children are allowed : Yes
• Languages spoken : Spanish, English, French and Italian

Program Details

"A CUBAN EXPERIENCE" Tour

• Hotel pick up.
• Tourist guide.
• Panoramic tour of the hotels.
• Visit to the Pueblo del Sol.
• Visit to the Turtle Rescue Center (on-site explanation of the sustainability work for the vitality of the sanctuary). Renowned for its turtle observation, nesting and release program, few sites in the Caribbean can compete with the beauty of the seabed of Cayo Largo del Sur, whose warm waters are home to a variety of underwater flora and fauna. Environmental education is a fundamental purpose of the program. Small groups of turtles are kept for a year or a year and a half, during which time they reach a size that allows them to survive in the environment, while at the same time showing tourists and workers the work being done and making them aware of the importance of conserving these species.
• Visit to the Casa Del Campesino, Cuban experience tour, including a Creole lunch with liquids (Coctail Canchánchara).
• (Coctail Canchánchara, road coffee) and recreational activity.
• Transfer back to the hotel in Cayo Largo del Sur.

TIPS : - Recommended: light clothing, sunglasses, hats or caps, tennis, sandals or comfortable shoes, sunscreen, camera and water bottle.

• This tour operates with a minimum of 6 passengers. Holiplus will reconfirm 48 hours before the departure of your tour. If the provider decides to cancel, for reasons of force majeure or adverse weather conditions, Holiplus will offer an alternative tour or fully refund cost of your trip.

• The pick-ups can have a delay of up to 15 minutes, depending on the number of hotels and the punctuality of the customers.

Cancellation Policy:

Cancellation conditions and processing fees: - Up to 30 days prior to tour start: USD 15 processing fee - 30 - 10 days prior to tour start: 30% of the total amount of the originally booked tour - 09 - 04 days prior to tour start: 50% of the total amount of the originally booked tour - 03 - 0 days prior to tour start or no-show: 100% of the total amount of the originally booked tour

BOOK "A CUBAN EXPERIENCE" TOUR

Collective tour.

• Air conditioned bus (Transport)
• Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday departures

Tour in collective bus with specialized guide service in several languages. The best price.

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You may receive exclusive discounts and we'll keep you up-to-date with the latest news from Cuba

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Excursion - Scuba Diving

For all the information on scuba diving (dive center, diving costs, packages, courses, certifications, etc.) please visit our section dedicated to Scuba Diving in Cayo Largo

Note that when you book a diving excursion through a tour operator (tour desks located in the lobby of each hotel), the transfer to/from the dive center is included . Are also included: tank, weight and guide.

Lily & Normand © cayolargo.net © destilino.com

Sanctuary At Grand Memories

View prices for your travel dates

• Excellent 154
• Very Good 26
• All languages ( 183 )
• English ( 101 )
• French ( 71 )
• Spanish ( 10 )
• Portuguese ( 1 )

" Take US dollars but they will accept Canadian funds and bug spray. "

" You can ask for an umbrella to be put up by your chairs around the pool, bring bug spray for at night "

" Bring bug spray the mosquitoes can be pretty brutal. There is no beach onsite. A shuttle is available several times a day. "

" Yes there are shortages all over Cuba but the people do their best to accommodate…so be patient and grateful!Bring chips ..chocolate..gifts "

" If you want to relax and just chill come here, no stress, no waiting for anything, everything is scheduled to a T… you so t be disappointed. "

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Sanctuary At Grand Memories - UPDATED 2024 Prices, Reviews & Photos