havana excursions from cayo coco

Day Trip To Havana From Cayo Coco (Guide)

Going to Cuba for a holiday is a once in a lifetime trip. The tropical island has been referred to as an Eden, and its beautiful scenery coupled with its vibrant culture and gorgeous ocean has been talked about for generations.

Some people love going there for city breaks, exploring the backstreets of Havana and Santiago de Cuba, but most people want to explore the nation in its entirety, including the islands that surround it. Cuba has hundreds of tiny islands dotting its shoreline within its national borders.

One of the most popular of these islands is that of Cayo Coco, a stunning island on the eastern side of the Cuban coastline. The problem is getting there from a major city.

This is made even more difficult when the two biggest cities are far away from the island, which makes day trips difficult.

So, what can be done? How can you manage a day trip from Havana to Cayo Coco? Well, there are a couple of options.

Flights From Havana To Cayo Coco

Flying Cayo Coco was one of the easiest and most comfortable options to make this trip. Normally, you would be able to fly from Havana to the Jardines del Rey airport on the island, which is also an international airport.

This trip would have normally taken between 1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour and 40 minutes to get there and would have landed you safely on the island itself.

The trip would have also cost about between $100 and $140, which is quite reasonable considering you are crossing a country.

However, due to recent events, the Jardines del Rey airport is currently not operating as either an international or national airport and so trips to the island this way are no longer possible.

Even if they do come back, there is no option for a return flight from Cayo Coco on the same day. As such, you need to get a next day flight.

Flights From Havana To Close By Cities

The other option for flying is that you fly to a city close by, with the closest one being Santa Clara. This city is still quite a distance from Cayo Coco and you will have to do some maneuvers to get there.

So, first catch a flight with Blue Panorama flights from Havana to Santa Clara. This normally takes about 55 minutes and costs no more than $50.

Then, go to the city center of Santa Clara and catch a bus to Morón. The bus leaves three times a day and takes 3 hours to reach Morón.

Once at Morón catch a bus to Cayo Coco, which takes about 1 hour and a half. This bus runs once daily, and so it is a good idea to get a taxi if you want to come back on the same day. The cost is about $3 to $6 for the bus and about $20 for the taxi back.

This solution isn’t the best one as you will spend about 6 hours to get to this island only to come back, making it a bit of a waste of a day.

Bus Or Drive From Havana To Cayo Coco Island

The other option is you either drive or bus it to Cayo Coco. For the bus journey, you need to catch the bus to Sancti Spiritus, which leaves 3 times a week and takes around 6 hours to get there.

Once there, you can catch the same bus you would have caught at Morón which takes you directly to Cayo Coco island. This bus leaves once daily and will take 3 and a half hours.

Although this is the cheaper option with most of the buses costing only $10 to $20 each, in terms of time, it is terrible. You will have spent 9 and half hours traveling only to leave again in an hour or two with no way to get back to Havana easily.

If you can rent a car, then driving is a lot easier. It will take 6 hours and 45 minutes in total, though we don’t know how much the petrol will cost you. While this is better, it still isn’t great, but you can come and go as you wish.

As you can see, currently, it is almost impossible to get from Havana to Cayo Coco in one day without wasting the trip. However, if you are able to make it a two-day trip, then it is much easier and will make the trip a lot better.

Two-Day Plan

So, instead of trying to cram all the travel into one day, you should make it two days, with the traveling being taken up in the morning of the first day and the evening of the second.

If you can afford to, Cayo Coco island has a hotel with thousands of rooms to stay in, which are wonderful. If you can’t afford this, then the other option is to find a place to stay in Morón.

You make your way to Morón via one of your preferred routes – bus, plane, or car.

Once you are at Morón, either rent a room for the night and make your way to Cayo Coco, or just make your way to Cayo Coco.

If you are wondering how to get off the island for the night after the bus ride, there are plenty of taxis that should be available to you.

Once you have taken in your fill for the day, either head to the hotel you booked on Cayo Coco or go back to Morón for the night.

The next day you can plan whether you want to go back to Cayo Coco before heading back to Havana, explore Morón before going back to Havana, or stay for a few more days in either Morón or Cayo Coco.

It is incredibly difficult and a bit of a waste of time to do Cayo Coco island in one day, unfortunately, but if you spread it out over two days, then you should have no problem exploring the island to your heart’s content.

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"Overnight Havana from Cayo Coco" Tour

General Information

• Category : Overnight tours
• Modality : Landing tours
• Duration : 2 days / 1 night
• Departure time : 06.00 hrs
• Tour guide : Yes
• Children are allowed : Yes
• Languages spoken : Spanish and English

Program Details

"Overnight Havana from Cayo Coco" Tour

We offer a wide selection of tours for you to enjoy the most relevant features of the largest city in the Caribbean. Our agency proposes panoramic tours through the most important sites of history, culture and life in Cuba today.

Departure by air-conditioned bus, with tour guide service, from the hotels in Cayo Guillermo and Cayo Coco to the province of Villa Clara, with an intermediate stop at the Creole ranchon Rio Azul, located on the central highway, in the municipality of Majagua. Arrival in the city of Santa Clara, with a panoramic tour through the center of the town until arriving at the Sculpture Complex Monument to Comandante Ernesto Che Guevara. Visits to the memorial and the museum, where the niches that keep the remains of Che and his comrades fallen in the revolutionary struggle in Bolivia are located, as well as a permanent exhibition of photographs and personal objects that constitute a chronological tour through the life and work of the Heroic Guerrilla. Free time to take pictures around the square and the tribune. Lunch at a local restaurant in Santa Clara and continuation of the tour to Havana City, with intermediate stops (at the clients' discretion) to stretch the legs and go to the bathroom. Entrance to Havana through the Bay Tunnel, one of the seven wonders of Cuban civil engineering, with a 20-minute stop to take pictures at the viewpoint of the Morro Castle lighthouse, a universal symbol that constitutes the oldest fortification built by the Spaniards in America. Panoramic tour along the emblematic Havana Malecon and the Miramar neighborhood in the municipality of Playa, until arriving at the Vedado Saint John's hotel complex, for accommodation including breakfast and dinner.

Breakfast at the hotel and departure for Old Havana, the oldest part of the Cuban capital, where the fortresses and other great ancient monuments are located, making it one of the richest colonial complexes in Latin America. Walking tour with tour guide service through the historic urban center, declared a World Heritage Site, which includes the Plaza Vieja, Plaza de Armas, Plaza de la Catedral and Plaza de San Francisco de Asís, known as Plaza de las Palomas. Free time for photo opportunities, interaction with the locals and lunch at a local restaurant, including a drink. Visit to the Havana Club Rum Museum and panoramic bus tour from the Museum of the Revolution to the National Capitol. Free time for photographs and optional visit to El Floridita bar-restaurant, famous for its cocktail bar and for being the place where Ernest Hemingway used to go to drink his favorite cocktail, El Daiquiri. Panoramic bus tour from the Capitol to the Handicrafts Market, including the Central Railway Station, the museum Casa Natal of our National Hero José Martí, the ruins of the Old Havana Wall and the Avenida del Puerto. Free time (one hour) for photographs and souvenir shopping. Return to the hotel, with a stop at the José Martí Revolution Square for a tour of the place and photos. Return to the hotels on Coco and Guillermo keys, with intermediate stops along the way to stretch your legs and go to the bathroom (at the discretion of the guide and the clients).

TIPS : - We recommend: light clothing, sunglasses, hats, tennis shoes, sandals or comfortable shoes, sun protection and camera.

• The collected may be delayed up to 15 minutes depending on the number of hotels and punctuality of customers. Customer should be informed on sales desk to avoid disagreements.
• This excursion operates with no minimum number of passengers. The Agency will reconfirm 48 hours before the departure of your excursion. If the provider decides to cancel, for reasons of force majeure or bad weather conditions, the Agency will offer you an alternative excursion or will fully reimburse the cost of your excursion.
• Once the reservation is made you will receive in your email address the voucher with the information you have chosen. If you can, please print the voucher to present to your tour guide.

Cancellation Policy

• If cancellation is made up to 72 hours prior to the time of enjoyment of the excursion, a penalty of 10% of the excursion price will be applied.
• For cancellations made between 72 and 24 hours prior to the excursion departure time, a penalty of 50% of the excursion fee will be applied.
• Please note that cancellation within 24 hours and up to the time of enjoyment of the excursion, and in case of no-show, 100% of the excursion price will be deducted.
• Note: no administrative costs or credit card fees can be refunded in case of cancellation.

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Top Tours in Cayo Coco, Jardines del Rey Archipelago

Cayo coco tours.

• Surfing, Windsurfing & Kitesurfing
• Water Sports
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Swim with Dolphins
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Adventurous
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Kids
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Melia Cayo Coco Diving Center

2. Cuba-Kite

3. Solways Cuba

4. Nexus Tours

5. Jardines Del Rey Bus Tour

6. Kitesurf Cuba Travel

What travellers are saying.

• Melia Cayo Coco Diving Center
• Solways Cuba
• Nexus Tours
• Jardines Del Rey Bus Tour

Updated: Jun 22, 2021

Home » Travel Guide

Jardines del Rey (Cayo Coco)

In the center of the Cuban north coast lies the island chain of the Jardines del Rey in the Atlantic Ocean. While Cayo Coco is the most famous bathing paradise of the archipelago, the other islands also welcome visitors with snow-white dream beaches, turquoise water and perfect bathing weather all year round. This article gives an overview of all important information about Cayo Coco and the other islands of the Jardines del Rey .

The Jardines del Rey archipelago is located about 20 km east of the second array of keys known as Cayo Santa Maria . Jardines del Rey translates as the Gardens of the King, which is quite accurate considering the beauty of the archipelago. For a long time, the islands were only popular among fishermen, as the shallow waters are home to a variety of marine life. The area was not developed for tourism until the early 1990s, after the first connecting road to the main island was built in the late 1980s. However, since then, the number of hotels has grown steadily.

The archipelago should not be confused with the Jardines de la la Reina - the Gardens of the Queen - which are located in the Caribbean Sea on the opposite side of the main island of Cuba.

Not only one single cayo

In addition to the uninhabited Cayo Ramano , the archipelago includes four islands with relevance for tourism. These are the Cayo Paredón Grande , on which the first hotel has just opened, as well as the Cayo Guillermo , which has already been developed with several hotels, and of course the best known and largest island, the Cayo Coco . In addition, there is Cayo Cruz , a little further east, which was recently developed with a connecting road and three new hotels. The effort of the Cuban authorities is to create  on the Cayo Cruz in the near future about 4000 hotel rooms.

All the cayos have white dream beaches with shallow crystal clear ocean shimmering in all shades of blue and turquoise. The sea is home to a varied underwater world, including impressive coral reefs full of colorful fish. The bays and lagoons are also home to many water birds, including the bizarre flamingos.

All four islands is located about 20 km in the Atlantic, surrounded by turquoise sea. There are two causeways that connect to the main island.

Guardalavaca

Santiago de cuba, las terrazas & soroa, varadero: the tropical getaway for sun, sand, and relaxation.

On the archipelago of the Jardines del Rey there are more than ten sections with over 50 kilometers of paradisaical beaches. Five of the beach sections are located on the main island, Cayo Coco , three on Cayo Guillermo , two on Cayo Paredón Grande and one on Cayo Cruz .

Beaches at Cayo Coco

• The approximately three-kilometer-long Playa Flamencos is home to three bigger hotel complexes and represents one of the main beaches of Cayo Coco . Not far from the beach is also Plaza Los Flamencos, a shopping center.
• North of Playa Flamenco lies Playa Prohibida - the forbidden beach. The surroundings of the beach are undeveloped and natural except for a beach bar. The narrow beach is characterized by its sand dunes up to fifteen meters high and is wonderful for a walk.
• The Playa Larga is located on the northeast coast of Cayo Coco . The beach is with nearly 3 kilometers of length right wide and therefore is not too packed with guests. There are four hotels at Playa Larga , two of which are IBEROSTAR, one TRYP and the purely state-owned Hotel Colonial Cayo Coco. A good 500 meters from the beach is a small shopping center, the Centro Comercial La Gaviota, where handmade souvenirs, rum, coffee and of course cigars can be purchased.
• Right next to Playa Larga lies Playa Colorades , the easternmost beach on Cayo Coco. There are two Meliá hotels, a Pullman and the Sol Cayo Coco, located on the beach, which is a good two and a half kilometers in length.
• The Playa la Laula is a beautiful, very extensive beach with only two hotels, with the Memories Caribe Beach Resort being the better one.

Beaches at Cayo Guillermo

• At the far east of Cayo Guillermo you will find Playa Pilar , known as one of the most beautiful beaches in Cuba. At the beach named after Hemingway's yacht, with crystal clear water and dunes up to 15 meters in height. In a small beach bar, sunbeds with umbrellas can be lent (5 USD). In recent years, two new hotel complexes have been constructed not far from the beach, including Cuba's second Kempinski luxury hotel, which is located at the western end of the beach.
• With a length of 3.5 kilometers, the Playa del Paso is the longest beach on Cayo Guillermo . There are eight hotel complexes along the beach. At the southern end, there lies a small marina (Marina Cayo Guillermo) from which catamaran and boat excursions depart.
• Located between the beaches of Playa Pilar and Playa El Paso, is Playa del Medio , on the edges of which are two hotels. At the southeastern tip of the beach is the Gran Muthu Imperial, and to the northeast another resort has recently opened.

Cayo Paredón Grande

• More than six kilometers long Playa los Pinos is located on the east side of Cayo Paredón Grande . The beach was out of the way for a long time and was little visited, but last year a new hotel was built and others will follow soon.
• The Playa del Norte , about four kilometers long, is located on the northeast coast of Cayo Paredón Grande. The beautiful beach has been left in its natural state so far, but is planned to be developed for tourism.

On the developed part of Cayo Curz there is a about 10 kilometers long beautiful beach. There is another wonderful beach on the untouched Cayo Mégano Grande .

See & Do

You can book activities and guided tours through the state-run tour operators, which have small offices in the hotels.

• In the middle of El Baga Natural Park (map), about four kilometers south of Playa Flamenco , lies the Sitio La Güira , a traditional farmhouse. On the grounds is the Ranchon Aguada de Pedro , a restaurant with a small museum. If you want, you can also stay quite inexpensively in one of the traditional huts (see Accommodation). It is a good place for an escape out of the resort.
• At the southern tip of Caya Guillermo you will find the Laguna Flamingos , which, as the name suggests, is often home to a large number of flamingos. The lagoon with its bizarre pink birds can be observed and photographed from the side of the main road.
• In the middle of El Baga Natural Park , located about four kilometers south of Playa Flamenco , is the Sitio La Güira , a resort in the style of a traditional farmhouse. On the grounds is the Ranchon Aguada de Pedro , a restaurant that is an ideal place for an excursion. Furthermore, there is a small museum. If you want, you can also stay quite inexpensively in one of the traditional huts (details see below under accommodation).
• The Rocarena Climbing Center or the Parque de Escalada is located in the east of Cayo Coco between Playa Larga and Playa Las Coloradas . On the almost 20 meters high facility can be climbed on different levels of difficulty. There is also a small climbing wall. Visitors receive professional (safety) instructions. The prices are age-dependent: Two hours of climbing costs 5 USD (up to 8), 12 USD (8 to 16), or 16 USD (16 and over). Each additional hour costs half the entrance extra. In addition, you can climb on the wall (5 USD for 15min) or also do a small bungee jump (10 USD).
• There are several jeep tours available. The longest excursion includes a visit to the delphinium, a sightseeing tour of the historic center of the city of Morón , a visit to a crocodile farm and a catamaran ride in the afternoon. The price is 150 USD per person. Another excursion includes a speedboat ride and a visit to Loma de Cunagua (100 USD).
• Just two kilometers off Playa Pilar lies the small Cayo Media Luna in the Atlantic Ocean. The Cuban ex-dictator Batista had a summer residence on this little island. The Cayo also appears in Hemingway's novel. It can be assumed, that the famous writer is fished there. Today there is a restaurant located in the one and only building. In addition, there are also several beaches that invite visitors to swim and snorkel.

On & under the water

• The dive center Blue Diving is located directly on the beach of the Melia Cayo Coco Hotel on Cayo Guillermo . At least twice a day, a boat departs to one of the sensational 13 dive sites. During a dive one can expect to see tropical fish and corals, and with a little luck you may also encounter rays, turtles or nurse sharks. The first dive costs 45 USD. The more you dive, the cheaper it gets: 10 dives will cost you 315 USD. Beginners can also take certified courses. Paying for the dives with credit cards is also possible.
• On Cayo Coco, near the Hotel Iberostar Mojito, you will find a kite school at the beach, where you can rent equipment or participate in courses. The school has a website where you can find offers and prices.
• Starting from Marina Gaviota , several catamaran excursions are offered. During the trip, you have several opportunities to swim and snorkel in the paradisiacal waters. Stops are made at a shallow sandbank. Equipment, drinks (including beer, rum & cocktails). Lunch and air-conditioned transfer from the hotel are included. The excursion is about eight hours and the price is 80 USD per person.
• The Laguna de La Leche () is located just a little north of the small town of Morón . The name ("Milky Lagoon") is due to the whitish color of the water, caused by the high content of limestone in the water. The lake is the largest natural freshwater reservoir in Cuba. There are many fish in the lake, so it is popular with anglers and flamingos alike. On the southern shore, there is a restaurant and bar that are located on stilts above the water. There is also the possibility of boat trips.
• The Parque Nacional Caguanes is an excursion destination for nature lovers. The park is especially known for different cave systems and its very interesting flora and fauna. The most famous cave is the Cueva Grande - the big cave. In the area it is possible to hike and observe birds (pelicans, flamingos & tocororos). Guided excursions to the national park can be booked at Ecotur. O ffices of the stat-run tour agency can be found on Cayo Coco at Hotel Sol as well as in the town of Morón .
• From the observation deck of the Loma de Cunagua (), which is over 300 meters in height, one has a wonderful panoramic view of the northern part of the province of Ciego de Ávila .
• Further destinations are the cities of Sancti Spiritus , Camagüey and Trinidad . A great treasure of breathtaking nature offers the Sierra del Escrambray .

Getting around

• A modern sightseeing bus ( Jardines del Rey Bus Tour ) operates during the day between the hotels, beaches and sights along the various cayos. The buses run from 8 am to 4 pm. The times are indicated at the bus stops in front of the hotels and other stops. The price of the tickets is 5 USD per person per day. The route runs from the far west (Playa Pilar) to the Aparthotel Islazul Azul. Since the buses are open at the top, you should not forget the sunscreen essential for Cuba. If you want to take the last bus in the late afternoon, you have to expect that it can get very packed.
• Modern state cabs are waiting in front of the hotel facilities. Alternatively, you can take one of the old-timer cabs, which are only slightly more expensive. Cabs can also be ordered in hotels at the reception. In the case of airport transfers, one should make reservations in advance.

Getting there & Excursions

• Rental cars can also be reserved on all cayos. Those who only want to take a small tour also have the option of renting scooters. There are 50cc and 125cc to choose from, with prices starting at 25 USD per day. Bicycles can also be rented at some hotels (5 USD / day). All information about renting and driving vehicles can be found in the article about rental cars .
• Those arriving by airplane will pass by the small airport on Cayo Coco ( Jardines del Rey Airport) . Domestic flights to and from Havana are also operated from this airport. Depending on the location of the hotel, the transfer from the airport can take up to an hour.

Getting around Cuba: Options for Every Budget

Entry & tourist card, money & currency in cuba, packing list, shopping & stores in cuba, accommodation.

On the Cayos there are exclusively larger hotel resorts, almost all of which fall into the five-star luxury segment. In recent years, new hotels have been built continuously. Nevertheless, the number of vacationers remains relatively manageable. Most of the hotels are managed by international chains. Among the chains are IBEROSTAR, Meliá and Kempinski. The only alternative to a hotel is the Sitio La Güira , where travelers can stay in inexpensive (simple) cabins.

Cayo Guillermo is currently home to ten hotels on three stretches of beach. The most exclusive resort, the Kempinski Resort, is located at the end of Playa Pilar, at the western tip of the island. At the other end of the beach is the IBEROSTAR Playa Pilar. In the middle of the cayo, two resorts share a 600-meter beach, Playa del Medio. The remaining six hotels are located at the eastern end of the cayo, along the longest section of beach, Playa El Paseo, which is a good 3.5 kilometers long.

Sancti Spíritus

Santa Clara

Sierra del Escambray

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Transfer to the Marina, voyage enjoying the charm of our seas on last-generation, French-technology catamarans. Visit to the barrier reef for snorkeling; refreshment on board. Lunch on board based on lobster enchilada. Open Bar with Cuban drinks and cocktails. Free time on a key for bathing in the sea. Return to the Marina. Return to the hotel.

Terms and Conditions

• Clients shall be picked-up according to schedule and should therefore wait in the hotel lobby.
• Clients shall refrain from smoking in the buses and aircrafts used for optional activities.
• In the event of aerial, nautical and/or excursions that included accommodation, clients are required to present their passports.
• In case of excursions that require aerial transportation, the type of aircraft used depends on the availability of the airline.
• Excursions, whether aerial, nautical or land, do not guarantee connection with international departures.
• In the case of excursions during which the client may drive a motor vehicle (jeep safari), the latter shall be required to present his/her drivers license.
• Clients interested in diving programs are required to present the relevant certificate or receive initiation lessons.
• During programmed tours, clients must remain with the group and guide. Clients who do not observe this requirement, because of personal interests, shall do so under their own responsibility.
• During the tour, Clients shall be responsible for their personal means and effects.
• The sales voucher is not transferable.
• The client shall present to the Solways representative, the original sales voucher as proof of payment and in return the client shall receive a ticket filled out in his/her name, which will allow him/her to access to the activity organized on the date agreed. In the event of loss or deterioration of the ticket, the client shall not be entitled to participate in the activity.
• Meals offered during the activity include one beverage.
• Print out the voucher(s).
• Keep the voucher(s) during the trip.
• Contact and give the activities voucher to the Solways representative at the destination.
• -If you cancel 5 days before the enjoyment of your reservation, Solways will penalize an amount of 15.00 USD, for administrative expenses, to the total amount paid for your reservation.
• - If you cancel more than 5 days before the enjoyment of your reservation, you will be penalized with 100% of the total amount paid.
• - Non-attendance (no-show) to enjoy the stay, is penalized with 100% of the total paid.
• Aerial excursions: an additional 50% charge on the total price of the activity. The client must obtain a new ticket for the desired date (hour).
• Land and nautical excursions: an additional 25% charge on the total value of the activity. The client must obtain a new ticket for the desired date (hour).

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All-In-One in Cayo Coco

Discover the hidden treasures of Cayo Coco, Cuba, and embark on the adventure of a lifetime with our comprehensive guide to the island’s most thrilling and memorable excursions.

Table of Contents

Introduction, explore the natural wonders of cayo coco, unforgettable water adventures, immerse yourself in local culture, family-friendly activities, tips for a successful excursion.

Cayo Coco is a stunning island paradise located in the Jardines del Rey archipelago, just off the northern coast of Cuba. Known for its crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and lush tropical landscapes, Cayo Coco is a dream destination for travelers seeking adventure and relaxation. Our all-in-one excursion guide covers everything from exploring the island’s natural wonders to immersing yourself in local culture, ensuring your visit to Cayo Coco will be an unforgettable experience.

Flamingo Watching at Laguna de Leche

One of the island’s most iconic experiences is observing the vibrant pink flamingos at Laguna de Leche, the largest natural lagoon in the Caribbean. These majestic birds flock to the shallow waters to feed on shrimp, providing visitors with a unique wildlife encounter.

El Baga National Park

Discover the diverse flora and fauna of El Baga National Park, a protected nature reserve encompassing over 700 hectares of mangroves, wetlands, and tropical forests. Hike the well-marked trails, or join a guided tour to learn about the unique ecosystems and the park’s conservation efforts.

Snorkeling and Scuba Diving

Embark on an underwater adventure at the spectacular coral reefs surrounding Cayo Coco. The island’s crystal-clear waters and abundant marine life make it an ideal destination for snorkeling and scuba diving. Visit popular sites like Los Ballenatos and Las Coloradas, or join a guided boat tour to explore the best diving spots.

Deep-Sea Fishing

Cayo Coco is renowned for its world-class deep-sea fishing opportunities. Cast your line in the bountiful waters of the Atlantic Ocean, targeting species such as marlin, sailfish, and dorado. Book a private charter or join a group excursion for a thrilling day at sea.

Morón City Tour

Venture beyond the island to visit the vibrant city of Morón. This cultural hub offers a glimpse into authentic Cuban life, boasting colorful architecture, bustling markets, and lively street performances. Take a guided tour to learn about the city’s rich history and sample traditional Cuban cuisine.

Cuban Dance Classes

Experience the rhythms of Cuban music with a dance lesson from a local instructor. Learn the steps of salsa, rumba, or cha-cha, and immerse yourself in the island’s rich musical heritage. Classes are available for all skill levels, providing a fun and engaging cultural activity for everyone.

Miniature Golf

For a fun-filled family activity, visit the  Cayo Coco Mini Golf course, offering a challenging and entertaining experience for players of all ages. Enjoy the beautifully landscaped course, featuring water hazards and whimsical obstacles, as you compete for the lowest score.

Dolphin Encounters

Create lifelong memories with a visit to the Cayo Coco Dolphinarium. This popular attraction allows visitors to interact with friendly dolphins in a safe and controlled environment. Participate in a dolphin swim program or enjoy a spectacular show filled with acrobatic leaps and playful behaviors.

To ensure you make the most of your time on Cayo Coco, research and book excursions in advance. This allows you to secure your spot on popular tours and helps you create a well-rounded itinerary that meets your interests and preferences.

Dress Appropriately

Pack suitable clothing and footwear for the activities you have planned. Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, and swimwear are essential for most excursions. Also, consider bringing a lightweight rain jacket during the rainy season.

Stay Hydrated

The tropical climate of Cayo Coco can be hot and humid, making it crucial to stay hydrated throughout the day. Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it regularly to ensure you have enough water during your excursions.

Respect the Environment

Preserve the beauty of Cayo Coco by practicing sustainable tourism. Dispose of waste responsibly, avoid disturbing wildlife, and follow designated trails when exploring natural areas. Support local businesses and choose eco-friendly tour operators to minimize your environmental impact.

In conclusion, Cayo Coco offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. With its stunning natural landscapes, thrilling water activities, and rich cultural heritage, this island paradise is the ultimate destination for an unforgettable all-in-one excursion.

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Sailing, snorkeling among corals, bathing in a virgin beach, interacting with dolphins, guiding by professional sailors. All of it in a festive and relaxed atmosphere that includes an open bar throughout the journey.

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Get to know the countryside of Cuba, its locals and their traditions.

From the paradisiacal keys to the heartland of Cuba!

Visit of "Las Margaritas" farm to see coffee, cocoa and tobacco plantations. Discover the process of growing and harvesting coffee, as well as tobacco rolling .Visit to a crocodile farm and boat ride in La Redonda lagoon.

Board a catamaran at Marina Gaviota “Aguas Tranquilas”, in Cayo Coco, to enjoy snorkeling in an extensive and beautiful coral reef. Free time on a virgin beach with open bar.

Visit the cities of Ciego de Ávila and Moron, important municipalities of Ciego de Ávila. Get to know the Pauyet workshop-gallery and the crocodile farm, enjoy a boat ride in the La Redonda lagoon and a stop at La Silla bar to take pics.

Discover our Havana capital with this tour designed to know our beautiful city through its most important sites.

An excellent tour to get to know marvelous Havana.

Get to know the beautiful rural landscapes of Cuba, visit the Valley of Viñales National Park with its unique heaps (mogotes).

Learn about the roots of the largest of the Antilles, the Cuban culture, the traditions of its people, its history, its cuisine, its folklore.

A 150 km adventure through roads, embarkments, country-side towns! Snorkel in Playa Coral, visit to the Saturno Cave, the Yumurí Valley, the bridges of Matanzas plus a fast boat ride through the Canímar River!

Witness the processes of sugar, rum and cigar making. Visit a sugar plantation and factory. Taste the “guarapo” or sugar cane juice, travel in a steam train of the XX century, Visit to the Cárdenas rum distillery, experience rum and Cuban cigar making from up close.

Ride to a Varadero Marina, jump into a Catamaran and sail through the beautiful Caribbean Sea! Snorkel in the crystalline emerald waters enjoying the coralline sea floors, swim with dolphins, relax in a paradisiacal beach ...

Don´t miss out on Havana and explore its great fortresses and buildings. Have a daiquiri at the Floridita Bar, discover Old and modern Havana all in one tour including places like The Presidential Palace, Parque Central, the University of Havana and much more!

Cuba is not just Havana and Varadero. Take this tour and visit the city of Santa Clara, the city of Trinidad with its main streets and plazas and the city of Cienfuegos including Punta Gorda, the Jagua hotel and the Palacio del Valle.

Located in the Natural Park and biosphere reserve of Peninsula de Zapata, between Jagüey Grande and the Cochinos bay, Guamá reveals beautiful landscapes, the Treasure Lagoon and a crocodile breeding farm. The site reproduces Taino aboriginal villages, life and customs.

Conceived to discover the capital of Cuba through its most emblematic places.

Find out why the “ 7 Wonders” Foundation named Havana one of the 7 Wonder Cities of the World.

Catamaran journey, snorkeling in the crystal clear emerald waters, enjoying the coral reefs. Swim with dolphins, enjoy a paradisiacal beach, accompanied by Cuban cocktails and a seafood lunch.

Tour to the most popular beach in Cuba; Varadero.

Enjoy a day by the sea in one of the all-inclusive hotels. Enjoy more than 20 kilometers of white sand and crystal clear waters.

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7 Best Cayo Coco Resorts [2024 Guide]

There are few more dreamy beach destinations in the Caribbean than Cuba’s white-sand Cayo Coco . More than just untouched shores, this tiny islet off the northern coast of Cuba is one of the country’s best and most beloved resort destinations, home to some of the most impressive resorts in Cuba .

Planning your own beach escape to Cayo Coco? These are the best Cayo Coco resorts to choose from. With something for everyone (family-friendly and adults-only options included!) , Cayo Coco quickly reveals why it has so long been one of the best beach destinations in Cuba .

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 .

Best Resorts in Cayo Coco

Unlike other beach destinations on the mainland of Cuba, Cayo Coco is unique in that it doesn’t have the casa particular guest houses and villas for rent that you’ll find in other Cuban beach destinations like Varadero . Instead, Cayo Coco is populated exclusively with hotels and all inclusive resorts , some of the best in Cuba.

Looking for our top recommendations for the best resorts in Cayo Coco? These are our favorite Cayo Coco resorts for every style of travel:

• Best Resort in Cayo Coco: Gran Marena Cayo Coco
• Best Family-Friendly Resort in Cayo Coco: Melia Jardines del Rey
• Best Adults-Only Resort in Cayo Coco: Melia Cayo Coco
• Best Budget-Friendly Resort in Cayo Coco: Sol Cayo Coco

Cayo Coco has adults-only resorts if this is what you’re looking for. However, the island also has its own international airport, making it a particularly popular destination for families looking for the convenience of cutting the six-hour car ride from Havana down to just minutes.

Read on for more detailed guides to the best resorts in Cayo Coco, including tips for booking a stay and how to best enjoy the experience.

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

Cayo Coco Resorts

1. gran marena cayo coco ($$ – $$$).

Best Resort in Cayo Coco

Our top choice for the best resort in Cayo Coco (and one of the best resorts in Cuba !), Gran Marena Cayo Coco is a luxe all-inclusive resort with an almost boutique-like feel. Formerly known as the Pullman Cayo Coco Hotel, this resort doesn’t lack any of the desirable amenities of a larger resort – beachfront! watersports! dining options! a spa and fitness center! – while offering personalized attention and planning from staff and the seclusion you’re craving  in a romantic beach getaway or family vacation.

Gran Marena Cayo Coco ’s  pools and the beachfront offer an abundance of beach chairs and plenty of cabanas for lazy days by the sea, and watersports and activities add some adventure to your stay.

Reviews and Bookings: Gran Marena Cayo Coco

Cuba Accommodation Guides

• Best Resorts in Cuba: Ultimate Cuba Resort Guide

15 Best All Inclusive Resorts in Cuba

• 15 Best Hotels in Cuba

2. Melia Jardines del Rey ($$)

Best Family-Friendly Resort in Cayo Coco

The sprawling Melia Jardines del Rey offers pretty much everything you could ever want in a beach resort and more. Five swimming pools, a luxurious spa, a modern gym, nine different restaurants, six bars…. if you’re looking for a well-equipped resort on one of the most pristine beaches of Cayo Coco, look no further than this.

Melia Jardines del Rey is our pick for the best family-friendly resort for its kids’ club, play spaces, and excellent childcare program that gets rave reviews. Plus, plenty of tranquil oceanfront makes it the perfect spot for families to play. However, Melia Jardines del Rey also offers plenty for those visiting without the kids in tow, so don’t overlook it as you consider Cayo Coco resorts.

Reviews and Bookings: Melia Jardines del Rey

3. Melia Cayo Coco ($$)

Best Adults-Only Resort in Cayo Coco

One of Cayo Coco’s most beloved adults-only five-star resorts, Melia Cayo Coco is a favorite destination tucked away on the white sands of Playa Flamenco, arguably Cayo Coco’s most impressive beach. At just 250 beachfront and lagoon-facing rooms – which is tiny compared to most other Cayo Coco resorts! – it provides a more personalized and romantic feel that makes it popular with couples.

Melia Cayo Coco offers four restaurants and bars, and incredible installations like a lovely pool and beach area . It also offers overwater bungalows, though they’re lagoon-facing rather than ocean-facing. Overall, the resort shines and stands out from the pack for its stellar location, friendly service, and great food.

Reviews and Bookings: Melia Cayo Coco

4. Sol Cayo Coco ($ – $$)

Best Budget-Friendly Resort in Cayo Coco

Adjacent to Melia Cayo Coco, Sol Cayo Coco is yet another one of the island’s most beautiful and sought-after resorts, but at a much more affordable price point. While certain areas of the resort could use refurbishing, it offers solid amenities, great food options, and direct access to not just one but two of Cayo Coco’s most beautiful beaches: Playa Mojito and Playa Las Coloradas.

Sol Cayo Coco is another family-friendly resort in Cayo Coco that I would highly recommend to travelers with kids. The kids’ club and activity spaces for families make it an enjoyable trip for everyone, though adults-only areas also give space to those looking for a quiet escape.

Reviews and Bookings: Sol Cayo Coco

What to Pack for Cuba

Check out our  Ultimate Cuba Packing List   to help you pack for your trip – we’re sharing exactly what to bring to Cuba and what we never travel without.

5. Memories Flamenco Beach Resort ($$)

Located on the award-winning Playa Flamenco beach, Memories Flamenco Beach Resort  is a stunning resort that puts its lovely beach front and center for guests. An expansive pool area with a swim-up bar and excellent entertainment are highlights here, and dining choices are quite impressive.

The resort has undergone a number of improvements and refurbishments in recent years to make it better than ever, though  it’s still an affordable option for travelers looking to experience Cayo Coco on a budget. Great food, friendly staff, and plenty of opportunities for kicking back and relaxing  by the pool or the ocean make Memories Flamenco Beach Resort a favorite.

Memories Flamenco Beach Resort also offers a kids club and plenty of family-friendly spaces, so it’s a good option for travelers with kids.

Reviews and Bookings: Memories Flamenco Beach Resort

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.

6. Grand Aston Cayo Paredón Beach Resort ($$)

Opened just a few years ago along some of the region’s most beautiful shores, Grand Aston Cayo Paredón Beach Resort is one of the best resorts in the area. Gorgeous room design, impressive ocean views, and great amenities like a modern gym, plenty of dining options, and water sports and activities galore have made it incredibly popular.

Grand Aston Cayo Paredón Beach Resort isn’t technically located on Cayo Coco; as it’s name implies, it’s located on Cayo Paredón, which is a tiny cay connected via a causeway to Cayo Coco’s neighboring Cayo Romano. However, at less than 25 minutes from Cayo Coco’s international airport, it’s a resort destination worth considering for anyone looking into visiting Cayo Coco – it’s really something special.

Reviews and Bookings: Grand Aston Cayo Paredón Beach Resort

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. 

7. Tryp Cayo Coco ($$)

A four-star resort that is part of the Melia family of brands, Tryp Cayo Coco has long been a beloved mainstay among resorts in Cayo Coco. With just over 500 rooms, it is quite a large resort and has the amenities and activities to support it, though it doesn’t feel overwhelming or overrun. It’s a popular all-inclusive option for both couples and families.

While some of the rooms and interior spaces at Tryp Cayo Coco are starting to show a bit of wear and tear with age , its amenities and beachfront location are nothing short of impressive and will be the highlight of a stay. Plus, its more affordable price point makes it a winner.

Reviews and Bookings: Tryp Cayo Coco

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.

Tours in Cayo Coco

10 tours available in cayo coco.

• Departure from Cayo Coco, Ciego de Ávila
• Category: All day tours
• Duration: 7 hrs
• Tour guide: Yes
• Languages spoken: Spanish, English, French, Italian, German, Portuguese and Russian

• Category: Half day tours
• Duration: 4 hrs
• Languages spoken: Spanish, English, French, Italian, Portuguese and Russian

• Duration: 8 hrs aprox

• Duration: 4 hrs / 7 hrs
• Languages spoken: Spanish and English

• Category: VIP Services
• Duration: 24.00 hrs
• Tour guide: No

• Duration: 5 hrs aprox

• Duration: 3 hrs aprox

• Duration: 5 hrs

Set Tour date. Find prices and availability

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Is havana worth it? An thoughts on other excursions? - Cayo Coco Forum

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Is havana worth it? An thoughts on other excursions?

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We are traveling feb and stayng at the melia. Its our first time here too.

We have been looking at excursions and people say you cant go to cuba wihout visitig havana?

What are your thoughts?

Is there a typical cuban experience without going to havana or is havana a must

It seems an awfully long way to gofor the night/day is it really worth it?

many thanks in advance

Thanks again : )

I really like the look of Moron and ciego de avila how far are these from cayo coco?? Many Thanks

pansy - Morón might be an hour and a half from Cayo Guillermo, but is a lot less than that from Cayo Coco. I am not clear which Melia tomla is staying at.

Ah yes - the crocodile farm. My son loved feeding the crocs from a distance but refused to touch the small one that a keeper was holding.

Ciego is about twice the distance.

The workers are bussed in from both Morón and Ciego.

Oh, well maybe an hour, but the coach picks up at quite a few hotels, which does put a bit more time on your journey. eh!

The trip to Ciego is well worth it for shopping if so inclined. There are shops in Moron but Ciego has the main street closed to traffic for quite a distance with shops on both sides , very interesting to do comparison shopping against our prices . lol

Oh yes - that pedestrianised part is quite new. I picked up a couple of nice books at CUP 20 or 30 each (i.e about a dollar - and that was their full price).

My in-laws got me to drive from Morón to Ciego to get pizzas - they didn't strike me as anything special.

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Cayo Coco Hotels and Places to Stay

Une grande variété d’excursions est proposée aux voyageurs séjournant dans les hôtels des Cayos de la station balnéaire Jardines del Rey (King's Gardens). Que vous soyez à la recherche d'activités nautiques, d'expériences culturelles, d'un contact avec la nature, d'aventures palpitantes, de sites historiques, ou d'une vie nocturne trépidante, vous trouverez certainement l'escapade parfaite qui vous fera abonner la plage pour quelques heures afin de découvrir et en apprendre d'avantage sur le vrai Cuba et son peuple.

Paiement Les excursions peuvent être payées par carte de crédit (qui n'est pas émise ou affiliée à une banque américaine). Visiter la section Argent pour plus d'informations sur la monnaie et les cartes de crédit. Les prix-enfant sont pour les 2 à 12 ans (à moins d’indication contraire), les nourrissons (0 à 24 mois) sont gratuits. Notez que les prix indiqués sont basés sur les informations recueillies lors de notre dernier voyage là-bas, ils sont sujet à changement.

Langue Les tours peuvent être guidés en plusieurs langues (espagnol, anglais, français, allemand, etc.), assurez-vous de spécifier votre préférence lors de la réservation.

Bon d'échange (Voucher) Lorsque vous réservez une excursion on vous remet toujours un "voucher". Ce bon d'échange doit être présenté à l'embarquement dans le bus le jour de votre excursion. Il est très important de ne pas le perdre, ni de l'oublier dans votre chambre avant de partir. Vous ne pourrez pas participer à l’excursion sans votre "voucher".

Horaire Toutes les excursions partent des hôtels. L'heure du pick-up à votre hôtel devrait être indiquée sur le "voucher", il est suggéré d'être dans le hall d’entrée au moins 15 minutes à l'avance .

Minimum Certaines excursions nécessitent un minimum de participants. Si le minimum n'est pas atteint pour une excursion que vous aviez réservé, elle peut alors être reportée ou remboursée.

Accessibilité Certaines excursions ou activités peuvent ne pas convenir à tous, il faut donc spécifier toute condition physique particulière, handicap, ou restriction culinaire lors de la réservation.

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