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Looking to visit the popular islands in Cuba? There are hundreds of smaller islands and cays (or “cayos” in Spanish) scattered like jewels across the azure waters. These stunning islets have some of the world’s most breathtaking beaches, incredible diving opportunities, and unique ecosystems. They are the ultimate holiday destinations in the Caribbean waters. If you’re dreaming of sugar-white sands and crystal-clear waters, you must explore these hidden gems. This guide will explore some of the best islands in Cuba.
10 Must-Visit Popular Islands In Cuba
On your next trip, experience the most quintessential islands in Cuba. These accessible destinations are a must-visit for every nature lover looking for a tropical escape.
1. Cayo Coco
Photo: carlos adan / Wikimedia Commons
Nestled within the Jardines del Rey (Gardens of the King) archipelago, Cayo Coco is a quintessential Caribbean escape. It is easily accessible from the mainland via a causeway and has its own international airport. Cayo Coco has firmly established itself as one of the most popular islands for resort-style vacations. It is renowned for its incredibly pristine white-sand beaches and calm, impossibly clear turquoise waters. Keep an eye out for the island’s iconic pink flamingos, which are often seen wading in the shallow lagoons.
Nearest Airport: Jardines del Rey Airport
2. Cayo Largo Del Sur
Photo: Panther / Wikimedia Commons
If you are dreaming of untouched natural beauty and a tranquil atmosphere, you must visit Cayo Largo del Sur in the Canarreos Archipelago. Located west of the mainland, it can be accessed by a small plane. The island is more secluded and almost feels like one of the private islands in Cuba. Cayo Largo is celebrated for its untouched beaches and a laid-back vibe that prioritises nature tourism. You can visit the local turtle farm, which plays an important role in protecting the population of sea turtles.
Nearest Airport: Vilo Acuña International Airport
3. Cayo Santa María
Photo: Alexandre Henry Alves / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Cayo Santa María has earned its place among the popular Islands by striking a perfect balance between upscale resorts and breathtaking natural beauty. It is connected to the mainland by a remarkable 48 km causeway (Pedraplén) that stretches across the sea. Visit the “Pueblo” (small town) which was built to serve the resorts; it has shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Nearest Airport: Abel Santamaría Airport (SNU)
4. Isla De La Juventud
Photo: Gobbler / Wikimedia Commons
Isla de la Juventud, which means Isle of Youth, is Cuba’s second-largest island and is located south of the main island. Distinct from the smaller cays, it can be accessed by ferry or a small plane. Known historically as the “Isle of Pines”, it is famous for its past as a penal colony where figures like Fidel Castro and Che Guevara were imprisoned. You must explore the legendary Punta Francés National Marine Park, which is considered one of the best dive sites in the Caribbean, with stunning coral walls and abundant marine life.
Nearest Airport: Rafael Cabrera Mustelier Airport (GER)
5. Cayo Guillermo
Photo: carlos adan / Wikimedia Commons
Located just a stone’s throw from Cayo Coco and often visited in conjunction, Cayo Guillermo is known for its incredibly beautiful beaches and a storied connection to Ernest Hemingway. This cay is home to Playa Pilar, which is ranked as one of Cuba’s most stunning beaches. It is known for its massive sand dunes and calm, shallow waters. Hemingway himself found inspiration here for his novel “Islands in the Stream.” The consistent winds make Cayo Guillermo a fantastic spot for kiteboarding and windsurfing enthusiasts.
Nearest Airport: Jardines del Rey International Airport (CCC)
6. Cayo Cruz
Photo: Farhan Al-Gifari / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Part of the Jardines del Rey archipelago, Cayo Cruz is one of Cuba’s newer tourist developments. Connected to the mainland by a 26-kilometre causeway or pedraplén, it has pristine and less crowded beaches that stretch for miles. The resorts offer many non-motorised water sports, such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and catamarans. You can even go diving and snorkelling to explore the surrounding reefs. It is an ideal place to go for long walks, sunbathing, and simply soaking in the tranquillity.
Nearest Airport: Jardines del Rey Aeropuerto, also called Cayo Coco Airport (CCC)
7. Cayo Levisa
Photo: Mikhail Nilov / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Off the northern coast of Pinar del Río province, Cayo Levisa is a much smaller, more rustic island which is accessible only by a short ferry ride from Palma Rubia. It is known for its laid-back atmosphere and exceptional marine environment and is perfect for travellers who want a more authentic and less commercialised island experience. The waters around Cayo Levisa are renowned for their stunning coral reefs and shipwrecks, and are Cuba’s best dive sites.
Nearest Airport: José Martí International Airport (HAV)
8. Cayo Saetía
Photo: Anagoria / Wikimedia Commons
Cayo Saetía is located off the northeastern coast of Holguín province. This natural reserve combines beautiful beaches with a surprising twist. It is home to exotic animals, which creates a safari-like atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Cuba. You can encounter African and Asian animals such as zebras, antelopes, camels, ostriches, and buffalo roaming freely alongside the native Cuban wildlife. You can enjoy horseback riding through the reserve or take a jeep safari through the island’s interior to observe the exotic animals.
Nearest Airport: Aeropuerto Frank País García, also known as Holguin Airport (HOG)
9. Cayo Blanco De Casilda
Photo: SlimMars 13 / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Cayo Blanco is a popular day trip destination and is located just off the coast near Trinidad and Casilda. Because it’s easily accessible from the colonial city of Trinidad, it is a perfect way to explore the culture on the mainland and then go snorkelling and diving on the island. Most visits involve a catamaran or sailing trip from Casilda, which includes drinks, music, and scenic coastal views.
Nearest Airport: Alberto Delgado Airport (TND) in Trinidad
10. Archipiélago De Sabana-Camagüey (North Central Cays)
Photo: Patrick Nouhailler / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The Archipiélago de Sabana-Camagüey is huge. This immense archipelago stretches for hundreds of kilometres along Cuba’s north-central coast and includes thousands of tiny islets and cays, of which many are completely uninhabited. Many of these tiny cays are the ultimate private Islands in Cuba due to their complete inaccessibility and lack of any infrastructure. For serious adventurers, some operators offer multi-day sailing or fishing expeditions that explore the secluded cays of this archipelago.
Nearest Airport: Jardines del Rey International Airport (CCC) on Cayo Coco, Abel Santa María Airport (SNU) in Santa Clara
Before planning a trip to the islands in Cuba, decide if you prefer to stay at an all-inclusive resort or have the adventure of exploring the place independently. Cuba’s cays offer breathtaking natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and the ultimate holiday destination. Plan a trip with TripXL and let the turquoise waters beckon you to your next travel adventure.
Cover Photo: gian luca bucci / Wikimedia
