Explore Cayo Coco

Cayo Coco is a tropical island in the Jardines del Rey chain, off central Cuba. Known for its white-sand beaches and coral reefs, its northern coast is dotted with all-inclusive resorts. Natural features include lagoons and marshes that are home to birds such as the white ibis as well as a native colony of pink flamingos that's ranked among the largest in the Americas. ― Google

Best Time to Visit:

  • November to April (Dry Season):

    • Ideal weather (24–28°C), sunny and dry — perfect for beach relaxation and water activities.

  • May to October (Wet Season):

    • Hotter and more humid, with occasional showers and increased hurricane risk (especially August–October). Still beautiful but less crowded.

How to Get There:

  • By Air:

    • Jardines del Rey Airport (CCC) serves Cayo Coco with direct international flights and domestic flights from Havana.

  • By Road:

    • Connected to mainland Cuba by a 27 km causeway (Pedraplén de Cayo Coco) — about 6–7 hours from Havana by car or bus.

  • By Shuttle or Tour Bus:

    • Transfers available from other resorts and nearby towns.

Top Attractions:

  • Playa Flamenco & Playa Pilar:

    • Stunning, postcard-perfect beaches with calm, shallow waters and soft white sand.

  • Parque Natural El Bagá:

    • Nature park with trails, crocodile lagoons, aviaries, and cultural exhibits.

  • Cayo Guillermo (nearby):

    • Home to Playa Pilar, one of Cuba’s most beautiful beaches.

  • Laguna de la Leche (Morón):

    • The largest natural freshwater lake in Cuba, about 1.5 hours away — worth a side trip.

Activities to Do:

  • Snorkeling and scuba diving among coral reefs in the surrounding Jardines del Rey archipelago.

  • Catamaran cruises and sunset sails.

  • Birdwatching:

    • Flamingos, herons, and endemic birds in mangroves and lagoons.

  • Jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.

  • Horseback riding and ATV tours through coastal trails.

  • Spa treatments and relaxation at luxury resorts.

Accommodation:

  • All-Inclusive Resorts:

    • Iberostar Selection, Melia Cayo Coco, Pullman Cayo Coco, Memories Caribe Beach Resort.

  • Adults-Only and Family Resorts:

    • Many resorts cater to different traveler types — family-friendly, couples, or solo.

Note: There are no local towns or casas particulares on the island — accommodations are exclusively resort-based.

Food and Restaurants:

  • Food is mainly provided by the resorts — buffet and à la carte options.

  • Cuban and international cuisine: seafood, grilled meats, tropical fruits, and cocktails.

  • Beach bars and poolside snack spots offer lighter fare and local drinks like mojitos, piña coladas, and Cuban coffee.

Local Culture:

  • Cayo Coco is more of a resort island than a cultural hub, but many resorts organize:

    • Live Cuban music and dance shows

    • Cigar and rum tastings

    • Craft markets and art exhibitions

  • For more authentic Cuban culture, take a day trip to Morón or Ciego de Ávila on the mainland.