Cheaper Vacations

Cayo Cruz: The new tourist destination in Cuba

January 1, 2040
Travel Guides

Do you love idyllic beaches? You'll LOVE Cayo Cruz! This small island, part of the Jardines del Rey archipelago, is renowned for its white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters. Open to tourists since late 2019, Cayo Cruz boasts newly built hotels with a modern style. The nearest airport to Cayo Cruz is Cayo Coco. To enjoy a free meal on your flight, book with Caribe Sol, the Cuba specialist (we're foodies, what can we say!). This place is a little slice of paradise for travelers who want to relax in good company. Discover why you absolutely must visit this sunny destination!


Things to do in Cayo Cruz

Like most of the islands in Cuba, Cayo Cruz boasts magnificent white sand beaches (25 km long, to be precise), bordered by turquoise waters. You can choose to relax by the sea or embark on an adventure with the various excursions available. By the way, did you know that Cayo Cruz is a popular destination for sport fishing?


Catamaran sea excursion

A very popular activity with tourists, explore the natural beauty of Cuba's bays on this relaxing catamaran cruise. Sail on the crystal-clear waters along the shores of Cayo Coco aboard a catamaran and fall in love with the idyllic scenery. Soak up the sun while sipping a traditional Cuban mojito, made with the world's finest rum: Cuban rum. In addition to relaxing on the catamaran, you can dive into the turquoise waters and explore the diverse marine life that inhabits the coral reef on a fascinating snorkeling excursion.


Visit to the town of Morón and a sugar mill museum

Venture off the beaten path and discover the history and beauty of Cuba by exploring the town of Morón and visiting the Pauyet Art Gallery, where you can purchase artwork by local artisans, including silverware. Next, visit the Patria Sugar Mill Museum, where you'll learn all about the sugarcane processing used to make one of Cuba's biggest exports: Cuban rum. Finally, take a boat trip through the mangroves of Redonda Lagoon.


Jeep Safari

Explore Cuba in an unconventional way with a Jeep tour! Throughout your ride, you'll admire breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea. The safari also includes a horseback ride and a boat trip on a pristine lake!


Unlimited water sports

Cayo Cruz is also popular for water sports, such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Snorkeling enthusiasts? You're in for a treat! The calm waters offer the perfect opportunity to discover marine life and its wonders. Who knows, you might even have the chance to see giant turtles or starfish with your own eyes!


Hotels in Cayo Cruz

Coral Level at Iberostar Selection Esmeralda 5 ⭐️


Surrounded by tropical gardens, this small oasis with its modern architecture will transport you back to the era of 19th-century Cuban coffee plantations and colonial mansions. Reserved for adults, this 121-room resort is located directly on the beach: walking enthusiasts will be delighted! With 3 swimming pools, 5 restaurants, and 3 bars, you can relax as a couple or with friends on your next vacation.

As for the Iberostar Selection Esmeralda, the family section of the hotel complex, its opening is planned for the near future.


Marina Plaza & Spa 4 ⭐️


A small, intimate hotel with 60 rooms, the Marina Plaza & Spa's main attraction, as its name suggests, is its spa. Treat yourself to a massage—after all, you're on vacation! Enjoy the tranquility of the setting and relax by the pool. It's the perfect hotel to unwind and soak up the sun. Other amenities include a buffet, an Asian restaurant, a café, a spa, a casino, a relaxation area on the terrace, and more! An ideal spot for those seeking peace and quiet in a modern, idyllic setting.


Valentin Cayo Cruz 4 ½ ⭐️


Facing the ocean, this adults-only resort features 546 rooms spread across 12 three-story buildings. Inspired by a contemporary and elegant Caribbean style, the Valentin Cayo Cruz boasts a magnificent infinity pool, in addition to four other pools. Simply choose your favorite and soak up the sun. Don't forget the sunscreen! Enjoy complimentary water sports activities offered throughout the resort. Sample Caribbean specialties or dine at one of the eight à la carte restaurants and end your day in style at one of the eight bars. There's so much to do, what will you choose?


An island in full expansion

As the enthusiasm for Cayo Cruz continues to grow, Cuba's Ministry of Tourism is initiating development on neighboring islands, such as Cayo Megano Grande, Cayo Guajaba, and Cayo Sabinal. Projects are expected to continue until 2030 and will total nearly 25,000 rooms! We haven't heard the last of Cayo Cruz in the coming years.




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