cayo santa maria cuba excursions

Cayo Santa Maria: A Local’s Guide for Travelers [2024]

Long-time favorite beach destinations like Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo, be warned: Cayo Santa Maria is the newest coastal hotspot in Cuba. White sand so fine you’ll think it’s sugar and a crop of some of the most impressive resorts in Cuba make Cayo Santa Maria – or Santa Maria Cay – a tiny slice of paradise you won’t want to leave.

As locals, we’ve visited what feels like every beach in Cuba, but Cayo Santa Maria is truly something special. Read on for all our local recommendations on the best things to do and places to stay in Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba , and how to get to this far-flung beach paradise.

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 Santa Maria

Located along Cuba’s beachy northern coast, Cayo Santa Maria is a stunning white sand island known as a cay. Together with neighboring cays like Cayo Las Brujas, Cayo Ensenachos, Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, and Cayo Romano, this tiny island forms part of Cuba’s Jardines del Rey archipelago.

Named by early Spanish conquistadores in the 1500s in honor of King Ferdinand of Spain, the Jardines del Rey archipelago now forms one of the most important beach destinations in Cuba. These islands are home to the majority of Cuba’s best resorts , as well as a number of hotel rooms to rival the island’s premier beach destinations in Varadero and Cayo Largo del Sur .

Cayo Santa Maria is just ten miles (16km) long and just over one mile wide, so there isn’t much to it. However, with some of the most pristine beaches in the Caribbean and clear, shallow waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling, it’s one of the most incredible beach destinations in the country.

Visiting Cayo Santa Maria

Cayo Santa Maria wasn’t much more than an empty stretch of sand before the early 2000s when the island was identified for its incredible tourism potential, and a few first resorts and hotels began popping up. Now, it’s one of the major destinations for travelers in the Jardines del Rey archipelago.

While the island is still playing catchup with nearby cays like Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo when it comes to name recognition, Cayo Santa Maria has plenty to offer that makes it potentially even more appealing than its neighbors. Newer resorts, less crowded beaches , and arguably easier access to Havana make it one of the best beach destinations in Cuba .

Read More: 9 Best Resorts in Cayo Santa Maria

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 Santa Maria

Cayo Santa Maria is most famous for its incredible beaches and their accompanying beach resorts . As the island is wrapped in white sand, it has no lack of beaches to choose from. While most visitors stick to the beach at their resort, you can certainly enjoy beach-hopping in Cayo Santa Maria should you feel so inclined.

All beaches in Cuba are technically public beaches, meaning that you’re free to explore any beaches on Cayo Santa Maria or any other part of Cuba for that matter. However, keep in mind that the use of beach chairs, umbrellas, and any other kind of beach installation is reserved for resort guests.

Playa La Estrella

Playa La Estrella, located in the center of the island, has the distinction of being the longest beachfront in Cayo Santa Maria. This white sand beach stretches on for more than two miles (3.5 km) and is about as pristine as you can get.

Playa La Estrella is home to resorts like Royalton Cayo Santa Maria, Melia Las Dunas, and the Memories resorts, some of the best resorts in Cayo Santa Maria .

Playa Las Caletas

One of the shorter beaches in Cayo Santa Maria, Playa Las Caletas is particularly beautiful, with calm waters and a pristine beachfront. It sits just west of Playa La Estrella. This beach is home to Gran Muthu Cayo Santa Maria.

Playa Cañon

Playa Cañon is known as one of the few beaches in Cuba where you can find clothing-optional sunbathing, so be aware of this if you plan to visit.

The vast majority of visitors enjoy the beach with bathing suits on – just don’t be surprised if you find visitors taking advantage of this beach’s special designation.

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 Santa Maria

1. visit the delfinario.

One of the most popular activities for travelers looking to enjoy some time off of resort property is visiting Cayo Santa Maria’s delfinario – or, dolphinarium . Home to a number of dolphins as well as space for events and even a small restaurant, it’s an excellent facility offering experiences travelers tend to love.

The Delfinario offers a number of different experiences with dolphins, including dolphin shows and the opportunity to swim with dolphins. Sign up and inquire about transportation at your resort, as resort staff work closely with the Delfinario to organize visits. They can plan your entire experience.

Formally known as the Acuario Delfinario Cayo Santa Maria , the delfinario is located off of the causeway used to access Cayo Santa Maria, just before the turn-off point used by visitors to access Cayo Ensenachos .

2. Stroll Through Plaza La Estrella

While Cayo Santa Maria doesn’t have any true beach towns to speak of, Plaza La Estrella is a central spot on the island where visitors can shop for handicrafts and souvenirs and explore the island beyond the resort.

There are several small restaurants, cafes, and bars that even play live music. It’s the perfect place for a stroll, a snack, or passing an hour or two of shopping and browsing. Keep in mind that the area is purely for tourists, as there is no permanent population on Cayo Santa Maria. However, it’s charming nonetheless and perfect for those looking to take a break from the beach and the resort.

Visitors from the neighboring resorts – Royalton Cayo Santa Maria or Starfish Cayo Santa Maria – can easily walk from the resort to Plaza La Estrella. Otherwise, take a taxi from your resort or hotel, or hop on the island’s hop-on, hop-off bus if you’re so inclined.

3. Enjoy A Spa Day at Melia’s YHI Spa

Several of the resorts in Cayo Santa Maria offer spas and wellness treatments, but if you’re looking for something special or perhaps your hotel doesn’t offer a spa, consider booking at Melia’s YHI Spa Aguas Claras.

Melia’s YHI Spa Aguas Claras offers a number of treatments, including mud wraps, massages, exfoliation treatments, and manicures and pedicures . The spa and wellness area also includes access to a gym, jacuzzi, dedicated pool and lounge area, and more. It’s a wonderful facility among the best on the island.

4. Visit Santa Clara

If you’re traveling to or from Cayo Santa Maria via Santa Clara, consider spending a few hours or even an entire day exploring the city. While Santa Clara isn’t one of Cuba’s most famous destinations, it has a lot going for it, including being home to one of the island’s most important historical monuments.

Santa Clara is best known for being home to the mausoleum of Ernesto “Che” Guevara, the Cuban revolutionary who transformed the country and now lives on endless billboards and posters around Cuba and a million t-shirts around the world. His mausoleum is a popular destination in Cuba for history buffs and the curious alike and is well worth a visit.

In addition to visiting Che Guevara’s mausoleum, make sure to wander the historic center of town and take in some of the historic buildings. Santa Clara doesn’t have as charming of a historic center as towns like Cienfuegos or Trinidad , but it’s impressive nonetheless.

5. Visit the Untouched Playa de las Gaviotas

Most of Cayo Santa Maria’s beaches are now home to resorts and hotels – except for a precious few untouched spots that remain undeveloped and empty. Playa Las Gaviotas, on the far eastern edge of Cayo Santa Maria, is one of them.

To visit this untouched beach with powdery white sand, head just east of the Valentin Perla Blanca, where the main road cutting across the island ends. Here you’ll find the entrance to the island’s nature and wildlife refuge, which has a nature trail that takes visitors to the beach. It’s a refreshing distinction on the island, now populated with resorts.

Through the refuge, which has a $4 admission fee, you’ll find a nature trail leading to the beach. Expect to see wildlife like lizards and plenty of birds along the way. Alternatively, walk east from the beachfront of the Valentin Perla Blanca, and you’ll be able to access the beach as well.

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 Santa Maria

Royalton cayo santa maria ($$$).

One of the best resorts in Cuba and among our favorites of the Royalton brand, Royalton Cayo Santa Maria is our top choice among resorts in Cayo Santa Maria . With just 122 rooms and suites, the resort isn’t overwhelmingly large, though the amenities you’ll find here are those you’d only expect at a much larger resort.

A number of pools, beautifully decorated lounges and eateries, and an incredible beachfront with great beach activities are highlights that every traveler will enjoy. Royalton Cayo Santa Maria also has an onsite spa and wellness center and reservation-free, all-inclusive dining across the resort.

Reviews and Bookings: Royalton Cayo Santa Maria

Melia Buenavista ($$$)

Perched on a secluded section of beach on Cayo Santa Maria’s west end, the all-inclusive Melia Buenavista is one of the best places to stay in Cayo Santa Maria. The 108-room resort offers three different beachfronts to choose from while it’s smaller and feels more intimate when compared to neighboring resorts.

Upgrade your stay with suites part of “The Level,” which include the nicest rooms and butler service during your stay on the property. Melia Buenavista also offers several villa options for travelers looking for more privacy and those traveling with larger parties. Three- and four-bedroom villas with private pools are available, as are smaller villas and suites packed with amenities.

Reviews and Bookings: Melia Buenavista

Paradisus Los Cayos ($$ – $$$)

Another stunning property of the Melia brand, Paradisus Los Cayos is one of Cayo Santa Maria’s most beautiful resorts. This modern, all-inclusive eco-resort is perched along some of the island’s most stunning white-sand shores and has incredible amenities and room choice options , making it easily among the best resorts on the island.

While the resort isn’t overwhelmingly large, it boasts incredible amenities. Eight dining concepts, numerous bars, a luxurious spa, and stylish, updated rooms are highlights here. Upgrade the Reserve, an option available for families and couples, for exclusive benefits and amenities during your stay.

Reviews and Bookings: Paradisus Los Cayos

9 Best Resorts in Cayo Santa Maria

Getting to Cayo Santa Maria

Cayo Santa Maria is connected to the Cuban mainland at the town of Caibarien via a long causeway known as a pedraplén . Visitors headed to Cayo Santa Maria will pass by Cayo Las Brujas and Cayo Ensenachos along the way, with Cayo Santa Maria being the final destination on this nearly 30-mile causeway.

Flights to Cayo Santa Maria

Most travelers fly into the international airport in Santa Clara – Abel Santamaria Airport. There is a tiny airport near Cayo Santa Maria in neighboring Cayo Las Brujas that receives flights from Havana. However, flight schedules here are quite variable; with the Santa Clara airport just over an hour from the resorts, most travelers fly into Santa Clara.

Driving to Cayo Santa Maria

Santa Clara is also well connected by bus and shared taxi service from Cuba’s other major cities , especially Havana and Matanzas. If you’re looking to avoid flight connections through Havana or Santiago de Cuba , taking the bus is a great choice – the journey from Havana is just over three hours.

Plan a Trip to Cuba

• Trinidad, Cuba: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
• Cayo Coco, Cuba: Ultimate Traveler’s Guide
• Cuba’s Cays – Ultimate Guide to the Best Cays in Cuba

Cayo Santa Maria – FAQ

Is cayo santa maria worth visiting.

Cayo Santa Maria is well worth visiting! If you’re looking for a spectacular beach escape in Cuba, Cayo Santa Maria should be one of the top destinations you’re considering for your trip.

The beaches in Cayo Santa Maria will amaze you, the resorts will impress you, and you’ll have an unforgettable vacation, whether you’re traveling with family or for a romantic couples getaway.

Keep in mind that Cayo Santa Maria is quite resort-centric, without a permanent population and with only hotel and resort accommodations to choose from. There are no “beach towns” here, meaning everything revolves around the hotels and resorts. It isn’t something that appeals to all travelers, but for those looking for a resort stay, it’s perfect.

Varadero or Cayo Santa Maria?

Deciding whether to choose Varadero or Cayo Santa Maria for your Cuban beach vacation? While both destinations offer great beaches, they’re actually very different. On the one hand, Varadero has much more going on, with busier beaches, activities, and events. Cayo Santa Maria, however, is much more secluded, laid-back, and natural.

Varadero is a true beach town, with numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops to choose from, as well as a much wider range of accommodations. In Varadero, you can find everything from basic room rentals to luxury beach houses and some of Cuba’s best resorts . In Cayo Santa Maria, you only have a few resorts to choose from and nothing to speak of in terms of shops or restaurants outside of the resorts.

Whether you choose Varadero or Cayo Santa Maria, you’re in for an incredible beach vacation. Both options are spectacular and offer some of the best beach experiences in Cuba – you really can’t go wrong.

Plan a Trip to Varadero

• Varadero, Cuba: Ultimate Travel Guide
• 12 Best Things To Do in Varadero
• Havana to Varadero: 5 Easy Ways to Travel

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.

Explore Cayo Santa Maria

Plan your trip to cayo santa maria: best of cayo santa maria tourism.

Essential Cayo Santa Maria

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Cayo Santa Maria Is Great For

A Guide to Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba

Cayo Santa María is a breathtaking island that offers a paradise-like beach resort experience.

💡 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 Santa Maria in a Nutshell

Like Varadero , Cayo Coco , and Cayo Guillermo , Cayo Santa María is a small paradise for lovers of all-inclusive resorts.

This islet, located off the coast of the Province of Villa Clara in the north of the island, belongs to the Jardines del Rey archipelago and, together with Cayo Ensenachos and Cayo Las Brujas, forms a small group called “Los Cayos de Villa Clara”.

Unlike other Cuban beach resorts such as Varadero or the Bay of Pigs, Cayo Santa María only opened to tourism in the late 1990s. Its tourist development was planned in a more elegant and environmentally friendly way, earning it the nickname “Rosa Blanca de los Jardines del Rey” for its white sand beaches. However, the island’s rapid development of beach resorts threatens the fragile ecosystem of the nearby Buenavista Biosphere Reserve.

The vast majority of tourists in Cayo Santa María are Canadians (85%), but the island is increasingly attracting visitors from around the world. Like other major Cuban beach resorts, Cayo Santa María is known for its all-inclusive resorts.

Getting to Cayo Santa María

If you’re wondering how to get to Cayo Santa María, you have a few options:

Driving to Cayo Santa María

The island is connected to the main island by a 48-kilometer-long/30-mile-long road built on the sea called a “pedraplén.” If you have a car, you can drive to Cayo Santa María, but you’ll need to pay a 2 CUC fee to use the pedraplén.

Taxis and Excursions to Cayo Santa María

If you’re not driving, you can book an excursion to Cayo Santa María through the Cubatur agency in Santa Clara. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from Caibarién (30 CUC), Remedios (35 CUC), or Santa Clara (70 CUC).

Flights to Cayo Santa María

There’s a small airport in Cayo Las Brujas that serves flights to and from Havana . Most of the hotels on the island offer shuttle service from the airport. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the airport to your hotel.

The nearest international airport is in Santa Clara.

If you’re looking for flights to Cuba, Captain Ulysses recommends checking comparison sites like Skyscanner or Omio to find the best deals.

Getting Around in Cayo Santa Maria

The Panoramic Bus Tour, an open-top hop-on-hop-off bus, runs daily between Cayo Las Brujas and Cayo Santa Maria. The fare is 2 CUC per person for the journey.

Hotels in Cayo Santa Maria

Cayo Santa Maria has a handful of large all-inclusive resorts, and it’s difficult to find a budget option here, as all hotels are in the same price range. Among them, the Captain recommends 2 hotels in particular: – Melia Buenavista (adults-only) – Royalton Cayo Santa Maria (adults-only)

What to Do in Cayo Santa Maria?

Covering an area of 18 km2/7 square miles, Cayo Santa Maria has 13 kilometers/8 miles of beaches located on the north coast, which is the island’s main attraction. To the south, the islet is covered with mangroves and forests, home to many endemic species.

As you may have guessed, Cayo Santa Maria is a destination for pure relaxation, where you can unwind and forget about the daily hustle and bustle. It’s not a place to discover the real Cuba.

The Beaches of Cayo Santa María

There are nine beaches on Cayo Santa María, but they seem to blend together to form one 13-kilometer-long/8-mile-long beach:

• Playa Matamoros
• Playa Madruguilla
• Playa Canon
• Playa La Estrella
• Playa Las Caletas
• Playa La Colorada
• Playa Perla Blanca
• Playa Los Delfines
• Playa Las Gaviotas

All the beaches on the island are public and can be accessed freely. However, the sun loungers are reserved for hotel guests.

As an interesting fact, the only naturist beach in Cuba is located east of Playa Canon. Playa Las Gaviotas, on the other hand, is part of a protected wildlife reserve: no hotels can be built there, but it is possible to swim.

Diving and Water Activities in Cayo Santa María

The diving center at Marina Gaviota and the agencies Catamaran Crucero del Sol, Sea Tour, Boat Adventure, and Caguanes Tour all offer boat excursions to discover the underwater world off the coast of Cayo Santa María. The prices range from 30 to 100 CUC per adult depending on the type of boat you choose (catamaran, speedboat, etc.), and about half as much for children. The price includes round-trip transfer between your hotel and the marina.

Scuba Diving

The diving center, located at Marina Gaviota on the neighboring island of Cayo Las Brujas, offers numerous excursions for all levels (a pool initiation session is mandatory for beginners). The price includes round-trip transfer between your Cayo Santa María hotel and the marina for all bookings. Prices range from 45 CUC for one dive to 240 CUC for 10 dives (equipment included).

In addition to scuba diving and snorkeling, the dive center at Marina Gaviotta also offers fly fishing and sea fishing excursions lasting 4 to 8 hours. Prices range from 115 CUC per person to 650 CUC per boat (maximum of 4 participants) depending on the type and duration of the excursion. Transfer between your hotel and the marina is also included, as well as equipment, drinks, snacks, and/or meals.

Cayo Santa María Wildlife Refuge

The extreme southeast of Cayo Santa María is home to a wildlife refuge, a protected area away from the large tourist complexes. You can get there by car, taxi, or by booking an excursion with a guide (inquire at your hotel). The refuge is crisscrossed with hiking trails inviting you to discover the island’s fauna and flora. You’ll also find Playa Las Gaviotas and a small cove, Ensenada de Santa Maria, in the reserve.

Cayo Santa María Delphinarium

The Cayo Santa María Delphinarium opened in 2011 and is one of the largest and most modern in Cuba. You can watch shows featuring dolphins and sea lions, or even swim with dolphins for half an hour for 69 CUC. Admission is 5 CUC per adult and 3 CUC per child. The Panoramic Bus Tour stops at the Delphinarium, or you can get there by taxi.

⚠️ As always with this type of facility, it is difficult to be certain that the animals are well-treated and the Captain cannot guarantee it.

The Tourist Centers of Cayo Santa María

Cayo Santa María has three tourist complexes:

• Plaza la Estrella
• Plaza Las Dunas
• Plaza las Terrazas

Here, you will find numerous shops, bars, restaurants, spas, and artisan markets. This is also where the island’s nightclubs are located.

What to do around Cayo Santa María?

Cayo ensenachos and cayo las brujas.

Neighboring Cayo Santa María and connected to it by a causeway, Cayo Ensenachos and Cayo Las Brujas are the other two islets that make up the Cayos de Villa Clara.

Here, the recipe is the same as in Cayo Santa María: large hotel complexes, sandy beaches, snorkeling, diving, and relaxation.

The Panoramic Bus Tour connects Cayo Santa María and Cayo Las Brujas several times a day.

Santa Clara

The capital of the Province of Villa Clara, Santa Clara is best known as the “city of Che”. Ernesto “Che” Guevara won the legendary Battle of Santa Clara here in December 1958.

His body was buried here in 1997, 30 years after his death in Bolivia. It is for visiting the Mausoleum of Che that many tourists stop in Santa Clara.

The Monumento a la toma del tren blindado, or simply Tren Blindado, also commemorates Che’s victory over President Batista’s troops.

Today, Santa Clara is a lively and bustling city. It is a pleasant place to stroll around the shopping streets and the surroundings of the Leoncio Vidal Park.

Remedios is a charming colonial town located 45 kilometers from Santa Clara, which has remained relatively untouched by the island’s tourist development. Despite this, it is one of the oldest cities in Cuba, with its main church being the second oldest in the country.

It’s an ideal place to experience another side of Cuba, one that is more authentic and less polished.

Remedios is also known for its Parrandas, a colorful and lively festival that takes place during Christmas, where the entire town comes together in the streets to celebrate.

Nestled on the coast, Caibarién is a small fishing port located at the entrance of the pedraplén, the causeway leading to Cayo Santa María. Here, there are no major tourist landmarks, except for a few colonial buildings in the center, a giant crab statue that has become the emblem of the city, and the Malecon, a palm tree-lined promenade. However, Caibarién is a great stop for visitors interested in discovering the real Cuba, far from the large tourist resorts on the neighboring islands.

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Cayo Santa María: 5 excursions to admire nature

Blue sea, sand and endless sky. The spectacular Cayo Santa María, one of the most coveted destinations in Cuba, once again offers you the opportunity to enjoy the best vacations of your life. To the beaches and resorts that have made it famous, excursions are added, designed to please every visitor – even those with the most demanding tastes. Do you want to know what they are? Keep reading!

Motonatura is the first proposal: how about joining an electric motorcycle caravan and touring the cay? With the assistance of specialized guides, you will get to the best places to discover the splendid tropical nature: the Aguada del Bagá trail, the Forest Artists trail, the Golden Hair Cave trail… Birds, landscapes, small mammals, flowers Bright colors await you at every stop, so our advice is: look at everything, don’t miss a detail and if you can take photos or videos, even better! The adventure in the forest is followed by relaxation: Motonatura ends at noon, with a refreshing swim on Las Gaviotas beach and an exquisite Cuban lunch at Las Terrazas Tourist Plaza.

Do you need more? The Caguanes Tour will take you to a region declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO: the National Park of the same name, which actually occupies a much larger area of ​​land than Cayo Santa María, as it extends to the Yaguajay coast in the big Island. Early in the morning, a bus will transfer you from your hotel to the Marina Gaviota to board the catamarans that sail through the channels between the cays. There will be stops for snorkeling in the coral reef, snacks and an open bar on board the catamaran, an interesting visit to the caves of Cayo Caguanes and free time for you to enjoy a swim in the megano of Boca Chica. You can take your partner, your children, your friends …

Caguanes Tour

Now imagine yourself sitting comfortably on top of a double-decker bus. Feel the breeze, the heat of the sun … the Panoramic Tour is a trip through the key that will allow you to see all its facilities: hotels, tourist places and the fantastic dolphinarium where it ends. Although a show of these intelligent cetaceans is already included in the tour, perhaps you will be encouraged to dive with them, participate in their tricks, ask them to pose for a photo: it is an experience that is really worth it and we assure you that you will not regret!

The options do not end here, because thinking of the comfort of yours, the Family Getaway has been designed. It consists of traveling aboard comfortable jeeps to get to know the lagoon that is home to migratory birds that arrive each year from North America (with a little luck you will see complete flocks), the Cueva del Pelo de Oro (that it is not very big, but it is very interesting due to its geological formation) and finally Las Gaviotas beach … of course, the beach for your family could not miss! Did you already write it down in your agenda?

Playa Las Gaviotas

Fifth and last option –for now- is the Cayo Santa María Adventure, which offers you first a boat trip to the most virgin corners of the key, then a jeep tour to the reserves where valuable species of regional flora and fauna are protected. If you are a nature lover, this option will be perfect for you, since you will also have specialized descriptions about each plant or animal that you discover, as well as explanations about its care and handling. At the end, you will take as a souvenir the best images of the Cuban coastal ecosystems.

What do you think would be your favorite excursion? To answer the question there is no other choice but to try them all! Ask your travel agent or the sales bureau of your hotel, invite your travel companions and launch yourself into the discovery. You will want to repeat, for sure!

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THE BEST Cayo Santa Maria Tours & Excursions

Cayo santa maria tours.

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Bom Dia Cabo Verde

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Cayo Santa Maria

Pick up by private car from Remedios at 2:30 p.m. towards Cayo Las Brujas, a 1-hour journey through the pedraplén, a road over the sea that offers a wonderful view of navy blue tones.

At 4:30 p.m. you will depart on a catamaran from Marina Gaviota Cayo Brujas on a romantic tour of islets in the area to watch the sunset.

Dinner on board with seafood, lobster and free bar of drinks.

Return to the marina at 9:00 p.m. A private car will take you to Remedios.

From Remedios to Cayo Las Brujas you have approximately 1 hour of distance. On the way to Cayo Las Brujas you will pass through a 48km road over the sea, known as pedraplén, which connects the keys with the mainland from Caibarién. A beautiful spectacle for the senses to travel enjoying the variety of blues of the Caribbean Sea.

From Marina Gaviota Las Brujas the excursion begins at 4:30 p.m.

On board a catamaran set to Cuban music you will sail close to the coast skirting the islets and beaches of Cayo Santa María. The area is a refuge for countless birds and shelter for a beautiful dolphinarium in which more than 15 dolphins live, so you will have the opportunity to get up close to these incredible creatures and see their pirouettes and affectionate maneuvers.

The navigation continues to live a magical and privileged experience of contemplating how the sun settles on the sea, creating a beautiful light show, and disappears while you are infected by the tranquility of the sea.

In the same boat, the crew will offer you a dinner based on local fish and lobster.

ON A BOAT AROUND LAGO HANABANILLA

SALINAS BEACH REMEDIOS-CAYO LAS BRUJAS

LAS GAVIOTAS BEACH (SANTA MARIA KEY) RELAX / DIVING / FISHING

Can't find the excursion you are looking for here? Don't worry, we can organize it according to your needs.

Booking for Cayo Santa Maria

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Sun Cruise Cayo Santa Maria NEW!

A perfect experience if you’re seeking a memorable adventure. Discover the secrets of Cuba’s northern cays and their spectacular seabeds.

Crucero del Sol in Cayo Santa María invites you to experience an unforgettable adventure on a sailing trip, where you can enjoy the wonderful natural landscape of this ecological reserve, an extraordinary underwater ecosystem and the beautiful waters lapping its beaches. On the tour you can visit the dolphinarium, snorkel and enjoy a delicious typical seafood lunch.

Important EXCURSIONS

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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CATAMARAN CUBA

Catamaran boat tours in Cuba

Catamaran day tours from Varadero, Havana, Jibacoa and Cayo Santa Maria.

A catamaran day tour, an absolute MUST for many Cuba vacationers!

Enjoy a whole day at sea, in beautiful bays and in the immediate vicinity of the countless small islands on the beautiful north coast of Cuba.

With our catamarans we will take you to the second largest coral reef in the world . You can swim, snorkel or simply enjoy the day relaxing on board. Your catering is provided.

Your tours begin in the marinas of Cayo Santa Maria and Varadero.

Tour schedule and services

Guests from Cayo Santa Maria start directly at the local marina. Our guests from Varadero, Jibacoa and Havana start in the Marina Gaviota, at the northernmost tip of the Varadero peninsula.

For guests in Varadero, Jobacoa and Havana:

We will pick you up at your hotel at the agreed time and take you to the marina of Marina Gaviota.

During your trip on the catamaran you will experience the charm of the Cuban north coast, which you can enjoy on board at an open bar (beer, soft drinks and Cuban cocktails).

You visit the ranch "Cangrejo " where you will see dolphins.

After a short break, we continue to Cayo Blanco. Here you can enjoy the typical Cuban

Caribbean atmosphere with an appetizing lunch with lobster, crabs and fish.

Finally, you have time to enjoy the crystal clear water and relax under the Caribbean sun. Afterwards, return to the marina and transfer to the hotel.

For guests in Cayo Santa Maria:

We will pick you up at your hotel at the agreed time and take you to the Cayo Santa Maria marina.

On board our catamaran you will experience the charm of the Cuban north coast, which you can enjoy at an open bar (beer, soft drinks and Cuban cocktails).

You drive to "Cayo Blanco " where you will enjoy the typical Cuban-Caribbean atmosphere and a delicious lunch with lobster, crabs and fish.

Afterwards there is enough time to enjoy the crystal clear water and relax under the Caribbean sun. Afterwards, return to the marina and transfer to the hotel.

Cayo Santa María

Soul Matters

Surrender your heart to this island and discover a world of sensations. Enjoy a romantic moment by the sea or hours of fun accompanied by the beat of the best Cuban rhythms. Let yourself go and start planning a dream holiday.

Go Curious!

Get away to this beautiful island and explore every scenic corner, street and location. Discover the inspiration you seek in our collection of Innside Hotels, tailored for travellers eager to discover new horizons and exciting journeys of self-discovery.

Everything under the Sol

An ideal scenario for anyone seeking awesome adventures on this beautiful Caribbean island. Savour the emotions of sharing fun activities and unforgettable relaxation experiences with family or friends. Your stay becomes a lifestyle, where every moment counts.

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The best excursions in Cuba : Cruise of the Sun in Cayo Santa Maria

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Departure: 08:00

Duration: 8 hours

Frecuency: M T W T F S S

• Lunch included
• Swim with Dolphins
• Included beverages
• Transfert in Bus or MInivan with A. C.

Price per adults. A discount will be apply for kids

Description

• Air-conditioned bus pick-up • Arrival to Cayo Las Brujas, to sail aboard a catamaran on a trip bordering small cays. • Interactive contact and show with dolphins. • Snorkelling session in warm and transparent waters, inhabited by complex and colorful ways of life • Seafood lunch (with lobster shrimp and fish) • Time for bathing. • Return sailing. • Open bar and music during the cruise. • Arrival at hotels

Observations: - This excursion is subject to the navigation regulations in force in Cuba, for Cuban citizens Observations:- This excursion is subject to the navigation regulations in force in Cuba, for Cuban citizens

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• Varadero - Matanzas
• Cayo Santa María
• Cayo Coco- Cayo Guillermo- Cayo Paredon-Cayo Cruz
• Trinidad - Sancti Spiritus
• Artemisa-Las Terrazas- Soroa
• Baracoa- Guantanamo
• Bayamo - Granma
• Ciego de Avila
• Isla de la Juventud
• Mayabeque- Jibacoa
• Pinar del Rio y Vinales
• Playa del Este
• Playa Giron-Playa Larga-Guamá
• Playa Guardalavaca, Pesquero y Esmeralda
• Playa Santa Lucia
• Santa Clara- Remedios
• Santiago de Cuba
• Economy automatic
• Medio Automático
• From Havana
• From Varadero - Matanzas
• From Trinidad - Sancti Spiritus
• From Playa Giron-Playa Larga-Guamá
• From Cayo Santa María
• From Playa Guardalavaca, Pesquero y Esmeralda
• From Pinar del Rio y Vinales
• From Cayo Coco- Cayo Guillermo- Cayo Paredon-Cayo Cruz
• From Cayo Guillermo

NATIONAL FLIGHTS

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Telephone (+53) 7 8333977, (+53) 7 8310461

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Mon - Fri: 9 am - 5 pm (EST) Sat: 9 am - 1 pm (EST)

ATLANTIC Building, calle D corner with 1ra, Vedado - La Habana

Mountain Adventure / Aventura en la Montaña

Prices (2024, in USD): Adult 85 / Child 65 (Click HERE to learn more about Cuban currencies)

Schedule (may vary): Departure time (1st hotel): ~ 7:00 am Return time: 08:00 pm

Inclusions: Tour guides, transportation in air-conditioned bus, lunch.

Program: This eco-tour will take you to the beautiful and lush rainforest of the Sierra Escambray; the perfect opportunity to get up close with nature.

Departure by bus around 7am heading south through the beautiful Cuban countryside to reach Guanayara, which is part of the protected nature reserve of Topes de Collantes. An off-road truck will then take you to the beginning of the “Centinelas del Rio Melodioso” hiking trails. The walk begins at the impressive “El Rocio” waterfall. Here the group splits into two: Jungle 1 (dry) and Jungle 2 (wet).

“Raiders of the Jungle 1” will continue on the trail to explore further the forest with the ecologist guide, and the more adventurous “Raiders of the Jungle 2” will follow another guide and walk into the shallow river and follow the trail through the drops and rapids. The two groups cross a few times to finally get back together at the beautiful “El Venado” turquoise lagoon in the middle of the jungle for a well-deserved rest and refreshing swim. Then a short hike will take you to “La Gallega” restaurant. After a typical Cuban lunch, the truck will take you to the bus for the ride back to the hotels (arrival around 8 pm).

Suggestions on what to wear and bring: Comfortable wear, walking shoes (appropriate for hiking), water shoes (if you choose the river walk), swimwear and towel, sunglasses, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, bottled water, camera, cash in small denominations for souvenirs, drinks and tips.

Notes: This tour involves moderately intense activities, not recommended for people in wheelchair or with physical disabilities. The farthest site visited during this tour, Topes de Collantes, is about 180 km (112 mi) from the Cayos of Villa Clara.

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