This small Cuban island has white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and mangrove forests. Home to pink flamingos and over 200 bird species in its shallow lagoons.
Cayo Coco, a coral island on Cuba's north coast, has 22 kilometers of white sand beaches. You'll find pink flamingos wading in the mangrove lagoons at sunrise, and schools of parrotfish swimming through the northern coral reefs. Walk into the calm waters at Playa Larga, where the sea stays shallow for 200 meters from shore, making it ideal for families with children.
Beaches of Cayo Coco
Walk along any of the island's white sand beaches to find your perfect spot. At Playa Larga, the 2.5-kilometer stretch of sand leads to shallow waters that reach chest height 200 meters from shore. Visit Playa Flamencos early in the morning to see pink flamingos feeding in the shallows. Head to Playa Las Coloradas to rent kayaks, sailboats, and windsurfing equipment.
Wildlife and Natural Areas
Mangrove forests and wetlands cover 85% of Cayo Coco. Walk through the nature trails to spot some of the 200 bird species that live here, including white egrets, brown pelicans, and double-crested cormorants. The largest flamingo colonies gather in the shallow waters during sunrise and sunset. Swim near the northern coral reefs to see parrotfish, angelfish, and yellow-striped grunts.
Getting to Cayo Coco
Fly directly to Jardines del Rey Airport (CCC) from Canada or Europe. A 27-kilometer causeway connects the island to mainland Cuba across the Bay of Dogs. From Havana, take either a 7-hour road transfer or a 1-hour domestic flight. Most resorts include airport pickup in their packages.
Water Activities
Explore the northern coral reefs that stretch for several kilometers, with depths from 5 to 30 meters. Join daily diving trips from resort dive centers to different reef sections. Rent kitesurfing gear, kayaks, or sailboats at the main beach water sports centers. At the dolphinarium, swim with dolphins during 30-minute sessions or watch their daily shows.
Best Time to Visit
Plan your trip between late November and April when temperatures average 25°C (77°F) with minimal rain. During these winter months, the clear skies and calm waters create good conditions for swimming, snorkeling, and beach activities.
Nearby Destinations
Drive 30 minutes to Cayo Guillermo to see Playa Pilar and its 15-meter sand dunes - the highest in the Caribbean. This area inspired Ernest Hemingway while writing "Islands in the Stream." For quieter beaches, visit Cayo Cruz or Cayo Paredón Grande, where even during peak season you'll share the beach with fewer than 50 other visitors.
