Cayo Santa María★★
Cayo Santa María is Cuba's newest beach resort area — most hotels were only opened in the 2010s. The 13 km long island lies off the north coast of Villa Clara Province and is connected to the mainland by a 48 km long causeway (Pedraplén) — Cuba's longest causeway, a spectacular drive over shallow, turquoise water.
The beaches are immaculate: fine, white sand, crystal-clear water, and almost no surf thanks to the offshore reef. The hotels are newer and in better condition than many Varadero facilities. About 15 resorts (mostly Gaviota/Meliá/Iberostar) line the north coast.
Special features
- Pueblo La Estrella: An artificial tourist village on the causeway with restaurants, bars, a dolphinarium, and souvenir shops — an attempt to bring some "Cuban flair" into the resort world
- Snorkeling: The offshore reef is in excellent condition. Boat tours from €30
- Day trips: To Santa Clara (Che Mausoleum, 2.5 hours) or Remedios (colonial town with the famous Parrandas festivals in December, 1.5 hours)
Prices
All-inclusive from €80–150/person/night. Significantly cheaper in the low season (May–October). The hotels are overall newer and better maintained than in Varadero.
