The Stunning Nautical Charms of Jardines del Rey

During our last trip to Jardines del Rey, we discovered amazing beaches that we highly recommend to beach lovers and nature enthusiasts. The Jardines del Rey archipelago is a paradise waiting to be explored. Known as the "Garden of the Kings”, this destination feels more isolated and natural compared to Varadero. Just a half-hour drive from the Jardines del Rey airport, you will find yourself in an oasis filled with mangroves and exotic wildlife, including over 200 species of birds. Keep an eye out for flamingos, spoonbills, and the white ibis, or "coco bird," which is where Cayo Coco gets its name.

 

For the birds fans or just an excuse to escape from the all-inclusive routine for a morning is to get out into nature and interact with the flora and fauna of Cayo Coco.  Here, you will find 14 of the 28 endemic species of birds in Cuba.  Your endorphins will go off the charts when you behold the multi-colourful beauty of a Cuban Tody, the elegance of a Pink Flamingo, or a close encounter with a Mangrove Cuckoo.  You can contact Paulino Lopez Delgado, the premier birdwatching guide in Cayo Coco (on Facebook), and he will pick you up in his 1955 Chevy BelAir for a unique, memorable experience. 

 

 

The cays and resorts are protected by a 400-kilometer coral reef barrier, creating calm waters perfect for families, snorkelers, and divers. Separated from the mainland by a long man-made causeway, these cays offer stunning, unspoiled beaches that feel like a hidden treasure.  What is impressive is the color of the water—green, turquoise, or sky blue, all blending into one beautiful sea. The water temperature is perfect, just what our bodies need.

 

 

Cays and Beaches

There are numerous and amazing beaches in this region, and you can choose between Cayo Coco, Cayo Guillermo, or Cayo Paredón. Cayo Coco stands out as one of the largest islands in the archipelago and beach destination in Cuba. Among the highlights are Playa Las Coloradas, a favorite among watersport enthusiasts, Playa Prohibida with its impressive 15-meter-high sand dunes, Playa Larga known for its stunning sunrises and popularity among tourists, and Playa Flamencos, renowned for its crystal-clear waters, ideal for snorkeling.   For more information, visit the following link:

Beaches in Jardines del Rey, Ciego de Avila | Cuba Travel 

 

In Cayo Guillermo, we discovered the impressive Playa Pilar in Cayo Guillermo, renowned as one of the world's most beautiful beaches for its crystal-clear waters, fine sand, unmatched reefs, and shallow waters. Playa Pilar is about 1 km long and is facing north.  We took the services of Marinas Marlin who offers half-day catamaran excursions where visitors can explore coral reefs and underwater flora around various islets and swim in the warm, crystal-clear waters of Playa Pilar. The package includes a lunch (lobster, shrimps, or chicken) with an open bar on Media Luna Ranchón.  You can always ask for this excursion at the reception of your hotel.

 

 

Media Luna Ranchón

In front of Playa Pilar there is Cayo Media Luna typical Ranchón which offers gastronomic facility with various offers and specialized services in seafood and Creole food. Excellent offers for family enjoyment. I must admit that the grilled lobster here is incredibly tasty. I spoke with Mr. Javier Perez, the administrator at Marinas Marlin, who shared, "The secret to our lobster lies in how our chef Junior cooks it. We grill it over charcoal for just the right amount of time to ensure it is perfectly cooked, preserving its natural flavors enhanced with butter, garlic lemon and a delicious sauce."

 

 

A Cuban traditional group adds a musical flair to the adventure, inciting guests to dance in the expansive dining room. Afterward, for digestion, step outside of the Ranchón and enjoy the pier, admiring and strolling along the shore, soaking in the marvelous waters. We even spotted some free-roaming chickens. But the most incredible part is the water: its color and transparency are unparalleled. It is worth taking a seafari with Marinas Marlin to visit this small cay.

Hotels

It is worth mentioning that there are many excellent hotels in each Cayo, including Meliá Internacional, Blue Diamond, Muthu, Iberostar, Kempinski, Archipelago International, and the newly added Portuguese brand Vila Galé. This offers tourists plenty of accommodation options in this unique destination.