Cayo Santa Maria - Discovering Cuba

Travelling to Cayo Santa Maria

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Cayo Santa Maria, a pretty good destination in Cuba (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Cayo Santa Maria and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Cayo Santa Maria, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cuba, here's everything to know about Cayo Santa Maria for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Cayo Santa Maria

Cayo Santa Maria is a small island located in the northeastern part of Cuba. It is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, and stunning natural landscapes. The island is home to a number of luxury resorts and hotels, making it a popular destination for tourists looking for a tropical getaway. Cayo Santa Maria is part of a larger archipelago called Jardines del Rey, which is also home to several other popular vacation spots. The island can be accessed by car or by flying into the nearby Santa Clara International Airport, and it offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy, including snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing, and more.

What to visit in Cayo Santa Maria

Sure, here are some top tourist attractions in Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba: 1. Playa Santa Maria - Playa Santa Maria is a gorgeous white sand beach with crystal clear water and is considered one of the top beaches in Cuba. It's a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities such as snorkeling and diving.
2. Parque Natural El Bagá - El Bagá Natural Park is a protected area that covers 80 hectares of land and is located on the south coast of Cayo Santa María Island. The park has a diverse range of flora and fauna, including iguanas, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. It's a great spot for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.
3. Delfinario en Cayo Santa Maria - The dolphin show at Delfinario en Cayo Santa Maria is a popular attraction for families and animal lovers. Visitors can watch the dolphins perform tricks and interact with them during the show.
4. Pueblo La Estrella - Pueblo La Estrella is a charming Cuban village that showcases traditional Cuban customs and culture. Visitors can explore the local market, see live performances of Cuban music and dance, and learn about traditional Cuban crafts.
5. Playa Gaviota - Playa Gaviota is another gorgeous beach located on the eastern side of Cayo Santa Maria. It's a quieter spot with fewer tourists than Playa Santa Maria, making it a great place to relax and take in the beautiful natural surroundings.
6. Delfinario Delfines en el Mar - Another popular dolphin show can be found at Delfinario Delfines en el Mar. Visitors can watch the trained dolphins perform acrobatic stunts and interact with them in the water.
7. Museo de la Agroindustria Azucarera - The Museo de la Agroindustria Azucarera is a museum that showcases the sugar cane industry in Cuba. Visitors can learn about the history of the industry, see antique sugar mills, and taste Cuban sugar cane juice.
These are just some of the top tourist attractions in Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba. Each of these attractions offers a unique experience for visitors to enjoy during their trip.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cuba, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Cayo Santa Maria.

When to go on holiday to Cayo Santa Maria

The best time to visit Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba is between the months of December and May. During this time, the weather is dry, sunny, and warm with an average temperature of 25-30°C (77-86°F). It's the peak tourist season, so be prepared to see more crowds and higher prices for flights and accommodations. From June to November, the area experiences a rainy season and occasional hurricanes. However, if you're looking for a budget-friendly trip, this may be the perfect time to go as prices for hotels and flights may be lower during this time.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Cayo Santa Maria

To get to Cayo Santa Maria, you will need to fly into Abel Santamaria Airport (SNU) in Santa Clara, which is the nearest airport. From there, you can take a taxi or private transfer to your hotel on Cayo Santa Maria. The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. You can also take a bus from Santa Clara to Cayo Santa Maria, but this option may take longer and is not as direct. It is important to note that as a foreigner, you will need a tourist card/visa to enter Cuba. You can acquire it through the Cuban Consulate or at the airport upon arrival.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Cayo Santa Maria, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Cayo Santa Maria

Here are some typical foods from Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba: 1. Ropa Vieja: This is a traditional Cuban dish consisting of shredded beef cooked in tomato-based sauce with herbs and spices.
2. Moros y Cristianos: A staple side dish in Cuba made with black beans and rice.
3. Arroz con Pollo: A classic Cuban rice dish cooked with chicken, saffron, and seasoned with spices and vegetables.
4. Vaca Frita: A popular dish made with shredded beef that has been marinated in garlic and citrus then fried until crispy.
5. Yuca Frita: A side dish made from cassava that has been sliced, fried until golden brown, and served with garlic sauce.
6. Lechon Asado: Roasted pork that has been marinated for hours before being slow-roasted until succulent.
7. Tostones: A common side dish in Cuba and other Latin American countries made with green plantains that have been sliced and fried.
8. Café Cubano: A strong and sweet espresso-style coffee that is typically served in small cups.
9. Flan: A creamy dessert made from a blend of egg yolks, sugar, and milk, then topped with caramel syrup.
10. Daiquiri: This rum-based cocktail is a Cuban classic and a must-try while visiting the country. It's made with rum, lime juice, and sugar, served over ice.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cuba here.

Is Cayo Santa Maria an expensive destination for tourists?

Cayo Santa Maria can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists, especially when compared to other destinations in Cuba. However, the cost of a trip can vary depending on the season, accommodation options, length of stay, and activities you plan to do.
Generally, the cost of food, transportation, and accommodation can be higher in Cayo Santa Maria compared to other areas in Cuba. However, there are still budget-friendly options available, such as smaller guesthouses and locally-owned restaurants.
It's important to do your research and compare prices to find the best deals on flights, accommodations, and activities to fit your budget.

Where to find accomodation in Cayo Santa Maria

If you're planning to visit Cayo Santa Maria (Cuba), the best areas to find accommodation are usually along the northern coast of the island where the resorts are located. Specifically, the main tourist area is located at the end of a 48 km causeway called Pedraplen that connects the mainland with the island. Along this causeway, you will find many hotels and resorts suitable for all budgets. In addition, there are also some accommodations located in Santa Clara city, which is the closest city to Cayo Santa Maria.
You can check hotel prices at Cayo Santa Maria here:
Booking.com

Is Cayo Santa Maria a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Cayo Santa Maria in Cuba is generally considered safe for tourists. Crime rates are low in the area and the Cuban government takes measures to ensure the safety and security of tourists. However, like any urban area, it's important to take necessary precautions such as avoiding walking alone at night or displaying valuable items in public. It's also recommended to carry a copy of your passport and travel insurance with you as a precaution. Overall, visitors to Cayo Santa Maria should have a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cuba here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Cayo Santa Maria.

What type of travelers will enjoy Cayo Santa Maria the most?

Cayo Santa Maria is an excellent destination for couples and families looking for a relaxing beach vacation. The clear turquoise waters and white sandy beaches are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The resort area has plenty of facilities that cater to families, including a children's pool, a mini-club, and a playground. While there are some bars and nightlife options, Cayo Santa Maria is not known as a party destination and may not be the best choice for young people looking for an active nightlife scene. The focus here is more on relaxation and enjoying the beautiful natural surroundings.

How to get around Cayo Santa Maria

Cayo Santa Maria has limited transportation options available. The most common way to move around the island is by taxi, either private or shared. Another option is to rent a car, although it is important to note that road conditions can be poor and gas stations are not always available. Shuttle buses operated by resorts may also be available for guests. However, it is recommended to plan ahead and arrange transportation before arriving on the island. Additionally, many of the island's attractions are within walking distance or can be accessed by boat tours.

What to see around Cayo Santa Maria

Certainly! Here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Cayo Santa Maria: 1. Santa Clara: This historic city is about two hours away from Cayo Santa Maria by car, and is rich with cultural and revolutionary history.
2. Remedios: A charming colonial town located about 40 minutes away from Cayo Santa Maria. It is known for its Christmas festivities and its famous church, the Iglesia Mayor de San Juan Bautista.
3. Cienfuegos: Known as the "Pearl of the South," Cienfuegos is about two and a half hours away from Cayo Santa Maria and is worth a visit for its stunning architecture and picturesque waterfront.
4. Trinidad: This colorful colonial town is about three hours away from Cayo Santa Maria by car, but is definitely worth the journey. It's a UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant culture.
5. Varadero: Varadero is a popular beach town located about two hours away from Cayo Santa Maria by car. It's famous for its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife, making it a great destination for a day trip.
For every travel information about Cuba you can click here.

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