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2018
5
July
Are Cayo Coco or Santa Maria, Cuba Family-Friendly Destinations?
5
July
Question:
Humans say...
Trish
I researched this a lot last year as we were going with our 6 & 7 year old and there really is not a whole lot to do but hang out on the beach and relax, it's beautiful but they don't have much excursions if that's your thing. There is a rope climbing obstacle course though! Rocarena Climbing Center, if you look on tripadvisor it's the #1 thing to do in Cayo Coco out of 9!
Sabrina
Been to Cayo Santa Maria twice and Varadero once. The beach in Santa Maria is amazing however other than the catamaran/dolphin excursion, you're looking at a fairly long bus ride to go anywhere. If you want lots of excursions close by, I would stick to varadero. If you want to just relax and don't want anyone trying to sell you stuff on the beach, go to Cayo santa maria.
Sue
No townsite for Cato Coco - just other resorts
Mackenzi
Beautiful beach! Windy around April- fine sand, I got sand blasted. Agree with limited excursions and long bus ride. If you want very low key, it’s a good spot.
Kim
maybe change up the country as there are some really kid friendly resorts in mexico and DR!!
Danielle
Thanks, been to others but our hearts are in Cuba
Sharlene
We have been to Holguin Cuba three times and loved it.
Valerie
We go to Cayo Santa Maria for a couple weeks every year and love the low key no hassles vibe. But we are content to sit and walk on the beach. My kids and grandkids went last year and were glad it was just 1 week.
Jean
There is a small market (and I mean small) that you can catch the bus to in Cayo Coco and a dolphinarium ( is that even a word) also that you can bus to AND that is about it! We were there for 2 weeks and ended up taking a tour to Moron just for something to do.
Amanda
I’ve been to Varadero and there is a ton of night life. If you go you HAVE to eat at kikis, $10 for a beer and pizza and it’s incredible. The lobster pizza is like nothing else. We did a catamaran to Cayo coco and the beach was incredible!!!
Jana
Been to both Varadero and Santa Maria with kids. Beach can't be beat at Santa Maria. There is a dolphin attraction. We didn't do a tour, just showed up and did an hour swim with the dolphins, was way better than whatvthe tour did when they were there at the same time as us. Also highly recommend the jeep tour. It's a bit of a bus ride, but then you get to drive your own jeep around for the day to a bunch of sites. They also stop for lunch and at a place to horseback ride and a great swimming hole. The kids loved it.
Jana
Also a few small markets in between the resort areas. Easy to get to depending on where you are plannng on staying. We just walked.
Danielle
Jana do you recall the name of the excursion?
Jana
Think it was this one. We just booked at the hotel when we arrived and knew the weather forecast. It's a little cheaper if you book before, or sunwing even does it on the plane there. https://www.sunwing.ca/.../cuba/cayo-santa-maria/jeep-safari
SUNWING.CA
Cayo Santa Maria - Jeep Safari - sunwing Vacations
Danielle
Jana thank you!
Natalie
Been to both and as everyone has said...very small and laid back with not many outings.. took a day trip to Havana, but u are taking it by plane. ATV tour was fun..other than that it's beach time all the time...that was all in Santa Maria ..
Tanya
Cato Santa Maria is AWESOME!!
Danielle
Thanks everyone!
Yvonne
There is a long causeway to get to the mainland so you are kind of isolated.....unless you have a car and dont mind the hour to 11/2 hours to town and back
A.I. says...
Cayo Coco or Santa Maria, Cuba: A Family-Friendly Destination
If you're looking to change up your Cuban vacation from the tried-and-true Varadero, Cayo Coco and Santa Maria are both excellent options to consider, especially if you're traveling with young children. While these destinations may not offer the bustling town atmosphere of Varadero, they more than make up for it with their unspoiled natural beauty, tranquil settings, and ample family-friendly activities.
Cayo Coco
Cayo Coco is a slender, 28-kilometer-long island located off the northern coast of Cuba, connected to the mainland by a spectacular causeway. This island paradise is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and an abundance of lush vegetation.
For families with young children, Cayo Coco offers a wealth of exciting activities. Many of the resorts on the island feature kids' clubs, water parks, and supervised activities to keep the little ones entertained throughout the day. You can also enjoy snorkeling or glass-bottom boat tours to explore the vibrant marine life, or take a guided eco-tour to learn about the island's diverse flora and fauna.
While Cayo Coco may not have a bustling town center like Varadero, there are several small seaside villages where you can experience authentic Cuban culture, sample local cuisine, and shop for souvenirs. Additionally, there are opportunities to venture off the beaten path and explore nearby natural wonders, such as the stunning Playa Pilar and the Cueva del Jabalí cave system.
Santa Maria
Santa Maria, also known as Cayo Las Brujas, is another idyllic island destination located just south of Cayo Coco. This tranquil paradise is renowned for its pristine beaches, lush vegetation, and laid-back atmosphere.
Like Cayo Coco, Santa Maria offers an array of family-friendly activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, and beach volleyball. Many of the resorts on the island cater specifically to families, with dedicated kids' clubs, playgrounds, and supervised activities to keep the little ones engaged and entertained.
While Santa Maria may not have a bustling town center, you can still immerse yourself in authentic Cuban culture by visiting nearby fishing villages or participating in cultural excursions. Additionally, there are opportunities to explore the island's natural wonders, such as the stunning Playa Las Caleticas beach and the Cayo Santa Maria dolphinarium.
Final Thoughts
Both Cayo Coco and Santa Maria offer a tranquil, family-friendly vacation experience, with abundant opportunities to relax on pristine beaches, engage in outdoor activities, and explore the natural beauty of these pristine island destinations. While they may not have the bustling town atmosphere of Varadero, they more than make up for it with their unspoiled charm, tranquility, and ample family-friendly amenities.
Ultimately, the decision between Cayo Coco and Santa Maria will depend on your personal preferences and the specific amenities and activities you prioritize. Whichever destination you choose, you can rest assured that both islands offer a memorable and rejuvenating vacation experience for families with young children.
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Danielle
Thoughts on Cayo Coco or Santa Maria, Cuba. Been to Varadero multiple times and love it, but thinking to change it up. We are a family with a 6 and 8 year old and although we love the beach, it’s nice to have outings to town, etc but worried from word of mouth there’s not as much to do there. Thanks for your input!