Island resorts connected to Cuba's north coast

Part of the beautiful Jardines del Rey archipelago, the Cayos de Villa Clara commonly refers to the islands of Cayo Las Brujas, Cayo Ensenachos and Cayo Santa Maria.

These islands are linked to each other, as well the mainland near Caibarien, by a 48km causeway (or pedraplen) that was only completed at the turn of the century.

Before the causeway was built there was absolutely no development, nor any inhabitants, on the Cayos de Villa Clara and, as such, come here for the beautiful white beaches and turquoise sea, not for history and culture – if you want that, the nearest options are on the mainland, a good hour’s drive away, at Caibarien, Remedios and Santa Clara.

Cayo Las Brujas – The first island one comes to and just 7sq km, its beautiful beaches and clear waters, which are more sheltered than on Cayo Santa Maria, make Cayo Las Brujas ideally suited to a few days R&R although, for those looking to be a bit more active, the island also has its own marina and dive centre.

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Cayo Ensenachos – Not much larger than Cayo Las Brujas, Cayo Ensenachos is home to just the single hotel, the Iberostar Ensenachos and one of the best hotel beaches anywhere in Cuba.

Cayo Santa Maria – Stretching for around 15kms from east to west, with the beach running along the north side of the island, Cayo Santa Maria is now the most developed of the three islands with over a dozen hotels.

While there is a tiny, domestic airport on Cayo Las Brujas, most independent visitors to the island arrive by road, generally having first explored Havana and the colonial towns of west & central Cuba, before crossing over from the mainland on the causeway.

You can find more information on Cuba’s islands in our dedicated feature on the subject, Cayos of Cuba.