Cuba, boasting an extensive 3,570 miles of coastline, is renowned for its plethora of white sandy beaches and crystal-clear blue waters. Christopher Columbus, upon landing in 1492, is said to have exclaimed that Cuba was “the most beautiful land human eyes have ever seen.” Over the years, Cuba’s natural beauty has only garnered more acclaim.
Until the 1950s, Cuba was a favored destination for Americans seeking sun-soaked beaches. However, when Fidel Castro assumed control in 1959 and severed ties with the US, the Cuban tourism industry came to an abrupt halt. The revolution led to the nationalization of hotels, and a US economic embargo prevented Americans from visiting Cuba. Suddenly, a once easily accessible weekend destination became off-limits due to Cold War tensions.
Cubans who emigrated to the United States carried a profound nostalgia for the homeland they had left behind forever. Even in Miami, Cuban exiles spoke with great fondness of Varadero’s fine, snow-white sands, describing it as if they had just returned from a beach day, despite not having seen it in over half a century.
When the author moved to Cuba in 2012, he discovered that opinions on the best beaches varied among locals. Many claimed that Cayo Largo del Sur, an island off the southern coast, had the most incredible beaches in Cuba.
To explore this claim, the author embarked on a journey to Cayo Largo del Sur. Waiting at the Baracoa airport for the daily flight to Cayo Largo, he experienced a typical Cuban delay. The flight unexpectedly stopped in Cayo Santa Maria, leading to protests from some passengers. Despite the detour, the gate agent reassured them, saying, “Don’t worry! It’s a beautiful flight!”
Cayo Largo, located to the south of the Bay of Pigs, is renowned for its pristine coral reefs, making it a premier diving location. The transparent waters teem with marine life, from tropical fish to sea turtles and small sharks. Christopher Columbus is believed to have visited the island during his second trip to the New World, and it later became a favored hideout for pirates.
In the 1990s, following the collapse of the Soviet Union, Cuba reopened to tourism. All-inclusive hotels were developed on Cayo Largo, taking advantage of the island’s uninterrupted beaches.
Despite a thaw in US-Cuba relations under President Barack Obama, travel restrictions for Americans remained stringent, limiting engagement in tourism activities. However, Trump’s presidency reversed some of these policies, hindering the potential increase in American visitors.
As the author explored Cayo Largo, he noticed the chilling effect of Trump’s policy changes, with fewer Americans visiting the island. Transportation options on the island were limited to taxis, ATVs, and mopeds. Despite encountering obstacles, the author marveled at Cayo Largo’s distinct atmosphere, devoid of billboards celebrating the Cuban revolution.
The island’s coastline, featuring pristine beaches and sparkling waters, left a lasting impression. Playa Paraiso, considered Cayo Largo’s best stretch of sand, offered a tranquil retreat. Although the island’s culinary offerings were typical of Cuban resorts, the pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and serene surroundings made Cayo Largo a worthwhile destination.
In conclusion, the author’s journey to Cayo Largo del Sur unveiled an island paradise that, despite challenges, retained its allure as a haven of natural beauty and tranquility.