Michael Kuhn/Wikimedia Commons
Escaping to somewhere tropical during the winter is a dream come true for many. You can bask in the sunlight, walk on soft sand, and feel the gentle ocean waves wash over you if you choose to take a dip in the crystal blue water. The only thing that makes such a fantasy better is finding the beach to be uncrowded — only the sound of waves crashing against the shore, birds chirping overhead, and the wind rustling through leaves are present. No chatter, no cars, no hustle and bustle, only sunshine on your skin and the serenity of the sea. This doesn’t have to be a fantasy though, you can experience it as reality if you book a trip to Cuba for a day at Cayo Jutías.
Cayo Jutías is a hidden gem in Cuba. The coastline spreads out for just under two miles and is home to mangroves, vibrant green trees, and beautiful beaches with minimal crowding — one beach is known for its starfish. If you’re looking for somewhere quiet, lovely, and hot to escape your winter woes, then Cayo Jutías might just be the ideal location for you.
[Featured image by Michael Kuhn via Wikimedia Commons | Cropped and scaled | CC BY-SA 2.0]
Expectations for your trip to Cayo Jutías
Getting to Cayo Jutías takes about two hours if you leave from Viñales. You’ll quickly discover that the road is bumpy and filled with potholes. Because of this, most taxi drivers are unwilling to drive back at night, meaning you’ll have to arrange your ride back before sunset. “Fantastic beach and place. Paradise does exist. Hot and blue water. White sand. Not crowded,” a reviewer wrote on TripAdvisor. “The road to get there is not easy but it’s really worth it.”
Most people stay for around four to six hours. You can decide with your taxi driver the duration of your stay and the round trip total. While it’s not advertised, some people do opt to camp overnight. This enables them to watch the immaculate sunset when the water appears to be pink.
When you visit, especially if you plan on hiking the island, be prepared to face mosquitos which continue to bite even after you use bug repellent. The trek to Playa de las Estrellas, which translates to Star Beach, will be ridden with mosquitos. If you’d rather not battle them, you can opt for a boat ride to the beach.
What to do
Patrice78500/Wikimedia Commons
As for the beaches themselves, you’ll find stunning turquoise water complemented by white sand and contrasted with the twisted branches of mangroves. On the main beach, you’ll find a single cafe and two bars. Other than that, the peninsula is pretty much empty except for the nature that abounds. Bring a sunhat and plenty of sunscreen, especially if you plan on heading to Playa de las Estrellas. There’s not much shade once you make it there, so protecting your skin should be a priority.
If you’re interested in getting in the water, you can bring your gear and snorkel in the clear waters or rent a kayak or pedal boat. If you want something more thrilling and you have the proper training, you can go diving at one of the seven diving sites surrounding Cayo Jutías. Otherwise, hiking, swimming, and relaxing are your main options, making this beach the perfect winter escape if you’re longing for solitude, beauty, and sun.
[Featured image by Patrice78500 via Wikimedia Commons | Cropped and scaled | CC BY-SA 4.0]
