The second-largest Cuban Island (after the mainland) and seventh-largest isle in the West Indies, Isla de la Juventud is an enigmatic paradise with a rich history worth discovering. Peppered with some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes, gorgeous beaches, abundant marine life, and a treasure trove of olde-worlde pirate’s tales – it’s an authentic corner of Cuba tourists may not have considered visiting, until now.
This southwest gem sits directly below the capital of Havana, and although it’s less frequented by tourists than its neighbouring regions, it certainly packs a punch when it comes to natural wonders – so it’s worth stepping off the beaten track for. Also known as “Treasure Island”, the area is famous for its prisons, scuba diving, and pirates – so you’ll have plenty of attractions add to your itinerary.
The Isla de la Juventud’s capital, Nueva Gerona, played an important role in the Cuban Revolution and is a popular place to frequent if you’re visiting. Located between the Sierra de los Cabas and the Sierra de Caballos, history buffs will be in their element here, since there’s a handful of cultural sights to explore, including the Museo de la Lucha Clandestina, the Museo de Historia Natural, plus the Festival de la Toronja – where the capital’s famous grapefruit harvest is celebrated with colourful parades and the sucu-sucu dance. There are also excellent hiking trails available for those who like to soak up the scenery on foot, and when hunger strikes, you’ll find delicious food for great prices.
Another popular pastime is the Presidio Modelo, the prison where Fidel Castro was imprisoned after his attack in 1953. Built between 1926 and 1931, the four-storey circular blocks could hold 5000 prisoners at one time – with the most famous inmates being Fidel Castro and the other Moncada rebels. Imprisoned from October 1953 – May 1955, they were held separately from the other prisoners in the hospital building, at the south end of the eerie complex. This section has since been converted into a museum, with a room dedicated to the history of the place and many others highlighting facts about the lives of Fidel and the Moncada prisoners – if you want to have a browse, admission is free.
If you prefer to explore the waters than dry land, the isle is a hot spot for scuba diving. The place to head is the extraordinarily beautiful Punta Francés Marine National Park, which plays host to gorgeous coral reefs teeming with tropical marine life and enchanting caves worth exploring. Discover lush mangrove forests, white sun-soaked strips of beach, and a plethora of spectacular marine life including endangered manatees, American crocodiles, and various bird species – plus no less than 56 spectacular diving sites. The most popular place to dive, however, is in front of El Colony Hotel, where you can keep your eyes peeled for abundant snappers, barracudas, sting rays, reef sharks, and beyond!
What better way to dry off from the crystal-blue waters than on the isle’s postcard-perfect sandy beaches? Like most of the places you visit in Cuba, there’s a handful of beaches to choose from and each is as beautiful as the next. A few favourite stretches include Playa Bibijagua, a black sandy beach close by to the Presidio Modelo, a golden stretch called Playa Blanca, plus Playa Los Cocos and Playa Tortuga, both of which are an extension of Playa Blanca, where you’ll find quaint coves, beautiful waters, and hundreds of sea turtles (hence the name, Tortugas) – it’s a real sight to behold.
Whether you’re visiting for the fascinating history, exotic marine life, soft sands, or simply to get a taste of traditional Cuba, Isla de la Juventud shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s one of the most inviting places to visit, with a flurry of friendly hosts offering up their cosy casas particulares to tourists who wish to stay in the area – but don’t just take our word for it.
Speak to one of our travel experts at Love Cuba today and allow us to plan your next adventure to Treasure Island.
Love Cuba is the UK’s leading Cuba holiday specialist. Click here for more info on Cuba holidays, Multi Centre Cuba Holidays or Tailor Made Cuba Holidays please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team of Cuba holiday specialists on 0207 071 3636 or email enquiries@lovecuba.com
