Globally renowned for the famous failed U.S. invasion of Cuba in 1961, the Bay of Pigs – Bahia de Cochinos in Spanish – has become a tourist destination in its own right. Despite its circumstantial infamy, it’s not all doom and gloom, since its historical monuments rub shoulders with some of the most pristine white sandy beaches, swaying coconut palms, and vibrant coral reefs in the Caribbean.
We’ve highlighted the history, must-visit destinations and how to get around the Bay of Pigs so you can add it to your itinerary on your next Cuba holiday.
The history behind the Bay of Pigs
Consisting of two small beaches named Playa Larga and Playa Giron, this region holds an important place in the tapestry that is Cuba’s rich history. The Bay of Pigs Invasion, as it is known, was a notable but unsuccessful landing operation event in the Cold War, taking place in 1961 and led by the CIA. This force comprised 1,400 exiles eager to overthrow Fidel Castro’s Cuban Revolution and remove him from the power he claimed upon forcing out American-backed president Fulgencio Batista in 1959.
However, Castro’s forces quickly contained and defeated the invasion within just three days. The exiles surrendered on April 19, resulting in a significant propaganda victory for the Cuban government and a rather embarrassing setback for U.S. foreign policy. As expected, the previously amicable relationship between Cuba and the U.S. soon deteriorated with Castro at the helm, resulting in the U.S. severing all diplomatic and commercial relations with the island.
Getting to the Bay of Pigs
Playa Larga sits on the gateway of the Zapata National Reserve – a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in the Matanzas Province on the southern coast of Cuba. Adorned with scenic eco-trails, abundant wildlife, and the beautiful Las Salinas protected reserve, this somewhat undeveloped area is a hot spot for nature enthusiasts.
If you’re travelling from the capital of Havana, you can hop on a Viazul bus that will whisk you to Playa Larga and Playa Giron in approximately 3 hours for a fee. Or, if you’re coming from the colonial city of Cienfuegos you can organise an excursion with our local Love Cuba representatives, or hire a private taxi.
While you’re here, shuttle services are available to transport you to the area’s main points of interest. And for a fee you can easily travel between Playa Larga, Playa Giron, Punta Perdiz, Cueva de los Peces, Caleta Buena and Boca de Guama.
There are also various places to stay (or should we say Casas Particulares) in the Bay of Pigs should you want more time to explore.
Things to do at the Bay of Pigs
From towering Soviet-style structures to idyllic palm-fringed beaches and verdant wetlands, the Bay of Pigs boasts a diverse landscape full of wonder and enchantment.
Playa Larga
Although Playa Larga stands out as a pretty obvious point of interest in the Bay of Pigs, it doesn’t top the charts as a recommended spot to tick off your itinerary. Drawing attention from tourists and locals alike.
Playa Giron
Lined by Soviet buildings, Playa Giron is a popular spot for history buffs thanks to its museum highlighting the attempted American landing in the Bay of Pigs from the Cuban point of view. When you’re not busy learning about the history of the place, take a wander down the coral-white beach.
Cueva de los Peces
Nestled halfway between Playa Larga and Playa Giron, this hidden gem consists of a 70m-deep cenote popular with swimmers and snorkellers. A pretty spot, the crystal-clear waters inside the underwater cave are peppered with tropical fish, while onlookers can relax from swinging hammocks placed around the water’s edge. Those happy to brave the elements can explore the darker parts of the cave, while the more claustrophobic among us can remain above the water’s surface at the pleasant sandy beach opposite.
Snorkelling and diving gear can be rented from the cenote’s shop while the on-site restaurant is sure to fuel hungry explorers.
Punta Perdiz
Speaking of which, one of the most popular diving spots in Cuba can be found at Punta Perdiz. Sheltered by the Bay of Pigs and 10km north of Playa Giron, this slice of coastline is fringed by a coral reef located roughly 100m from the shore. Here you’ll catch sight of a treasure trove of marine species, including Damselfish, Bluehead Wrasses, Scrawled Cowfish, Bermuda Chubs and beyond.
If you tire of marvelling over the marine life, play a game of volleyball, soak up the sunshine on a lounger, or grab a bite to eat at the charming boat-shaped restaurant perched on the shoreline.
Caleta Buena
This picturesque cove is another snorkelling and diving jewel on the southern coast of Cuba’s crown. Relatively secluded and surrounded by lush vegetation, it’s a lovely spot to visit with the family for a few hours. The main attraction here is the pristine beach gently lapped by shallow turquoise waters, but there are other attractions worth visiting while you’re here. Cueva de Saturno’s cenote and natural rock formations, the Bellamar Caves (which are over 300,000 years old) and Zapata National Park, home to 4,000sqm of wetlands, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife including flamingos, crocodiles, and birds, are a few you should consider.
So, that wraps up our guide. If the Bay of Pigs is on your itinerary for your next Cuban holiday, we hope that you’ve found this article insightful. To discuss booking your next tropical escape, speak to one of our Love Cuba experts on 0207 071 3636 or get in touch at enquiries@lovecuba.com, today.
