CubaPLUS Magazine

Beaches of dazzling green and blue, coral reefs, mangroves that shield the coastline, tales of pirates, and even a lighthouse built in 1902 make Cayo Jutías a privileged destination for nature and sea lovers in western Cuba. 

A team from CubaPLUS Magazine traveled there to explore the whims of nature at Cayo Jutías—its charms, challenges, and prospects—and spoke with Alexander Martínez, director of the Pinar del Río branch of Marlin Marinas and Nautical Company. 

Among the cay’s greatest attractions, Martínez highlighted the four-kilometer stretch of beach with crystal-clear waters and fine sand; excursions to the coral reef and Cayo Mégano; boat rides circling the cay; and diving at seven sites— although, for various reasons, diving excursions are not currently being offered. 

Beach services are plentiful, including boat rentals and nautical equipment such as pedal boats and kayaks, as well as a restaurant whose specialties are seafood and fresh fish. 

One of the cay’s most captivating spots is Playa de las Estrellas (Starfish Beach), located about two nautical miles from the marina and accessible only by boat. There, right from the shore, visitors can see starfish on the seabed, walk alongside them, and—curious guests sometimes even hold them in their hands before gently releasing them.

“Without exaggeration,” Martínez assured, “this is one of the most beautiful and unspoiled beaches in western Cuba,” a fact confirmed by the amazement of both Cuban and international visitors who marvel at its waters—because, as he put it, to see the sea is to feel life. 

On the subject of environmental conservation, Martínez explained that an intersectoral initiative is underway between the Ministries of Science, Technology and Environment (CITMA) and Tourism, together with the Ecovida project and Marlin. Their goal is to ensure the rational use and management of natural resources in the face of the damage caused by climate change. 

Another option for visitors is a trip through the mangrove ecosystems, with the chance to see red and black mangroves about four miles from the marina on a boat excursion. Occasionally, crocodiles or dolphins can be spotted along the way. 

Guests may also embark on a popular full-day excursion to El Mégano beach, a small island north of the coral reef, encircled by turquoise waters. There, visitors can enjoy bottom fishing and trolling, along with included food and drink options. 

The journey to Cayo Jutías covers about 96 kilometers from the city of Pinar del Río and 56 from the tourist town of Viñales, following a winding, uphill road that leads to a 14-kilometer causeway from the municipality of Santa Lucía. But the trip to this four-square-kilometer paradise is well worth it.