Paraiso beach

On the secluded Paraiso Beach, located on the west coast of the uninhabited island of Cayo Largo, you will not encounter crowds of tourists. This tranquility is not solely due to the absence of typical beach amenities. Reaching this paradise beach - aptly named, as 'paraiso' translates to 'paradise' - takes approximately two days. Yet, this journey does not deter the beach's aficionados; for them, it remains the quintessential holiday destination in Cuba.

Beach description

Paraiso Beach, secluded from civilization and largely untouched by developers and businessmen, epitomizes a true paradise. The thick white sand feels like a soft carpet underfoot, remaining cool even at the height of summer. This unique characteristic is attributed to the karst layer beneath, which prevents sunlight from altering the sand's chemical composition.

The crystal-clear waters of Paraiso glisten in the sun, displaying a breathtaking spectrum of colors – from emerald to pale blue. The beach features an unusually shallow expanse: visitors must traverse a flat sandy stretch of approximately 60-70 meters before reaching depths suitable for a comfortable swim in the transparent water.

The vast stretches of pristine white sand, bordered by shrubs and pine forests, serve as a sanctuary for an array of wildlife, including pelicans, hummingbirds, flamingos, iguanas, turtles, and crabs. A colony of budgies has even selected the northern edge of the beach as their home. Starfish, too, show a particular fondness for this idyllic spot.

Divers are captivated by the impressive coral reef, with its steep walls, arches, and tunnels. Underwater explorers have access to approximately 30 exceptional dive sites. Those who prefer to stay above the waves can enjoy yacht trips along the coast, offering views of Paraiso's rocky capes adorned with green moss.

Even during the busiest summer months, the temperature at this beach seldom exceeds 29°C. Paraiso experiences fewer rainy days compared to the rest of Cuba, with an annual average of only 35-45 days. The prevailing easterly winds provide a refreshing breeze, mitigating any severe sea turbulence.

Optimal Time for a Visit

The best time to visit Cayo Largo for a beach vacation is typically between December and April. This period is considered the dry season, offering visitors sunny days with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for beach activities and exploration.

  • December to February: These months are cooler but still warm enough for a comfortable beach experience. The cooler temperatures are perfect for those who prefer less intense heat.
  • March to April: This is the peak of the dry season, with the warmest temperatures. It's the perfect time for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports. However, it's also the busiest period, so expect more tourists and higher prices.

While the dry season offers the best beach weather, it's also worth considering the shoulder months of November and May. These months might have occasional showers, but they also come with fewer tourists and potentially lower costs. Regardless of when you choose to visit, Cayo Largo's stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters provide a memorable vacation experience.

Video: Beach Paraiso

Infrastructure

There is nothing on Paraiso except a small wooden snack bar, located just off the coastline, serving drinks and light snacks. Additionally, several scattered umbrellas can be found at the main entrance. Fans of water activities should head to the nearby Playa Sirena beach, where a diving center offers scuba rentals, along with kayaks, pedal boats, and other swimming facilities.

In the quaint town of Cayo Largo, you can discover another diving center and a variety of tourist attractions:

  • A museum;
  • A restaurant;
  • A discobar;
  • A bowling club;
  • Gift shops;
  • A turtle farm;
  • A marina;
  • The "Avalon" fishing club.

The absence of hotels on Paraiso does not mean a lack of overnight accommodations. On Cayo Largo, which spans only 37.5 km², there are approximately 10 hotels and resorts featuring restaurants, pools, and comprehensive services.

The main activities that vacationers on Paraiso beach enjoy include:

  • Diving;
  • Snorkeling;
  • Yachting;
  • Boating;
  • Sport fishing;
  • Sea sightseeing tours with beach picnics;
  • Underwater hunting and video shooting;
  • Exploring the island by scooter, bicycle, or car;
  • Horseback riding.

Weather in Paraiso

Best hotels of Paraiso

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Useful information

  1. The name of the island comes from its form (Largo means “narrow”, “elongated”). It is formed from the remains of marine organisms, which make up magnificent coral reefs.
  2. To get to Paraiso from Havana, you need to make a 45-minute air travel. From Vilo Acuna Airport, recently built on Cayo Largo Island, any hotel can be reached by taxi.

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