Page 204 - (DK Eyewitness) Travel Guide - Cuba

202  CUBA REGION B Y REGION

9 Cayo Coco

With 22 km (14 miles) of white sandy beaches and
370 sq km (143 sq miles) of partly marshy land
abounding in mangroves and coconut palms, Cayo
Coco is an important natural reserve for marine
birds. Flamingos may be spotted in the lagoon
areas near the coast. The name of the island derives
from another rare species of bird that lives here:
the white ibis, known to Cubans as the “coco”.
The island is peaceful, and tourist amenities have . Playa Pilar
Named after Ernest Hemingway’s
been built and organized with environmental yacht, Playa Pilar sits at the western
concerns in mind. The beaches are lovely, with fine tip of Cayo Guillermo.
sand washed by clear turquoise water. The warm,
shallow water makes Cayo Coco particularly
suitable for families with children, but the island
is also popular among diving and
water sports enthusiasts, who
can take advantage of the
modern sports facilities here. CAYO
GUILLERMO
Archipélago de
Sabana - Camagüey

C AY O CO CO

Cayo Guillermo
Linked to Cayo Coco, this small island is covered with
mangroves and palms as well as mahogany, juniper
and mastic trees. The Cayo has become a popular
centre for kitesurfing.

Key
Major road
Minor road
Bahía de
Perros

The Pedraplén
A major work of
civil engineering,
this causeway links
the islands with La Loma
the mainland.
It has caused
some concern to San Rafael
ecologists, since it
blocks the tide and
may disturb the
ecosystem of the bay.
For hotels and restaurants in this region see pp261–2 and pp274–5

202-203_EW_Cuba.indd 202 14/02/17 11:37 am