Cayo Levisa Cuba
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Cayo Levisa Cuba

4.6
·109 reviews·, Cuba

A pristine island paradise with white-sand beaches, clear waters, and opportunities for snorkeling and diving.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer day-trippers

CrowdLow
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Cayo Levisa Cuba

Cayo Levisa Cuba

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer day-trippers

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A pristine island paradise with white-sand beaches, clear waters, and opportunities for snorkeling and diving.

4.6
(109 reviews)

"Lovely beach with limited access by the ferry, making it pleasantly quiet."

Vertical photo
TIP

Book Ferry in Advance

The daily ferry has limited spots; book your passage early to avoid disappointment.

Consider Nearby Stays

Airbnbs near the port offer a budget-friendly alternative to island accommodation.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pristine White-Sand Beaches

Pristine White-Sand Beaches

Cayo Levisa

Miles of soft white sand meet crystal-clear turquoise waters, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.

Vibrant Snorkeling & Diving

Vibrant Snorkeling & Diving

Offshore reefs

Explore colorful coral reefs teeming with marine life just a short swim or boat ride from shore.

Mangrove Exploration

Mangrove Exploration

Island interior

Discover the unique ecosystem of the island's mangroves, offering a different natural perspective.

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Planning Your Visit

Ferry Access & Day Trip Logistics

Access to Cayo Levisa is primarily via a daily ferry, which can fill up. Booking day trips from Viñales often includes lunch, but consider the cost (around 47 CUC per person). Staying in an Airbnb near the port offers a more budget-friendly alternative for accessing the island.

Accommodation & Amenities

While Cayo Levisa offers cottages, room quality can vary significantly. Some guests report issues with cleanliness and decay. It's advisable to inspect your room upon arrival and request a change if necessary. Activities may be weather-dependent, so plan accordingly.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer day-trippers
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon
Why
Day tours depart
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Bienvenidos a Cayo Levisa, en mi opinion, el cayo mas bello del occidente de Cuba 🇨🇺, una verdadera maravilla de la naturaleza. #cuba #cuba🇨🇺 #cubanosporelmundo #cubanos #cuban #playasdecuba #cubanosporelmundo🇨🇺 #cubanbeaches #caribean #caribeanbeach #bestbeaches #beach #beachvibes #playa #cayolevisa #cayolevantado #cayosaetia🇨🇺 #cayosaetia #holguin #holguinerosporelmundo #holguinerosenusa #varad...
@cuban.beaches
17.7K likes • 336.9K views

Book Ferry in Advance

The daily ferry has limited spots; book your passage early to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Consider Nearby Stays

Airbnbs near the port offer a budget-friendly alternative to island accommodation. Reddit

Welcome to Viñales , Cuba. Home of a nightclub in a cave, tobacco farms and Saturday night block parties. #visitcuba #vinalescuba #viñales #piñardelrio
@otehliatravels
6.8K likes • 91.2K views
Discover Cuba with a fun twist on this exciting 8 day tour combining Havana, Viñales and Cayo Levisa #ExploreTheWorld 🇨🇺🌎
notintheguidebooks
30 likes • 860 views

Inspect Your Room

Room quality varies; check for cleanliness and condition upon arrival. Reddit

Pack Snacks & Drinks

Food options can be limited and expensive; bring your own snacks. Instagram

I Cayos di Cuba, piccole isole che circondano l’isola grande❤️Cayo Coco,Cayo Guillermo, Cayo Ensenachos, Cayo Santa María, Cayo Levisa Cayo Las Brujas, Cayo Largo del Sur Cayo Sabinal . . . #travelnetcuba #cayos #keys #cubankeys #cayo #isole #natura #immersioni #diving #paradise #paradiseislands #viaggiodinozze #viaggiavventura #viagginatura #naturelovers #amantidelmare #sealover #ideeviaggio #cu...
travelnetcuba
64 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Ferry in Advance

The daily ferry has limited spots; book your passage early to avoid disappointment. Reddit

Consider Nearby Stays

Airbnbs near the port offer a budget-friendly alternative to island accommodation. Reddit

Inspect Your Room

Room quality varies; check for cleanliness and condition upon arrival. Reddit

Pack Snacks & Drinks

Food options can be limited and expensive; bring your own snacks. Instagram

Activity Availability

Some activities are weather-dependent; do them early if possible. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(109 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Cayo Levisa is praised for its beautiful, quiet beaches and clear waters, offering a peaceful escape. However, some visitors note that accommodation can be basic and cleanliness issues may arise. Food options are generally considered average, and the cost of access via ferry can be a deterrent for some.

"Lovely beach with limited access by the ferry (1 per day) so it's pleasantly quiet. Separation of zones between the hotel guests and the day trip tourists. Buffet for day trip tourist was ok. If you book the day trip from vinales with buffet lunch is 47 CUC per person. You could also choose a "lunch box" instead with around 33 CUC."

Y C

"Beach is beautiful, lovely water. But to get here you have to get a ferry which is 35 CUC pp (35$ each approx) you get a nice lunch and a water or soft drink. You can spend the day here but it is expensive better stay in an airbnb nearby 10 min walk from the port (we stayed in villa gustavo y mary and it was ace!)"

John Hanlon

"Good beach, good lunch, but unless you LOVE the beach, you might not like it. The photo is from snorkeling."

Colby Gardner

What People Like

Beautiful white-sand beaches
Clear turquoise waters
Pleasantly quiet atmosphere

What People Dislike

Variable room quality
Average food
High ferry cost

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way to reach Cayo Levisa from Viñales is by booking a day trip that includes transportation and the ferry. The ferry departs once daily from the port near Palma Soriano. Alternatively, you can arrange private transport to the port and then take the ferry. TikTokInstagramReddit

The ferry to Cayo Levisa typically costs around 35 CUC per person. Day trip packages from Viñales, which include the ferry and lunch, are usually around 47 CUC per person. Reddit

Yes, there are cottages available for overnight stays on Cayo Levisa. However, it's important to note that accommodation quality can vary, and amenities like food may sometimes be limited. InstagramReddit

You cannot drive directly to Cayo Levisa. Access is via a ferry from a designated port. If you have a rental car, you'll need to park it at the port before boarding the ferry. TikTok

For budget travelers, consider staying in an Airbnb near the ferry port in Viñales and purchasing a 'lunch box' option instead of the full buffet if you opt for a day trip. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It's highly recommended to book your ferry tickets or day trip in advance, especially during peak season, as spots are limited. Reddit

Most day trips from Viñales include round-trip ferry transportation, a buffet lunch, and sometimes a drink. You can often opt for a 'lunch box' for a slightly lower price. Reddit

Yes, Cayo Levisa separates areas for hotel guests and day trip tourists to manage the experience for both. Reddit

The ferry typically runs once a day. It's best to confirm the exact departure and return times when booking your trip, as these can vary. Reddit

Yes, food and drinks are available, particularly as part of the day trip package or at the island's facilities. However, options can be limited and prices higher than on the mainland. Instagram

🎫 🏝️ Onsite Experience

Activities include swimming, sunbathing, snorkeling, diving, and exploring the mangroves. Some activities may not be available daily due to weather conditions. Reddit

Yes, Cayo Levisa offers good snorkeling opportunities with accessible reefs close to shore, showcasing marine life. Reddit

The beach is characterized by soft white sand and clear, calm turquoise waters, making it ideal for relaxation and swimming. TikTokInstagram

The island features a mangrove ecosystem, offering a different natural landscape to explore, and a walk to Punta Arenas beach is recommended. Reddit

Bring sunscreen, a hat, swimwear, a towel, and any personal medications. Consider bringing snacks and water, as options on the island can be limited. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cayo Levisa can be a fun destination for families, offering calm, shallow waters ideal for children to play in. The white-sand beaches provide ample space for building sandcastles and enjoying the sun. TikTok While the ferry ride can be an adventure in itself, ensure your children are comfortable with boat travel. Reddit

When considering accommodation, be aware of the potential for varying room quality. It might be best to opt for a day trip with a packed lunch box if you have very young children, as buffet meals might be less appealing. Reddit The separation of zones for day tourists and hotel guests can also help manage crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience for families. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, Cayo Levisa requires some strategic planning. The ferry cost (35 CUC) and day trip packages (around 47 CUC) can add up. Reddit A smart move is to stay in an Airbnb near the ferry port in Viñales, which is significantly cheaper than staying on the island. Reddit

Opting for a 'lunch box' instead of the full buffet lunch can also save money. Reddit While the island offers beautiful beaches, consider if the cost of access justifies the experience compared to other Cuban destinations. If you're looking for pure beach relaxation without the added expense of the ferry and day trip, exploring other coastal areas might be more budget-friendly.

couples

Cayo Levisa offers a romantic escape with its secluded beaches and tranquil atmosphere, especially if you manage to avoid the peak day-trip crowds. Instagram Consider an overnight stay in one of the island's cottages for a more intimate experience, but be prepared for rustic conditions. Reddit The stunning sunsets and the sound of the waves create a perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway. TikTok

For a truly special experience, explore the possibility of a private boat trip or arrange for a special meal if available. The snorkeling and diving opportunities also offer a chance for couples to explore the underwater world together. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Getting to Cayo Levisa: The Ferry Journey

Reaching Cayo Levisa is an adventure in itself, primarily involving a ferry ride. The ferry is the main mode of transport, connecting the mainland to this idyllic island. Travelers often book day trips from Viñales, which bundle the ferry ticket with lunch and transportation to the port. This makes logistics simpler, though it comes at a higher cost (around 47 CUC per person). Reddit

For those seeking a more economical approach, staying in an Airbnb near the ferry port is a popular strategy. This allows for independent travel to the port and potentially a lower overall cost, especially if opting for a 'lunch box' instead of the full buffet. The ferry itself is a scenic journey, offering glimpses of the Cuban coastline before arriving at the island paradise. Reddit

It's crucial to remember that the ferry operates on a schedule, often just once a day, and spots can be limited. Booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your passage and avoid disappointment. Reddit

Island Experience: Accommodation and Activities

Cayo Levisa offers a rustic island experience with cottages for overnight stays, though expectations should be managed regarding room quality. Some visitors have reported issues with cleanliness and maintenance, suggesting an inspection upon arrival and a willingness to request a room change if necessary. Reddit Despite these potential drawbacks, the island's natural beauty is undeniable.

The primary draw of Cayo Levisa is its stunning beaches and clear waters, perfect for swimming and relaxation. Snorkeling and diving are popular activities, with reefs accessible from the shore or via short boat trips. The island also boasts a unique mangrove ecosystem, offering opportunities for exploration and a different perspective on the natural environment. Reddit

It's important to note that not all activities are guaranteed daily due to weather conditions. Travelers are advised to inquire about availability and prioritize activities they wish to experience as soon as possible. Reddit While food is available, it can be limited and pricier than on the mainland, so packing some snacks is a wise precaution. Instagram

Viñales Valley Connection

Cayo Levisa is often visited as part of a broader trip to the Viñales Valley, a region famous for its dramatic mogotes (limestone karsts) and tobacco plantations. TikTok+1 Many travelers combine a visit to the lush, green landscapes of Viñales with a day trip or a short stay on Cayo Levisa, creating a diverse Cuban experience. TikTokInstagram

Viñales itself offers a range of activities, from exploring tobacco farms and learning about cigar production to visiting caves like Cueva del Indio and enjoying the unique rural atmosphere. TikTok+1 The contrast between the mountainous inland scenery of Viñales and the coastal tranquility of Cayo Levisa makes for a well-rounded itinerary. TikTok

When planning your trip, consider allocating at least a day for Viñales to soak in its natural beauty and cultural experiences before heading to the coast. This combination allows you to experience both the iconic inland landscapes and the Caribbean beaches that Cuba is renowned for. TikTok

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