CubaPLUS Magazine

Isla de la Juventud is a remarkably compelling part of Cuba, shaped by a life rich in work, history, and, above all, a natural beauty that embraces tourism, especially those eager to capture it through the lens of a camera.

Its most prominent towns are Nueva Gerona and La Fe. The island also features striking coastlines and surrounding marine environments, so extraordinary that they have hosted several underwater photography competitions.

The island, as Cubans simply call it, can be reached by sea or air, with a range of accommodations available, including small yet traditional lodgings known for their quality service.
It is one of the most unique territories in this Caribbean nation, previously known as Isla de Pinos, and stands out especially as a prime destination for ecotourism.

Covering approximately 2,200 square kilometers, it is the second largest island in the Cuban archipelago and the sixth largest in the Antilles. It forms part of the Archipiélago de los Canarreos, a group of more than 600 cays and islets located in the southwestern region of the country, near the Golfo de Batabanó, about 50 kilometers from the main island and 162 kilometers from Havana.

The island was discovered and named La Evangelista by Christopher Columbus on June 13, 1494, during his second voyage to the New World, when explorers first witnessed the richness and landscape of the area. In the 19th century, the Spanish colonial authorities decided to settle the territory, founding its capital, Nueva Gerona, on December 17, 1830.

Over the years, it was known by various names such as Isla de las Cotorras, Colonia Reina Amalia, Isla de los Piratas, and even Treasure Island. According to historical records, its earliest inhabitants referred to it as Siguanea, Camarcó, and Guanaja. It was also called Isla de los Deportados and later Isla de Pinos.

That last name remained until 1978, when it was officially renamed Isla de la Juventud in honor of the thousands of young people from around the world who studied there at the time.

Among its historical landmarks is the Finca Museo El Abra, where the Cuban National Hero José Martí lived after his release from prison while awaiting deportation. Another key site is the Presidio Modelo, now a museum consisting of four circular cell blocks, where those involved in the Moncada Barracks attack were imprisoned until 1955, including Fidel Castro.

Notable places of interest also include the Ciénaga de Lanier, a national park of about 100 square kilometers that serves as an important crocodile breeding area and holds Ramsar status due to its ecological significance as a wetland. Another highlight is the Punta del Este caves, often referred to as the Sistine Chapel of Caribbean rock art, featuring 213 indigenous pictographs.

Still, the island truly stands out for its tourism offerings connected to the sea, including boating, diving, and fishing. Recognized spots include the International Diving Center at the Hotel Colony, as well as nearby Cayo Largo del Sur, and Playa Bibijagua, famous for its black sands.

Without a doubt, Isla de la Juventud is a destination where sailing along its inlets, taking in the landscape, and connecting with its people come together as part of a perfect vacation plan.