GENERAL DESCRIPTION: The construction of a nearly 50km causeway in the 1990s connected the Cuban mainland to a dazzling array of islands and keys with some of the country’s top beaches. Collectively known as the Jardines del Rey (the King’s Garden), among the most attractive of these islands is Cayo Santa María. With over 10km of white-sand beach, this makes a superb fun-in-the-sun getaway and the Hotel Playa Cayo Santa María, a fine choice for your stay.

The natural setting is tropical paradise personified: a coral reef mitigates wind and waves and provides great scuba and snorkeling; colonies of flamingoes call the key home; and it’s as if the beautiful beach has no end. Almost a dozen hotels are strung along the white sands here, including Hotel Playa Cayo Santa María.

Opened in 2011, this modern resort embodies understated chic, with its geometric angles and muted earth tone colors. Balinese sunbeds with breezy cotton curtains add a touch of whimsy to common areas. The guestrooms meanwhile, have an interesting, contemporary set up giving this hotel a unique feel.

Guests enjoy meals at half a dozen restaurants, cocktails at one of the 7 bars, and relax and play at one of the 6 pools (4 for adults, 2 for kids). There’s also a sauna, gym, and a Kids Club.

This resort is a top choice for anyone who loves beach, nature, and comfort at competitive prices. It’s especially recommended for couples, families, groups, and newlyweds.

Hotel Playa Cayo Santa María is the last on Cayo Santa María, a key on the north coast of Villa Clara province; its part of the Jardines del Rey archipelago. The distance to/from Havana is 386km. A causeway of approximately 50km links the key to the mainland at Caibarién . It is only 16 kilometers to/from Cayo Las Brujas National Airport.