The 10 best Resorts in Cayo Santa Maria, Caribbean

May 20, 2023 Augustus Redeker

Travelers come to this small island north of mainland Cuba to bask in the sun, swim in sparkling blue water, and be pampered at an all-inclusive resort. To explore Cuban culture, you’ll need to go farther afield (this is a planned resort development; employees are bused in), but if you’re simply looking for a stress-free tropical break, Cayo Santa Maria might be perfect for you.
Things to do in Cayo Santa Maria

1. Royalton Cayo Santa Maria

05200 Cuba
Excellent
77%
Good
14%
Satisfactory
6%
Poor
2%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 5037 reviews

Royalton Cayo Santa Maria

Combining the charm of Cuban culture with the advantages of luxury, exceptional service and incredible attention to every detail, Royalton Cayo Santa Maria offers its guests an unforgettable vacation experience for adults only. Picturesque facilities, warm staff, unsurpassed culture and world-class cuisine are the ideal components to create an unforgettable All-In Luxury® experience. A modern complex specially designed for discerning travelers, personalized service, two spectacular pools, exclusive beach area and restaurant exclusively for guests over 18 years.

My vacation

Reviewed By 559sylviai

Very clean the hotel.... . entertainment is amazing. Karelys Blanca Dayan Lis Bere Alejandro Mario Jose dj noelvis and Liam amazing hospitality. I will 100% come back here. This is the best resort in Cuba by far!

2. Melia Buenavista All Inclusive The Level & Spa

Punta Madruguilla, 52610 Cuba
Excellent
72%
Good
17%
Satisfactory
7%
Poor
3%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 3731 reviews

Melia Buenavista All Inclusive The Level & Spa

Located west of Cayo Santa Maria in a privileged ecological environment, and surrounded by beaches and coves. All-Inclusive five-star resort with 108 junior suites and suites, and the Villa "Zaida del Rio" plus three new, beautiful and comfortable three and four bedroom villas. Designed for adults over 18 years. An entire hotel featuring Royal Service. Recommended for couples, weddings, honeymoons and wellness/spa.

Restorative Paradise, Pristine Beaches!

Reviewed By beachloverBainsville

We recently returned to the Melia Buenavista for our second visit. The first was September 2019! The resort is just as lovely as we remembered with manicured gardens, two pools, and three beaches to choose from, who wouldn't be satisfied. The Buenavista offers large, spacious rooms ( our housekeeper Lianny everything clean daily :) with an incredible outdoor shower and huge tub to wash away the day's saltiness acquired at one of the three white sand beaches. The snorkelling here off the middle and long beaches was some of the best we've done so far in all of our travels with sightings of barracuda, lion fish, a white spotted blowfish, and even a reef shark, along with numerous schools of beautiful fish. We thought we were in the most abundant natural aquarium. Although the grounds and beaches are phenomenal, it's the staff that elevates this resort to a cut above the rest. From our pre-trip dialogue with Yamile in the booking department to our daily interactions with our great butlers Sergio and Ramon, we felt welcome and valued. Joan and Armando checked in with us often even though they buttlered in other sections. The pool bar crew (Yeri, Lester, Yoandry, Pedro and Pitti), Andres at the long beach, and our waiters Carlos, Yoan, and Yoel L kept us fed, watered and entertained. I visited the spa several times during our stay, where Elroy happily arranged my massages with Lester. He was professional and offered an array of helpful therapeutic choices. Nayy tailored his yoga class to the client's skills and requests. From the bar staff to the front desk personnel who helped us on numerous occasions, especially the last day when our flight was delayed. Everyone did their best to assist with our requests and make our stay memorable. Nightly entertainment was delivered in a small patio setting just off the gorgeous lobby bar. This intimate environment enables clients to experience the world class musicians up close and promotes mingling on an international scale. We met some wonderful friends! Although we don't go to Cuba for the food and having previously vacationed over 30 times and understanding the difficulties with supply chains, we were still very disappointed in the food and beverage quality. During our previous visit, the food was top notch with many delicious choices. This visit left us dissatisfied after many dinners over 14 days (breakfast and lunch were repetitive, but generally fine) and pondering Melia's five star rating as well as the higher vacation costs they charge. Perhaps reintroducing an international manager would help. Overall, we would recommend the Buenavista for those craving beautiful beaches, a restful, relaxed setting with low key activities, and most importantly great Cuban people who appreciate tourists visiting their island. Gracias por todo! Jim and Cindy

3. Sanctuary at Grand Memories Santa Maria

52610 Cuba
Excellent
57%
Good
25%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
5%
Terrible
3%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 2076 reviews

Sanctuary at Grand Memories Santa Maria

Sanctuary at Grand Memories Cayo Santa Maria is an all-inclusive, adults- only paradise that provides a unique selection of services and amenities to our guests. With comfortable junior suites, concierge, and around-the- clock room services, Sanctuary is a unique and stylish accommodation option for those searching for a more exclusive adults-only tropical getaway.

Great 2 weeks

Reviewed By dianegW5268ZP

We went to Sanctuary May 8-22-2022. We upgraded to an ocean view room and we were glad we did. The resort was far from crowded but I prefer that. The room was big and clean, everything worked and the cleaning staff were great. The bed was on the hard side and the first few nights I hasn’t overly comfortable but it was OK. Our butlers, Ricardo and Richard were excellent. The food was really quite good, we were repeat guests so were fortunate to have 2 lobster lunches along with the evening gala lobster dinner. The buffet was good and staff attentive and accommodating. Special thanks to Lorna, Lila and I think her name was Lillianne (sorry if that’s wrong because she was just so lovely).. Drinks were a bit limited but you have to work with what you have. The variety of fruit was awesome. Pool was clean but we spent most of our time at the beach which is really magnificent. We were able to walk 5k + down the beach daily and we felt our area of beach was really the best. Entertainment team worked hard especially “Waz” who kept us dancing and having a really good time. Overall we enjoyed our time, met resilient wonderful staff and plan to return!

4. Melia Las Dunas

52610 Cuba
Excellent
39%
Good
33%
Satisfactory
16%
Poor
7%
Terrible
5%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 10795 reviews

Melia Las Dunas

A beachfront location on Cayo Santa María, an exotic setting with wonderful natural luxury. 5 Star All Inclusive Resort. Lively environments for both families and couples, and renowned in Cuba for its dream wedding locations. A tourist village full of attractions, where life centres around the spacious lobby area, with its Caribbean colours, water mirrors and palapas, running into a unique boulevard of food and culture, with a main square, where elegant environments for families and couples converge, in a kind of challenge to the fantasy, which will make you falls in love with just breathing its breeze. Renowned for its varied range of cuisine and its modern and welcoming rooms. The superior rooms boast a spacious walk-in wardrobe, bathroom with shower and bath and their added-value package. Recommended for families, weddings, honeymoons, incentive trips and circuits.

Promised to Wright a review

Reviewed By brade602

Great trip, the gentleman at the pool bar, young and older man, took sympathy on me and gave me advil for my headache so was very happy with there kindness, Good guys, the cleaning ladie in my bunk was wonderful, very kind and sweet, kept the sand off my boots off my floor, it is a very big resort so be ready to welcome some cardio, enjoyed the whole stay except for the fact I'm covered in misquote bites. So be cautious off that. Would I return, possible in the future ,

5. Dhawa Cayo Santa Maria

52610 Cuba
Excellent
45%
Good
30%
Satisfactory
14%
Poor
6%
Terrible
5%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 1601 reviews

Dhawa Cayo Santa Maria

Edgy, cool and sassy, Dhawa is the fourth brand of Banyan Tree Hotels & Resorts and Dhawa Cayo Santa Maria marks the Group´s first foray into Cuba. Dhawa Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba will be the first and only Lifestyle hotel in the destination. Perfect for family, couples and group leisure stays, look out for great entertainment, exhilarating activities and recreation and All-Inclusive gourmet dining

More than Satisfied

Reviewed By Voyager788236

I stayed at the hotel for business and I must say that everything was perfect. The hotel and specially the room was spotless! Mr. Sergio was always checking every single detail to make my trip as pleasant as it could be,and he did an incredible job. I recommend it 1000%!

6. Memories Paraiso Beach Resort

52600 Cuba
Excellent
31%
Good
35%
Satisfactory
20%
Poor
9%
Terrible
6%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 7216 reviews

Memories Paraiso Beach Resort

The Memories Paraiso Beach Resort is located in the heart of Cayo Santa Maria, Santa Clara, an area renowned for its smooth stretch of velvety sands and naturally clear blue waters. Imprints of Spanish Colonial style and design can be found at this beautiful vacation hideaway, just north of Cuba. From stained glass windows to classic thatched roofs, Memories Paraiso blends the flair and feel of old Cuba with the vibrancy of a flourishing tourist attraction and destination hotspot.

Home away from home

Reviewed By DNoox

I have been to Memories Cayo Santa Maria for 7 consecutive years with my 2 sons now 17 and 21 yrs old. The staff are awesome, namely Alejandro, Ridel, Liban, Yanet and (last but certainly not least) Yaniris!! In this relaxed, clean and friendly environment, I have enjoyed feeling at home and welcomed each year by those I consider friends. If you’re not pretentious yet have high standards and discrimating tastes, if you want to experience peace amidst carefully manicured grounds, among genuinely good people. GO TO MEMORIES! It is indeed PARAÍSO.

7. Melia Cayo Santa Maria

52610 Cuba
Excellent
41%
Good
30%
Satisfactory
14%
Poor
8%
Terrible
6%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 5578 reviews

Melia Cayo Santa Maria

In an island paradise off the northern coast of Cuba stands the 5- star All-Inclusive Meliá Cayo Santa María hotel, especially designed for families, surrounded by beautiful beaches and lush tropical vegetation. This property (358 rooms) offers facilities for incentives groups and a special wedding and honeymoon program. A perfect complement for an unforgettable holiday.

Management

Reviewed By ScottyKnelsen

I have seen a lot of positive reviews but also a lot saying the resort was closed?? We have a trip booked for Feb 2023… so I guess this is more of a question for whenever looks after this from Resort… when is the resort open again??

8. Starfish Cayo Santa Maria

Pedraplen a Cayo Santa María Sin Número, 56200 Cuba
Excellent
38%
Good
30%
Satisfactory
15%
Poor
9%
Terrible
8%
Overall Ratings

4 based on 3472 reviews

Starfish Cayo Santa Maria

Located alongside the sublimely soft white sand beaches of Cayo Santa Maria, Starfish Cayo Santa Maria offers guests a wonderful vacation escape that includes lush flora, 24- hour food and beverage service, memorable excursions and a variety of fun activities for both adults and kids. Enjoy fun with Starfish Tropical Santa Maria, sparkling swimming pools and a sports club, Starfish Cayo Santa Maria offers something for everyone to enjoy.

Loved This resort

Reviewed By darylynjohnston

This resort exceeded my expectations. The beach is one of the nicest I've seen in the Caribbean. The staff went out of their way to make us feel welcome. Shout out to Abel at reception was amazing!! The Cuban lunch was one of our favourite meals and the new buffet was very good with lots of great food options. I am already planning another trip back this year. Highly recommend this resort.

9. Valentin Perla Blanca

Lagunas del Este, 100300 Cuba
Excellent
26%
Good
34%
Satisfactory
21%
Poor
12%
Terrible
8%
Overall Ratings

3.5 based on 5052 reviews

Valentin Perla Blanca

Valentin Perla Blanca is an adults only all inclusive resort (+18), with over 1300 meters of a powdery white sand natural beach located on Perla Blanca beach on Cayo Santa Maria, Cuba. This luxurious resort is 90 minutes away from Santa Clara International Airport. Valentin Perla Blanca is the perfect place to relax and enjoy living in an exceptional natural setting close to "Biosfera Buenavista" and "Wildlife Refuge Cayo Santa Maria". The resort designed in an elegant contemporary Caribbean style, is divided in two distinct sections, each with its own swimming pool; it proposes a total of 1020 rooms including 6 Imperial suites, with ocean, pool or garden views, distributed in 19 three story buildings. The pool area has unique and attractive designs with built-in lounge chairs and swim-up bars. A great place to enjoy swimming with your favorite drink. The resort offers WiFi ($) service at lobby and room areas. The main buffet restaurant "Frangipani" is opened for breakfast, lunch & dinner. A choice of any of the five " A la carte" restaurants is also offered for dinner at either the Spanish, French,Italian and international restaurants; reservations required. All Inclusive 24hs snack service provided at the "Snack & Grill Bar". During both day and night time, you will be able to enjoy one of the 7 bars such as the Lobby Bar, Tea & Coffee The Corner & Sport Bar, " Aqua Bar Azul" Bar and Beach Bar "Cienfuegos". In the evening, enjoy nightly shows at the "Locura Theatre" and dance the night away with a live band.

Love this Resort and Area

Reviewed By dancF3617YY

Beautiful people and fantastic water playa! Rooms are upgraded so above average. Al a cartes we loved, mexican was awesome. The lounge and coffee bistro had amazing drinks and super friendly servers. Nightly entertainment was always a blast. Very original and vibrant after a day of playing in the water. Walked the beach for hours the wife and I, just so relaxing. The trip from the airport is a bit longer but worth the wait. You get to appreciate the landscape and its people. Our travel was actually in January 2019 , but just posting now, while I was doing another review. The drop-down for "When did you travel" won't let me put in the correct date.

10. Sol Cayo Santa Maria

52610 Cuba
Excellent
29%
Good
34%
Satisfactory
18%
Poor
11%
Terrible
8%
Overall Ratings

3.5 based on 3113 reviews

Sol Cayo Santa Maria

In an island paradise off the northern coast of Cuba stands the All Inclusive 4-star Sol Cayo Santa Maria hotel (300 rooms). Ideal for simply relaxing or for exploring the clear ocean bottom and neighboring keys that surround this marvelous Cuban tourist destination. Enjoy an unforgettable holiday with your family, all included.

Best Covid Vacation

Reviewed By Z9922TIjeffp

Should be called Cayo Paradise its so perfect! Yammy, hostess in the restaurant, yeleny at front desk, ALL bartenders, porters, waiters, and cleaning staff give their BEST to ensure we had an awesome vacation! My second time here, not my last!

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