Playa Pilar is a 1000-metre-long beach in Cuba, located in the Ciego de Ávila province, on the western tip of Cayo Coco ¹. It is a popular day-trip destination for those staying at resorts in the area, known for its picturesque white sand, crystal-clear turquoise waters and snorkelling opportunities.
It's a popular tourist destination and has been ranked as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean.
Playa Pilar is located in the Ciego de Ávila province, just about 2 minutes (800 meters) from Cayo Guillermo Resort Kempinski or 1 minute (1.6 km) drive from Iberostar Playa Pilar Resort or about 3 minutes (3.1 km) from Gran Muthu Rainbow Hotel.
You can actually take a taxi or Hop on, Hop off tourist bus, or drive and park at the beach.
The Hop on Hop off bus ticket costs $5 US dollars per person for a day - The bus route includes stops at each hotel, all commercial centers and plazas, the two dolphinariums, Playa Pilar, Boat Adventure docks, Sitio la Guira and Marina Marlin Cayo Guillermo - The schedule for the bus is usually available at the entrance of each hotel.
For an exciting experience, you can rent a classic car usually available on certain resorts.
The admission at the beach is totally free, but some activities and rentals may have a fee.
The beach area is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
There are some facilities available such as showers, bathrooms, restaurants, souvenir stores, and beach bars.
There are no hotels directly on Playa Pilar, but nearby resorts offer shuttle services.
You may stay at an all-inclusive resort in Cayo Guillermo or Cayo Coco for easy access to the beach.
But there is only one restaurant available in the area, which is located a few meters at the entrance.
Things to Do
At Playa Pilar, you can definitely enjoy the warm waters and soak up the sun on the beach.
You can also explore the underwater world and spot tropical fish and coral reefs.
Or take a catamaran or kayak to explore the nearby islands and coves.
You can rent paddleboats or kayaks as well and enjoy the calm waters.
Then play beach volleyball, soccer, or relax in a hammock.
Interestingly, you can look out for the giant starfish that inhabit the waters.
And if you have much time, you can visit the nearby islands, such as Cayo Media Luna, or take a snorkeling trip to a nearby shipwreck.
Travel Tips
- You have to get there early to secure a good spot on the beach It might get crowded at times, but there's enough space for everyone.
- Then rent a beach or sun lounger (lounge chair) and umbrella for shade which only costs 5 US dollars per piece, or you can bring your own beach towel and stay under the trees nearby the shoreline to save money.
- Don’t forget to bring sunscreen with high SPF and after sun gel to cool your skin after an extreme sun exposure, a hat, and sunglasses because it’s gonna be really hot during the day.
- You can definitely bring something to eat and drink. They might be available in the beach bar or restaurants but they are expensive.
- Then wear comfortable footwear like flip flops or aqua shoes for walking on the sand and bring a beach towel and some clothes to change.
- Also try the local seafood at one of the beach restaurants.
- And of course respect the local environment and wildlife, and leave no trash behind.
- Be mindful of your belongings and keep an eye on your children.
- The sea is generally calm, but be aware of strong currents.
- Try to learn some basic Spanish to communicate with the locals.
Overall, Playa Pilar is a must-visit destination in Cuba, offering a unique and unforgettable beach experience.
DISCLAIMER:
All songs used in the video belong to their respective owners and I or this channel does not claim any right over them.
Copyright Disclaimer under section 107 of the Copyright Act of 1976, allowance is made for “fair use” for purposes such as criticism, comment, news reporting, teaching, scholarship, education and research. Fair use is a use permitted by copyright statute that might otherwise be infringing.
Soundtrack:
"Ikson - Anywhere" is under a Free To Use KZread license / ikson Music powered by BreakingCopyright: • 🌴 [Non Copyrighted Music] @tellyourst...
"Groove Bakery - On The Wave" is under a Free To Use KZread license / user-621589798
Music powered by BreakingCopyright: • 'On The Wave' by Groove Bakery 🇺🇸 | ...
"Sarah Jansen - Moments" is under a Free To Use KZread license / @sarahjansenmusic3170 Music powered by BreakingCopyright: • 🌴 Summer Music No Copyright | Sarah J...
"Roa - Lights" is under a Free To Use KZread license / roamusic Music powered by BreakingCopyright: • 🤗 Happy Music [Copyright Free Music] ...