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Isle of Youth
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Isla de la Juventud, the Isle of Youth, is the second-largest island in the Cuban archipelago, situated in the Canarreos Archipelago south of the main island. Historically known as the Isla de Pinos (Isle of Pines), it was renamed in 1978 to honor the international youth education programs established there. Geologically, the island features flat plains in the north, marble hills in the central region, and extensive wetlands and limestone plateaus in the south. The island has a colorful history, having served as a hideout for pirates such as Francis Drake and later as the site of the notorious Presidio Modelo prison, where Fidel Castro was once incarcerated. Today, the island is a major hub for marble quarrying and citrus fruit production. It is a premier destination for scuba diving, particularly within the Punta Francés Marine National Park, which gives some of the best underwater visibility in the Caribbean. Its relative isolation has preserved a unique ecological environment, home to rare endemic species such as the Cuban Amazon parrot.
- Location: Cuba
- Nearby: Mariel (19 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 30 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 26 | 19 | 16 | 26 | 61 | 103 | 78 | 103 | 106 | 94 | 31 | 22 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Isle of Youth is an island accessible to tourists. You can freely explore the beaches and pine forests. Some attractions like Presidio Modelo require an entrance fee.
Typical hours
The island is accessible 24/7, but ferries and flights have fixed schedules. Opening hours of museums and historical sites vary. Check locally.
Photography
Photography is unrestricted on beaches and in forests. In historical buildings, restrictions may apply - watch for signs.
Time needed
Allow at least 2-3 days to enjoy the beaches and forests on the island. A day trip is only enough for a small portion.
Combine with
Combine your stay with a visit to Presidio Modelo, a former prison. The caves of Punta del Este are also worth a trip.
Getting there
The island is reachable by ferry or plane from Havana. The ferry takes about 4-5 hours, the flight about 45 minutes. Charter boats are also available.
Insider tip
Book your ferry or flight in advance as spaces are limited. Bring cash as there are few ATMs on the island.
Geography
Facts
- The island encompasses a total area of 2,419 square kilometers.
- The name change to Isla de la Juventud occurred officially on August 3, 1978.
- Presidio Modelo prison consists of five circular panopticon-style blocks.
- It is widely believed to be the inspiration for Treasure Island by R.L. Stevenson.
- The island is famous for its black sand beaches located on the northern coast.
- The Punta Francés National Park covers over 6,000 hectares of marine area.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Isla de la Juventud?
The second-largest island of Cuba, formerly known as 'Isle of Pines'.
What is Presidio Modelo?
A former prison where Fidel Castro was incarcerated in the 1950s.
Is the island suitable for diving?
Yes, Punta Francés is one of the best diving areas in the Caribbean.
How do you get to the island?
By ferry from Batabanó or by domestic flight from Havana.
What is the island's capital?
Nueva Gerona is the administrative and cultural center of the island.
Isle of Youth: where is it located?
Isle of Youth is located in Cuba.
Isle of Youth: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.
Isle of Youth: why is it worth visiting?
Isla de la Juventud, the Isle of Youth, is the second-largest island in the Cuban archipelago, situated in the Canarreos Archipelago south of the main island.
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