11 Reasons Why You Should Dive In Cuba's Bay Of Pigs At Least Once In Your Lifetime

The Bay of Pigs is something of a secret destination, even by Cuban standards, but that might be changing as more people hear about the amazing diving that’s on offer here, as well as a number of other fascinating attractions. Here’s why you should plan a visit to the Bay of Pigs in 2018.

It’s undiscovered by most tourists

The Bay of Pigs is found in a rarely visited area on the south of Cuba, and that is part of its appeal. There are hardly any other tourists here, so you’ll be able to dive and relax without being swamped by other people.

It has great diving conditions

You won’t have to worry about the cold at the Bay of Pigs. Water temperatures reach 29°C in summer, and drop to 22°C in winter, with air temperatures similarly balmy.

Wall dives

You can dive to a precipice that runs between the towns of Playa Largo and Playa Giron, which makes for a very dramatic sensation.

Dive the Jaruca wreck

In 1994, locals deliberately sunk the Jaruca to provide another interesting dive site for visitors. If you’ve never dived a wreck before, this is a good place to start.

Rock formations at Playa de Giron, Bay of Pigs, Cuba

Dive El Cenote

This limestone sinkhole is found in the Zapata marshes. It has been explored to 70 metres (230 feet), but no one knows how deep it is.

Punta Perdiz

Around 12 kilometres (7 miles) south of Playa Larga lies this tiny sandy beach surrounded by forest. Come early in the morning and you might well have the place to yourself.

Visit the Bay of Pigs invasion museum

Playa Giron and Playa Larga were the main landing sites for a failed 1961 invasion that aimed to depose Fidel Castro. A museum in Playa Giron tells the story of the United States-backed invasion and the battles that took place here.

Flamingos in the Cienaga de Zapata National Park near the Bay of Pigs, Cuba

Head into the Parque Nacional Cienaga de Zapata

This national park is home to manatees, crocodiles and more than 1,000 species of plant, bird, mammal and reptile. It’s easily accessible from both Playa Larga and Playa Giron.

Cueva de los Peces

‘Fish Cave’ is found at Playa Larga, on the east coast of the bay. Visit this inland cave filled with fresh water for a refreshing change from the sea.

Marvel at a crocodile breeding centre

In La Boca de Guama you will find a breeding centre for Cuban crocodiles, which is an endangered species. You’re better off seeing them here than in the wild.

Relax on the beach

When you’re not diving, you can chill out on some of the great beaches in the area and hang out with friendly locals. Those who like to fish can throw a line out, too.

Visit these epic places in Cuba that even the locals don’t know about.

Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.

Our immersive trips, led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>

All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.