Sol Cayo Coco

Part of the Melia hotel group, the Sol Cayo Coco is a pleasant beachfront resort offering a similar experience to all other all-inclusives in the area. There is a full entertainment program that keeps guests busy during the day and into the evening, and the atmosphere is bustling and fun, with aqua gym classes, volleyball tournaments, and games around the main pool. Though most guests come here to have a good time and participate in the activities, there are also quieter pockets throughout the property, including a more serene pool where guests seeking some peace and quiet gather to read a book or sunbathe. The property has fewer rooms than other neighboring resorts, but the grounds are big and beautiful, with lovely manicured lawns, tons of palm trees, and access to two gorgeous beaches. The property has undergone several rounds of partial renovations in the last few years, and interiors range from somewhat dated to cute and fresh. All rooms were renovated in 2017, and restaurants and some other common spaces will get updates by mid-2019. The Sol Cayo Coco is not the most luxurious resort in the key, but rates are reasonable and rooms are some of the nicest in the area. Travelers seeking something cheaper and with a touch of local charm may want to compare rates at Hotel Colonial Cayo Coco, located just down the beach. In about the same price range, the Melia Jardines del Rey is a much bigger property with tons of activities, cheerful rooms, and a gorgeous beach. Couples seeking something quieter may prefer next-door sister property Melia Cayo Coco, which is adult-only and more upscale. 

The hotel is located roughly in the middle of the resort area in Cayo Coco, a key off the coast of northern Cuba. There is little aside from resorts, beaches, and wild vegetation here, and most guests stay on-site to enjoy the hotel’s two beautiful stretches of sand, one of which is generally empty. Those who want to explore the local shopping and nightlife scene can take the tourist shuttle bus that takes to Plaza de Flamencos, located about a 15-minute drive away. One of the region’s top attractions is Moron, a small town founded in 1643 that’s about 70 minutes from the hotel by car. Just a few minutes farther down the road is Ciego de Avila, home to a number of charming colonial buildings such as the Teatro Principal. It takes 20 minutes to get to the airport by car.

Fresh from mid-2017 renovations, the hotel’s 270 rooms are simple but cute, featuring a soothing gray-and white palette, classic wooden furniture painted white, and clean lines throughout. Floral artwork adds some color and character. Tile floors keep spaces cool, and floor-to-ceiling glass doors open onto furnished balconies or patios offering garden, pool, or sea views. Starting at 452 square feet, all rooms are spacious and airy, and some units are big enough to fit a double sofa bed. Amenities are standard for the price and include flat-screen TVs with satellite channels, air-conditioning, coffeemakers, and ironing facilities. Standard rooms feature mini-fridges stocked with free water, while all others have minibars with sodas, beer, and water. There is no in-room Wi-Fi and safes are only available for a fee. Bathrooms are straightforward but clean, with walk-in rainfall showers, toiletries, and hairdryers. There are no elevators, so guests with mobility issues or strollers should request a ground-floor unit. 

The hotel offers direct access to two beautiful beaches where guests can practice motorized and non-motorized sports or go diving and snorkeling. The two pools are big and peasant, with ample decks and lots of loungers. The main one is loud and busy, with tons of activities going on during the day and music playing into the evening. The other pool is located a bit away from the hustle and bustle and offers a more serene atmosphere. In addition to a playground, mini-golf course, and room with video games, the resort features baby and kids’ clubs, each offering age-appropriate activities for children up to 12 years old. The gym is small and airy, with big windows and a decent array of machines, however it is not open all day. There are also tennis and volleyball courts on-site, and massages are available on request at the basic spa. The hotel offers three dining options, including a big buffet with a varied, tasty spread for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The two a la carte eateries serve up international cuisine at one and a mostly Italian menu at the other. There are also several bars, including two in the lobby, one by the pool, and one at the beach. Internet is only available in common areas and it requires a fee.