Sol Cayo Guillermo

A vibrant entrance dressed in bright orange and yellow makes for a sunny welcome to this all-inclusive resort. Inside, the atrium lobby feels more conservative than tropical, with its big square columns, muted tones, and darker lighting. But grounds quickly return to an island vibe, with a large freeform freshwater pool serving as the resort centerpiece. The water resembles a big, blue lagoon surrounded by lofty palm trees, and the beach sits right behind this pool scene. The snack bar to the left of the pool keeps busy throughout the day, and a couple of restaurants, including the popular buffet sit to the right. It’s this intimate layout guests that appreciate about Sol Cayo Guillermo, which unfolds in small-scale contrast to many of its sprawling all-inclusive counterparts in the Jardine del Rey chain. The vibe is about as relaxed as it gets. Guests are typically sunbathing by the pool, chilling at the lobby bar, or exploring the beach -- where kite surfers dancing over the water are a common sight. The property draws a largely Canadian family crowd keen to bask in the tropical sunbeams.

Sol Cayo Guillermo is located in the Jardines del Rey archipelago, about 40 minutes from Jardines del Rey international airport. Many Cayo Coco visitors book package deals through tourist operators, which covers Greyhound-style coach transportation between the airport and their chosen Cayo Coco resort. Otherwise, taxis are on hand at the airport, plus they can be arranged with hotel staff. Camaguey airport, about a three-hour drive from Cayo Coco, has direct flights to the U.S., although the cab ride can exceed $150 which must be paid in cash.

For those seeking to venture outside hotel grounds during their stay, a double decker hop-on-hop-off tour bus does the island rounds on a fixed daily schedule for five dollars per day. The tour bus stops at nearby Playa Pilar -- deemed the most beautiful island beach by many, and a big hit amongst visitors. It's a two-minute drive away for those taking a taxi or driving themselves. Free parking is provided on the premises for self-drivers. 

Available in Standard and Superior categories, guest rooms are set in brightly colored one- and two-story bungalows spread out across the property's grounds. Inside, spacious layouts and lofty cathedral ceilings in driftwood-style timber give a pleasant backdrop. Sand-yellow or white walls, white floor tiles, and matching furniture in neutral tones create a warm vibe. That said, furniture is simple to the point of being plain, and textiles in mismatched floral prints feel dated and a bit drab, though they do add color. Wide glass sliding doors let in plenty of natural light, and they open to furnished patios with tropical garden views. Bathrooms are done up in a loud cantaloupe orange with big granite vanities, bidets, standing showers, hairdryers, and a good selection of toiletries. All rooms feature air-conditioning, mini-fridges, flat-screen TVs, and fresh drinking water. Closets are equipped with safes, irons, ironing boards, and extra blankets and pillows.

The biggest highlight here is the beach the hotel faces. Playa Larga is a seemingly endless, wide white-sand stretch with luminous aqua water and ideal conditions for kite surfing, fishing, and scuba diving (though the wind can feel a bit too strong at times for sleepy sunbathing). Deck chairs and palapas for two unfold along the beachfront. 

Restaurants covered by the all-inclusive rates include El Eden (buffet), El Conuco (Cuban), El Vigia (a la carte lunch and snacks), Don Guillermo (international a la carte), and Tocororo (light meals). Bars include the open-air El Cubanito, El Vigia (a cute beachside bungalow), La Isla Bar (with open-air late night dancing), and the Hemingway Lobby Bar. 

A choice of daily and evening activities cover a range of diversions such as pool and beach games, beginners’ diving classes in the pool, and professional nightly performances that guests rave about. There are a few open-air market-style stores selling local souvenirs and handicrafts plus a kids’ club with an outdoor playground. A tours bungalow can assist with travel arrangements, excursions, and activities through outside vendors. 

There are also plenty of sporting facilities on the grounds, including two tennis courts, one multi-sport court, beach volleyball, and board games for rainy days. The fitness center is stocked with a few aging machines and weights, but it provides the basics for an acceptable workout. It neighbors a Hammam (aka a Turkish-style steam room). Massages are available in a breezy open-air bungalow near the pool, too. 

There’s a corner in the lobby with two computer workstations. Guests can also purchase cards to connect to the hotel's Wi-Fi, though past guests report it's spotty.