Isla de la Juventud

The second-largest Cuban island covers 2,419 square kilometers and features dense pine forests, black sand beaches, and limestone formations in the Caribbean Sea.

The island changed its name from Isle of Pines to Isle of Youth in 1978 to commemorate students who helped rebuild after hurricane Alma in 1966.

The Presidio Modelo prison near Nueva Gerona, now transformed into a museum, represents a significant period of Cuban political incarceration from 1926 onwards.

Visitors reach the island through Vilo Acuña Airport in Nueva Gerona or by boat service from Batabano port on mainland Cuba.

The Punta del Este caves contain aboriginal paintings from pre-Columbian times, displaying red and black geometric patterns on limestone walls.

Location: Cuba

Capital city: Nueva Gerona

Elevation above the sea: 20 m

Website: http://www.gerona.inf.cu/

Part of: Canarreos Archipelago

Website: http://gerona.inf.cu

GPS coordinates: 21.75000,-82.85000

Latest update: May 28, 2025 18:23