Punta Perdiz is the Bay of Pigs' most famous shore-entry snorkeling spot, on the eastern shore of the Zapata Peninsula in southern Cuba. You slip in on a small ladder in front of the restaurant, cross a sandy flat, and about 100 m out the reef begins at roughly 1.5–4 m deep before plunging almost vertically along a wall that drops into 300 m+ of open blue. Visibility of 20–40 m is among the best in the Caribbean, and the reef teems with butterflyfish, angelfish, rock beauties and wrasses among sea whips and gorgonians, plus a small landing-craft wreck scuttled during the 1961 invasion. Water stays a comfortable 24–29°C year-round, but as of 2026 the entry fee, currency and tour operations should be confirmed locally.
A reef that starts ~100 m offshore and a near-vertical drop-off (reef wall) falling into deep blue water
20–40 m visibility and abundant Caribbean fish: butterflyfish, angelfish, rock beauty, snappers and wrasses
A small sunken landing craft from the 1961 Bay of Pigs invasion to explore
Easy, accessible beach entry via the ladder set up in front of the restaurant
Linked snorkeling at the nearby Cueva de los Peces cenote and the sheltered Caleta Buena cove
Good to know
SafetyBeyond the reef the wall drops almost vertically into 300 m+ of deep water. Do not swim past the drop-off line into open sea, and head straight back toward shore if you feel any current.
SafetyYou must swim roughly 100 m from shore to reach the coral. Wear fins, carry a float, never snorkel alone, and use a buoy or flotation vest in case of mask fogging or panic.
SafetyThe entry rocks are slippery and sea urchins are numerous, so wear boots and fins, avoid grabbing rocks or the seabed, and watch your step. Boats also come and go from the adjacent dive center, so use brightly colored gear to stay visible, keep clear of boat lanes, and guard against sun exposure and chilling with no shade on long swims.
RulesThe Bay of Pigs coral wall is a protected area. Do not stand on or touch the coral, and use reef-safe sunscreen free of oxybenzone and octinoxate.
MannersNever stand or rest on the coral, keep your distance from turtles and fish, and do not feed any wildlife.
SeasonSnorkeling is possible year-round, but November–April (dry season) is the calmest. June–November is Caribbean hurricane and rainy season, which can spoil conditions and access, so check local forecasts.
CautionUnlicensed guides or taxis may overcharge. Rent gear and book tours through the official international dive center desk, and confirm prices in advance.
Practical info
Reach it by rental car, taxi or tour along the coastal road from Playa Girón (about 8 km south) or Playa Larga (about 18 km north). Pay the entry fee (gear rental and buffet included) at the restaurant and enter by ladder; snorkel rental and guided outings are available on site. It works year-round but is calmest November–April; since Cuba abolished the CUC, fees, currency and operations change often, so verify the latest details before you go.
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