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Even though Isla de la Juventud and María la Gorda are at the top of most diving enthusiasts' preference lists, the Bahía de Cochinos is able to offer equally interesting underwater experiences. There is in fact a very large reef running 30 to 40 m off the coast for over 30 km from Playa Larga to Playa Girón: a fantastic natural feature that has created a 300 m high wall, encrusted with corals with astonishing openings through which you can swim and rich in caves, gorgonians and marine animals. Even better, the proximity of this wall to the coast makes the over 30 dive sites in the region easily accessible even without a boat: you just need to go a short distance from the beach. Visibility on the southern coast is good, ranging from 30 to 40 m; in addition, there are some wrecks scattered throughout the area.

From an organizational point of view, Playa Girón is well managed, with highly qualified instructors located at five different sites along the coast. Generally speaking, prices are among the cheapest in Cuba for both diving and snorkelling.

The International Scuba Center, at Villa Playa Girón, is the main dive center.

La Guarandinga is a colorful 'divers' bus' that in the morning picks up tourists at various points in Playa Girón and takes them to Playa el Tanque, on the road to Playa Larga, the best dive site in the area, particularly suitable for beginners because the entry takes place in shallow waters.

Eight kilometers southeast of Playa Girón you come across Caleta Buena, a delightful sheltered cove, perfect for snorkelling and equipped for swimming in natural pools and sunbathing.
Here, ribbons of black corals protect several sinkholes and underwater caves, crowded with the strangely shaped sponges for which the area is known: a great opportunity to do some underwater speleology! Since at this point the sea water mixes with fresh water, the species present are different from those of other sites. Mask and snorkel rental is possible.

Other underwater treasures are visible at Cueva de los Peces, a freshwater tectonic fault (or cenote), about 70 m deep, found on the inner side of the road, almost halfway between Playa Larga and Playa Girón. In addition to the many colorful tropical fish, with mask and snorkel or with diving equipment you can admire the darker and more sinister parts of the cenote (bring a flashlight). Nearby there is a restaurant and a dive equipment shop.

Just after Cueva de los Peces, Punta Perdiz is another splendid spot for snorkelling and diving where you can explore an American landing craft sunk during the Bay of Pigs invasion. The shallow waters are a splendid blue and offer interesting underwater panoramas already close to the beach. On site there is a small dive center, as well as a beach volleyball court, and you could even challenge the friendly caretakers to dominoes.

Have fun!