Cueva de Saturno

A big opening in the ground leads down to a pool of fresh water inside the rock, a cenote about 20 km west of Varadero on the airport road near Carbonera. The water is clear enough to see the stalactites and stalagmites under the surface, along with fish and small blind shrimp. Most people swim and snorkel; certified divers can carry on into two galleries that reach about 20 metres down.

Plenty of Varadero half-day tours stop here after snorkelling at Playa Coral, so the cave fills with groups through the middle of the day. Going on your own by taxi, early morning or late afternoon is quieter. There is a snack bar on site, and the tours do not take children under six.