828 reviews
Come for the Beach; Return for the Staff!!
What really sets Starfish apart is the staff... Everyone from the receptionists, servers, managers, etc. were all so incredibly kind and attentive to our every concern and need. Even the gardeners and maintenance staff could always be counted on to offer a kind greeting when I passed by on my way to the saltwater pool (very cool experience if you haven't tried it since you become quite buoyant and float effortlessly on the surface). I really got the sense that staff genuinely enjoy working here, and, after speaking to one of the managers (Harold), it was clear that they pride themselves on offering impeccable service. It's no wonder so many veteran resort-goers say that Starfish Cayo Largo was their favourite destination in all of Cuba (especially in the wintertime, since the North of Cuba can actually be too cold for swimming)!
The Beach is steps from the resort, never crowded, and absolutely pristine - I saw the most beautiful sunsets/rises every day over the crystal blue water and soft white sand! Notably, there's also free daily shuttle service to Playa Sirenna, one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, where you can ride the catamarans, paddleboats and kayaks, and also eat at the buffet on site for no extra fee!
Food was plenty and delicious (and nothing beats hearing the live Cuban band playing every lunch hour at the beachside buffet!). The Rooms were clean and comfortable. Daytime activities were low-key but fun (I had the privilege of receiving private dance and Spanish lessons from the highly accommodating staff - Gracias, Alfredo y Masiel!). And the Evening Dance & Musical performances blew me away. I was shocked and delighted by the calibre of the artists in this homey hotel, which boasts all the offerings of a classic resort but with the warmth and community of a quaint small town! :)
Two quick anecdotes to underscore how fabulous the staff are:
1) Another visitor told me that she left her whole purse at the bar one night but it had been safely picked up and set aside for her by the bartenders with everything in tact.
2) I suffered a heat stroke on my last day... The receptionist (Janet) saw me struggling to cool off in the lobby and she and the airline rep took the initiative to call the nurse and doctor to make sure I was okay. They even gave me a free late checkout so I could rest and recuperate before flying out that evening. I was in such good hands and felt so well cared for all throughout.
Frankly, I left half my heart here and it is my dream to return.
One tip before you go:
If you are Canadian, get some $1 USD bills for your small tips. Despite what you might read online, Cuban banks do not accept loonies & toonies, so resort workers usually have to collect enough coins to exchange them for CAD bills with guests. Also, do prepare some bills for