To reach Cayo Coco, tourists had to fly to Máximo Gómez Airport on the mainland and then take a one-hour bus ride to the island.

[1] In order to make travel to Cayo Coco more convenient, the Cuban government announced in 1999 that it would build a new airport on the island itself.

[1] The first phase of the project was completed in early 2002, which encompassed the construction of the runway, taxiways, apron, air traffic control tower and a temporary terminal with a capacity for 150 passengers.

Jardines del Rey Airport was able to reopen in early November 2017, in time for the start of the winter tourist season.

Its amenities include two VIP lounges, a snack bar, restaurant, duty-free shops and a currency exchange booth.