the isle of youth () is the largest cuban island after cuba itself. it is the sixth-largest island in the west indies. the island has an area of and is southwest of mainland cuba. it is across the gulf of batabanó. the island is almost directly south of havana and pinar del río. because of its superficial extension, population and for its economic characteristics, it is considered to be a special municipality. it is therefore not a part of any province. the isle of youth is administered directly by the central government of cuba.