Most Popular Attractions, Activities and Beaches in Cuba

Most Popular Attractions and Activities to See and Do in Cuba

Attractions

Havana

• Old Havana (Habana Vieja): Wander the cobblestone streets, visit historical squares like Plaza de la Catedral, and admire colonial architecture.

• El Malecón: This iconic seafront promenade is perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially during sunset.

• Museo de la Revolución: Housed in the former Presidential Palace, this museum offers a look into Cuba's revolutionary history.

• Havana's Classic Cars: You can't visit Havana without taking a ride in a vintage American car. Many are available for short tours around the city.

Trinidad

• Colonial Architecture: Trinidad is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with well-preserved colonial architecture.

• Playa Ancón: Just a short drive from Trinidad, this beach offers beautiful sands and clear water.

• Valle de los Ingenios: Another World Heritage site, this valley offers a look into the sugar industry that once thrived in the region.

Varadero

• Beaches: Known for its pristine, white-sand beaches and clear, turquoise waters, Varadero is a popular spot for sunbathing and water sports.

• Cueva de Saturno: This natural cave filled with fresh water is perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Cienfuegos

• Punta Gorda: This area offers beautiful views of the bay and is a great spot for sunset.

  
  

Santiago de Cuba

• Castillo de San Pedro de la Roca: A fortress listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

• Carnival: If you visit in July, don't miss the energetic and colorful carnival.

Nature and Adventure

• Viñales Valley: Famous for its limestone cliffs and tobacco farms. Horseback riding and hiking are popular activities here.

• Zapata Peninsula: Known for the Bay of Pigs, it's also a good spot for bird-watching and scuba diving.

• Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo: These islands offer stunning beaches and are excellent for snorkeling and diving.

• Baracoa: The oldest city in Cuba is surrounded by natural beauty, including El Yunque mountain and the Toa River.

Activities

• Music and Dance: Whether it's salsa, son, or rumba, music and dance are integral to Cuban culture. Consider taking a dance lesson or enjoying live music at a local venue.

• Cigars and Rum: Learn about Cuba's famous cigar-making process by visiting a tobacco farm, and don't forget to sample some Cuban rum.

• Snorkeling and Scuba Diving: With its rich marine life and coral reefs, Cuba is a great destination for underwater exploration.

• Fishing: Ernest Hemingway was a fan of marlin fishing in Cuba, and the island continues to be a popular spot for deep-sea fishing.

Each region of Cuba offers its own unique attractions and activities, making it a diverse and exciting place to visit. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or nature, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Best Beaches in Cuba

Cuba is known for its stunning beaches, featuring white sands and crystal-clear waters. Each beach has its own unique characteristics and attractions. Here are some of the best beaches in Cuba:

Varadero

• Playa Varadero: Probably the most famous beach in Cuba, renowned for its long stretch of white sand and turquoise waters. The area is developed with numerous resorts and offers a wide range of water activities.

Cayo Coco and Cayo Guillermo

• Playa Pilar (Cayo Guillermo): Named after Ernest Hemingway's boat, Pilar, this beach is renowned for its powdery sand and shallow waters, making it great for swimming.

• Playa Larga (Cayo Coco): A beautiful beach with soft sand, clear waters, and a tranquil atmosphere. Ideal for snorkeling and relaxation.

Trinidad

• Playa Ancón: Located just a few miles from the city of Trinidad, this beach offers soft white sands and clear waters. It's less touristy than Varadero, offering a more peaceful environment.

Guardalavaca

• Playa Esmeralda: This is a quieter alternative to Varadero, offering lush surroundings and excellent snorkeling conditions.

Holguín

• Playa Pesquero: Known for its calm waters and coral reefs, it's ideal for families and those interested in snorkeling and diving.

Cayo Santa Maria

• Playa Perla Blanca: Known for its long stretch of pristine white sand, this is one of the most beautiful yet less crowded beaches in Cuba.

Jardines del Rey

• Cayo Ensenachos: This area actually has two beaches, Ensenachos and Megano, both known for their shallow, calm waters, making them ideal for families with children.

Santiago de Cuba

• Playa Siboney: Located about 19 km from Santiago, this beach offers darker sands but clear waters. It's a popular spot for locals, giving it a more authentic feel.

Baracoa

• Playa Maguana: With its coral reef close to the shore, this beach offers excellent snorkeling opportunities. It's far less crowded than other more famous beaches.

Isla de la Juventud

• Playa Paraiso: Located on the "Island of Youth," this beach offers excellent scuba diving and snorkeling conditions and is less developed than other beaches, providing a more natural environment.

Cienfuegos

• Playa Rancho Luna: A nice beach for snorkeling and scuba diving, it’s also located close to the Guanaroca Lagoon, making it a great spot for nature lovers.