
Beaches & Waterfront Activities in Havana, La Habana, Cuba
1. Playa Santa María del Mar
A quiet and pristine beach in eastern Havana, known for its turquoise waters and palm trees.
- Quiet Retreat: Less crowded than other beaches, offering a peaceful environment.
- Turquoise Waters: Ideal for swimming and snorkeling due to its clear and beautiful waters.
- Nearby Restaurants: Several seafood restaurants are located near the beach, providing a perfect setting for meals.
2. Playa El Morro
Historic fortress-beach in Havana's Old Harbor, offering stunning views and calm waters.
- Historical Significance: Part of the San Carlos de la Cabana fortress, offering a glimpse into Cuba's colonial past.
- Calm Waters: Ideal for families and beginner swimmers due to its calm waters.
- Sunset Views: Offers breathtaking sunset views over the harbor.
3. Playa Bacuranao
A long and wide beach in eastern Havana, popular for its vibrant atmosphere.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: Known for its lively environment with food vendors and music.
- Water Sports: Offers various water sports like jet-skiing, banana boat rides, and parasailing.
- Sunset Picnic Spots: Ideal for picnics at sunset with stunning views of the setting sun.
4. Malecon seawall promenade
Iconic esplanade along Havana's waterfront, perfect for walks and people-watching.
- Iconic Architecture: Features a variety of historic buildings and sculptures.
- Street Performances: Offers various street performances, music, and dancing.
- Sunset Views: Provides beautiful sunset views over the Straits of Florida.
5. Fusterlandia
A mosaic-covered neighborhood in eastern Havana, showcasing colorful and whimsical art.
- Artistic Wonder: Features vibrant, eclectic, and intricate mosaics made by Jose Fuster.
- Unique Photography Opportunities: Offers numerous unique photo opportunities for travelers.
- Community Project: A community project that serves as a symbol of Cuban creativity and resilience.
6. Playa Tarara
A secluded beach on the island of Guanabo, offering clear waters and a tranquil atmosphere.
- Seclusion: Less crowded and more private than other beaches.
- Beautiful Scenery: Surrounded by lush greenery, offering breathtaking views.
- Water Activities: Offers activities like snorkeling and kayaking for adventure seekers.
7. Playa Giron (Bay of Pigs)
Historic beach in southern Cuba, famous for the Bay of Pigs Invasion.
- Historical Significance: Offers a chance to learn about the Bay of Pigs invasion.
- Wildlife Observation: Home to various bird species and crocodiles.
- Natural Swimming Pools: Features natural swimming pools created by the bay's limestone formations.
8. Playa Los Cocos
A quiet and peaceful beach in western Havana, perfect for relaxation.
- Relaxation: Ideal for those seeking a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
- Clear Waters: Offers clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Nearby Restaurants: Several small restaurants are located nearby, serving fresh seafood and drinks.
9. Callejon de Hamel
A vibrant street in Centro Havana, filled with Afro-Cuban art and culture.
- Afro-Cuban Culture: Showcases the richness of Afro-Cuban heritage through artwork and music.
- Street Performances: Offers live music and dance performances, adding to the lively atmosphere.
- Art Gallery: Features an art gallery showcasing local artists' works.
10. Playa Santa Teresa del Mar
A beautiful beach in western Havana, known for its soft white sand and clear waters.
- Soft White Sand: Features soft white sand that is perfect for sunbathing.
- Clear Waters: Offers clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Nearby Restaurants: Several small restaurants are located nearby, serving fresh seafood and drinks.
11. Playa Guanayara
A hidden gem in eastern Havana, featuring a stunning lagoon and vibrant wildlife.
- Hidden Gem: Less known to tourists, offering a quieter and more peaceful atmosphere.
- Stunning Lagoon: Features a beautiful lagoon perfect for swimming and wading.
- Wildlife Observation: Home to various bird species, flamingos, and crocodiles.
12. Playa Jibacoa
A coastal resort town located east of Havana, offering beautiful beaches and water sports.
- Resort Town: Offers various resorts for accommodation.
- Water Sports: Provides water sports like scuba diving, fishing, and boat tours.
- Natural Beauty: Features beautiful landscapes, making it perfect for photography.
13. Playa Blanca
A picturesque beach located on the Isla de la Juventud, known for its pristine waters.
- Pristine Waters: Offers crystal clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.
- Island Paradise: Located on a beautiful island offering various activities like hiking and horseback riding.
- Tranquil Atmosphere: Ideal for those seeking a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere.
14. Playa Rancho Luna
A beautiful beach located east of Havana, known for its soft sand and calm waters.
- Soft Sand: Features soft white sand that is perfect for sunbathing.
- Calm Waters: Offers calm waters, ideal for families and beginner swimmers.
- Nearby Restaurants: Several small restaurants are located nearby, serving fresh seafood and drinks.
15. Playa La Boca
A picturesque beach in eastern Havana, known for its stunning sunsets.
- Stunning Sunsets: Offers breathtaking sunset views over the ocean.
- Soft Sand: Features soft white sand that is perfect for sunbathing.
- Nearby Restaurants: Several small restaurants are located nearby, serving fresh seafood and drinks.