Cuba is known to be a must-see travel destination because of its diverse culture, with influences from Spanish, African, and Caribbean roots. It’s got a distinct history that sets it apart from many other Caribbean islands. Art and music is also a popular trademark of Cuban culture. What else comes to mind when you think of Cuba? There’s great food, warm people, colorful streets, and of course, beautiful beaches. This crocodile-shaped island is the largest island in the Caribbean with over 250 beaches so you’ll definitely not run out of sunshine, wind in your hair, and sand on your toes! To help you on your island adventure, here’s a list of the best beautiful beaches in Cuba.
1. Playa los Bajos
Located east of Cuba in Gibara, one will find the beautiful Playa los Bajos. By definition, the shores here are shallow but it covers about 245 meters (804 feet) in length. From the shore you will see the blues of the sky and the blues of the sea complementing each other with the thin white strip of sand just midway of it. A few meters off the shore you’ll be able to see a coral reef barrier where you can find a lot of different fish species. Playa los Bajos is quite near Playa Blanca, another popular beach in the area of Gibara and can be reached by boat from the latter.
Playa los Bajos
Address: Gibara, Holguin, east of Cuba
2. Playa Ancon
Playa Ancon is recognized by locals as the best beach along the southern coast of Cuba. Its shore stretches about 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) with pristine blue waters and clean white sand. Adorned on parts of the shore are some trees and plants which give the beach a lovely touch. The area is very quiet though there’s a resort nearby but further from there, you’re sure to get some privacy. You can also hire some chairs and umbrellas for relaxing, otherwise, go for a swim in its beautiful clear waters. Transportation to the beach is very accessible by bus or taxi, sometimes even by bike!
Playa Ancon
Address: Ancon Peninsula, Trinidad, Cuba
3. Playa Maria la Gorda
You will find Playa Maria la Gorda in the western part of Cuba. It’s most famous for its diving spots which are numbered at around 70. There are also many coral reefs to see and marvel at when you go diving. In fact, there’s so much marine life here that the coastline was named a UNESCO biosphere reserve. Another favorite diving spot here would be the famed Blue Hole underwater. If you’re not a diver, don’t worry! Playa Maria la Gorda also has a hotel that’s a lovely place to spend the night in.
Playa Maria la Gorda
Address: Guanahacabibes Peninsula, Pinar del Rio, Cuba
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4. Playa Santa Lucia
If you’re in for a nature trip, consider Playa Santa Lucia on your list. The beach stretches out for 20 kilometers (12 miles) and offers warmer temperatures when swimming in the water. One of the highlights of this beach is an accessible and family-friendly barrier reef not too far from the shore. You will get to see the finest marine life up close without having to harm them. A little further from the main beach but definitely worth the stop is a lagoon filled with flamingoes!
Playa Santa Lucia
Address: Camagüey Province, Cuba
5. Playa Girón
Playa Girón is one of the many beaches situated on the historic Bay of Pigs or Bahia de Cochinos. The place is named after a French pirate by the name of Gilbert Giron who, in the 17th century, brought a lot of trouble and raids to the area. He was ultimately caught and beheaded though. Aside from its unique history, Playa Girón is a popular beach in the area for its long sandy shores and beautiful nearby coral reefs.
Playa Girón
Address: Bahia de Cochinos, Matanzas, Cuba
6. Playa Blanca
Not too far away from Playa los Bajos, Playa Blanca is another favorite among tourists and locals. This is mainly because of the white sandy beaches and clear blue waters. There is actually an admission fee to get into the main beach which allows preservation of the cleanliness of the beach. For those who wish to stay the night, a well-known resort in the area worth considering is Cayo Largo.
Playa Blanca
Address: Baracoa, Cuba
7. Playas del Este
Playas del Este is a popular tourist destination particularly because of its near distance from Havana. For those who wish to get a quick beach fix while in the capital, Playas del Este is the place for you. It’s a series of different beaches all the way from Bacuranao to Guanabo. Be sure to time your visit because these beaches tend to be very crowded during the peak seasons. But hey, if you don’t mind the crowds then this is definitely where you should be hanging out!
Playas del Este
Address: From Bacuranao to Guanabo, Cuba
8. Playa de los Cocos
PLAYA LOS COCOS Best beach in Cuba for: a weekend getaway
Posted by Blue Club Resorts, Switzerland on Thursday, 9 May 2019
Another beach along the famed Bay of Pigs is Playa de los Cocos. But this time, this is a hidden beach that even the locals are unaware of. It’s undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Cuba though for those who have visited. The beach is so hidden that there are no accommodations and there is only one restaurant in the area. It’s said to be a long drive from Camagüey but it’s definitely worth it!
Playa de los Cocos
Address: La Boca, Bahia de Cochinos, Camagüey, Cuba
9. Playa Larga
Among the beaches along the Bay of Pigs, Playa Larga is probably the most peaceful and quiet. Not a lot of tourists come here so you can enjoy a relaxing time under the palm trees on the shore. But when tourists do come over, it’s because of the diving spots in the area. What makes Playa Larga famous however is its historic significance during the Bay of Pigs invasion.
Playa Larga
Address: Matanzas, Bahía de Cochinos, Cuba
10. Playa Coral
From the name itself, Playa Coral is most popular for its coral reefs and snorkelling sites. Located not too far from the Varadero area, which is a popular tourist area, Playa Coral is one of the best beaches in Cuba. People here enjoy shore snorkelling three ways - from Playa Coral itself, from the Floral and Fauna Reserve, or from the reserve. Though out of the three, it’s most recommended to go from the Floral and Fauna Reserve to get the full experience.
Playa Coral
Address: Varadero, Cuba
Witness the beauty of Cuban beaches
Cuba, being an island in the Caribbean, is set to have a reputation for beautiful pristine beaches. It’s no surprise that at every beach you go to, you’ll be met with blue skies, turquoise waters and white sands. Some even have an additional luxury of seeing coral reefs up close. So what are you waiting for? Release your inner islander and explore the beautiful beaches of Cuba!
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