Guardalavaca beach
Guardalavaca, the pearl of Cuba's northeast coast, beckons visitors with its unspoiled charm. Christopher Columbus once proclaimed this stretch of the Holguín province as the most beautiful land he had ever laid eyes on. Unlike its rival, Varadero, Guardalavaca remains relatively untouched by commercialization. This very quality draws nature enthusiasts, diving aficionados, and those captivated by Cuban history and culture to its serene shores.
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Beach description
Stretching along the Atlantic coast for nearly four kilometers, the expansive beach of Guardalavaca is a sight to behold. The surrounding landscapes, with their steep cliffs, mysterious caves, cascading waterfalls, and lush jungle, create a tapestry of breathtaking vistas.
The beach itself boasts pristine white sands that form a soft blanket at the water's emerald edge. Warm and clear, the water is protected by a coral reef situated 300 meters from the shoreline, safeguarding the beach from erosion and fostering a perfect microclimate for an array of marine life. The gentle waves, sandy bottom with a gradual slope, and shallow waters make for an idyllic setting for families with young children, offering peace of mind during their stay. Dotting the shore, sprawling trees provide ample shaded areas for respite from the sun.
For diving enthusiasts, the local waters are home to 32 dive sites, most of which are accessible by boat. The high clarity of the water ensures excellent visibility, often up to 20 meters. The nearby city of Gibara boasts a number of unique underwater caves that have become a focal point for cave divers. Among the underwater marvels is La Corona, a colossal coral formation that resembles a regal crown. The seabed is a treasure trove for underwater photographers, teeming with sought-after subjects such as crustaceans, barracudas, swordfish, peacock fish, and Spanish mackerels.
During summer weekends, the recreational area buzzes with activity. Local tourists mingle with international visitors, creating an atmosphere that is invariably friendly and sociable. Many locals engage in spontaneous dances, amusing antics, and the creation of on-the-spot caricatures, while others offer food and handmade crafts for sale. Despite the bustle, the beach maintains its cleanliness and remains a picturesque haven for all.
Optimal Time for a Visit
The best time to visit Cuba for a beach vacation is typically between December and May. This period falls within the dry season, offering sunny days with clear skies and minimal rainfall, ideal for beach activities and lounging by the sea.
- December to February: These months are cooler but still warm enough for a comfortable beach experience. It's also the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds.
- March to May: This is the sweet spot for a Cuban beach holiday. The weather is warmer, but the heavy tourist traffic starts to wane. You'll enjoy the best of Cuba's beaches with fewer people and still great weather.
While the summer months from June to August can be tempting, they coincide with Cuba's wet season, bringing hot, humid conditions and the possibility of hurricanes. For those willing to take a chance, however, summer can offer a more authentic experience with fewer tourists and vibrant local festivals.
Video: Beach Guardalavaca
Infrastructure
A significant area of the beach is occupied by souvenir shops and restaurant bars, offering a cool glass of beer and a snack of fried chicken or crabs with chili sauce. A short walk will lead you to a market where you can inexpensively purchase handicrafts. Vacationers have access to toilets, rental of beach furniture, sports equipment, and swimming gear, including rowing boats, kayaks, and catamarans.
On the first coastline, resorts cater to all-inclusive customers. For budget travelers, more affordable accommodations are available in bed and breakfast hotels, hostels, and guest houses.
A wide range of beach activities is available for vacationers:
- Diving;
- Sea cruises;
- Yachting;
- Deep-sea fishing;
- Snorkeling;
- Water skiing and catamaran sailing;
- Table tennis;
- Billiards;
- Tennis;
- Archery;
- Horseback riding;
- Moped and bicycle rentals;
- Beach volleyball.
In April, the annual tourist festival Claro de Luna is held on Guardalavaca Beach. The program includes contests, gastronomic surprises, and performances by Cuban artists and pop musicians.
Nearby points of interest include:
- The Chorro de Maíta Museum with a reconstructed Native American village;
- The natural aquarium in Naranjo Bay;
- Bariay Park – the landing site of Columbus in Cuba.
Weather in Guardalavaca
Best hotels of Guardalavaca
All hotels of GuardalavacaUseful information
- Guardalavaca is considered the “historical capital of Cuba." This was one of the first places Christopher Columbus visited upon his arrival on the island.
- The name “Guardalavaca” means “hide the cows.” According to legend, Spanish settlers in the XVI and XVII centuries used the beach as a shelter for their cattle in order to avoid looting by corsairs, who often visit the island in search of prey. According to another version, the word “Guardalavaka” has the meaning “hide ships”. It is known that during severe storms, farmers left their swimming facilities in this quiet harbor.
- A tourist boom overtook Guardalavacu in the late 1970s when Fidel Castro opened the first resort here.
- The easiest way to cover the 75 km separating the beach from Frank País airport in Holguin is to hire a taxi or take the shuttle bus.