Playa del Este beach

Discover the Allure of Playa del Este Beaches:

• Bacuranao: This 600-meter-long beach, nestled within a palm grove and situated just 12 km from Havana, is a bustling hub of activity. Favored by both tourists and Havana residents, it can get quite crowded. The shoreline is dotted with rental points for beach and water equipment, alongside inviting restaurants and bars. You'll also find souvenir shops and a diving center to enhance your beach experience.
• Tarará: Located 20 km from the capital, Tarará boasts a yacht club, a marina, and several comfortable villas. It's an idyllic spot for a tranquil vacation, offering diving, scuba diving, and deep-sea fishing opportunities. The calm waters make it an ideal choice for families with young children.
• Megano: An 800-meter-long youth-oriented beach, Megano is brimming with lively entertainment venues, bars, and discos. It's a hotspot for parties and music festivals, drawing energetic crowds eager for fun in the sun.
• Santa Maria del Mar: This beach resort is a melting pot of local beachgoers and international tourists. Expect it to be very crowded on weekends, while weekdays offer a more serene atmosphere, with the beach transforming into a semi-deserted paradise.
• Guanabo: Situated in the village of the same name, 27 km from Havana, Guanabo is a local favorite. The beach area is lined with several restaurants, bars, shops, and nightclubs, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors from the capital.
• El Salado: An excellent choice for families, El Salado is located 30 km from Havana and features a variety of shops and cafes. The Blue Reef Diving Center is a highlight, and the sea's high salt concentration is notable.
• Tropico: This well-maintained beach is especially popular with residents of Havana. It offers rental points for sunbeds and umbrellas, snack bars, and shops, ensuring a comfortable and convenient beach experience.

Exercise caution while swimming: In the vicinity of Playa del Este's beaches, the presence of dangerous jellyfish, including the Portuguese man o' war, is often reported.

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.