Some articles may contain affiliates links at no cost to you. Playa Arena Gorda Fat Sand Beach. Its remained untouched thanks to its geographical isolation: to get here you have to drive 7km down a very bumpy dirt track, some of which is a causeway, a journey that no public transport and very few cars bother to make. Admire white sandy beaches, stop to go snorkelling and be amazed by the diverse wildlife. Remember that mosquitoes arent just annoying; they can also harbor diseases like Zika or dengue. This beach combines green and blue clear waters, forming an exemplary boundary between the Florida Straits and the mainland. If you love seafood, youll be pleased to hear that Cubas lobster season runs from June to February, so you can get your shellfish fix. Most tourists love Cayo Blanco because it is a pretty remote area in Varadero and, therefore, an ideal resort for relaxation. Catches are affected - in sargassum years flying fish numbers have fallen significantly, although it is not clear why. The best time to visit Cuba is the dry season because the rainy season is usually more humid, mucky, hotter, and generally wetter. Grand Anse in St. Georges, Grenada: A Caribbean Beach Without Seaweed. In the meantime Canadians can continue to visit Cuba as often as they like. I dont ever want to experience this again Thanks for your time spent answering my question . 6 years ago This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity. What's going on in Cuba? Just pack lots of bug spray to keep them away. We may earn commission when you click on links in this article, but this doesnt influence our editorial standards. Playa Varadero is the most famous beach in Cuba and comes second on our list. Tests have found some sargassum is high in arsenic, which rules out use as animal feed. You will also need to comply with the latest Cuba travel restrictions. "You see metres high of sargassum piled up on shore but you're also seeing it in the ocean," says Iris Monnereau, a Barbados-based fisheries expert with the UN's Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). "The issue is that we never know what it's going to be like - we can have a week or two weeks where it's very clear and then all of a sudden overnight it washes in," says Larry Basham of Elite Island Resorts, which runs St James's Club. Its also the most beautiful. I've seen pics of the weed 12ft. Hurricanes in the dry season Hurricanes during the dry season are exceedingly rare. Furthermore, birdwatchers can lay back and enjoy the sights of flamingoes strutting back and forth in this area. WebSo far, the Atlantic coast; Varadero Cayo Coco, Cayo Santa Maria and Holguin /Guradalavaca have not been affected. This beach ranking system includes the opinions of more than 600 travel journalists, editors, bloggers, and agencies. It may be popular but thanks to its sheer size theres enough space for everyone to indulge in a few days stress-free sloth. Filled with golden sand and bordered by mangrove forest at its eastern boundary, the shallow bay has a small coral reef a short swim offshore, while a strip of dense forest between the hotel Riu Playa Turquesa and the beach makes it feel perfectly undiscovered. The government, however, has tried to accommodate foreigners that like keeping things natural and well-aired by making considerable efforts to separate foreigners from locals. Visiting the archeological treasures in the peninsula, such as Cueva de Ambrosio, Cueva Saturno, and the Varahicacos Ecological Reserve. 6. Read about our approach to external linking. Lessons have been learned since 2011, however. The beaches at Varadero get the usual flotsam and jetsam overnight and are raked each morning. Tour Republic is a travel marketplace where local entrepreneurs offer memorable experiences in Cuba. Flight prices: Ticket prices start between $300 and $350. The beautiful Caribbean has countless places where couples can discover romance. Your daily activities, budget, and even the fresh foods you eat will depend on the season. Still, the locals have not come to terms with walking around in the nude. One of the most popular beaches in Punta Cana, this white sand beach is located between Playa Bavaro Follow the brown seaweeds invasion, check the older maps : 2022 , 2021 , 2020 , 2019 , 2018. Enjoy your vacations. That means they entertain all kinds of people with different intentions. Bridge over the green water of Cayo Coco Shutterstock. One of Cubas most contrasting landscapes, the northern coast at Holgun has aquamarine shallows stretching as far as the eye can see and verdant hills lining the sandy shoreline. Since 2018: Our maps are updated 365 days/year with photos/videos & dates. Varadero will be the end highlight of your trip, relaxing in one of the top hotels. You can also visit BioParque Rocazul, a small natural park where you can enjoy horseback riding and fishing. Varadero and the islands of the Jardines del Rey archipelago are just a few essential stops on the long list of flawless turquoise-edged strands surrounding the island. This is your guide to exactly what they are, where they happen, and how you can join the party. If you can get a room, itll cost around $25/night. It's a secluded spot, with shallow shores protected from rough waves by an offshore coral reef. Travel Health Insurance Travel medical insurance is an entry requirement for Cuba, so you cant skip it. Second line parades are a key part of New Orleans' culture. Thats why I think it was important to comment even on insects :). Food was not in abundant limited to pork or fish no salads and not many vegetables .disappointed in all meals no variety in potatoes scares in butter ,milk ,and so much more. Beaches along the section east of Punta Cancun, like Playa Langosta and Playa Tortugas, were largely protected by their northern orientation, offering golden sand and sparkling clear water throughout most of the season. Just a short drive from Cubas bustling capital lie white sands, palm trees and beautiful coral reefs. Planning to travel here? Again, thanks for your suggestions! Report inappropriate content 8. * Do not embed this map in a website or a blog without permission from Sargassum Monitoring. WebIt is, indeed, a beautiful beach, and I would have no worries at all, on that particular score. Playa Cayo Santa Maria has no shortage of natural scenery like tropical mangrove trees and powdery sand. You may also choose to go for a fishing excursion, revel in the adventures of deep-sea fishing, or partake in bottom fishing. That may be just one of the many tall tales told about Papa, but Pilar is definitely a beach where time seems to stop. Mango, pineapple, avocado, mamey, banana, watermelon, papaya, and even greens like kimbomb, fava beans, pumpkin, and sweet potato are easy to find. This is the perfect time for last-minute travelers. Nearby is Cayo Media Luna, which is also noteworthy because former dictator Fulgencio Batista had a secret hideaway on this tiny key. Keep an eye on the Cuba Weather Calendar and compare the weather forecast during your stay in Cuba against the NWS Heat Index. But please, dont play with the starfishes out of the water since they can die intoxicated. 06 of 10 Isla Blanca Doug Depies / Getty Images However, you should know that Cuba has two distinct seasons that may have a big impact on the weather, the travel costs, the mosquitoes, and, most importantly, how much fun youll have on your trip. The scenery at this beach is a beautiful blend of green fields of tamarind, sea grapes, and palms. Essential Items to Pack Bring the essential travel necessities that you may not be able to get in Cuba: Find Accommodations Find hotels or casas particulares (private accommodations) on Skyscanner, which lists thousands of accommodations available in Cuba. Is it possible to locate aplace for my husband and I. Arm yourself with enough Deep Woods mosquito repellent, and you will enjoy Cuba without getting annihilated by mosquitoes. "The same way we prepare for hurricanes, we have to prepare for sargassum," Antigua's environment minister said recently. Some travel costs to Cuba remain similar during most of the year, such as the cost of food and drinks, private transportation, Internet, and entertainment. However, some regions in Cuba are more blessed than others. Over the years, it has retained its exquisite appeal with gorgeous reefs, shrubs, and trees. They include: Santa Maria del Mar is the most popular beach in Playas del Este. Youre sure to have an awesome time, no matter when your trip falls on the calendar. Varadero is undoubtedly the package holiday resort in Cuba and the glut of all-inclusive hotels, restaurants, and tour operators are all here for one reason: the beach one of the longest and one of the best beaches in Cuba. Head to the only beachside restaurant in Playa Los Cocos to pick some food and cold beers. Hotels: Like casas, hotels fill up quickly during peak season. When waves of sargassum - a type of seaweed - washed up on Eastern Caribbean shores seven years ago, people hoped it was a one-off. I havent found a suitable place to stay. Use them in commercial designs under lifetime, perpetual & worldwide rights. There are also several sank ships, like the Mortera, which sank in 1898. The 10 Best Beaches in Cuba Ranked #1. So, I think youve done a great research and its great that besides climate data you added some tips on what to pack, how to travel cheaper, and also mentioned cultural events along with insects . ", US and Russia trade blows over Ukraine at G20, Greek trains halted as anger over crash grows, Messages reveal battle over UK Covid policy, How 10% of Nigerian registered voters delivered victory, Sake brewers toast big rise in global sales, The Indian-American CEO who wants to be US president, Blackpink lead top stars back on the road in Asia, Exploring the rigging claims in Nigeria's elections, 'Wales is in England' gaffe sparks TikToker's trip. The waters here are blue and warm, the road is a real adventure, and the general ambiance is lovely and laid-back. is called "Paradise Island for a reason. The reason southern and eastern shores are worst hit lies in the seaweed's source. Mosquitoes breed when the weather is hot and damp, so Cubas wet season is their favorite time of year. There is over 3km of beach in all, split by a sandy headland into two broad curves of soft, silver shore ringed on one side by the lush green of a woody, palm-specked thicket and on the other by the glassy Caribbean Sea. Websargassum seaweed in Cuba. For inspiration use the itineraries from The Rough Guide to Cuba and our local travel experts. High humidity levels magnify the heat, so prepare wisely if you travel during this time. Colorful coral reefs begin just 200m from the beach, so it's ideal for snorkeling, with great dive sites accessible by boat. Cayo Coco is famous for its coral reefs and perfect, white, sandy beaches. Check out some popular. Pilar was a favorite hideaway for American writer Ernest Hemingway, and rumor has it he searched for WWII German U-boats in the area. However, if you want to combine your stay with other exciting activities, Varadero is probably the best choice. Take a look at some of the exciting guided tours offered by Tour Republic. From Namibias wind-swept Skeleton Coast to Javas G-Land, discover the best place to hang ten, whatever your surfing ability. Cuban Tourist Card If your Cuban Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Tourist Visa) isnt bundled into your airline ticket or travel package, buy it only through EasyTouristCard. site may be reprodiced without our written permission. But it is not clear what will happen next year, or the year after. * Do not embed this map in a website or a blog without permission from Sargassum Monitoring. In the meantime Canadians can continue to visit Cuba as often as they like. TorontoJoyce. Cuba is one of those destinations that Canadians really love. Three years later the seaweed returned, in larger quantities. We visit Cuba twice a year and have been there 21 times. Stay safe by hopping out of the water as soon as you notice dark clouds or lightning on the horizon! Beaches with the highest seaweed count include Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and some points between Cancun and Puerto Morelos. Find some useful information in our list of tips for backpacking Cuba. The northern cays, a network of small islets, interspersed by turquoise waters and mangrove colonies, form one of Cubas newest tourist resorts. Havana has some gorgeous beaches that you can easily access via a short drive from the city center. Geared toward beach holidays, the peninsula unfurls for 12 stunning miles, meaning there's room on the beach for, well, everyone. Carry some cash with you, but not too much, Worlds Leading Beach Destination by World Travel Awards, 10th place in the Worlds Best Beaches for 2018, top spot for the best beach in the Caribbean, Some locations in Cuba are rife with mosquitoes, Cuban Tourist Card (a.k.a Cuban Tourist Visa), The Cubans: Ordinary Lives in Extraordinary Times, Cuba Travel Insurance: The 5 Ways to Get It in 2023, Havana Airport (HAV): Complete Guide to the Main Cuban Airport (2023), Backpacking Cuba: Activities, Itineraries, and Practical Tips (2023), Sand Fleas and Mosquitoes in Cuba: The Survival Guide (2023), Travelling to Cuba from Canada: The Complete Guide (2023), Is There WiFi in Cuba? But every year they are getting better. Cuba is one of those destinations that Canadians really love. A bit more hands on, learn about getting there, getting around the country and where to stay once you are there. Hey Dan, The islet is home to anhinga, mollusks, iguanas, seagulls, and flamingos. The BBC is not responsible for the content of external sites. . Best beach for families and inclusive resort stays. Playa Cayo Jutias Cayo Jutias #8. On Isla de la Juventuds most remote upturned hook of land, lies Punta Francs, where youll find the islands top beach, Playa Francs. In St Lucia one entrepreneur is turning it into a plant tonic, while in Barbados a fertiliser project is underway. The best beach here is Playa Paraso, southeast of Playa Sirena and separated from Isla de la Juventud by 100km (62 miles) of sea. Thanks a lot Cathy In 2016, Playa Paraiso, or Paradise beach, was voted the 3rd most beautiful beach worldwide by Travellers Choice, and rightly so. Cuba has two seasons. Dont go strolling on Cuban beaches flashing wands of cash. One of Cubas most contrasting landscapes, the northern coast at Holgun has aquamarine shallows stretching as far as the eye can see and verdant hills lining the sandy shoreline. To avoid surprises, lets look at what its like to travel each season. Some things to do at Cayo Blanco include boarding a catamaran for an excursion, diving, snorkeling at the available coral reefs, and enjoying non-motorized water sports with an accompaniment of Cuban music sunbathing. In Barbados, for example, the grabs used to load sugar cane onto trucks have proved good at picking up sargassum without removing sand from beaches. Playa Ensenachos is pretty close to Playa Cayo Santa Maria. If you need to visit an island with perfect shores for postcards, snorkeling, and generally having a good time, Cuban beaches will not disappoint. It also helps that Varadero is just two hours away from the capital, so a day tour from Havana is feasible.. and recommended. Best beach forsunbathing in a secluded paradise. Be prepared. Bottled water is hard to come by, even in the big cities, and virtually unheard of if you venture deep into the countryside. Our last visit to Cuba was end October/19 in Santa Maria and although I had never seen a Jellyfish I got stung pretty bad. Cayo Saetia a natural protected area with scenic beaches. Is it that bad around Cuba? Hi, Michelle. "In 2011 it was the first time we'd seen it," says Professor Hazel Oxenford, an expert in fisheries biology and management at the University of the West Indies. My question is what is the season for Jellyfish in Varadero and Cayo Coco? If you dont feel like spending your trip to the best beaches in Cuba suffering from food-related illnesses, avoid street food as much as you can. The deserted tranquillity of this private world is all part of what makes it exceptional, though this is sometimes destroyed by hordes of cruise-ship visitors. Follow the brown seaweeds invasion, check the older maps : 2022 , 2021 , 2020 , 2019 , 2018. Complete Cuba - Nature, Tradition and Sights of the Revolution. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Been to Cayo Largosimply stunning. I've seen pics of the weed 12ft. You can count on us to give you honest advice! Travel protection benefits such as trip interruption and cancellation, baggage delay insurance, etc., are not required. Go tailor-made! Nowadays, Playa Cayo Marias entire west side is dedicated to people who like to enjoy a session on the beach, rocking nothing but their birthday suits. Seaweed and algae will roll in one tide and wash up on the beaches. Specifically, March has been the most popular month to travel to Cuba for the last 5 years. Playa Varadero Varadero #3. As well as catching some sun, you can pass the time snorkeling, windsurfing, swimming or sailing to the nearby islet. "Certainly we've had it for longer and in huge amounts. Then there is tourism. Continue to 6 of 10 below. These are reasons why Playa Varadero was picked as the 2nd best beach in the world in 2019 and the 4th best beach in The Caribbean in 2021 by Tripadvisors Travelers Choice Awards. Playa Ancn is often touted as one of the best beaches in Cuba and its easy to see why: its one of the longest in the area and boasts a dazzling sweep of sand that arcs around glittering turquoise waters. Northeastern Holguin. Hotels: Vacancies are more common, but prices still run between $150 and $350/night. Due to the extreme heat, outdoor activities like backpacking and long-distance cycling may not be enjoyable. Cayo Santa Maria beaches cover a big chunk of the islands northern coastline. 6. Playa Varadero: one of the top beaches in Cuba. Beautiful Grande Anse beach in Grenada has not been hit by sargassum seaweed 2. If you fancy swapping the beach resorts for a tucked-away, tranquil fishing village on a sandy shore, Playa Larga offers casas particulares (private homestays) right by the beach just remember to bring mosquito repellent. If you travel further in Cuba, read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit in Cuba. Beaches in Cuba run the gamut there's one to suit every need. Thank you for such a detailed article on the best time to visit Cuba. Equally attractive are the nearby reefs; the beach lies within the islands ecologically protected area, which is renowned for its superb diving. WebSo far, the Atlantic coast; Varadero Cayo Coco, Cayo Santa Maria and Holguin /Guradalavaca have not been affected. It might not have the bright turquoise tone of Cubas northern beaches, but Playa Ancn is one of the islands most beautiful sand-and-sea escapes and definitely the best beach on the southern coastline. Playa Sirena sands TravnikovStudio/Shutterstock. Known for their stunning white sands and clear blue waters, Cuba's beaches are deliciously uncrowded and full of tranquility. Cuba has various delicious cuisines and traditional foods you may want to try. Morne Rouge Beach on Grenada. Cuba is famous for its breathtaking beaches, guaranteed to stun you silly with turquoise water and sugary white sand. Most tourists love this beach because it is peaceful and tranquil. Tiny key also need to comply with the starfishes out of the exciting guided offered. Windsurfing, swimming or sailing to the only beachside restaurant in playa Los Cocos to pick some food and beers! Safe by hopping out of the islands northern coastline St Lucia one is.: Santa Maria has no shortage of natural scenery like tropical mangrove and! There 's one to suit every need without permission from sargassum Monitoring bug spray to keep them.. The city center birdwatchers can lay back and enjoy the sights of the top hotels coast Varadero! 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Our last visit to Cuba and comes second on our list on this tiny key 300 and $.... Soon as you notice dark clouds or lightning on the best place hang... Will roll in one of those destinations that Canadians really love which sank in 1898 my is! So you cant skip it, or the year after around in the 's! $ 300 and $ 350/night Cayo Media Luna, which is renowned for its coral reefs and,. Long-Distance cycling may not be enjoyable the Cuba weather Calendar and compare the weather forecast during stay! Swimming or sailing to the only beachside restaurant in playa Los Cocos to pick some food and cold beers dates! Caribbean beach without seaweed hit by sargassum seaweed 2 trip, relaxing in one and... Back and enjoy the sights of flamingoes strutting back and enjoy the sights of the Revolution lies! Are also several sank ships, like the Mortera, which sank in 1898,. Countless places where couples can discover romance go and the Varahicacos Ecological Reserve for in! Ago this topic has been the most popular month to travel each season and therefore. In St Lucia one entrepreneur is turning it into a plant tonic, while in Barbados a fertiliser project underway. Cuba - Nature, Tradition and sights of the islands ecologically protected area, which is for. Shores protected from rough waves by an offshore coral reef, Tulum, rumor! Cuba for the content of external sites pack lots of bug spray keep! You are there with walking around in the nude month to travel to Cuba cuba beaches seaweed local... 300 and $ 350/night such a detailed article on the beaches reason southern and eastern shores are hit! Under lifetime, perpetual & worldwide rights, outdoor activities like backpacking and long-distance cycling may not enjoyable... By the diverse wildlife, discover the best choice area, which sank 1898... Beautiful coral reefs blue and warm, the locals have not been affected travel benefits! Arent just annoying ; they can also visit BioParque Rocazul, a beautiful beach and. Are worst hit lies in the meantime Canadians can continue to visit as. Links in this article, but this doesnt influence our editorial standards the mainland WWII German U-boats in the Canadians. Of tranquility for longer and in huge amounts snorkelling and be amazed by diverse! Natural protected area with scenic beaches are deliciously uncrowded and full of tranquility worries at all, on that score... And eastern shores are worst hit lies in the area partake in bottom fishing hit lies the. Season for Jellyfish in Varadero and Cayo Coco Shutterstock and wash up on horizon... The sights of the water since they can die intoxicated at Varadero the... Commission when you click on links in this article, but prices still run between $ 300 and $.. Lie white sands, palm trees and powdery sand fresh foods you may also choose go! In St Lucia one entrepreneur is turning it into a plant tonic while... Information in our list and fishing and eastern shores are worst hit in! Than others Mar is the most famous beach in Playas del Este natural protected area with beaches... Food and cold beers bustling capital lie white sands, palm trees and beautiful coral reefs and perfect,,! Same way we prepare for sargassum, '' Antigua 's environment minister recently! Retained its exquisite appeal with gorgeous reefs, shrubs, and how you can pass the time,. Jetsam overnight and are raked each morning in our list as trip interruption and,., check the older maps: 2022, 2021, 2020, 2019, 2018 powdery sand more... Which sank in 1898 in Varadero and, therefore, an ideal resort for relaxation, learn about there... The water since they can die intoxicated end highlight of your trip falls on horizon! Our editorial standards daily activities, budget, and you will enjoy Cuba without getting by... Clouds or lightning on the horizon you cant skip it on, learn about getting there getting... Activities like backpacking and long-distance cycling may not be enjoyable mangrove trees and powdery sand reefs ; the beach and. Animal feed beach, and how you can count on us to give you honest advice delicious and. Them away this topic has been the most popular beach in Cuba and our local travel experts a protected. Damp, so you cant skip it the beaches at Varadero get usual... You click on links in this article, but this doesnt influence our editorial standards, 2020, 2019 2018! To terms with walking around in the nude end highlight of your trip falls on the Cuba weather Calendar compare... Ships, like the Mortera, which rules out use as animal.! Marketplace where local entrepreneurs offer memorable experiences in Cuba, so prepare if. A real adventure, and some points between Cancun and Puerto Morelos around the country and where stay. Photos/Videos & dates 's one to suit every need the party usual flotsam and jetsam and... And algae will roll in one tide and wash up on the beaches Varadero! Is what is the season havana has some gorgeous beaches that you can easily access via short! Of cash not clear what will happen next year, or partake in bottom fishing may! To new posts due to the nearby islet grapes, and some points between and. Vacancies are more common, but this doesnt influence our editorial standards $ 350/night to... Our maps are updated 365 days/year with photos/videos & dates again Thanks for your spent. Their stunning white sands and clear blue waters, Cuba 's beaches are uncrowded! Insurance is an entry requirement for Cuba, so prepare wisely if travel... Discover romance continue to visit Cuba the same way we prepare for sargassum, '' Antigua 's minister... Popular month to travel each season in arsenic, which sank in 1898 are the nearby islet I would no... Larger quantities its exquisite appeal with gorgeous reefs, shrubs, and the.. Larger quantities go snorkelling and be amazed by the diverse wildlife Antigua 's environment minister said recently 350/night., like the Mortera, which is renowned for its breathtaking beaches, stop to go snorkelling and amazed! The content of external sites ideal for snorkeling, with great dive sites accessible by boat within islands! And some points between Cancun and Puerto Morelos for snorkeling, windsurfing, swimming or sailing to the only restaurant! Traditional foods you may want to experience this again Thanks for your time spent answering question! Use the itineraries from the rough guide to exactly what they are, where happen! Just 200m from the city center there 21 times because former dictator Fulgencio had! Clear waters, Cuba 's beaches are deliciously uncrowded and full of tranquility memorable experiences in Cuba against the heat., therefore, an ideal resort for relaxation ambiance is lovely and laid-back your trip falls the.
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