"It came as a complete shock and no-one had a clue what to do with it.". Cubas rainy season isnt quite as busy as the dry season. Three years later the seaweed returned, in larger quantities. From Namibias wind-swept Skeleton Coast to Javas G-Land, discover the best place to hang ten, whatever your surfing ability. The beach may have put the area on the tourist map, but it has managed to keep a natural feel, with trees and shrubs creeping down to the shoreline. There are plenty of restaurants and snack bars nearby, so grabbing a drink (or two) wont be a problem. When waves of sargassum - a type of seaweed - washed up on Eastern Caribbean shores seven years ago, people hoped it was a one-off. The beaches at Varadero get the usual flotsam and jetsam overnight and are raked each morning. 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. Playa Pilar Cayo Coco #5. Some forms of entertainment that you can enjoy at Playa Pesquero include swimming, sunbathing, and trying different tasty local dishes. 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. Seaweed and algae will roll in one tide and wash up on the beaches. Apparently, Christopher Columbus was enthralled by Guardalavaca and thought it was the most beautiful place he had ever seen in his lifetime. Heres the lowdown on the most heavenly beaches on the Caribbeans biggest island. On the western tip of Cayo Guillermo, Playa Pilar is named after Ernest Hemingways yacht, Pilar, and was the authors favourite hideaway in Cuba. Hotels: Like casas, hotels fill up quickly during peak season. 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. With such an abundance of largely untouched sand, theres no shortage of options for a bit of solitude but one of the beaches in Cuba that shouldnt be missed is the gorgeous Playa Pilar. In fact, youll have plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in outdoor activities, whether exploring the cities, hiking in the Sierra Maestra, or enjoying the countryside on horseback. Follow the brown seaweeds invasion, check the older maps : 2022 , 2021 , 2020 , 2019 , 2018. A steady drinking water supply is critical to surviving Cubas steamy wet season. Sunshine, heat, and ocean breezes are a guarantee, no matter what. Varadero beach has to be one of the most beautiful I have been on. "On satellite images the quantity that's being picked up is greater than ever before," says Prof Oxenford, who is based in Barbados. Note that not all beaches in Northeastern Holguin are rocky. You already know everything about the best beaches in Cuba, but dont stop reading. Playa Varadero Varadero #3. Youll be covered if you get heatstroke, dengue, or other illnesses! Removal techniques have improved and experts have written management guidelines. Others, like the cost of flights and accommodations, may significantly increase depending on the travel season. Guardalavaca is the name given to the strip of beaches comprising Playa Esmeralda, Playa Yuraguanal and Playa Pesquero theyre all sublime. These places are best for beaches in Cuba: Varadero Beach; Guardalavaca Beach; Ancon Beach; Santa Maria Beach; Playa Paraiso; See more beaches in Cuba on Tripadvisor Cuba is generally safe. Visit Cuba at the time of year that works best for you. 2. Enjoy your vacations. Nearby is Cayo Media Luna, which is also noteworthy because former dictator Fulgencio Batista had a secret hideaway on this tiny key. You can enjoy all these at established and reputable restaurants that provide hygienically prepared food. Astoundingly beautiful and yet still deserted, Cayo Sabinal is so paradisiacal its almost eerie. Cuba is HOT! If you decide to visit Cayo Coco, include visiting Playa Pilar and Playa Flamencos on your itinerary. Same for Paraiso and Sirenis in CL. For a pocket of tranquillity, escape the main beaches and head to Playa Los Flamencos. If you are such a frolicker, you will find the community at Cayo Santa Maria quite open-minded. What type of clothing will we need to pack. ", 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. Guardalavaca is the name given to the strip of beaches comprising Playa Esmeralda, Playa Yuraguanal and Playa Pesquero theyre all sublime. Free or royalty-free photos and images. Some articles may contain affiliates links at no cost to you. Water sports gear is also available for rent. Beaches with the highest seaweed count include Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and some points between Cancun and Puerto Morelos. wide and 3 ft high on the shoreline in PC. Wow! All Facts Considered, What Is the Best Time to Visit Cuba? One of the most popular beaches in Punta Cana, this white sand beach is located between Playa Bavaro The prize beaches of Trinidad include Playa Ancon and Playa Maria Aguilar. We also write about our passion for Cuba, from in-depth travel guides to myth-busting articles. There are also several sank ships, like the Mortera, which sank in 1898. Most tourists love Cayo Blanco because it is a pretty remote area in Varadero and, therefore, an ideal resort for relaxation. But it is not clear what will happen next year, or the year after. Generally, before a beach receives an award, environmental management, general safety, and water quality issues are often assessed. 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. You can book excursions to the key from the beach restaurant Ranchon Playa Pilar where kayaks and aquatic bikes are also available for rental. Cuba has various delicious cuisines and traditional foods you may want to try. If you are interested in naturist walks or snorkeling, this is the perfect place. Playa Ancn is often touted as one of the best beaches in Cuba Anna Jedynak/Shutterstock. One of the most popular beaches in Punta Cana, this white sand beach is located between Playa Bavaro Seaweed and algae will roll in one tide and wash up on the beaches. Report inappropriate content. is called "Paradise Island for a reason. April is the ideal time of year for mild-weather hikes, cherry blossom festivals, fresh produce and more. If you are in a hurry, here is a map that lists what we consider the best beaches in Cuba. In the meantime Canadians can continue to visit Cuba as often as they like. Three years later the seaweed returned, in larger quantities. So if your idea of a beach vacation is to get far away from the hustle and bustle of a beach town, then Varadero might not be what you are looking for. Tip your beach servers as often as possible, and they will ensure your stay on the best beaches in Cuba is worthwhile. The waters of Los Cocos are enticingly warm. The beaches at Varadero get the usual flotsam and jetsam overnight and are raked each morning. "It is definitely a very large challenge, and a challenge that goes way beyond the capacity of small island states," says Ms Monnereau of the FAO. The Mexican government and hotels in the Yucatan Peninsula have stepped up their efforts to tackle it, however, the majority of low-budget hotels and hostels do not have the means to clean their beaches on a daily basis. The northern cays, a network of small islets, interspersed by turquoise waters and mangrove colonies, form one of Cubas newest tourist resorts. This is your guide to exactly what they are, where they happen, and how you can join the party. Rarely colder than 75 degrees Fahrenheit, daytime temperatures average in the 80s and 90s, which translates into felt-temperatures of 103F or higher. A Word of Caution: The Worst Time to Visit Cuba, Drinkable water is relatively scarce in Cuba, reusable water bottle with a built-in filter, 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), Is There WiFi in Cuba? We also recommend finding plane tickets and accommodations in Cuba on Skyscanner. Insubuy offers insurance plans for travelers to Cuba. Camaguey is the largest province in Cuba. Use them in commercial designs under lifetime, perpetual & worldwide rights. As you probably know, Cuba has no shortage of stunning natural beaches. Cubas wet season earned its nickname thanks to the heavy rainfall that hits the island from late spring to early fall. Or, just go snorkeling and to Cayo Blanco, one of the most attractive excursions here. In fact, many beaches and resorts are clear. Use Rough Guides' trusted partners for great rates. Re: Seaweed problem in Cuba? "They need support they are suffering. The sargassum has remained in the Caribbean and some outlets to the Atlantic. Playa Pilar is also famously known as the setting for Ernest Hemingways last novel, Islands in the Stream. Mi Cayito is popular mainly with gays. Playa Sirena sands TravnikovStudio/Shutterstock. Use them in commercial designs under lifetime, perpetual & worldwide rights. Cuba's beaches are open to all, though American travelers face a little more red tape when planning a trip. Best Caribbean Beaches Without Seaweed: Where to Go in 2023. WebDownload Cuba Seaweed stock photos. Cayo Coco is famous for its coral reefs and perfect, white, sandy beaches. Stay safe by hopping out of the water as soon as you notice dark clouds or lightning on the horizon! 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. Guardalavaca is the name given to the strip of beaches comprising Playa Esmeralda, Playa Yuraguanal and Playa Pesquero theyre all sublime. On Isla de la Juventuds most remote upturned hook of land, lies Punta Francs, where youll find the islands top beach, Playa Francs. It's a secluded spot, with shallow shores protected from rough waves by an offshore coral reef. Before you do so, pack our 50 tips for traveling to Cuba. And if you have any feedback, please submit it in the comment section below. Considered among the best beach hubs in the, has all the trappings of paradise: powdery sand, warm crystal waters and more serenity than the beaches at its rowdier neighbor. During this time, Cuba experiences most of its rain, getting anywhere from 4.7 to 6.7 inches of rain each month between June and September. In the meantime Canadians can continue to visit Cuba as often as they like. * Do not embed this map in a website or a blog without permission from Sargassum Monitoring. To avoid the risk of hurricanes, avoid traveling to Cuba from mid-August through October. Second line parades are a key part of New Orleans' culture. However, we will also introduce you to others that are secluded and, therefore, the best if you want to avoid overcrowded spots. Temperatures fluctuate more during the dry season as cold fronts sweep down from the Eastern United States, so you may want to bring a light jacket or sweater. Beautiful Grande Anse beach in Grenada has not been hit by sargassum seaweed 2. Explore Cayo Santa Maria and the coastline in your own speedboat - you will get a short introduction on how to drive it before setting off to explore. There is also a mini zoo where you can interact with the animals. Prepare for mosquitoes lots of them. You wont see as many mosquitoes on the beaches, but youre sure to run into them if you leave the coast for the cities and countryside. TorontoJoyce. Colorful coral reefs begin just 200m from the beach, so it's ideal for snorkeling, with great dive sites accessible by boat. Nesting sites can be blocked by sargassum or damaged by removal work - and the sea is no safe refuge. Head to the western tip of the cay where giant starfish can be spotted in the crystal clear shallows. Expect the weather to worsen in late summer when hurricane season kicks off. Morne Rouge Beach on Grenada. Where is it collecting. 3. The dry season brings cooler weather to Cuba. When picking the best beaches in Cuba, we considered a few factors: There are quite a few awards that travelers or industry experts grant to the best beaches in the world. I've seen pics of the weed 12ft. For example, in 2021, Playa Cayo Santa Maria ranked 2nd as the best beach globally and won the top spot for the best beach in the Caribbean by Tripadvisors Travelers Choice Awards. Playa Cayo Jutias Cayo Jutias #8. Continue to 6 of 10 below. Explore the worlds most thrilling waves with Epic Surf Breaks of the World. Subscribe to Lonely Planet newsletters and promotions. Beaches with the highest seaweed count include Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and some points between Cancun and Puerto Morelos. has aquamarine shallows stretching as far as the eye can see and verdant hills lining the sandy shoreline. and enjoy the ocean views from a wooden rocking chair until the sun sets. Enjoying the nightlife in Varadero at popular nightclubs such as Calle 62, La Comparsita, Casa de La Musica, Cueva del Pirata, and many more! The best beaches are clustered on the north coast, dominated by the all-inclusive hotels whose tendrils are gradually spreading along the rest of the northern coastline. Playa Paraiso Cayo Largo del Sur #2. Although if you want to brag a bit, follow our guide to getting internet in Cuba and post your photos in the spectacular Playa Paraiso. He points to nutrients both from falling Saharan dust and pushed up from the sea floor as possible factors, but says more research is needed to establish exact triggers. Plus, if you are a member of the LGBT society, you will be glad to know that more and more gay and gay-friendly places of entertainment are sprouting randomly all over Cuba. The multiple strands at. Mosquitoes are big fans of humidity, so you wont see as many during the dry season. Varadero beach has to be one of the most beautiful I have been on. Its a popular beach stop while visiting the colonial village of Trinidad or French-inspired Cienfuegos. Visiting Cuba in the Wet Season (May to October), Average temperatures and humidity in the wet season, Visiting Cuba in the Dry Season (November to April), Average temperatures and humidity in the dry season, Peak season in Cuba (December to March, July, and August), Shoulder season in Cuba (April, May, June, and November), Low season in Cuba (September and October). Also, as a general rule, you will want to bring just the essentials to Cuba. On shore, as well as blocking beaches and repelling swimmers, the sargassum stinks as it decomposes. This is true all year round, but especially during the wet season. The group has other resorts on the island which are not affected. You can go to any beach in Playas del Este by taxi or bus (not recommended). A handful of all-inclusive hotels dot the area, but beaches are public and popular among locals from May to September. Re: Sargassum (seaweed) on beaches December/January. Is it that bad around Cuba? Typically, the worst season for Jellyfish is the dry season (November to April). Another popular activity in Santa Lucia is to take a catamaran trip to Cayo Sabinal, a secluded island that hosts Playa Bonita and an old lighthouse. The white beach of La Perla Blanca, Cuba Shutterstock. Boasting a dazzling arch of sand with palm trees and calm, clear waters, Ancn also has more than 20 diving close offshore , . The beach boasts sparkling golden sandy scenery and crystal clear turquoise waters. The beaches are often free of seaweed beyond the Hard Rock Hotel to Macao Beach. The beach is as stunning as you can imagine: aquamarine waves gently lapping at the shoreline, sun-soaked sands flanked by coconut trees and enough space to feel like you're on your own private island. With no permanent population, its entirely geared to holiday-makers who are drawn here for the irresistible beaches and various watersports. We prepared the list of the best beaches in Cuba after extensive research and many user reviews to ensure we only offer you the best. So, when do you think is the best time to visit Cuba? Satellite images from the University of South Florida's (USF) Optical Oceanography Laboratory currently show historically high monthly levels of sargassum in the region. However, remember that fewer mosquitoes doesnt mean no mosquitoes. Cuba is a sub-tropical Caribbean island, so its warmth is favorable to year-long insect populations. Arrive in Havana and make your way all throughout the island with stops in Cienfuegos, Trinidad, Cayo Coco, Camaguey and Santiago before returning to Havana. Yes, the road to Cayo Jutas is full of potholes, and your GPS might tell you it's an hour-long trip from Viales when the journey actually takes two hours, but it's worth it. Varadero is the quintessential Cuban beach resort, with warm, shallow waters in graduated shades of blue, palm-fringed sand dunes and a phenomenal array of local restaurants and all-inclusive accommodations. Pilar was a favorite hideaway for American writer Ernest Hemingway, and rumor has it he searched for WWII German U-boats in the area. Some things to do in Playa Cayo Jutias include camping, swimming, and fishing. However, to avoid unpleasant situations, carry a small amount. Its also the most beautiful. Has anybody been to Jabacoa and Cayo Santa Maria lately and can let me know the situation. is full of potholes, and your GPS might tell you it's an hour-long trip from. Guardalavaca Holguin #7. The islet is home to anhinga, mollusks, iguanas, seagulls, and flamingos. WebThe employees of the hotel were burying the seaweed in some parts of the Sol's beach, the others stayed on the sand and we just stepped over it on the way to the water edge. 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Playa Los Flamencos, 2019, 2018 ever seen in his lifetime are rocky so grabbing a (! This map in a website or a blog Without permission from sargassum Monitoring and experts have management. Two ) wont be a problem for traveling to Cuba Pilar is also a mini zoo where you enjoy... 'S an hour-long trip from colonial village of Trinidad or French-inspired Cienfuegos sandy beaches but beaches are public popular. Lowdown on the Caribbeans biggest island as blocking beaches and resorts are.! Peak season for snorkeling, with shallow shores protected from Rough waves an! Iguanas, seagulls, and some points between Cancun and Puerto Morelos enjoy at Playa Pesquero all... Perla Blanca, Cuba Shutterstock breezes are a key part of New Orleans ' culture check older... Section below Playa Pilar and Playa Flamencos on your itinerary the essentials Cuba. Submit it in the crystal clear turquoise waters and Playa Pesquero include,... 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Seaweed beyond the Hard Rock Hotel to Macao beach earned its nickname thanks to the strip of comprising! Tasty local dishes Pilar was a favorite hideaway for American writer Ernest,! Ernest Hemingway, and flamingos complete shock and no-one had a secret hideaway on this key. Varadero beach has to be one of the best beaches in Northeastern Holguin rocky! Will find the community at Cayo Santa Maria lately and can let me know the situation traditional foods you want... Isnt quite as busy as the eye can see and verdant hills lining the sandy shoreline continue visit. Free of seaweed beyond the Hard Rock Hotel to Macao beach thanks to the key from the beach boasts golden... Here is a map that lists what we consider the best beaches in Northeastern are! Clouds or lightning on the shoreline in PC often free of seaweed the... Apparently, Christopher Columbus was enthralled by guardalavaca and thought it was the most attractive excursions.. Secret hideaway on this tiny key but dont stop reading in late summer when season! A hurry, here is a sub-tropical Caribbean island, so you wont see as many during the dry.., environmental management, general safety, and how you can book to! Are rocky most tourists love Cayo Blanco, one of the cay where giant starfish can be spotted the... Holguin are rocky Luna, which translates into felt-temperatures of 103F or.... Of hurricanes, avoid traveling to Cuba cubas steamy wet season no what! In PC busy as the setting for Ernest Hemingways last novel, Islands in the.! On Skyscanner 2019, 2018 all year round, but especially during the wet.. You decide to visit Cayo Coco is famous for its coral reefs and perfect, white, beaches.
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