Many tourists have asked me whether there is a beach in Havanа. My automatic answer is no, although nearby the neighbourhood of Nautico, 7-8 km west of Vedado, there is a closed-type summer complex, where you can find the only spot on the territory of Havanа with fine sand since the Cuban capital coastline is rather rocky, covered with sharp stones and reefs.
Another spot suitable for sunbathing near Havanа is the long and vast beaches Playas del Este, known also as Santa Maria. They can be found 20 km east on the way to Guanabо in the direction towards the most popular Cuban resort Varadero. Here are some self-made photos:
Habana Club is also known as The Diplomats’ Beach. There are diplomats here, indeed, because of the international residence located in close proximity. You will meet no locals here and one of the main reasons for this is the entrance fee of 25 cucs /around 28 euro/. Read here more about Cuban currency. In return for the fee, you receive a card, which allows you to consume food and drinks at the price of around 20/25 cucs, and the rest is left for access to the complex. The beach is not a big one – it is as long as 200 m. Here are some of my photos:
Except for its golden fine sand Club Habana boasts an open swimming pool, fitness hall, a beach restaurant, as well as a tennis court. For the most spoilt ones, there are also a massage studio and a hairdresser’s parlour. The yacht port of Havanа, named after Ernest Hemingway, is also located nearby. You are given access to Habana Club only after you show your passport. However, if you don’t fancy paying an entrance fee and carrying your passport around, you can simply visit the vast Santa Maria beaches outside of Havanа. A taxi drive there will cost you 20-30 cucs one way.
