Havana - Playas del Este

Just a short drive from Havana's city center visitors will find a long stretch of beach that runs for miles, called Playas del Este. This is a great alternative for visitors to Havana who are unable to make it out to the more remote beach resorts in other parts of Cuba. Along Playas del Este are hotels, restaurants, and all the regular tourist facilities. The beach is divided up into sections, with one of the best portions at Santa Maria del Mar. This is arguably the best stretch of beach and is popular with tourists. Crime has sometimes been a problem at Playas del Este but Santa Maria del Mar is patrolled and has brought the problem under control. Another beautiful section is at Guanabo, although this is more of a locals spot with less by way of accommodation and tourist services.

For being so close to a major city, Playas del Este is a surprisingly nice beach area.