Malecón

El Malecón

A roughly 8-km seafront boulevard and seawall. At sunset, locals sit on the wall to fish, court, and play music, making it “Havana's sofa.”

El Malecón is a seafront boulevard and seawall stretching about 8 km along Havana's northern shore. Construction began in 1901 during the American occupation and was extended in sections into the 1950s, running from the Castillo de la Punta at the harbour mouth of the old town to the mouth of the Almendares River in Vedado. Beyond the wall lies the Straits of Florida. Inland is a row of weathered 19th- and 20th-century buildings with arcades, some restored and others crumbling under the sea air, forming Havana's most iconic scene. Locals call the Malecón “the city's biggest sofa.” From evening until late at night, fishermen, couples, young guitarists, and peanut-cone vendors sit on the seawall, making it the best place to experience everyday Cuban life. Recommended route: start at the Castillo de la Punta in the old town and walk west or take a vintage car, passing the Morro Castle and lighthouse on the opposite bank, Antonio Maceo Park (equestrian statue of General Antonio Maceo), the Hotel Nacional in Vedado (built in 1930, where Churchill, gangsters, and Hollywood stars have all stayed, and whose garden terrace is perfect for a drink with a sea view), and the Anti-Imperialist Plaza in front of the former US Embassy. The walk takes about 2 hours in total. Set out about 1 hour before sunset and finish on the terrace of the Hotel Nacional or at a restaurant in Vedado. When northern cold fronts arrive in winter, huge waves may wash over the seawall onto the road. It is spectacular but mind your safety. Thieves and touts are occasionally found along the seawall at night, so keep your belongings secure.

Malecón

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Places to eat nearby