Playas del Este (Santa María del Mar)
Playas del Este
A stretch of white-sand beaches about 20 km east of Havana. Santa María Beach has fine sand and clear water, making it a good alternative to Varadero for enjoying the Caribbean.
Playas del Este is a chain of beaches including Santa María, Boca Ciega and Guanabo. Santa María is the most popular, with fine white sand and turquoise water. You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, and beach bars sell coconuts and mojitos. Tourist buses leave from Central Park at irregular times; a taxi takes about 30 minutes. The beach facilities are simpler than in Varadero, so keep valuables with you and remember sun protection.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Cojímar
- Finca Vigía (Hemingway House)
- Christ of Havana
- Havana Club Rum Museum
- Plaza de San Francisco de Asís
- Plaza de Armas & Castillo de la Real Fuerza
- Calle Obispo
- Hotel Ambos Mundos