By Paul Oswell
As a Caribbean Island, Cuba of course has some amazing sites if you want to snorkel, scuba dive, do watersports and see some amazing underwater wildlife. Here’s our guide to the best aquatic spots!
Where to go: Arroyo Bermejo Beach
The water’s lovely: This is a small, secluded beach that lies tucked between the cliffs at the mouth of the Rio Jibacoa, about three kilometres east of Santa Cruz del Norte. The beauty here is that the coral reefs lie close to shore, so it’s perfect for even beginners for snorkelling. Watch the many fish darting around in the coral in the jade and blue waters. Come up for air and admire the peaks, which loom over the bay, blessing it with fantastic scenery.
Stay a while: Breezes Jibacoa is nestled in the lush mountains of Cuba’s north coast. Wander down to the beach for the afternoon before heading back to the quiet 19 acres of grounds.
Where to go: Varadero Beach
The water’s lovely: Perhaps the most famous beach in all of Cuba. As well as the glorious sands, Varadero has a special reason to head out on the water, namely the array of virgin cays – low lying sad islands that are easily accessed by boat. Yachts and smaller boats are readily available for hire and charter, or for the more adventurous, it’s possible to join deep sea fishing trips here and head out to catch the night’s supper.
Stay a while: Melia Las Americas is an adults-only, all-inclusive resort with a range of restaurants and watersport equipment hire. It’s also next to Cuba’s only golf course!
Where to go: Cayo Coco
The water’s lovely: Cayo Coco is an enormous natural aquarium, and many say that has the best range of beautiful fish in the Caribbean. There are four scuba-diving centres serving this natural wonderland of clear waters, and divers will be treated to close up encounters with Parrotfish, Yellowtail Snappers, Angelfish, anemones and Spiny Lobsters.
Stay a while: Designed along the theme of a typical Caribbean village, Tryp Cayo Coco is a beachfront paradise for couples and families. There are two freeform swimming pools for non-divers.
Where to go: Trinidad
The water’s lovely: As a seaside town, Trinidad has its own beaches, of course, but the real adventure starts when you hop aboard a catamaran tour. About 20 miles out from Trinidad lies one of the most breathtaking sights in Cuba, and one scenic Catamaran ride later, you’re at Iguana Island. The clue is in the name, and its resident reptiles sit sunning themselves all across the beach. The waters here are also perfect for snorkelling, and you can see Trumpet Fish, Groupers, Angel and Butterfly fish.
Stay a while: The Brisas Trinidad del Mar combines a beachside location with ease of access to one of Cuba’s most fascinating colonial towns. The hotel is overlooked by the beautiful Escambray Mountains.
Where to go: Cayo Ensenachos
The water’s lovely: If you’re looking for a tranquil spot with calm waters to just swim and play with the family, it’s hard to think of a better beach than Cayo Ensenachos. Not only is it regarded as one of the country’s best looking beaches, but its position behind Cayo Santa Maria gives it shelter, making it ideal for paddling, swimming and learning to snorkel in safety. A range of watersports equipment is also available for hire if you’re feeling more energetic.
Stay a while: The Royal Hideaway Ensenachos is definitely the regal choice in this part of Cuba. Private grounds surround the suites and spa, making sure you’re as secluded as can be.
Paul Oswell is a freelance travel writer, who writes regularly for the Daily Mail and travelmail.co.uk