Beach & Entry
Surface, sand, water entry and bottom
Surface Type
Main surface type
sand
Sand Color
Main sand colour
white
Water Entry
How steep the drop-off is
gentle
Shallow Distance
Metres to waist-deep water
25 m
Bottom Type
Main bottom type
sand
Water Shoes
Whether special footwear is needed
not needed
Beach Length
Beach length in metres
1 974 m
Frequently asked questions
Playa Guanabo: what is the water like at this beach?
At this beach, water colour — turquoise, clarity moderate, average temperature +26.0°C, warms up to +29.0°C in the warmest season. Check the exact temperature by month in the chart section.
Playa Guanabo: what are the waves like and is it safe to swim?
Waves at this beach are — calm. Average wave height — 0.5 m. Calm water is great for families with children and those who prefer not to deal with strong swell.
Playa Guanabo: what is the water entry and bottom like?
Water entry is — gentle. The shallow area extends for 25 metres from the shore. Bottom — sand. Special shoes are not required — the water entry is comfortable. The gentle slope is safe for children and inexperienced swimmers.
Playa Guanabo: what kind of sand and surface does the beach have?
Beach surface — sand. Sand colour — white. Texture — fine. Beach length — 1 974 metres.
Playa Guanabo: when is the swimming season?
The swimming season starts in December. It ends in April. The best month for a holiday is January. This is when the water is warmest and the weather is most comfortable.
Playa Guanabo: is it safe to swim?
Water quality is rated as moderate. Rip currents are unlikely. Jellyfish risk — low. Always watch for warning signs and follow lifeguards instructions.
Playa Guanabo: which dangerous creatures live in the water?
The water contains: Sharks (hammerhead, bull, tiger — rare), Mosquitoes, Sea urchins. We recommend wearing protective footwear, not touching marine life and taking care when entering the water.
Playa Guanabo: what infrastructure is available on the beach?
The beach offers: parking. All amenities are listed in the "Infrastructure" section above.
Playa Guanabo: are there lifeguards and a first aid station?
Lifeguards are on duty on the beach — an important safety factor.
Playa Guanabo: where can I eat near the beach?
Popular places nearby: Local Restaurants. Cuisines available: Cuban, Seafood. See the "Infrastructure" section for details.
Playa Guanabo: what should I bring to the beach?
We recommend bringing: SPF50+ cream, Water, Towel, Swimsuit, Flip-flops, Cash, Hat, Sunglasses, First aid kit.
Playa Guanabo: when is the best time to swim?
The best time for swimming is the dry season from December to April. In the morning the water is calmer and there are fewer people. On weekends the beach is popular with locals.
Playa Guanabo: what are the rules and restrictions on the beach?
Swim in the area marked by buoys. Do not leave litter. Follow water safety rules.
Playa Guanabo: what activities are available?
The beach offers: kayaking and SUP. See the "Activities" section above for details.
Playa Guanabo: who is this beach best for?
Ideal for locals and travellers seeking an authentic Cuban beach experience near Havana. Suitable for families with children. Not suitable for those seeking crystal clear water and solitude.
Playa Guanabo: what makes this beach unique?
The beach is located at the mouth of the Guanabo River. The name has Indigenous origins (Taíno or Siboney) and means "Palms" or "Lagoon".
Playa Guanabo: what are the pros and cons of the beach?
Pros: Close to Havana (27 km), Authentic atmosphere, Warm water, Fine white sand, Local restaurants and cafes, Free access, Relaxed atmosphere. Cons: Beach erosion and critical environmental situation, Water not as clear as Varadero, Crowded on weekends, Limited infrastructure, Sand not as white.
Playa Guanabo: what is near the beach?
Nearby you can visit: Havana, Playas del Este Beaches. Detailed descriptions in the "Nearby" section above.
Playa Guanabo: how do I get to the city of Havana?
The beach is located near the city of Havana. Full information about the city — hotels, restaurants, attractions, transport — is available on the
city page for Havana.