Visit a true paradise for snorkelers and marine wildlife enthusiasts from all over the world! The warm weather; white, sandy beaches, and crystalline waters make Cuba an ideal vacation spot and haven for snorkelers. Take a guided tour to the coral reef and explore the sea, or take advantage of the intimacy provided through snorkeling right from the beach. However you prefer to snorkel, Havana has you covered.
Cuba is located just 90 miles from Key West, Florida. With more than 3,500 miles of coastline, and four reef systems, the Caribbean island provides a plethora of snorkeling sites and opportunities. Perhaps that’s why more than 3 million people visit the island each year.
Cuba Under the Sea
Cuba’s expansive reef system covers thousands of miles yet is largely undisturbed due to a balance and regulation of fishing and tourism. This results in a healthier, more robust coral reef than can be found elsewhere in the world, which also provides one-of-a-kind snorkeling opportunities. In Havana, snorkeling sites are a short sail from the coast, and in some areas, snorkelers can walk to the reef from the beach.
The most famous portion of the coral reefs is the Gardens of the Queen (Jardines de la Reina), a pristine underwater paradise that has existed nearly undisturbed due to its distance from the shore. Located along the southern archipelagos of Cuba, the Gardens of the Queen is a closely watched oasis of marine life and wonder. The national park is perhaps the most popular spot on the island for fly fishing, diving and snorkeling.
But no matter where you go snorkeling on the island, you’re sure to find a busy underwater world full of colorful marine life. The reefs, seagrass and mangroves are interwoven around Havana resulting in a shared ecosystem that is unique to Cuba. Here you’ll find a mixture of fish, turtles and even sharks. Hawksbill turtles, snappers, barracuda, grouper, butterfly fish, angel fish, nurse sharks and even bull sharks can be spotted while you snorkel in various locations as each species goes about its daily routine of foraging, mating and surviving. Lobster, conch, seahorses, lemon sharks, reef sharks, lionfish, sponges and more are abundant in the reefs surrounding Cuba. The sights and experiences of snorkeling in Havana are unmatched in the world. Once you drop into the water, fish will greet you like a long-lost friend, and as you discover the beauty and splendor of the area, you’ll feel as though you’re part of a nature program on TV.
There have been more than 132 different types of fish spotted in Cuba’s coral reefs, with more than 40 types of coral and more than 80 species of sea stars, sponges, squids, anemones, crab, shrimp, jellyfish, algae, worms, sea urchins and more.
Sail & Snorkel
Snorkeling trips in Havana are a popular way to see some of the more guarded sections of the reef, including the Gardens of the Queen. In order to protect its natural resource, Cuba takes care to monitor the number of visitors who sail to the most popular snorkeling spots in Havana. This helps protect the reefs and ensure that no damage comes to the habitat or wildlife found there.
Havana snorkeling trips are perfect for groups or individuals, so whether you’re on your honeymoon or vacationing with your family, you won’t regret experiencing the amazing coral reefs.
Snorkel from the Beach
Havana, located on the north side of Cuba, offers the ideal spots for snorkeling from the beach. There are few places in the world where visitors can walk off the shore and find themselves among rich and diverse ecosystems like those found near Havana. With minimal planning required, you and your family can snorkel in the reefs.
Playa Jibacoa, east of the heart of Havana, is a local and tourist favorite for snorkeling from the beach. Here you will find an assortment of fish, including parrotfish and trumpetfish, that inhabit the reef, seagrass and coral walls. The reefs are found in shallower waters here, so it’s a great place for novice snorkelers to visit. And since it isn’t far from the beach, it’s a perfect way for your whole family to experience the reefs — even younger children. The waters off of Playa Jibacoa are relatively shallow, and in low tide, you can see the reefs protruding from the waters. Come back during high tide, and you can snorkel above the reefs for up-close views you can’t get elsewhere without diving below the water.
For more experienced snorkelers, head a little further out and you’ll find the coral drops abruptly. This is where you’ll find a greater expanse of reef and marine life in greater abundance. Divers frequent the area as well, so if you’re feeling adventurous, you may want to consider snorkeling and diving while in Havana.
Around Playa Bacuranao, the reef is abundant, providing a plethora of snorkeling spots. Playa Bacuranao is a hit with locals and tourists alike due to its close proximity to downtown Havana and the availability of food, drinks and accommodations. But if you want fewer crowds and more undersea activity, head over to Tarará, a resort complex that includes a marina at the mouth of the River Tarará. Here you’ll find a coral seabed teeming with colorful fish and a perfect spot for snorkeling, fishing and sailing.
Vacationer’s Paradise
Visitors have their pick from the many snorkeling locations offered on the island. Havana snorkeling is perhaps the most popular after the Gardens of the Queen due to the abundance of activities available in the capital. With more than 60 miles of coastline, Havana is a haven for beach and water activities, but many tourists come for the snorkeling and diving available. With more than 10 beaches, Havana has it all — food, entertainment, culture, and natural attractions, making it an ideal vacationing paradise. If you’re heading to Cuba, don’t miss out on the exciting and beautiful snorkeling Havana has to offer.