Snorkeling in Cuba
Cuba’s sea bed has coral reefs running along the coastline of the entire Island. Cuba boasts over 300 beaches and keys, 20 cave formations and more than 150 species of fish from the Atlantic Ocean. Snorkeling in the waters of Cuba’s marine platform is a veritable paradise – with gorgonians (order Gorgonacea), sponges (Spongia spp., Euspongia spp., Hippospongia spp., Demospongia spp.) and a wide variety of colorful fish submerged in its corals. There are also many caves that serve as a refuge for multiple forms of sea life.
Cuban waters are warm and transparent, with temperatures that vary between 23 C and 30 C with a visibility of 20-30 meters. There are various seaports and places of great beauty where one can practice water sports in all its forms, including snorkeling.
Things you should about snorkeling in Cuba
• The best beach near Havana for snorkeling is Jibacoa Beach about 1 hour drive from Havana. You can stay at Breezes Jibacoa Hotel for around 60.00 CUC per person per night.
• If you are an avid snorkeling fan you should take your own equipment.
• Off the beach at Playa Pesquero there is a decent depth for shore snorkeling and variety of species. You can find schools of squid and the odd moray.
• Playa Pesquero near Guardalavaca is excellent to introduce your kids to the world of snorkel. Coral reefs are just meters off the shore.
• If you are staying in Guardalavaca you can book a picnic/snorkeling excursion to Pesquero.
• Playa Esmeralda near Guardalavaca is highly recommended for snorkeling.
• Playa Las Colorados in Cayo Coco has great snorkeling too. Right in front of Sol Club Cayo Coco you can find some nice big barracudas.
• No jewellery, bright colors or freaking out when that big barracuda comes in for a much closer look.