12 Secret Beaches To Lay Your Towel On In Cuba
Think you know Cuba? Think again. Beyond the rhythm of Havana and the colorful charm of Trinidad lies an entirely different side of the island—one that whispers instead of shouts.
Imagine stumbling upon a beach where the only footprints in the sand are your own, where the water is so clear it looks like melted glass, and where the only soundtrack is the breeze rustling through palms. That’s the magic of Cuba’s hidden coastline.
From Playa Maguana in the east to Cayo Jutías in the west, these secluded gems invite you to slow down, unplug, and soak in the kind of peace you didn’t know you needed. I once spent an entire afternoon on a beach here without seeing another soul—and it felt like the world hit pause. Ready to swap the crowds for calm?
1. Playa Sirena, Cayo Largo
When you step onto Playa Sirena, you’ll understand why locals call it paradise found. This remote gem sits on Cayo Largo, accessible only by small plane or boat from the mainland.
The powdery white sand stretches for miles without a single hotel or restaurant in sight. Crystal-clear waters lap gently at the shore, perfect for swimming and snorkeling among colorful fish.
Bring everything you need for the day since amenities are nonexistent here. The journey takes effort, but you’ll have one of Cuba’s most beautiful beaches almost entirely to yourself.
2. Playa Maguana, Baracoa
How many beaches can claim they’re backed by rainforest-covered mountains? Playa Maguana near Baracoa offers this rare combination of dark sand and dramatic landscape.
The volcanic sand creates a striking contrast against the emerald waters of Cuba’s eastern coast. Coconut palms provide natural shade while you listen to waves crash against nearby rock formations.
Local fishermen sometimes pull their boats onto shore here, but tourists rarely venture this far from Havana. The drive through winding mountain roads adds to the adventure of discovering this hidden coastal treasure.
3. Playa Esmeralda, Holguín
It’s easy to see how Playa Esmeralda earned its name when you witness the incredible emerald hues of its waters. This protected cove near Holguín remains largely unknown to international visitors.
Natural coral reefs create a living barrier that keeps the water calm and incredibly clear. You can walk out quite far before the water reaches your waist, making it ideal for families with children.
Small beach shacks run by local families occasionally sell fresh coconut water and grilled fish. The lack of development means you’ll share this stunning location with only a handful of Cuban families on weekends.
4. Cayo Saetía Beach
Where else can you sunbathe while zebras and antelopes graze nearby? Cayo Saetía combines beach paradise with an unexpected wildlife preserve experience.
This small island off Cuba’s northern coast hosts African animals that roam freely across the landscape. The beaches here remain completely undeveloped, offering pure white sand and incredibly blue water.
Getting here requires booking a day trip through local tour operators in Holguín or Guardalavaca. The boat ride takes about an hour, but you’ll arrive at one of the most unique beach destinations in the Caribbean. Pack your camera for both beach shots and wildlife encounters.
5. Playa Larga, Bay of Pigs
History buffs will appreciate lounging on the same shores where the famous Bay of Pigs invasion took place. Playa Larga offers calm, shallow waters perfect for swimming and incredible snorkeling opportunities.
The nearby Zapata Swamp creates a unique ecosystem where saltwater meets freshwater. You might spot flamingos, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species during your beach day.
Local casa particulares serve the freshest seafood you’ll find anywhere in Cuba. The combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and authentic Cuban culture makes this beach unforgettable. Most tourists rush past on their way to other destinations, missing this peaceful coastal gem completely.
6. Playa Ancón, Trinidad
Though technically near the UNESCO World Heritage city of Trinidad, most visitors never make it to Playa Ancón’s quieter eastern sections. Walk about a mile from the main beach area to find your private paradise.
The sand here rivals any Caribbean destination, and the water temperature stays perfect year-round. Local vendors sell fresh fruit and cold drinks, but they’re not pushy like at resort beaches.
Rent a bicycle in Trinidad and pedal the scenic coastal road to reach this beach. The ride takes about 20 minutes and offers stunning views of the Escambray Mountains. You’ll work up an appetite for the excellent seafood served at nearby family-run restaurants.
7. Playa Flamenco, Cayo Coco
Are you ready to share your beach day with actual flamingos? Playa Flamenco on Cayo Coco offers this magical experience when conditions are right and the birds visit the shallow lagoons.
The beach stretches for kilometers with barely another soul in sight. Crystal-clear water and soft white sand create the perfect tropical setting for a day of complete relaxation.
Bring binoculars to spot the incredible variety of seabirds that call this area home. The flamingos appear most often during early morning and late afternoon hours. Even without the birds, this remains one of Cuba’s most spectacular and least crowded beaches.
8. Playa Paraíso, Cayo Largo
When Cubans name a beach ‘Paradise,’ you know it must be something special. Playa Paraíso lives up to its name with some of the finest sand and clearest water you’ll find anywhere in the Caribbean.
The beach faces west, making it perfect for spectacular sunset viewing. During the day, the water stays shallow for hundreds of meters, creating natural pools perfect for floating and relaxing.
Sea turtles nest here during certain seasons, and you might be lucky enough to witness this incredible natural phenomenon. The remoteness means bringing your own food and drinks, but the pristine beauty makes every bit of preparation worthwhile.
9. María la Gorda Beach, Pinar del Río
Did you know Cuba has some of the best diving in the Caribbean? María la Gorda serves as the gateway to pristine coral reefs while offering an excellent beach experience above water too.
The drive here through Pinar del Río province takes you through tobacco farms and stunning countryside. Once you arrive, you’ll find a small, family-run operation that feels like stepping back in time.
Even non-divers will love the calm, clear water perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The coral formations start just meters from shore, making it easy to explore underwater gardens. Basic accommodations and meals are available, allowing you to extend your stay at this remote coastal paradise.
10. Playa Prohibida, Varadero
How ironic that a beach called ‘Forbidden’ offers the most freedom from crowds in tourist-heavy Varadero. This hidden section sits at the peninsula’s far eastern end, accessible only by walking or cycling.
The sand quality matches Varadero’s famous main beaches, but you’ll have it almost entirely to yourself. Natural vegetation provides shade, and the water stays calm thanks to offshore coral formations.
Bring water and snacks since no vendors reach this remote area. The walk from central Varadero takes about 45 minutes, but you’ll be rewarded with a slice of paradise that most resort guests never discover. It’s the perfect escape when you need solitude.
11. Playa Bonita, Baracoa
Though its name simply means ‘Pretty Beach,’ Playa Bonita near Baracoa exceeds such modest expectations. The dramatic backdrop of El Yunque mountain makes this one of Cuba’s most photogenic coastal spots.
Local families from Baracoa visit on weekends, but weekdays often find you completely alone with nature. The sand has a unique pinkish tint from crushed coral and shells mixed with volcanic minerals.
Fresh river water flows into the ocean here, creating interesting temperature variations as you swim. Coconut palms provide natural shade, and you can often buy fresh coconuts directly from local farmers. The combination of mountain views and pristine beach creates an unforgettable Cuban experience.
12. Playa Los Pinos, Cayo Levisa
Where pine trees meet Caribbean waters, you’ll discover one of Cuba’s most unusual beach environments. Playa Los Pinos on Cayo Levisa combines tropical paradise with unexpected mountain forest vibes.
The island sits just off Cuba’s northern coast but feels like a different world entirely. Crystal-clear water perfect for swimming meets a shoreline shaded by aromatic pine trees instead of typical palm groves.
Getting here requires a short boat ride from the mainland, which keeps visitor numbers low. The island has basic accommodations if you want to stay overnight and wake up to empty beaches. Snorkeling gear rentals are available, revealing colorful coral gardens just offshore from this unique coastal retreat.