While most people travel to Havana to spend their time exploring the beautiful old city, just east of all the glorious old architecture is a series of white-sand beaches, known as the Playas del Este.
On a recent trip, we decided to stay in the beach area and have the best of both worlds as our resort provided a free shuttle into Old Havana.
The string of beaches stretches 24 kms along the north coast. While the beaches here are a gorgeous white sand, palm tree-lined, turquoise water heaven, the accompanying resorts aren’t exactly luxurious. Many of them have a worn down appearance as most are over 50 years old, but for those wishing to spend their time in the city or enjoying the beaches, they are just fine.
Hotel Atlantico from the water
Our resort was located on Playa Santa Maria del Mar, one of the most popular beaches, where many of the international resorts are located.
Weekends can get very busy with locals heading out to relax and parking lots soon fill up with vintage cars and mopeds.
The crystal clear turquoise waters are perfect for swimming and snorkelling to check out a variety of fish.
But the best part was the incredible sunsets!
Getting there: The beach area is about 20 kms away from Old Havana.
You can take the Habana Bus Tour tourist bus Line 3, which runs from Old Havana to the beaches at Cojímar, Bacuranao and Santa Maria del Mar daily from 9am-6pm for 5 CUC.
A taxi will cost around 15 CUC each way. Be sure to set the price before leaving.
Tales of a Travel Addict 
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