Santa María del Mar Beach
A stunning East Havana beach with crystal-clear waters, fine sand, and vibrant local vendors offering food and drinks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Quieter, more relaxed atmosphere
Santa María del Mar Beach
Best Time
Quieter, more relaxed atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A stunning East Havana beach with crystal-clear waters, fine sand, and vibrant local vendors offering food and drinks.
"Paradise beach with crystal clear water and fine sand, a must-visit near Havana!"
🚗 Easy Day Trip from Havana
Just a 30-40 min ride from Havana's center, perfect for a quick beach escape. 🚗
💰 Affordable Chair Rentals
Rent chairs and umbrellas for a small fee (around 2 CUC) for ultimate beach comfort. :moneybag:
Quick Facts
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crystal Clear Waters
Shoreline
Immerse yourself in the stunning, crystal-clear turquoise waters perfect for a refreshing dip.
Fine Sandy Shores
Beachfront
Sink your toes into soft, fine sand that stretches along the coastline, ideal for sunbathing.
Attentive Beachside Service
Beach vendors
Enjoy friendly vendors offering food, cocktails, and rental chairs with attentive service.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Weekday Escape to Paradise
East Havana's Coastal Gem
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Beaches near Havana
Planning a week vacation in Havana. We would like to go to a beach for a couple of days. Would it be convenient to take day trips to a beach near Havana, and still go back to our Airbnb in Havana, or it would be just better to go to another city (mayve Varadero) and stay there…
🚗 Easy Day Trip from Havana
Just a 30-40 min ride from Havana's center, perfect for a quick beach escape. 🚗
💰 Affordable Chair Rentals
Rent chairs and umbrellas for a small fee (around 2 CUC) for ultimate beach comfort. :moneybag:
🍹 Strong & Tasty Drinks
Sip on potent and delicious cocktails from beachside vendors. 🍸
🏖️ Enjoy the Fine Sand
Relax on the soft, fine sand that makes this beach a true paradise. :beachwithumbrella:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Day Trip from Havana
Just a 30-40 min ride from Havana's center, perfect for a quick beach escape. 🚗
💰 Affordable Chair Rentals
Rent chairs and umbrellas for a small fee (around 2 CUC) for ultimate beach comfort. :moneybag:
🍹 Strong & Tasty Drinks
Sip on potent and delicious cocktails from beachside vendors. 🍸
🏖️ Enjoy the Fine Sand
Relax on the soft, fine sand that makes this beach a true paradise. :beachwithumbrella:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Santa María del Mar Beach is lauded for its crystal-clear waters and fine sand, offering a beautiful and relaxing escape just a short drive from Havana. Visitors appreciate the attentive beachside service, affordable rentals, and strong cocktails. While generally serene, it can get busier on weekends.
"Paradise beach with crystal clear water and fine sand. The beach is located in East Havana, just a 30-40 minute ride from Havana's center. It is a local beach so on weekends it could be a little busy but on weekdays it is almost empty. Some sellers offer drinks and food. Overall, you will have a nice experience 😎"
Jss'Luis
"Beautiful beach, crystal blue sea.
The sand is fine, the beach is neat, and the sunny furniture is not expensive.
You can also drink and eat something on the beach.
Real enjoyment."
Aleksandra Nesic
"A very beautiful beach full of friendly vendors!!! Highly recommended"
Sauce Lord
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Santa María del Mar Beach is conveniently located in East Havana, about a 30-40 minute drive from the city center. Taxis or private car services are readily available from Havana. Your casa owner can also often help arrange transportation.
Absolutely! It's a popular day trip destination from Havana, offering a refreshing break from the city. You can easily return to your accommodation in Havana the same day.
For families with children, a private taxi or pre-arranged car service offers the most comfort and flexibility. The relatively short travel time makes it manageable for younger travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Santa María del Mar Beach itself. You pay for optional services like chair and umbrella rentals.
Rental chairs and umbrellas are available and are generally inexpensive, often around 2 CUC.
Beach services like food and drink vendors, and chair rentals are typically available throughout the day, especially during peak seasons. It's best to check locally for specific hours.
🎫 🏖️ Onsite Experience
The water is described as crystal clear and beautiful. While the initial entry is sandy, some reviews mention the bottom can become hard and rough further out.
Yes, there are sellers offering food and cocktails directly on the beach. The food is noted as excellent, though potentially a bit pricey.
On weekdays, the beach is often almost empty and very quiet. It can get a little busy on weekends as it's a popular local spot.
While not explicitly detailed in all reviews, typical beach amenities like restrooms are usually available, though their condition can vary.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the crystal-clear turquoise water, the fine sandy shores, and the vibrant beach scene with vendors and umbrellas. Sunsets can also be beautiful here.
Early mornings or late afternoons offer softer light for photography and fewer crowds. Weekdays provide a more serene backdrop for your shots.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit