Guardalavaca is located at the eastern end of the northern coast of Cuba, in Halguin Province. It is a small town which in the past made its living from sugar cane, but now tourism has taken over and it is very easy to see why. Beach lovers flock to its swathes of soft white sand and its warm translucent waters. It is a relaxing resort where days are spent sunbathing by the pool and on the beach or enjoying some of the many water sports and recreational facilities. Most of the hotels are all-inclusive and provide the evening entertainment. The beaches in the area include Guardalavaca, Playa Esmerelda and Playa Pesquero of which Guardalavaca is the main one and benefits from a small shopping centre. A mini train links the beaches. Guardalavaca’s long beach is backed by a palm fringed promenade where vibrant flowers cascade from pots and baskets. The resort is truly an idyllic spot.
A Cuba holiday provides some of the best beaches in the Caribbean with soft sand and warm waters and Guardalavaca has plenty of both. There is wide provision of leisure pursuits including swimming with dolphins, deep sea fishing, snorkelling and scuba diving.
A Guardalavaca holiday is popular with a wide variety of people. Families with small children delight in the all-inclusive holiday packages knowing that it will cater for their every need. Couples of all ages will enjoy the romance of the island while water sport enthusiasts will find plenty to occupy their days.
All of Cuba enjoys a balmy, subtropical climate making this remarkable island a great place to visit at any time of the year. The annual average temperature is 25 degrees Celsius, with summer heat peaking around 30 degrees. Daytime temperatures in winter rarely dropping below 18 degrees C. Rain falls mostly in the summer and autumn, and while there can also be torrential downpours at any time they are usually short lasting. The main hurricane season in Cuba is between August and October, so it's important to watch weather forecasts if you are booking your Guardalavaca holiday in this period.
Guardalavaca, on the north eastern coast of Cuba, is one of eh most relaxing beaches on the island. It has a superb white sandy beach which slopes very gently into the warm turquoise sea. A pretty palm shaded promenade lines the beach and out in the clear waters is a healthy coral reef teeming with life. There are three main beaches in the area and if you fancy a change of scene you can take the connecting road train. Those who enjoy more active holidays can participate in various water sports. These include diving and snorkelling which because of the reef is a very rewarding experience. There are also underwater caves and shipwrecks to explore. Sailing, deep sea fishing and powered sports are also available. A popular activity, particularly with children, is swimming with dolphins at the Acurario Cayo Naranjo Aquarium. Most hotels have tennis courts, a gym and fitness rooms and also offer bicycles.
Guardalavaca offers first rate accommodation and with its all-in packages, is good value for money. The hotels also provide excursions to national parks or to local towns. It is also possible to visit Havana, a fascinating city, but this would involve a flight and an overnight stay.
A Guardalavaca holiday is a real retreat from the hustle and bustle of twenty-first century living, offering total relaxation the most tranquil surroundings.
Guardalavaca nightlife is fairly low-key reflecting the resorts popularity with families and couples. Most of the evening entertainment is provided by the hotels. There are one or two bars and a beachside disco which is as lively as it gets.
Guardalavaca has only a small shopping centre where you can purchase essential items. A traditional market provides the inevitable gifts and holiday mementoes. The Cuban economy is state controlled and over the years the American embargo has led to a lack of quality goods in Cuba’s shops. Cosmetics, camera films and medicines are limited and it is best to take plenty with you including sun cream, an essential item in sun-baked Cuba.
Since most of Guardalavaca hotels are all inclusive, there are few independent restaurants. As you would expect in an island economy, fish features prominently on menus. Food is simply cooked and not overly spicy or hot. Beans and rice are an essential part of the traditional diet. Fresh fruit is plentiful and drinks are very reasonably priced.
