On & Below the Water

While Cienfuegos sits on a large and beautiful protected bay, the best (and really the only) beach is 17km (11 miles) away at Playa Rancho Luna. The beach here is a long expanse of white sand, although the sand isn't quite as fine and silky as that found at some of Cuba's more famous beaches. You can book scuba-diving trips out of the Faro Luna Diving Center (tel. 43/54-8040; buceocom@nautica.cfg.cyt.cu) or with the Whale Shark Diving Center at Hotel Rancho Luna (tel. 43/54-8020) or book through Cubanacán in town. Dives are CUC$30.

Marina Cienfuegos, Calle 35 between Avenidas 6 and 8, Punta Gorda (tel. 43/55-1699 or 43/55-1241; www.nauticamarlin.com), is your one-stop shop for all nautical needs. Here you can charter a sailboat or sportfishing excursion, book a cruise around the harbor, rent a Hobie Cat or windsurfer, and go fishing and diving. The elegant 1920s-built Club Cienfuegos entertainment complex, Calle 35 between Avenidas 8 and 12 (tel. 43/55-1275), has a small patch of sand with a little swimming area in front of it; some locals and tourists use it as a place to sunbathe and cool off. Several international regattas, fishing tournaments, and speedboat races are held in Cienfuegos each year. Check with the marinas or your hotel for details.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.