Playa Esmeralda - Discovering Cuba

What to see, events, costs and every info for the perfect holiday
Travel and respect, explore and smile, be curious and kind. Have wild trips!

Travelling to Playa Esmeralda

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Playa Esmeralda, a pretty good destination in Cuba (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Playa Esmeralda and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Playa Esmeralda, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Cuba, here's everything to know about Playa Esmeralda for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Playa Esmeralda

Playa Esmeralda is a stunning beach located on the northeastern coast of Cuba, in the province of Holguin. It is known for its clear turquoise waters, soft white sand, and lush tropical vegetation that surrounds it. The beach is situated within a protected natural park, making it an ideal spot for hiking, camping, and observing wildlife. Playa Esmeralda is also home to a few all-inclusive resorts, making it a popular destination for tourists. The best time to visit is between December and April, when the weather is warm and dry.

Travelling
Travelling to Playa Esmeralda and around: discovering Cuba

What to visit in Playa Esmeralda

Playa Esmeralda is a stunning beach located in the province of Holguin, Cuba. Here are some of the popular tourist attractions and their info: 1. Playa Esmeralda Beach: This beautiful white sand beach is the main attraction of Playa Esmeralda. The beach is surrounded by lush vegetation and crystal-clear water that makes it perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
2. Bahia de Naranjo Natural Park: It is a nature reserve park located just a few kilometers from Playa Esmeralda. The park offers several attractions such as dolphin shows, crocodile farms, and boat rides among mangroves.
3. Parque Nacional Alejandro de Humboldt: This national park is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. It is an excellent spot for hiking and bird watching.
4. Chorro de Maita Museum: It is an archaeological site where you can witness the history of pre-Columbian Taino culture in Cuba. It includes a recreated indigenous village, a burial site, and some valuable artifacts.
5. Guardalavaca: This small town is located just a few kilometers from Playa Esmeralda, and it is a popular tourist destination. It offers a lot of restaurants, shops, and bars, as well as water sports, and horse riding activities.
6. Bariay National Monument: It is a historic site located around 15 miles from Playa Esmeralda. This is the place where Christopher Columbus landed in Cuba, and you can see a replica of his ship and some other exhibits related to the Spanish settlement.
Overall, Playa Esmeralda is an excellent destination for anyone who wants to relax, and also to explore the rich history and incredible natural beauty of Cuba.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Cuba, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


When to go on holiday to Playa Esmeralda

The best time to visit Playa Esmeralda in Cuba is from December to May when the weather is dry, sunny, and warm with an average temperature of around 26-28 degrees Celsius. These months also offer clear water and calm sea conditions for snorkeling and diving. The rainy season in Cuba occurs from June to November, so it is best to avoid visiting during this period as it can be hot, humid and prone to hurricanes.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Playa Esmeralda

To get to Playa Esmeralda in Cuba, you will need to fly to the Frank Pais International Airport in Holguin. From there, you can take a taxi or arrange for a private transfer to the beach, which is located about 45 minutes away. Alternatively, you can take a public bus from Holguin to Guardalavaca, which is the nearest town to Playa Esmeralda, and then take a taxi or local transportation to the beach. Keep in mind that it is a good idea to book your transportation in advance to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Playa Esmeralda, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Playa Esmeralda

1. Ropa Vieja- This is a traditional Cuban dish made with shredded beef, tomato sauce, peppers and onions. It is usually served with rice and beans.
2. Cubano Sandwich- This is a delicious sandwich made with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard. It is usually served pressed and toasted.
3. Arroz con Pollo- This is a classic Cuban dish made with chicken, rice, bell peppers, onions and saffron. It is usually seasoned with garlic and other spices.
4. Tostones- These are slices of green plantain that have been twice-fried until crispy. They are usually served as a side dish or snack.
5. Flan- This is a popular Cuban dessert made with caramelized sugar, eggs, milk and vanilla. It has a creamy texture and a rich, caramel flavor.
6. Mojito- This is a refreshing cocktail made with rum, lime, mint leaves, sugar and soda water. It is a popular drink in Cuba and is usually served cold.
7. Pescado frito- This is fried fish that is usually seasoned with garlic, onions and lime juice. It is usually served with rice and beans or yuca.
8. Lechon asado- This is roasted pork that has been marinated with garlic, sour orange and other spices. It is a popular dish in Cuba and is usually served with rice and black beans.
You can find general info about typical foods in Cuba here.

Is Playa Esmeralda an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Cuba, Playa Esmeralda can be considered relatively more expensive for tourists. This is because it is a popular and exclusive resort area, which means that prices for accommodation, food, and activities can be higher compared to other places in Cuba.
Additionally, some of the resorts in Playa Esmeralda offer all-inclusive packages, which can be quite expensive. However, there are also budget-friendly options, such as staying in casas particulares or apartments outside of the resort area.
Overall, the cost of your trip to Playa Esmeralda will depend on your travel style and budget. It is always a good idea to do some research and compare prices before booking your trip.

Where to find accomodation in Playa Esmeralda

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Playa Esmeralda in Cuba are the nearby towns of Guardalavaca and Holguin. Both towns have a wide range of lodging options, including hotels and resorts, as well as private vacation rentals. Staying in Holguin also provides easy access to other nearby attractions, such as the Chorro de Maita archaeological site and La Loma de la Cruz viewpoint.
You can check hotel prices at Playa Esmeralda here:
Booking.com


Is Playa Esmeralda a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Playa Esmeralda, located in the eastern province of Holguin in Cuba, is a generally safe place for tourists. It is a popular beach destination and there are many resorts and hotels in the area that cater to tourists. However, as with any other tourist destination, it is always best to practice caution and use common sense while traveling. Be aware of your surroundings and belongings, and avoid excessively displaying valuables in public areas. It is also recommended to follow local guidelines and laws to stay safe during your trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Cuba here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Playa Esmeralda.

What type of travelers will enjoy Playa Esmeralda the most?

Playa Esmeralda is a beautiful beach located in Holguin Province, Cuba. The place is ideal for those who enjoy sun and sand, as well as water sports such as snorkeling or diving. Families with children will enjoy the clear water, calm atmosphere, and beautiful sand. The beach is not too crowded, which means children can play without concerns. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find the perfect ambiance, with a beautiful beach and a stunning natural environment. They can relax, disconnect from routine, and enjoy the peaceful feeling of being in paradise.
Young people can have a great time in Playa Esmeralda too, especially if they enjoy water sports or beach parties. The beach offers excellent conditions for water sports and the nearby resort area offers an exciting nightlife. In summary, Playa Esmeralda is perfect for those who want to relax, enjoy beautiful scenery, and practice water sports. Families, couples, and young people can all find something to their taste in this lovely beach.

How to get around Playa Esmeralda

In Playa Esmeralda, you can move around by taxi, bus, or rental car. Taxis are readily available, and they typically charge a fixed fare per journey. Buses are also available and tend to be more affordable, but they may not run as frequently as taxis. Rental cars are another option, but it is essential to book in advance and check the condition of the vehicle thoroughly. Additionally, some roads in Cuba may not be in good condition, so cautiously driving is recommended.

What to see around Playa Esmeralda

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Playa Esmeralda: 1. Holguin City: Holguin is a historic colonial city with many markets, museums and parks to explore. You can visit the San Isidro Cathedral, Parque Calixto Garcia and the Loma de la Cruz (a mountain with great views of the city).
2. Guardalavaca: This nearby beach town is another option for a fun day trip. You can relax on the beach, swim in the warm Caribbean waters, or visit one of the local restaurants for some delicious seafood.
3. Gibara: Gibara is a charming colonial town, off the beaten path. You can walk around the streets admiring the colorful houses and visit some of the local museums, like the Museum of Natural Sciences.
4. Banes: Known as the "archaeological capital of Cuba," Banes has many museums, shops, and beautiful parks to explore. You can visit the Bani Museum, the Indian Cave, or the Dos Rios Monument.
5. Cayo Saetia: If you're looking for adventure, you can take a day trip to Cayo Saetia. This beautiful island has a wildlife reserve where you can observe animals such as zebras, antelopes, and buffaloes. You can also spend some time relaxing on the beautiful white sand beaches.
For every travel information about Cuba you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.

Contact info@wildtrips.net for any queries on a travel itinerary, advices about a trip report or to organize sailing holidays in Italy.
Site Map - Privacy