Surfing in Cuba
Including Boca de Camarioca, Cayo Coco, and Cayo Guillermo. On the map.
The vibe
Surfing here is a rugged, off-the-beaten-path experience where you chase swells along a coastline that sees very few international visitors. The best waves roll in during the winter months when northern winds push energy toward the shore. It is a DIY endeavor, requiring you to bring your own board and scout the breaks yourself, as there is no established surf industry or scene.
Boca de Camarioca, Matanzas
Matanzas
Emmanuel Huybrechts from Laval, Canada / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
Positioned between Varadero and Matanzas, Boca de Camarioca offers rivermouth waves and localized reef setups that attract adventurous surfers looking for alternatives to resort beaches.
Access. Easily accessible via taxi or local bus along the Via Blanca highway between Varadero and Matanzas.
Notes. Watch for shallow reef sections and strong outflow currents near the rivermouth.
Cayo Coco
Ciego de Ávila
carlos adan / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Cayo Coco offers expansive shallow lagoons and steady thermal winds, establishing itself as a core hub for kitesurfing and wingfoiling in the Jardines del Rey archipelago.
Access. Fly directly into Cayo Coco (Jardines del Rey Airport) or take the road causeway from the mainland. Kite centers operate on designated stretches of the northern beaches.
Notes. Adhere to local marine sanctuary guidelines and designated launch zones.
Cayo Guillermo
Ciego de Ávila
carlos adan / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Cayo Guillermo features shallow turquoise lagoons and consistent Caribbean trade winds, making it one of Cuba's premier spots for kitesurfing and wingfoiling. The expansive waist-deep flats create ideal conditions for both beginners and advanced riders.
Access. Reached via the causeway connecting the northern keys to mainland Cuba or via Cayo Coco Airport. Kite schools and rental stations operate directly along Playa Pilar and adjacent hotel beaches.
Notes. Strict zoning rules may apply near tourist swimming areas; respect designated riding corridors.
Playa Cayo Levisa, Pinar del Río
Pinar del Rio
Patrice78500 / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A remote island destination known for its pristine waters and consistent trade winds that make it a hidden gem for wingfoiling and kiteboarding. The surrounding shallow lagoons offer flat-water conditions ideal for progression and long, scenic sessions.
Access. Requires a ferry crossing from Palma Rubia. Travelers should bring their own specialized wingfoil or kite gear as rental infrastructure is limited to local private arrangements.
Notes. Strictly wind-dependent; best during the trade wind season. Remote location means limited medical facilities.
Playa Gibara, Holguín
Holguín
Uvegna / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
This coastal town features a unique bay environment that provides sheltered conditions for wind-based sports. The geography creates reliable cross-shore winds that attract kiteboarders looking for a mix of flat water and small, manageable waves.
Access. Accessible by road from Holguín city. Visitors typically coordinate with local kiteboarding collectives for equipment transport and spot guidance.
Notes. Best winds occur during the winter season; check local conditions for reef patches near the bay entrance.
Playa Guardalavaca
Holguín
Jongleur100 / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
Guardalavaca features scenic crescent-shaped shores that occasionally catch wind-swells and rolling beach breaks suitable for recreational surfing and paddle board-sport sessions.
Access. Accessible by road from Holguín via taxi or rental car. Seasonal board rentals can sometimes be arranged through resort watersport concessions.
Notes. Swells are highly seasonal, relying on winter cold fronts or tropical system activity.
Playa Mar Azul, Havana
Havana
juhanjuku / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
A popular local beach break located east of Havana that catches consistent northern swells during the winter months. It offers a sandy bottom with shifting peaks, making it accessible for intermediate surfers looking for a quick session near the capital.
Access. Located about 20 minutes east of Havana city center by taxi or local bus. Surf gear is typically brought by local enthusiasts as formal rental shops are scarce.
Notes. Best during winter cold fronts (nortes). Watch for occasional rip currents during high swell.
Playa Santa Lucía
Camagüey
go0o0o0d / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Known for its long barrier reef and steady trade winds, Playa Santa Lucía offers emerging kitesurfing and flat-water sessions inside the lagoon. The wide sandy stretches and shallow waters provide good conditions for progressive wind-powered board sports.
Access. Accessible via car or taxi from Camagüey. Local equipment rentals and lesson arrangements are coordinated through resort water sports desks or specialized kite schools operating seasonally.
Notes. Reef protection is advised; check local conditions for seasonal wind reliability.
Punta del Este, Isla de la Juventud
Isle of Youth
Earth Science and Remote Sensing Unit, NASA Johnson Space Center / Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
Situated on the southern tip of Isla de la Juventud, this remote coastal zone picks up uninhibited Atlantic swells and trade winds, creating rugged reef and beach breaks for adventurous surfers and kiters.
Access. Requires domestic travel to Isla de la Juventud via flight or ferry from Batabanó, followed by 4x4 transport across the island.
Notes. Remote location with limited emergency services and no commercial surf shops; self-sufficiency is mandatory.