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Skating in Cuba is an emerging trend among the youth and sports fans in Cuba. While skateboarding and Longboarding have been present in Cuba for many years, the activity has earned more popularity and attention in recent times.

Skating in Cuba encounters some challenges because of limited access to proper skating equipment and the lack of available skate parks. 

However, in recent years, the Cuban government has offered help for the sport by investing in the building of skate parks and promoting skating events.

Skaters can encounter skate parks and communities in different cities all over the country, offering options to connect with local skaters and experience the Cuban skate scene.

Top Places for Skating in Havana

While the skateboarding scene in Cuba is still growing, there are some areas where skaters can relish their sport and bond with the regional skating community. Here are a few of the leading sites for skating in Havana, but you will find a smaller skating community as well in other places in Cuba, like Matanzas, Cienfuegos, Camagüey and Holguin.

1. Havana Skatepark (Havana)

The Havana Skatepark, also called "Skatepark de la Ciudad Deportiva," is a famous skating destination found in Havana, the capital city of Cuba. It's among the most popular skate parks in the country, drawing regional skaters as well as global tourists. The Havana Skatepark is found in the Miramar vicinity, especially within the Ciudad Deportiva complex.

The skate park is a dedicated space within this complex, providing a range of skating barriers and features for skaters to relish.

It provides chances for skaters to improve their skills, practice their tricks, and link with fellow skaters in a dynamic and supportive community.

Travelers to the Havana Skatepark can wish to partake in a joyful ambiance with skaters of different ages and skill levels. It's not only a home for skating but also a social hub where skaters can exchange tips, connect, and encourage each other.

Skater in Ciudad Libertad, Havanna
© Ariel Gomez Lago

2. La Piragua & El Prado & Acapulco (Havana)

Skater in Havanna
© Rainer Rodriguez Fernandez-Britto

La Piragua is a park closed to the malecon and Hotel Nacional found in the Vedado district of Havana, Cuba. El Prado is an amazing avenue in Old Havana, between the hotel Telegrafo and IBEROSTAR Grand Packard. Both are city's most famous places for nightlife, entertainment, and social gatherings. While not especially a skate park, both has become a preferred location for skaters in the city. On Sundays skaters used to meet up at a small football ground next to the Acapulco cinema in the district Nuevo Vedado.

All these spots are popular for its open spaces and wide sidewalks, making it a convenient place for street skating. Skaters can frequently be witnessed rolling along practicing tricks, the sidewalks, and showcasing their skills. The pedestrian-friendly environment and smooth pavement make a promising environment for skaters to relish their sport.

Skating along these spots provides an opportunity to be part of the urban scene in Havana, immersing oneself in the city's unique culture and ambiance. 

Skaters can relish the views and sounds of the bustling avenue, potentially connect with pedestrians, and other skaters who frequent the area.

Best Time to Visit

The most excellent time to explore Cuba for skating relies on different factors, including skateboarding events, weather conditions, and personal preferences. Here are some considerations to remember:

Weather

Cuba contains a tropical climate, with friendly temperatures all-year-round. The peak visitor season usually falls between December to April when the weather is drier and temperatures are quite relaxed, varying from mid-20s to low 30s Celsius. 

This period can be perfect for skating as the weather is typically nice, and rain is less regular.

Skater in Cienfuegos, Kuba
© Ariel Gomez Lago
Skate Event in Havanna
© Fabian Rodriguez

Skating Events

If you are curious about partaking in or attending skateboarding events in Cuba, it is necessary to check the event calendars and you may also request this within Cubanture. Cuba periodically hosts demonstrations, skating competitions, and other connected events. 

These events usually draw international participants, local skaters, and provide options to link with the skateboarding community.

Personal Preferences

Consider your own preferences for crowd levels, temperature, and budget when choosing the most pleasing time to explore. If you like more favorable weather and lesser visitors, shoulder seasons (April to May and November) can be a useful compromise. However, remember that weather patterns can be unexpected, and it's always a fine idea to check the weather-forecast before your tour.

Skater mit selbstgebauter Rampe in Kuba
© Ariel Gomez Lago
Skaterjunge in Nuevo Vedado, Havanna
© Ariel Gomez Lago

Frequently asked questions

Can I rent skateboarding equipment in Cuba?

The availability of skateboarding gear rentals in Cuba can be specified. It's suggested to carry your own skateboarding equipment, including trucks, wheels, a skateboard, and defensive equipment, to make sure you have what you require for skateboarding. 

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