With its captivating history, picturesque landscapes, lively cultural scene, and vibrant nightlife, Cuba possesses an irresistible charm that will captivate you and leave you yearning for more. Cuba, renowned for its diverse attributes, has traversed a remarkable journey from the era when surfing was officially prohibited during the Cold War.
Although it might not rival premier surfing destinations like Puerto Rico and Hispaniola in the Caribbean, Cuba's extensive 3,500-mile pristine coastline offers an array of exceptional surf spots. The island is cultivating a burgeoning surf culture amid its rum-infused ambiance, featuring commendable waves, hospitable locals, and a serene Caribbean atmosphere.
Here’s what you need to know about Surfing in Cuba
Top Rated Surf Spots in Cuba
While the surfing infrastructure is still in its premature stages, the island's fairly remote waves and stunning natural charm make it an exhilarating destination for thrill surfers.
1. Boca de Yumuri
If you are searching for one of the leading surf sites in Cuba, go to the river mouth surf bay called Yumuri in east Cuba.
Found close to the small village of Boca de Yumuri, some 20 miles east of Baracoa, the rock-stone coast has upright waves with right and left breaks, relying on the current swell. The quality of the waves is jaw-dropping when the NE channels are blasting, usually from December to March. Large swells from the Bahamas make their way through the coral banks and cays, forming long waves that are typically rippable and fat. Yumuri is so isolated that it's seldom crowded, and the offshore Eastern trade winds contribute positively to the overall encounter. This break is a must for people who like excellent wave conditions! Cubanture`s support for surfing communities in Cuba concentrates on the isolated community in Yumuri.
2. Havana: La Setenta, El Cayo, Santa Fe, Jaimanitas and Playa Baracoa
These surf spots you may find in or closed to the district Playa, Miramar in Havana. Located in the core of Havana, La Setenta (La 70ta), and the surf spots of Santa Fe, Playa Baracoa and Jaimanitas are placed on the shallow rock reefs. The famous surfspot El Cayo is located in the bay of Playa La Concha and is a great spot for longboard and for beginner surfer.
Like multiple other places on the north shore of Cuba, the most suitable time to witness fine surf here is during a huge windstorm in the Gulf of Mexico. Waves here can get around 8 feet high during intense northeast Atlantic swells!
But remember that there is a superficial table reef with rough rocks (diente perro), so it is essential not to surf during low tide as you risk being hit by the rough rocky reef.
3. Havana: Playas del Este and Alamar
Nicely popular for excellent kitesurfing, Playas del Este and the village Alamar close to Havana also provides some amazing waves for surfing when the northeast groundswells are rushing.
The fifteen-mile-long coast boasts excellent lefts, rights, and A-frames when the low-pressure winter storms roll in from the US Eastern Seaboard.
While it can be a bit mushy because of currents, it is still worth a visit. Keep in mind that no surfboard rentals are nearby, so you will require all your equipment.
When the waves are not ideal for surfing, why not give kiteboarding a shot? You can schedule lessons and rent in Playas del Este.
When to go surfing in Cuba?
Cuba delights in a perpetual tropical climate with consistent trade winds blowing from the northeast along the shoreline, and a pleasantly warm average temperature of 21ºC (69.8°F).
While rain occurs from May to October, the skies start getting evident from November and April. The only true period to surf in Cuba is in winter – spanning from November to April – when the Atlantic groundswell originates from the northeast, resulting in the formation of respectable waves. Cuba sits in the hurricane-prone region in the Gulf of Mexico, so the island can be smashed by wild storms. It’s not advised to be on the water during intense weather between June to November, and it’s crucial to be aware of all hurricane alerts.
If there is a storm in the Gulf of Mexico, it can lead to exceptional surfing conditions in Cuba – however, it is crucial to stay away from the coast if the hurricane is approaching the island directly. Particularly, September and October carry the highest likelihood of encountering severe storms.
Is Surfing Legal in Cuba?
Cuban surfing is a burgeoning water adventure scene that's on the incline. Though it was earlier considered illegal in Cuba, it has been legalized.
Since the beginning of the activity, surfing has inadvertently induced debate with the Cuban government. When the Cold War concluded in the early 1990s, Cuba lacked all monetary support from the Soviet Union.
With the economic problem on the rise, the residents started to escape the country using every type of watercraft, from leaky tin rafts to car tires. This encouraged the Cuban government to effectively prohibit individuals from accessing the coastline.
During this time, a few men began to create their sort of surfing while testing with homemade board designs. Still, the adventure was determined by the ongoing danger of surfers being jailed or having their beloved boards seized until the past few years.
Fortunately, there's some promising news! Surfing in the country is neither here nor there, as it's noticed more as a pastime. It has yet to be admitted as a legitimate activity by the Cuban government.
What Gear Is Needed for Surfing in Cuba?
To surf in Cuba, you will require some surfing gear and beach essentials. The most significant is, of course, a surfboard. It is most useful to carry your board if you can, as the choices for renting boards in Cuba are limited.
If you plan to rent, do your study and discover a respected rental shop in advance. You will also require a thin wetsuit, particularly if you plan to surf in winter when the water temperature can be lower. The thickness of your wetsuit will rely on the water temperature and the season.
A wax to offer traction on your board, a leash to connect your board to your ankle, and a rash guard to control irritation are also advised. Other useful things to bring include a towel, sunscreen, and a pair of reef booties to save your feet from coral and rocks.
Don't forget to pack a cover for your board or a travel bag. If you plan to tour with your equipment, make sure to check with your airline for any precise needs or limitations.
Safety Tips for Surfing in Cuba:
Surfing in Cuba can be a thrilling adventure, but it's essential to prioritize safety to ensure a positive experience. Here are some safety tips for surfing in Cuba:
Conclusion
Surfing in Cuba represents an adventure waiting to be welcomed by those with a sense of exploration and a passion for riding the waves. Now that you know all the most excellent places to surf in Cuba, all that is left to make is reserve your tour!
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