Introduction
Like Varadero, Guardalavaca is one of the most popular Cuban beach resorts. It lies on the northern shores of Holguín Province, an area famed for its gorgeous powdery-white beaches and pleasant clear water. Here you can snorkel with the abundant marine life, swim with dolphins and sail along the beautiful coastline that stretches in both directions.
Inland, swathes of sugar cane plantations stretch into the hills, a mark of the former chief industry of this eastern seaside town. Guardalavaca is a perfect base from which to explore the eastern half of the country on a tailor made tour. Further along the coast is the low-key but attractive resort of Baracoa, while on the Caribbean coast is Santiago de Cuba, the country's spell-bounding second city.
