Introduction
Cuba's tropical beaches and cayes are world famous – with golden sand beaches, warm blue waters and colourful corals to be explored. Deep-sea fishing, snorkelling, diving and sailing are all popular activities, while others choose simply to relax in a shady spot beneath a palm tree, rum-cocktail in hand.
The waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Straits and the Gulf of Mexico lap the northern coast, with Cuba's southern shore fringing the Caribbean Sea. The northwest corner, close to Havana, is a popular choice with holidaymakers - many of whom head to the beach resort of Varadero, on the Peninsula de Hicacos. Others make for the hidden beaches of the Colorados Archipelago, the mangroves of Cayo las Brujas and the incredible dive spots off Maria La Gorda - where moral eels and rays swim among Spanish wrecks.