Things To Do
in Banes
Banes is a coastal town in Holguín Province on Cuba's northern shore. It has a relaxed, small-town vibe with colorful streets and friendly locals. The area serves as a gateway to nearby beaches, wetlands, and nature reserves.
Visitors come for sun, sea breezes, and easy day trips to Holguín and its attractions.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Banes, where you can admire the colonial architecture that tells stories of the past. Visit the local market to experience the hustle and bustle of everyday life, and perhaps pick up some fresh fruits for a snack. Don’t miss the chance to chat with locals, who are always eager to share their insights about the town's history and culture.
After a delicious lunch at a local paladar, immerse yourself in Banes' rich history by visiting the Municipal Museum, which showcases artifacts and exhibits related to the region's indigenous heritage and colonial past. Continue your exploration by taking a guided tour of the nearby archaeological site of Chorro de Maita, where you can see ancient Taíno burial grounds. Engage with the knowledgeable guides who can provide deeper insights into the significance of these historical sites.
As the sun sets, head to the Plaza de la Revolución to enjoy a relaxing evening with locals. Join in on a salsa dance session or simply enjoy the live music that often fills the air in this lively square. Grab dinner at a rooftop restaurant, where you can relish traditional Cuban dishes while soaking in the panoramic views of the town.
Kick off your morning with a visit to the stunning Playa de los Pinos, known for its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters. Rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the scenic coastline, keeping an eye out for colorful fish and other marine life. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the warm Caribbean waters before settling down for a relaxing beachside breakfast at one of the local shacks.
After soaking up the sun, take part in some thrilling water sports like windsurfing or snorkeling to discover the vibrant underwater world. Join a guided tour to explore the nearby coral reefs teeming with marine biodiversity, making sure to capture the beauty of the ocean. Wind down your afternoon with a beach volleyball game with fellow travelers and locals alike.
As dusk approaches, enjoy a beachfront dinner at one of the local restaurants, savoring fresh seafood dishes prepared with local flavors. Watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting beautiful colors across the sky while you relax with a cocktail in hand. After dinner, stroll along the shoreline, where the soothing sounds of the waves will accompany your thoughts.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $2-5 |
| 🛒Grocery item (milk/eggs/fruit) | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed pace and friendly locals
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches
- Close access to Holguín for day trips and services
- Authentic Cuban cultural experiences in a smaller town
- Limited nightlife and nightlife venues
- Fewer English-speaking services in some areas
- Infrastructure can be basic outside the main tourist zones
- Travel logistics may require planning for buses or taxis
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Hablo poco español" - I speak a little Spanish
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Ayuda" - Help
Places to Visit in Banes
Visit one of these nice places.
A pristine coastal island with white-sand beaches, turquoise water, and wildlife—ideal for wide-angle seascapes and wildlife photography at golden hour.
Long sandy shoreline with palms and clear shallow water; capture sunrises over the Atlantic and fishermen heading out to sea.
The town’s central streets feature pastel colonial houses and lively street life—great for candid portraits and architectural details.
Rugged coastline and sweeping sea views perfect for dramatic landscape shots, especially at dawn or dusk.
Food in Banes
Banes Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef simmered with tomatoes, peppers, and onions, typically served with rice and black beans.
Must-Try!
Saffron-colored chicken and rice with peas, a classic one-pot Cuban staple.
Grilled fresh fish (often local reef or snapper) with lime, garlic, and herbs, usually accompanied by plantains and salad.
Black beans and white rice cooked together, a flavorful and common side dish.
Fried plantain slices with a garlicky mojo dip; a popular accompaniment or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small-town market offering fresh produce, meats, and staples; try nearby street bites and seasonal fruit.
Larger city market a short day trip away for a wider selection of fruits, vegetables, and Cuban snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días/tardes' and a handshake; conversation is warm and personal. Avoid sensitive political discussions in casual settings.
Dress modestly in public spaces; show respect in religious or cultural sites; ask permission before taking photos of people.
Small tips for service are appreciated; gifts are not expected but local crafts can be a nice gesture when visiting a home or community project.
Safety
Tipping in Banes
Ensure a smooth experience
Leave a small tip for good service in cafes and bars (around 1–5 CUC or a few pesos in smaller establishments). In restaurants, 5–10% is appreciated if a service charge isn’t included.
Cash is the most reliable method for everyday purchases. Some hotels and larger establishments may accept credit cards; carry local currency (CUP) or convertible pesos. Use CADECA exchange houses if you need to convert money. ATMs are limited in smaller towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot, humid days with frequent afternoon showers; a great time for beach activities and snorkeling, but stay hydrated and protect against sun and storms.
Warm to hot days with intermittent rain; good for birdwatching and coastal hikes, though storms are possible as the Atlantic season continues.
Pleasant temperatures and breezes; ideal for outdoor exploration without the heavy humidity of summer.
Milder temps and blooming landscapes; comfortable for walking tours, markets, and photography along the coast.
Banes at Night
Hiking in Banes
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Lush valley near Mayarí with forested trails, viewpoints, and opportunities for day hikes.
Rugged terrain and scenic ridgelines offering rewarding hikes and panoramic vistas.
Gentle trails around the island’s coast, suitable for seaside hikes and nature photography.
Airports
How to reach Banes by plane.
Closest international gateway serving Holguín Province; used by many travelers heading to Banes and the surrounding coast.
Major international hub in Havana; useful for connections if flying from farther away, though it requires domestic travel to Holguín or the northeast coast.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Cuban families and workers living in Banes and nearby communities, with a mix of rural and coastal livelihoods.
Visitors attracted to the coastal scenery, beaches, and cultural experiences in Holguín Province.
People commuting to Holguín for education, work, and urban amenities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The national pastime in Cuba; locals often play in community fields and participate in informal games along the coast.
Popular among youth and adults; local teams and pickup games are common in public spaces.
A traditional sport with a strong grassroots presence, sometimes seen in gyms and community events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Banes.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While vegetarian options are growing, rely on beans, rice, plantains, yuca, and seasonal vegetables; ask for egg, cheese, or avocado additions, and consider staff recommendations for vegetarian-friendly dishes.