Things To Do
in Gibara
Gibara is a small coastal town in Holguín Province, Cuba, famous for its pastel-colored colonial facades and laid-back atmosphere. Nestled along the northern coast, it blends sea views, fishing traditions, and a growing cultural scene highlighted by its seaside promenade. The town's architecture and plazas offer a glimpse of old Cuba, while nearby beaches invite sun and snorkeling.
With a friendly, slow-paced rhythm, Gibara makes for relaxed day trips or a longer, contemplative stay.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through Gibara's cobblestone streets, admiring the vibrant pastel-colored colonial buildings that tell stories of the town's rich history. Visit the iconic Plaza de la Libertad, where you can take photos of the beautiful church and enjoy the morning sun. Stop by a local café to savor a traditional Cuban breakfast of tostada and café con leche while mingling with friendly locals.
In the afternoon, explore the Museo de la Música, where you can learn about the unique musical heritage of Gibara and its influence on Cuban culture. Afterward, take a guided tour of the nearby Castillo de Gibara, a fortress that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline. Conclude your afternoon by visiting local artisan shops, where you can purchase handmade crafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a seaside restaurant, indulging in fresh seafood caught that day. After dinner, take a walk along the waterfront promenade, where the cool ocean breeze complements the sounds of live music from nearby venues. End your evening by sipping a refreshing rum cocktail while soaking in the lively atmosphere of Gibara's nightlife.
Rise early and head to Playa Caletones, a beautiful beach known for its soft sands and crystal-clear waters. Spend your morning swimming and sunbathing, relishing the tranquility of this hidden gem. You can also try your hand at snorkeling, exploring the underwater world teeming with colorful fish and coral reefs.
After a refreshing morning at the beach, rent a kayak and paddle along the stunning coastline, enjoying the scenic views and the gentle waves. Stop for a picnic lunch on the beach, featuring delicious Cuban sandwiches and tropical fruits. In the afternoon, consider joining a guided fishing tour for a chance to catch local fish and learn about traditional fishing techniques.
Return to Gibara just in time for sunset, which casts a magical glow over the town and the water. Enjoy a casual dinner at a beachside restaurant, where you can feast on grilled lobster or a classic Ropa Vieja while listening to the sound of waves. As the day winds down, join locals at a nearby bar for live music and dance, embracing the rhythm of Cuban culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee or juice | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget guesthouse night | $25-60 |
| 🚌Local transport (short ride) | $2-6 |
| 🎟️Museum entry | $2-6 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with scenic coastal charm
- Accessible beaches and relaxed vibe
- Rich Cuban culture and friendly locals
- Affordable dining and lodging options
- Limited nightlife compared to bigger cities
- Fewer English-speaking services
- Infrastructure can be basic in some areas
- Rural transportation may be less reliable
- "Hola, ¿cómo está?" - Hello, how are you?
- "¿Dónde está el mercado?" - Where is the market?
- "La cuenta, por favor." - The check, please.
- "¿Puede recomendar un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "No hablo mucho español." - I don't speak much Spanish.
- "¿Aceptan tarjetas de crédito?" - Do you accept credit cards?
Places to Visit in Gibara
Visit one of these nice places.
A long seawall with pastel houses, fishermen, and sunset backdrops for wide-angle sea views.
Colorful colonial facades along narrow streets perfect for street photography and portraits.
Historic church and central square with archways and morning light.
Active harbor scenes with fishing boats, nets, and local life.
Food in Gibara
Gibara Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Black beans and white rice cooked together with sofrito and garlic.
Must-Try!
Shredded beef slowly stewed in tomatoes, peppers, and onions, served with rice.
Chicken and rice dish infused with saffron and vegetables.
Grilled or pan-seared local fish with citrus and herbs.
Boiled cassava with garlicky citrus mojo, a Cuban staple.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Small local market offering fresh seafood, tropical fruit, and everyday Cuban produce.
Fried pastries, empanadillas, and frituras popular along the waterfront and plazas.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple hello and a handshake is common; use formal ustedes in initial conversations.
Ask before taking pictures of people or private spaces; property and religious sites may require permission.
Be courteous, avoid loud behavior in public spaces, and show interest in local customs.
Safety
Tipping in Gibara
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected in state-run establishments. Leave small tips (5–10%) for good service in private or tourist-focused venues.
Cash in local currency is widely used; credit cards are not universally accepted outside major hotels. Carry some cash and verify acceptance before paying.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild to warm days with lower humidity; great for outdoor exploration and photography.
Pleasant temperatures, flowering streets, and lively plazas; expect occasional rain showers.
Hot and humid with sea breezes; best time for swimming and beach activities.
Humidity can remain high; potential for tropical showers and windy seas, ideal for seafood and indoor cultural spots.
Gibara at Night
Hiking in Gibara
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic coastline route with sea views, sea spray, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Short trail to a historic lighthouse with panoramic ocean vistas.
Airports
How to reach Gibara by plane.
Holguín, Cuba. The main international and domestic gateway for the region; 1.5–2.5 hours by car to Gibara depending on traffic and route.
Las Tunas, Cuba. Smaller airport serving domestic flights, within a couple of hours’ drive from Gibara.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mostly Cuban families who have lived in Gibara for generations, with a strong sense of community.
A visible portion of the population involved in fishing, crafts, and small businesses around the harbor.
A growing number of visitors attracted by the town’s charm, especially in the dry season.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The island’s national pastime; local games and baseball-friendly culture are common in towns like Gibara.
Popular recreational activity and local leagues; friendly pickup games occur in plazas and fields.
Common street courts and indoor facilities for informal play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Gibara.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Cuban dishes are meat-forward, but you can ask for bean and rice dishes, plantains, yuca, salads, and veggie sides. Request no pork lardons and look for legumes, corn, and veggie stews.