Things To Do
in Nuevitas
Nuevitas is a coastal town in Camagüey Province, Cuba, perched on the northern shore along the Bay of Nuevitas. It blends working harbor life with a relaxed small-town pace, offering colorful streets, a lively fish market, and waterfront sunsets. The town is a gateway to nearby beaches and rural communities, with a friendly, ethnically diverse local culture.
Visitors can sample seafood, explore colonial-era architecture, and experience authentic Cuban daily life away from the larger tourist hubs.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your journey through Nuevitas by visiting the historic center, where colonial architecture and vibrant tiles transport you back in time. Stroll through the cobbled streets and immerse yourself in the local culture with lively street performances. Be sure to stop by a local café for a traditional Cuban breakfast of bread, butter, and fresh fruit.
In the afternoon, visit the Museo de Nuevitas to learn about the rich history and heritage of this coastal town. The museum houses various artifacts, paintings, and exhibits that showcase the cultural evolution of the region. After your visit, take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, enjoying the sea breeze and stunning views.
As the sun sets, head to the plaza where locals gather to dance and socialize. Enjoy live music and try some freshly prepared tapas from street vendors. Cap off your night by watching the sunset over the bay, painting the sky with vibrant hues of orange and pink.
Start your day early at Playa de Nuevitas, a beautiful beach known for its soft sands and clear blue waters. Spend the morning swimming, sunbathing, or taking a walk along the shoreline to breathe in the tranquil atmosphere. Don't forget to pack a picnic breakfast to enjoy under the palm trees.
After lunch, consider renting a kayak or paddleboard to explore the nearby mangroves. The serene environment is perfect for spotting local wildlife and immersing yourself in nature. Alternatively, find a beachside bar for a refreshing mojito as you relax and soak up the sun.
In the evening, enjoy a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant, where you can savor the catch of the day grilled to perfection. Watch as the beach transforms with the glow of string lights and the sounds of laughter fill the air. Join in a bonfire on the beach with other travelers and locals, sharing stories and making memories.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🥗Lunch for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🏨One-night stay in a budget hotel | $50-70 |
| 🚎Local transport (one-way ticket) | $0.50-2 |
| ☕Coffee or local drink | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Autentic Cuban coastal town experience away from larger tourist crowds
- Strong seafood cuisine and welcoming locals
- Charming waterfront scenery and colorful architecture
- Affordably priced accommodation and meals compared with major cities
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-tourist amenities
- Smaller selection of international dining and shopping
- Public transport can be basic and less frequent outside the center
- "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?
- "¿Hablas inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "Una mesa para dos, por favor" - A table for two, please
- "Estoy perdido/a" - I am lost
Places to Visit in Nuevitas
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic sea-facing promenade ideal for sunset photography, silhouettes of fishing boats, and the glow of the water.
Active harbor with nets, boats, and dockside activity—great for documentary-style shots and early-morning light.
Historic center with pastel-painted facades and narrow streets—perfect for casual street photography and portraits.
Central square framed by palm trees and local life; ideal for people-watching and architectural details.
Food in Nuevitas
Nuevitas Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded beef cooked in tomato sauce, typically served with rice and black beans.
Must-Try!
A comforting one-pot dish of rice with chicken, peppers, peas, and saffron-like coloring.
Black beans and white rice cooked together with soffrito for a flavorful, staple meal.
Grilled fish (often from local catches) served with boiled yuca or plantains.
Fried plantain slices with a zesty garlic-lime mojo; a popular side or snack.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market offering fresh seafood, produce, meat, and everyday Cuban snacks; great for tasting daily life and picking up fruit drinks.
Street-side stalls offering warm churros and fried empanadas, perfect for a quick bite between sights.
Small juice stands offering fresh-squeezed tropical fruit blends (guanábana, mango, papaya) to cool down on hot days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días/tardes' and a handshake; dress modestly in public spaces, especially away from beaches. Seek permission before photographing people, particularly in private settings.
Polite, respectful conversation is valued; avoid sensitive political topics and be patient in service interactions.
Safety
Tipping in Nuevitas
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping 5-10% in restaurants is appreciated; small tips for taxi drivers, waitstaff, and guides are common. Carry small denominations for street vendors and casual service.
Cash in local currency (CUP) is most widely used; credit cards are not widely accepted in town. Plan cash purchases, and use official exchange points or trusted vendors if needed.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and very humid with frequent brief showers; carry water, sun protection, and lightweight clothing. Coastal breezes offer relief, but expect strong sun and occasional tropical downpours.
Livelier visibility with milder humidity and pleasant daytime temperatures; ideal for outdoor explores and waterfront strolls. Nights can be cooler, so a light jacket is handy.
Warm days with gradually diminishing rain; good for outdoor activities and light-hunting for photography as streets are lively with residents.
Similar to spring—warm days and comfortable evenings, with occasional tropical showers. A nice shoulder season for fewer crowds.
Nuevitas at Night
Hiking in Nuevitas
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short drive away, offering scenic hill landscapes, lookout points, and rural trails suitable for day hikes.
Accessible walking paths along protected mangrove zones near the coast, ideal for birdwatching and quiet nature walks.
Airports
How to reach Nuevitas by plane.
The main international gateway for the Camagüey region; connections to major Cuban hubs and some international flights. Ground transport from Camagüey city to Nuevitas takes about 1-2 hours by car or bus.
A major international hub with broader flight options; typical onward travel to Nuevitas would be by domestic flight, bus, or a longer overland journey.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Cuban families, fishermen, and artisans who form the backbone of everyday life in Nuevitas.
Communities tied to fishing, seafood processing, and related trades.
A proportion of older residents and travelers who settle in for extended visits or stay with relatives.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A beloved sport across Cuba, widely played in schools and local leagues.
A traditional strength in Cuban sports culture, with local gyms and community events nearby.
Popular on plazas and in regional leagues; casual games often happen on open fields.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nuevitas.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in many spots, typically featuring rice and beans, plantains, beans, and vegetables. Communicate 'vegetariano' or 'sin carne' and rely on legumes, starches, salads, and local vegetables to structure meals.