Things To Do
in Antilla
Antilla, Cuba is a small coastal town in Holguín Province known for its tranquil beaches and friendly locals. Nestled on the northern coast, it serves as a gateway to nearby beaches and nature reserves while retaining a laid-back, authentic Cuban vibe. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood, sunlit shorelines, and easy day trips to Gibara and Banes.
The town blends Caribbean charm with accessible nature and a slower pace ideal for a relaxing escape.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure with a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets of Antilla, where you can admire the colorful colonial architecture and lively local murals. Stop by a quaint café to enjoy a traditional Cuban breakfast of fedeo and café con leche, mingling with friendly locals. Capture picturesque moments as you wander through small shops selling handmade crafts and souvenirs.
In the afternoon, discover the history of Antilla by visiting the local museum, which showcases the cultural heritage and artifacts of the area. Later, take a relaxing walk along the coastal boardwalk, where you can watch fishermen at work and enjoy the stunning sea views. Treat yourself to a refreshing drink from one of the beachfront bars before settling down to relax on the sand.
As the sun sets, head to a nearby restaurant to savor authentic Cuban cuisine, including dishes like ropa vieja. After dinner, enjoy live music and dancing at a local venue, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of salsa and son. The night carries on as you mingle with locals and fellow travelers, soaking in the lively atmosphere of this charming town.
Start your day with a visit to a local community project where you can engage with residents and learn about their daily life and traditions. Participate in a cooking class to master the art of making typical Cuban dishes, from picadillo to flan. Share your creations with the group, fostering connections and understanding of the culture through food.
Spend the afternoon engaging with local artisans at a nearby craft center, observing as they create beautiful works of art. You can try your hand at making pottery or weaving, guided by skilled craftsmen who are eager to share their expertise. This hands-on experience deepens your appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of Antilla.
In the evening, attend a community festival if your visit aligns with one, where you can experience traditional music, dance, and performance arts. Join in the festivities, celebrating alongside the locals as they showcase their pride in their culture. Afterward, unwind at a cozy bar, sipping on a classic Mojito as you reflect on the day's experiences.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🥤Coffee or soft drink | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi within town | $3-8 |
| 🏨Budget hotel or guesthouse per night | $30-70 |
| 🛍️Souvenir or local activity | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Relaxed, authentic Cuban coastal town
- Beautiful beaches and approachable day trips
- Lower-cost, fewer crowds than major hubs
- Good seafood and friendly locals
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Fewer English-speaking services
- Limited international flight options directly to Antilla
- "Buenos días" - Good morning
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Habla inglés?" - Do you speak English?
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Me gustaría..." - I would like...
- "La cuenta, por favor" - The bill, please
- "¿Puede recomendarme un plato local?" - Can you recommend a local dish?
- "Ayuda" - Help
- "¡Salud!" - Cheers
- "Disculpe" - Excuse me
Places to Visit in Antilla
Visit one of these nice places.
Soft light on the calm sea and pale sand creates ideal conditions for wide beach shots.
Historic lighthouse with dramatic sea views and fishing boats in the foreground.
Vibrant houses and markets provide portrait and street photography opportunities.
Food in Antilla
Antilla Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice with black beans – a staple paired with meat or seafood.
Must-Try!
Shredded beef in a tomato-onion sauce, a comforting classic.
Garlic shrimp often served with rice and plantains.
Slow-roasted pork, popular for gatherings and celebrations.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Fresh produce, stalls with fruit, bread, and snacks to enjoy on the go.
Grilled seafood, tostones, and frituras along the waterfront during the day.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A courteous greeting like Buenos días or buenas tardes goes a long way.
Ask before taking photos of people, especially in residential areas.
Light but modest clothing is appropriate in towns and rural areas.
Tipping for service is common; show appreciation with a smile and polite language.
Safety
Tipping in Antilla
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated for good service, typically 5–10% in restaurants or rounding up cash for street vendors.
Cash in Cuban pesos is commonly used; some larger establishments may accept cards or foreign currencies at a premium; ATMs are limited in smaller towns; exchange currency at CADECA or banks.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm to hot, high humidity; expect afternoon storms and sunny mornings; carry water; good for beach days and snorkeling early in the day.
Pleasant temperatures, less rain, ideal for outdoor and walking tours; evenings can be cooler, bring a light jacket.
Increased risk of tropical storms; monitor forecasts; secure belongings and have plan for shelter; always have emergency contact details.
Antilla at Night
Hiking in Antilla
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal hiking route along the Banes area with ocean views and birdwatching; moderate difficulty and 3-6 km in length.
Coastal path near Gibara with sea cliffs and beaches; easy to moderate with panoramic views.
Airports
How to reach Antilla by plane.
Main international gateway for the region; located in Holguín city; transfer to Antilla by car or domestic flight and ground transport.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of families in the town and nearby rural communities; strong sense of community and hospitality.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is the most popular sport in Cuba, widely played and followed; you may catch local games in nearby towns.
Boxing has a strong following and community programs; observe or participate through local gyms where available.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Antilla.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for vegetable-based dishes such as grilled vegetables, rice and beans, plantains, and fruit plates; emphasize bean and rice sides to meet protein needs; communicate clearly with hosts or staff about any restrictions.