Things To Do
in Santa Cruz del Sur
Santa Cruz del Sur is a small coastal town in Camagüey Province on Cuba's southern shore, known for its fishing port, low-rise colonial-era buildings and strong local traditions. The town has a quiet, authentic atmosphere where daily life revolves around the sea, small markets and family-run restaurants (paladares). Visitors can enjoy wide beaches, coastal wetlands and simple cultural sites while experiencing slower-paced Cuban life away from large tourist resorts.
Because it is off the main tourist routes, services are basic but the area offers excellent opportunities for photography, birdwatching and seafood-focused cuisine.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by strolling through the cobblestone streets of Santa Cruz del Sur, soaking in the vibrant colors of the colonial architecture. Visit the local market, where the scent of fresh produce and handmade goods fills the air, giving you a taste of authentic Cuban life. Capture the morning light with photographs of the town's charming squares and the iconic church that stands at the heart of it all.
After a delightful lunch at a local restaurant featuring traditional Cuban cuisine, head to the nearby museum to learn about the rich history of the region. Engage with friendly locals who share stories of their heritage and the significance of the area's landmarks. Spend some time at the waterfront, where you can relax and enjoy the gentle sea breeze while watching fishermen at work.
As the sun sets, enjoy a leisurely dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring fresh seafood dishes paired with tropical cocktails. The sound of live music fills the air, offering a taste of Cuba's vibrant culture as you dance the night away. Conclude your evening with a stroll along the beach, where the moonlight dances on the waves, creating a magical atmosphere.
Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, then head to Playa Santa Cruz, a beautiful beach known for its soft sands and clear waters. Rent a kayak or a stand-up paddleboard to explore the tranquil coastline, feeling the warm sun on your skin. If you're lucky, catch sight of colorful fish and maybe even a playful dolphin in the distance.
After an exhilarating morning, take a break and enjoy a beachside lunch at a local paladar, featuring fresh seafood and refreshing mojitos. Spend the afternoon lounging in a hammock under the shade of palm trees, or join a beach volleyball game with locals and fellow travelers. For the adventurous, snorkeling gear is available for rent, allowing you to discover the underwater wonders just offshore.
As the day winds down, enjoy a beachfront barbecue, where you can savor grilled fish and meats while listening to the rhythmic sounds of the ocean. Experience a traditional Cuban dance lesson under the stars, guided by local instructors who share the joy of their heritage. End your night with a bonfire on the beach, sharing stories and laughter with new friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee (café cubano) | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Private room / casa particular (per night) | $20-40 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $0.75-2 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic, off-the-beaten-path Cuban experience with strong local culture
- Excellent fresh seafood and easy access to coastal nature and birdwatching
- Low tourist crowds and great photography opportunities
- Friendly local community and family-run hospitality (casas and paladares)
- Limited services and amenities compared with larger Cuban cities or resorts
- Scarce ATMs and card acceptance — mostly cash-based
- Transportation can be slow and infrequent; long travel times to major hubs
- During hurricane season travel plans can be disrupted
- "Hola, ¿cómo está?" - Hello, how are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "¿Dónde está el malecón / el muelle?" - Where is the seafront / the pier?
- "Por favor, ¿puede ayudarme?" - Please, can you help me?
- "No como mariscos" - I don't eat seafood
Places to Visit in Santa Cruz del Sur
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning activity with colorful boats, nets and fishermen offers candid maritime scenes and close-up shots of local livelihoods.
Classic civic heart of town with colonial architecture, people-watching and scenes of daily life—good for street photography and portraits.
Long pier and coastline create dramatic silhouettes at golden hour; ideal for wide-angle compositions and reflection shots.
Birds, reflections, and textured mangrove roots make compelling nature photos—bring a telephoto lens for wildlife.
Rows of painted facades, wooden doors and balconies provide vibrant urban details and environmental portrait backdrops.
Food in Santa Cruz del Sur
Santa Cruz del Sur Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Whole grilled or filleted fish served with rice, beans and plantains; widely available at paladares and near the harbor.
Must-Try!
A local seafood stew with mixed shellfish, coconut milk or tomato base depending on the cook; often found in family restaurants and at special market days.
Fried green plantains (tostones) and sweet fried ripe plantains (maduros), typical side dishes available everywhere.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Early-morning market where fishermen sell the day’s catch—great for fresh seafood and photos; vendors often sell cleaned fish to take to paladares.
Small stands and kiosks near the plaza and busier streets selling empanadas, fried snacks, grilled corn and cold drinks—perfect for quick, inexpensive bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes' before asking questions—Cuban culture values politeness and personal interaction.
Ask before photographing people, private homes or workspaces—many locals are open to photos if asked and offered a smile or short conversation.
Be mindful of family privacy and community norms; impromptu invitations to homes are warm but follow household cues and bring a small gift if visiting.
Safety
Tipping in Santa Cruz del Sur
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service—10% in restaurants if service charge is not included, small tips for porters, guides and taxi drivers. In small towns cash tips in local currency (CUP) are most useful.
Cash is king in Santa Cruz del Sur—carry Cuban pesos (CUP) and small bills. Credit and debit cards are often not accepted outside larger cities and tourist resorts; ATMs are limited, so bring enough cash or withdraw in Camagüey. Euros and Canadian dollars are commonly exchanged; USD may be subject to additional fees.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid, with temperatures often in the high 80s–90s°F (30–35°C); afternoons bring short heavy showers. Expect strong sun—bring sun protection and stay hydrated; beaches are pleasant most days but be mindful of jellyfish and currents.
Hurricane season peaks from August to October (officially June–November). Monitor weather forecasts, register travel plans with your embassy if concerned, and be prepared for disruptions and temporary closures during storms.
Dryer and more comfortable with mild days and cooler nights (low to mid 60s–70s°F / ~16–24°C). This is a pleasant time for outdoor activities and exploring the town on foot.
Warming temperatures and increasing humidity; pleasant for beach visits and birdwatching as migratory species pass through coastal wetlands.
Santa Cruz del Sur at Night
Hiking in Santa Cruz del Sur
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Low-impact walks through mangrove-lined channels and tidal flats—excellent for birdwatching and photography; bring insect repellent and waterproof footwear for muddy sections.
Long stretches of flat sandy coastline ideal for relaxed hikes, shell collecting and sunrise/sunset treks—watch tides and sun exposure.
Gentle walks through agricultural landscapes and small villages where you can observe rural life and local crops; best with a local guide who can navigate tracks and arrange access.
A drive inland to the low hills and countryside provides modest hiking and scenic views of the plains—requires transport and a local guide for the best routes.
Airports
How to reach Santa Cruz del Sur by plane.
The closest major airport serving Camagüey province; from Camagüey city it is a several-hour drive to Santa Cruz del Sur, so plan ground transport in advance.
A larger regional airport serving the northern resort cays; travel from here to Santa Cruz del Sur involves a longer road transfer across the island and may suit visitors combining resort stays with a southern coastal visit.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of residents are Cuban families who have lived in the area for generations, often working in fishing, small-scale farming or local services.
Like many smaller Cuban towns, there is a noticeable older demographic due to younger people migrating to cities or abroad.
The tourist population is limited; occasional seasonal workers and visiting researchers or birdwatchers may be present.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is Cuba’s national pastime and widely followed; local games and youth leagues are social hubs and a great way to connect with residents.
Both a livelihood and a recreational activity—shore and boat fishing are common and culturally important in the town.
Played informally in neighborhoods and enjoyed as a spectator sport, particularly among younger residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Santa Cruz del Sur.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are limited but possible—order rice and beans, vegetable stews, salads and plantain dishes; communicate clearly in Spanish and be prepared for simple preparations.
Vegan and gluten-free diets require planning—many dishes use lard or wheat in breads; bring snacks and ask cooks about ingredients, or prepare meals in a rented kitchen if possible.
Seafood is central to the local diet; if you have allergies, explain clearly in Spanish and opt for meat- or vegetable-based dishes, recognizing cross-contamination risks in small kitchens.