Cuba

Cuba is world-famous for its shark populations. In the Jardines de la Reina, it is common to see dozens of reef and silky sharks on a single dive, a testament to the area's protection.

Caribbean Reef and Silky Sharks

These massive fish, which can weigh up to 400 lbs, are resident at many sites in the southern sanctuaries and are often remarkably curious about divers.

Goliath Groupers

Unique to the shallow mangroves of Cuba's remote cays, snorkelers and divers can experience supervised, thrilling encounters with these prehistoric reptiles.

American Crocodiles

Often seen foraging on the healthy coral reefs across both the north and south coasts, especially within the protected marine parks.

Hawksbill Turtles

Cuba offers a diving experience that is often described as a journey back in time, both on land and beneath the waves. As the largest island in the Caribbean, Cuba's underwater world has benefited from decades of isolation and strict government protection, resulting in some of the most pristine marine ecosystems in the world. The crown jewel of Cuban diving is the Jardines de la Reina (Gardens of the Queen), a massive marine sanctuary that was established at the request of Fidel Castro, himself an avid diver. This remote archipelago, located off the southern coast, is home to a staggering abundance of sharks, massive groupers, and American crocodiles, thriving within one of the healthiest coral reef systems in the Atlantic. Beyond the Jardines, Cuba offers a diverse range of diving environments, from the dramatic walls and black corals of Maria la Gorda in the west to the historic wrecks and accessible shore dives of the Bay of Pigs (Playa Girón). The island's northern coast also features impressive sites, including the shark-feeding dives of Santa Lucia. Visibility across the island is consistently excellent, often exceeding 30-40 meters, thanks to the absence of industrial runoff and large-scale coastal development. Diving in Cuba is not just about the marine life; it is an immersive experience that combines exceptional biodiversity with the unique, vintage charm of the island's culture and history.

Liveaboards are the only way to access Cuba's most legendary dive sites, specifically the Jardines de la Reina. Because these areas are strictly regulated and remote, self-contained vessels are necessary for multi-day exploration. These operations are often run in collaboration with marine biologists and offer a deeply immersive experience focused on conservation and biodiversity. A typical week-long itinerary includes up to 20 dives, including shark encounters and mangrove explorations. Outside of the Jardines, most diving in Cuba is land-based, with dive centers operating from resorts or within national parks like Maria la Gorda. Due to high demand and strict permit systems, it is highly recommended to book liveaboard trips at least 6-12 months in advance.

Iberostar Grand Packard

Royalton Hicacos Resort & Spa

Hotel Saratoga

Internal transport in Cuba is an adventure in itself. The island is famous for its vintage American cars from the 1950s, which serve as private taxis and 'almendrones' (shared taxis). For long-distance travel, the Viazul bus network is the most reliable option for tourists, connecting all major cities and dive hubs. Car rentals are available but can be expensive and sometimes difficult to secure. Internal flights connect Havana to more remote regions like Santiago de Cuba. In cities like Havana and Trinidad, walking and bicycle taxis (bicitaxis) are popular and sustainable ways to explore the historic centers.

Scuba Diving Regions in Cuba

Regional Diversity

Planning Tips

Hotels & Resorts in Cuba

Booking.com

Agoda

Hotels.com