Jibacoa, Cuba

Snorkeling and scuba diving in Jibacoa

Jibacoa is our little paradise for snorkeling in Cuba. The nearby corals from the beach are a key role in helping people to discover this activity and appreciate the beauty. No need to pay for an excursion. You go snorkeling whenever you feel to do so! It is even possible to learn to scuba-diving from the beach. A significant advantage!

For those who do not have their equipment, it is possible to borrow, for free, masks and snorkels at the nautical center for a period of one hour per day (note during the low season, you can keep the equipment up to 4 pm). In front of the water sports club, there is a tiny coral reef very close to the beach. A great place for beginners. When the sea is calm, you can see many species of fish, sea urchins, crabs, eels, etc.

A sad reality! Everywhere in the world, corals are victims of global warming, but also tourism. Although Jibacoa is a favorite spot for snorkeling, we see a lot of dead corals or damaged ones. The latest enemy on the list ... suntan lotion! Please do not use pedal boats during low tide, as they may damage the tip of the corals near sea level.

At the Breezes Jibacoa, the diving center is located in the same building as the gym (west). Several dive packages are available. The motor boat leaves the beach twice a day for diving excursion. For beginners, it is possible to dive from the beach.

There are two beach showers at the hotel, next to the Ranchón (near the beach towel's booth) and east of the nautical club. Remember that the salt drying on equipment greatly reduces the equipment life. It is therefore, important to rinse the mask after each use. For those who have an underwater digital camera, it is advisable to soak it in fresh water for about ten minutes to ensure there is no more salt present on seals. Dry-off the remaining water BEFORE you open the battery compartment and memory card.

We use insulated mugs instead of plastic glasses. After each snorkeling excursion, I filled my mug with fresh water and allowed the camera to stand for a good ten minutes before wiping-out with a soft cloth, especially the lens.

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