Santa Maria del Mar (Havana East)

Santa Maria del Mar (Havana East) is a sandy, medium-sized beach on Havana’s eastern Playas del Este coastline, known for clear Caribbean water and a mix of chop with small waves when wind builds. The launch/rigging area is wide and generally easy to access, with a shallow near-shore riding setup that can deepen fairly quickly beyond the immediate waterline. Wind is typically dominated by Northeast trade winds, with the best kitesurfing direction reported as NE–ENE. A thermal sea-breeze component supports winds during the daytime, making winter and early spring especially productive. Winter months are described as the most reliable period for riders seeking consistent sessions. Safety is mainly about people in the water: swimmers, sunbathers, and buoy-marked swimming zones can be present near hotels. When the beach is packed—particularly on weekends—riders are advised to stay alert around bystanders and avoid designated swimming areas. A seasonal lifeguard presence is noted, and rescue is described as limited at the spot level. For equipment planning, kitesurfing is commonly done with mid-to-larger kites in stronger summer/variable conditions and smaller kites during winter fronts; practical guidance also emphasizes wearing an impact vest, and a wetsuit depending on water temperature and colder days.