The Malecon promenade, which stretches for about 8 km along the Havana coast, is one of the most prominent symbols of Cuba, offering visitors a true glimpse into the country's unique life and culture. Built in the early 20th century, the Malecon is not only a coastal road but also an important part of the history and life of the people of Havana.
Introduction to the Malecon Cuba Promenade
The Malecon promenade in Cuba is one of the most prominent and iconic landmarks of the capital Havana. It is an approximately 8 km long coastal promenade that stretches from Old Havana to the modern Vedado area. Built in the early 20th century, the Malecon is not only a place for locals to relax and enjoy the breeze, but also an attractive place for tourists to explore the poetic beauty of the city, especially at sunset.
Malecon Cuba promenade. Photo: @laura_cfraga
The Malecon is more than just a coastal road; it is a unique cultural melting pot of Cuba. In the evenings, it comes alive with street musicians, street vendors and Cubans enjoying the cool sea breeze. Visitors can sit on the stone walls along the beach, admire the colonial architecture and enjoy the colorful city view.
What makes the Malecon special is its simple yet captivating beauty. Despite the impact of time and nature with strong waves crashing against the rocks, the Malecon still retains its own unique charm. It is not only a promenade but also an important part of the cultural and historical life of Havana, a place where residents and visitors come together to experience and connect with each other through the most beautiful moments of this city.
This walkway is located in the capital Havana. Photo: @_jssscar_History of the Malecon promenade
Construction of the Malecón began in 1901, during the temporary rule of the United States military. The main purpose of the construction of the Malecón was to protect Havana from the sea.
To commemorate the construction of the first 500m stretch of the Malecon, the US government built a roundabout at the Paseo del Prado intersection. According to the architects of the time, this was the first roundabout in Cuba built of reinforced concrete. Bands played Cuban tunes there every Sunday. The Miramar Hotel was built before the roundabout. It was the first hotel in Cuba where waiters wore tuxedos (evening coats) and vests (waistcoats) with gold buttons, which were very fashionable during the first 15 years of independence.
Subsequent Cuban governments continued to expand the first part of the Malecón. In 1923, it reached the mouth of the Almendares River between K and L streets in Vedado, where the US Embassy was built, near the José Martí Sports Park and beyond to the Hotel Rosita de Hornedo (today's Sierra Maestra).
In 1957 and 1958, this road was the site of the Cuban Formula 1 Grand Prix.
The building was built in 1901. Photo: @_aurora_mar_How to get to the Malecon promenade?
To get to the Malecon promenade in Havana, Cuba, you can use a variety of means of transportation depending on where you are starting from and your budget:
If you are staying in the old town, the Malecon is just a few minutes walk away. You can easily find your way on foot from tourist attractions like Plaza de Armas or Havana Cathedral. Just head towards the sea and you will reach the Malecon in no time.
Taxis are a popular and convenient way to get around the city. You can take a regular taxi or experience the classic Cuban cars to get to the Malecon. Most drivers know the way to this famous coastal road.
If you want to save money, you can use Havana's public buses. However, be aware that the bus system here is quite crowded and not always easy for tourists. Ask locals or hotel staff for the route and the nearest stop to get to the Malecon.
In short, getting to the Malecon is easy, especially if you are staying in the central area of Havana. You can choose to walk, take a taxi or take a bus depending on your needs and the experience you want.
Photo: @victoriaserghievici
What time of year should I visit?
The best time to visit the Malecon in Havana, Cuba is usually during the dry season, from November to April. This is when the weather is most pleasant with average temperatures of 20-27°C, little rain and not too hot. The cool and pleasant weather makes walking along the Malecon more comfortable and enjoyable, especially in the evening when the sun sets.
Dry season (November - April): The weather is cool, the sky is clear and there is little rain. This is also the peak tourist season in Cuba, so you will see many tourists but also have the opportunity to participate in cultural events or festivals. In particular, December and January often have big festivals, creating a lively atmosphere for the trip.
Summer (May - October): This is Cuba's rainy season, with temperatures reaching 30°C and high humidity. Heavy rains and strong winds can make walking along the Malecon difficult, as waves from the ocean often crash against the shore.
Also, June to November is typhoon season, so check the weather forecast carefully if you plan to visit during this time.
In short, if you want a comfortable and safe tour, you should choose the period from November to April to visit Malecon, especially in the afternoons when the sunset is most beautiful.
You should plan to visit here during the dry season. Photo: @lynnrusWhat do people usually do at the Malecon?
The Malecon promenade runs along the north side of central Havana's historic neighborhoods, stretching from Havana Harbor in Old Havana to El Vedado, Havana's modern downtown area. In this way, the Malecon connects old and new, offering visitors the best of both worlds.
Along this promenade, you’ll find tourists and locals lunching at local cafes, riding in vintage cars, strolling along the waterfront or catching fresh seafood for dinner. This bustling sidewalk is home to some of the best dining spots in Havana, including La Casa and El Aljibe.
You can also find a number of family-owned restaurants, ice cream shops and historical landmarks on the Malecon. While the entire El Malecon is a Cuban national monument, some other notable landmarks along the boulevard include the Castle of the Royal Forces, the Memorial to the Victims of the USS Maine and La Plaza de la Catedral.
Nearby, you’ll find El Paseo del Prado, a charming roundabout where locals and tourists alike love to wander and dance to live Cuban music. The Miramar Hotel, a stunning example of 1930s architecture, is located next to El Paseo del Prado. It’s clear that you’ll never run out of things to do near the Malecon.
Much of this five-mile-long seawall functions as a space to relax, sit or lie down while enjoying the tranquility of the water. For this reason, locals often refer to it as el sofá más largo del mundo, which means “the longest sofa in the world.”
On summer nights, this promenade takes on a carnival-like atmosphere. Tourists and locals from all walks of life, ethnicities and traditions gather to celebrate with floats, dancing and a mix of traditional drumming, salsa and modern reggaeton.
This vibrant boulevard has the best of everything, from traditional culture and cuisine to ocean views, history and modern hotels.
Photo: @masix_sdThe Malecon promenade offers visitors the opportunity to experience the beauty of nature combined with the vibrancy and warmth of Cuban culture . Whether taking a walk, watching the sunset or immersing yourself in the bustling nightlife, the Malecon will surely leave in everyone's heart unforgettable memories of a vibrant and sincere Havana.
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