Overview
Gibara Coast is a rarely surfed stretch of reef on the northeast coast of Cuba, east of Puerto Padre and north of Holguin. Small rights break along a rocky shore over sharp lava, in nice Caribbean water. Very few people, if any, have surfed here, so making it this far is worth a feather in your cap. The paddle out is easy. Wave quality is below average on the whole, though the pretty port of Gibara does turn on at Playa Caletones when a northeast swell arrives.
When It Works
The spot draws swell from north-northwest through northeast, and it is usable from 0.9 m / 3 ft to 2.1 m / 7 ft. On a typical day you can expect anything from chest high to a bit overhead. The season runs from autumn through winter and into spring.
Wind and Tide
Look for southwest offshore wind, with a workable wind window running from south-southwest to west. The reef can work through most of the tide depending on the size of the swell, with a rising tide generally the better call.
Local Tips
Bring a shortboard. Beginners, intermediates and experts can all find something here, but the lava reef underneath is sharp, so treat it with respect. The lineup is quiet and can feel reserved, so plan on bringing your own crowd.
Access
Take the dirt road heading east out of Puerto Padre and park right there.
