Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Baracoa Playa. Playa Baracoa Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 80 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave UPB:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Cuba. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Baracoa Playa takes about 80 minutes by local transport. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is local currency. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some the local currency in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Things to Do During Your Layover
If you head into Baracoa Playa, here are two things worth checking out:
Playa Baracoa Beach is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. You don’t need long to appreciate it — even a brief visit is refreshing.
Stroll through Baracoa Playa Village is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
If you’d rather stay inside UPB — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Relaxing in the Terminal
- Observing Local Aviation
Eating Well on a Baracoa Playa Layover
For food in Baracoa Playa, local travelers recommend Paladar El Sitio. If you have time for a second stop, Paladar Don Cangrejo is another popular pick.
Back at UPB, Airport Cafeteria UPB is the go-to. Drinks & Light Bites Counter rounds out your in-terminal options.
Getting to Baracoa Playa from the Airport
You have two main options for getting from Playa Baracoa Airport into town:
- local transport: About 80 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 100 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Money & Budget Tips
Wondering how much cash to bring? For a few hours in Baracoa Playa, budget roughly $40 USD to cover transport, a meal, and incidentals.
The average cost of a meal here runs about $20 USD, and transport from the airport and back will add another $10 or so. Keep a small buffer for unexpected expenses.
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Storing Your Luggage at Playa Baracoa Airport
Dedicated luggage storage at UPB may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Baracoa Playa’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at UPB, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Baracoa Playa itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Cuba that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Taking a Break at UPB
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at UPB.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Baracoa Playa with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Baracoa Playa may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.