Playa Ancón is the best beach on Cuba's southern coast and one of the best in the country. A 4-kilometre stretch of fine white sand faces the calm, clear waters of the Caribbean about 12 km south of Trinidad. The sea is warm, the snorkelling over the offshore reef is good, and the beach is long enough that it does not feel overcrowded even when the resort hotels are busy.
Getting there: taxis and bicitaxis from Trinidad cover the route, or you can rent a bicycle and cycle the flat road through farmland and along the coast. The beach is backed by three hotel complexes; non-guests can use the beach (it is public) and buy drinks at the beach bars. For the clearest water and the best reef access, walk to the southern end of the beach away from the hotels. Snorkelling gear is available for rent.