Santa Maria, Santa Clara

[bmnichol]

Has anybody been to the Barcelo Santa Maria?

Is there snorkeling off the beach?  What was your impression of this resort, the area?  Thanks

[flopnfly]

Sorry, the only resort I've been to in that area is Royal Hideaway Ensenachos.

[kharmar77]

me too...

[travelchick]

When we were at the MCSM a few years ago, the Barcelo was just beginning to be constructed....The white sand beaches of CSM are stunning.  They are reputedly some of the best in Cuba.  The area is remote so relaxation should be top on your priority list.  Sure, there are excursions out, but getting back across the causeway starts any trip with a 45-minute ride on the bus.  We didn't snorkel while there and I don't recall anyone raving about the snorkelling.  Take bug spray if you decide to go, however.  The lay of the land is such that there are mudflats and "swamps" which we all know breed the dastardly mossies.  We would return to the area if there weren't so many other places we'd like to visit.  hth.  TC 

[Pacific State 808]

Hi

I spent 2 weeks at Cayo Santa Maria about 4 or 5 years back, I can't remember the hotel I stayed at but I spent most days snorkeling and diving.....to be honest, it ranks as one of the dullest places I have been for both. The beaches are stunning, out of this world, but as with most locations in Cuba, there is not much to write home about regarding the marine life. It's pretty terrible for snorkeling and diving.

I have some underwater pictures if you are interested, let me know and I will paste a link.

PS808

[bmnichol]

Thanks for the replies.  I'm still hoping for a deal the the Mayan Rivieria. I missed out on a doozy of one last week. I am waiting until my renewal passports get back before I actually book anything. It would be just my luck for them to loose my application after I booked a trip without passport in hand. It should be back next week. Then I will be ready to pounce. 

[mojitomiss_cuba]

Hi

I spent 2 weeks at Cayo Santa Maria about 4 or 5 years back, I can't remember the hotel I stayed at but I spent most days snorkeling and diving.....to be honest, it ranks as one of the dullest places I have been for both. The beaches are stunning, out of this world, but as with most locations in Cuba, there is not much to write home about regarding the marine life. It's pretty terrible for snorkeling and diving.

I have some underwater pictures if you are interested, let me know and I will paste a link.

PS808

Warren, let's see know: if you were at the same resort as Mr. B (bellagio) then you were at the Melia CSM, if you stayed at the same resort as the Mad Welshman and Evie then you were at the Sol CSM
I remember seeing some pics of you guys when you all met for bevvies :)
And I do remember you not exactly "raving" about the marine life