Hotel Memories Jibacoa +16 (formerly Breezes Jibacoa) is a secluded and quiet resort, set between mountains and the beautiful Arroyo Bermejo beach, halfway between Havana and Varadero, approximately 1 hour by car from each of these two important touristic destinations in Cuba.
The hotel's architecture resembles an old hacienda and consists of 18 two-story blocks ( 250 rooms) built next to a 300 meters quiet beach of white sands. The setting is quite idyllic: nestled between beautiful green mountains, lush vegetation and offering gorgeous views in a very peaceful ambiance.
Although definitely not a party hotel, it does offer many entertainment activities , such as scuba diving and snorkeling. These two sports are very popular since the beach is protected by a coral reef and fish are easily spoted by swimming only a few meters from the shore.
There is also day and night entertainment, basketball and volleyball courts, gym, game room and watersports including kayaks.
The hotel’s pool and grounds are also part of the charm. The pool is beautiful and features the best views, there are plenty beach chairs and beds offering shade, plus 2 Jacuzzis. Gardens are lovely and very well tended; the beach, although small, is really charming because of the wonderful sight of the mountains in the back and also the colorful paragliders that fly from them and land on the sand. .
The rooms are spacious and some of them enjoy sea views.
The à la carte restaurants receive many compliments from guests.
All in all, a good choice for those who prefer smaller, more intimate hotels and want to combine a few days at the beach with a trip to Havana.
Tips: Bring bug spray and your own snorkeling gear set since the hotel often runs out.