A Cuban content creator recently shared a revealing TikTok video showcasing the present condition of Santa Lucia Beach in Camagüey. What she uncovered in the Residential sector—once the heart of this beach's tourism—left viewers astounded.
The user, known as @dalaisy_makeup, posted her journey in mid-August, starting at 5 a.m. amid a complete blackout. "The only light visible was from the moon, imagine the massive blackout," she explained.
After a two-and-a-half-hour journey, the scene she encountered was a stark contrast to the once postcard-perfect Santa Lucia. "The beach was not only empty but also incredibly dirty, with seaweed mounds covering the shore," she described.
The state of the infrastructure was equally surprising: "Picture a place once filled with cabins, and now only these few remain," she pointed out, highlighting the scarce structures still standing.
Entering the water wasn't an option due to the poor conditions: "I much preferred taking a thousand photos and capturing the best videos I could in the nicer spots because swimming in such a filthy beach wasn't an option for me," she admitted.
She mentioned, "I wasn't the only one who felt this way," indicating that other visitors shared her disapproval of the beach's condition.
This isn't the first warning about Santa Lucia's situation. Back in July 2025, a lifeguard reported over a meter-high seaweed accumulation obstructing visibility and hindering beach activities.
Environmental degradation is evident elsewhere along the Cuban coast. In August, La Boca Beach in Camagüey faced criticism for trash accumulation, with beer cans, bottles, and glass littering both sand and sea.
Throughout the summer, beaches in Mayabeque were reported in critical condition, and in September, Ancón Beach in Trinidad ended the season covered in debris. Additionally, in July, several beaches in Baracoa were blanketed with significant amounts of seaweed.
Environmental and Touristic Challenges
Santa Lucia is grappling with major environmental challenges. A study on resilient tourism and climate change in the area by Camagüey researchers warns that human activities—including tourism—and natural phenomena have affected its resources and ecosystems. The research highlights that the tourism in the area is vulnerable to extreme weather events and rising sea levels.
This scenario aligns with the severe crisis facing Cuban tourism. The country attracted only 450,000 international visitors in the first eight months of 2026 amid a significant industry downturn.
"Nothing is more heartbreaking than witnessing your country deteriorate day by day," @dalaisy_makeup summarized in the video's description, encapsulating her view on Santa Lucia's current state.
Frequently Asked Questions about Santa Lucia Beach's Condition
What is the current condition of Santa Lucia Beach in Cuba?
Santa Lucia Beach is currently facing significant environmental issues, including litter and seaweed accumulation, deteriorated infrastructure, and a sharp decline in tourism activity.
How have tourists reacted to the state of Santa Lucia Beach?
Many tourists, like the content creator @dalaisy_makeup, have expressed disappointment and disapproval over the beach's neglected condition, opting to avoid swimming and focus on capturing images instead.
What are the broader environmental impacts on Cuban beaches?
Cuban beaches, including Santa Lucia, are suffering from pollution, seaweed overgrowth, and infrastructural decay, impacting tourism and local ecosystems significantly.