Some 8 km south of the Guardalavaca beach is the largest burial ground to be found in the Antilles. Beside this archaeological cemetery is La Aldea Taína, a theme park with reconstructed scenes from the everyday lives of the native communities, with their hut-like dwellings, their customs and games. It constitutes the most important discovery in Cuba regarding an aboriginal settlement. Thus, the site has been declared National Monument.

Guardalavaca stretches over 3 km. of beach among steep cliffs at north-east of Holguín province. Its warm, quiet turquoise waters are protected by coral reefs, creating an ideal microclimate for sea life. The water is very clear and the visibility good up to depths of 20 m allowing for remarkable diving in places.

The stretch of coastline of Estero Ciego Caleticas has two magnificent beaches of almost one kilometre in length and protected by coral reefs. Known as Esmeralda Beach because of the clean, warm, transparent waters are deep green in colour. It is protected by escarpments, cliffs and lush and shady vegetation. Nearby is the natural park of Bahía de Naranjo. This is a perfect site for water sports such as diving or snorkeling, windsurf, catamaran sailing or sailboarding. 

Acknowledged as Cuba’s archaeological city. Many of its archaeological treasures are exhibited in its Museo Indocubano. To visit its museums is to go back to the past and its old residents. Guardalavaca is part of the county of Banes.