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.

The most complete collection relating to Indo-Cuban culture is held in this museum in the town of Banes, known as the archaeological capital of Cuba. It exibits indigenous artifacts such as pottery, jewelry, and tools. Among the thousands of pieces held, two are of particular interest: a solid gold icon, the first to be found in the area, and an indigenous skull with a hole in it similar to one that might be caused by the impact of a bullet. There are also murals depicting indigenous life.

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.