What's the weather like in Havana in March?
Havana, the capital city of Cuba, located in the Caribbean, is known for year round high temperatures and humidity. The sub-tropical climate that sweeps across the island brings some sea breezes for relief on the hottest days. Fortunately for visitors in the month of March the weather becomes warmer, without being excessively hot, and the humidity is lower, before the summer wet season sets in.
It is possible that the end of March is the ideal time to visit Havana, as visitors are nearly guaranteed gorgeous sunny days and warm, sultry Havana nights.
Temperature
The average temperature in March reaches 23°C (73°F), which is a slight increase from the average in February. Days near the end of March will be the hottest, as the average temperature will continue to rise throughout April and May. While the forthcoming days of July and August are best spent on Havana's white-sand beaches, visitors in March can still enjoy a full day among Old Havana's streets.
Likewise, March sees continued increases in the average low and high temperatures. After sunset, Havana still experiences a drop in temperature, but the average low settles at 18°C (64°F). Meanwhile, stronger sunshine over the northern hemisphere means the average high temperature for the month of March is 28°C (82°F).
Sea Temperature
Havana's location along the Gulf of Mexico is fortunate for locals and visitors alike, as the Gulf's waters are warm throughout the year. The average sea temperature in March is a consistent 26°C (79°F).
Rainfall
March in Havana is filled with bright sunshine. While the average amount of precipitation is up to 40 mm, from February's average 10 mm, there are only an average of 5 wet days throughout the month.
Sunshine Hours
Most days, the sunshine can last all day long. In fact, as the days continue to lengthen throughout spring, the average daily sunlight also increases. March sees a wonderful average 9 hours of sunlight per day.
Havana Hotels for March
March in Havana is a great time of year both for exploring the city and hitting the beach. Visitors who wish to spend their time both sightseeing and relaxing on the sand should consider TRYP Habana Libre. This iconic hotel has been operated by a number of private companies, including Hilton, and the Cuban government. Throughout the many ownership changes it has retained its impressive interior and reputation for quality accommodation. One of the largest hotels in Cuba, with 572 rooms, and located just off the Malecón, this is a perfect base for exploring all sides of Havana.
While the TRYP Habana Libre has long been an iconic hotel in Havana, the casa particulars scattered throughout the city are also icons of the tourism industry in Havana. For guests who want to truly feel at home in Havana, staying at a casa particular can offer a unique visitor experience. Chez Nous, located in Old Havana has been open since 2003. This casa particular has three guest rooms available and a kitchen and living area for guest use. The décor is bright, charming and colorful just like Havana itself.
Many would consider the building of the Hotel Santa Isabel a Havana icon, given its impressive and beautiful exterior. The interior is similarly elegant and charming, with the touch of classic grandeur, from chandeliers and dark woods, that is not seen in modern hotels. The Hotel Santa Isabel only has 27 rooms, each decorated with a wrought-iron bed and hints at modernity through all of the expected amenities, from air conditioning to satellite televisions. The open courtyard and terrace provide a respite from the busy streets of Old Havana. The Hotel Santa Isabel boats a list of famous former guests, including former president of the United States Jimmy Carter.
Havana Beaches in March
Located west of Havana is the salty water of Playa El Salado. The name Playa El Salado translates to Salty Beach, and it is for a reason. Due to certain currents off the coast of Cuba, there is a higher concentration of salt in the water here than elsewhere along the Cuban coast. It is around a 30-minte drive to reach Playa El Salado from Havana, but the water here is temperate and calm for swimming and the salt is actually great for your skin.
Bars and Restaurants
A restaurant that nabs a visit from the United States President on the first official visit to Cuba in over 88 years, is likely worth the cost. San Cristobal Paladar serves traditional Cuban food, in a wonderful atmosphere. The owner and chef, Carlos Cristóbal Márquez Valdés, sets a tone of charm and warmth at his small restaurant, all the while serving up delicious food. After Barack Obama's visit it might be difficult to get a table, so plan your visit accordingly.
Things to do in Havana in March
The Havana Drum Festival takes place in March, which is celebrated with great enthusiasm and, as you can imagine, involves a lot of drumming at many high profile venues in Havana. These include the Amadeo Roldan Theatre (Teatro Amadeo Roldan).
March also hosts the International Festival of Electroacoustic Music, which is one of the most important spring celebrations in the Cuban Capital. The event has a huge number of participants from all over and the locals turn out in huge numbers to cheer the local artists and DJ's.
At the end of February and start of March the weather is perfect for city or sand, however, in Havana there is one event that is taking all the attention. The Habanos Festival is a celebration of all things cigar. Billed as a celebration of the world's finest tobacco, it draws cigar lovers from around the world to Havana.
Plaza de la Revlucion is a must visit, you can't miss it. It was part of Havanas 'new city' and has become a huge tourist attraction. Constructed in the late 1950's, the buildings are now known for the huge mural of Che Guevara and Cuba's other hero Camilo Cienfuegos.
