Hotel Brisas Sierra Mar
Hotel Brisas Sierra Mar Diving Pictures & Reviews (Guama, Cuba)
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Hi, has anyone been scuba diving here lately? How is it? Thank you!
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Jan 2019
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I went diving at the Sierra Mar from Nov.19-26, 2005. This was my second visit since 1998 and I was surprised to see the resort looking better than ever with several of the same staff from 7 yrs ago. The hotel was closed for 6 mths and reopened Nov.5/05. The diving was well organized with the Marlin dive shop on site. Friendly and knowledgable staff who made the extra effort for divers. The rental equipment is Mares and most people bring their own diving equipment. Diving costs $30 Cuban convertible pesos for each dive with slight reductions for multiple dives.(3 dives = 87 CCP). Two hurricanes hit this area in July and October 05, however there is little evidence or damage to the resort. The vizability under water was about 50% of the usual 80-100 ft. There is about 30+ dive sites on the reefs in front of the resort. Some of the reefs are under pressure from local spear fishing with recent attempts to make the reefs an underwater park unsuccessful. The Marlin dive instructors are expierenced, friendly and proffesional. The two dive boats hold 8 divers each and depart at approximately 0900, 1100 and 1300 hours each day, weather permitting. I saw a rare 12 ft Nurse shark on my 1st dive on the wall and was very excited to see it. The shark swam away very quickly. The #9 dive site was very interesting with lots of fish and corral. I recommend the resort for a diving holiday.
The resort was well managed with the staff looking great in there blue and white uniforms. The night shows were excellent with the dancing some of the best I've seen in Cuba. The dancers are ballet trained and work very hard to entertain. The food was plentifull with good variety. Try the alacarte restaurants for a change. The best coffee is at the pool bar and the beach bar has the best location, right on the beach. Try the fried fish and pizzas at the beach restaurant for lunch.
I hope this info helps anyone thinking of going to this resort. Best wishes and have a great holiday.
The resort was well managed with the staff looking great in there blue and white uniforms. The night shows were excellent with the dancing some of the best I've seen in Cuba. The dancers are ballet trained and work very hard to entertain. The food was plentifull with good variety. Try the alacarte restaurants for a change. The best coffee is at the pool bar and the beach bar has the best location, right on the beach. Try the fried fish and pizzas at the beach restaurant for lunch.
I hope this info helps anyone thinking of going to this resort. Best wishes and have a great holiday.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Un albergo ai piedi della Sierra Maestra, una spiaggia lunga 1 km e i coccotieri da cartolina. 60 km dalla Città di Santiago de Cuba ma ben vale la pena il detour fino a questo lido pulito dove si rimane imperturbabili (le uniche famiglie dei dintorni sono i gentilissimi contadini cubani) e si può persino fare sub nei relitti di navi spagnole affondate nel 1898. Tramonti spattacolari e un personale sempre gentile e disponibile. Possibilità di fare delle escursioni in città e nei dintorni. Ideale per le famiglie, amici, coppie (con o senza bambini).
This is a hotel at the feet of the Sierra Maestra, with a 1-km-long beach and postal card coconut grooves. 60 km west from the city of Santiago de Cuba, the trip to this limpid, unspoilt lido is certainly worthwhile (the only people living around are countrymen and their families made up by extremely gentle Cubans) and one can even do scuba diving in the wrecks of a Spanish Armada sunken in 1898. Spectacular sunsets and an ever available staff are the hotel's trump cards. Ideal for families, friends, couples (with or without children).
This is a hotel at the feet of the Sierra Maestra, with a 1-km-long beach and postal card coconut grooves. 60 km west from the city of Santiago de Cuba, the trip to this limpid, unspoilt lido is certainly worthwhile (the only people living around are countrymen and their families made up by extremely gentle Cubans) and one can even do scuba diving in the wrecks of a Spanish Armada sunken in 1898. Spectacular sunsets and an ever available staff are the hotel's trump cards. Ideal for families, friends, couples (with or without children).
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Brisas Sierra Mar, Santiago de Cuba area. March 19 to the 26. I was looking for a cheap/cheerful dive vacation. I paid $745, all in. Booked approx. 4 weeks in advance through the Flight Centre. The attraction for me was that this hotel has a fully operational dive shop. The hotel was operating at approx. 25% occupancy, approx. 100 people were there during my stay, the hotel accommodates 400+. The smaller number suited me. I heard stories of people having to line up to get into the dining room in times past. Crowd tended to be a little older but generally interesting and friendly people. Note to man who worked at nuclear power plant...you really shouldn't get drunk and talk in a loud voice about the security measures in place at a nuclear power plant...sort of defeats the purpose.
I loved the music at this hotel. Various artists performed nightly in the lobby bar and the show was generally well done. A syncro swimming group performed one night too, what a treat. Tip the artists, they deserve it. Go horseback riding to the falls. It is a good way to spend 2 hours. Take used tack if you have it, one guest did and made a friend for life. I got an ocean view room upgrade, nice. Ask, all they can do is say no. Book a dinner at the Ecological al la carte restaurant. Nice setting. We took the Catamaran tour over to an island and did a dive followed by a nice lobster/seafood lunch. Another nice way to spend a day. My friend got a massage and enjoyed it. I would have but massages get booked up quickly and only seem to happen Mon. Wed. and Fri.
What I didn't like. The main dining room is indoors. I found it a bit stuffy. We asked, they accommodated us and set up a table outside. I love to eat outdoors when I go south. I found the restaurants a tad claustaphobic. I also didn't like that I could hear the people in the adjoining room have loud clear discussions at 7 a.m. Or that the cleaning staff started work very early. I complained about the 7 a.m. start. The hotel needs some tarting up...it's a Cuba 3*. The water was always warm and the lights stayed on so that's impressive for Cuba. It's only 60 km from the airport but because of the poor condition of the road it is 1.5 hr drive. [Fortunately I did a city tour when I stayed at the Club Bucanaro a few years ago. This hotel is less than 45 minute drive from the city.] I was not prepared to spend 3 hrs on the bus to do the city tour again. Note to self, most of the staff do this trip every day...on a crowded bus likely with few of any shocks so I will stop complaining now. Food was Cuba 3*, it's generally good, not great. I don't like to cook and I don't like to complain when someone else does so for me.
I wanted a vodka...no go. I wanted a margarita...no go. Beer is good, mojitos are excellent. Wine...I drank the white but can't say I'm proud of that. My friend wanted pina coladas. They were mostly not available. Loved the 4:30 french fries at the pool bar! Ask for cappuccino or espresso rather than drink the coffee in the dining room.
I liked that they went diving every day. There were some certified divers ready and willing to go on a daily basis. The schedule, such as it was, be there at 9:30 hit the water...anytime up to about 10:30 or 11. Gather again at 1 hit the water around 2 or 2:30. I prefer more of a schedule. I like to dive, then relax which includes a beer or two. I can't drink or eat much before or between dives so by 3 I was famished and thirsty. I think if a group went down you could likely try and organize a schedule...if the bus that delivers the staff arrives on time which sometimes doesn't happen. I wouldn't go with a large group, they might be stretched to accommodate everyone. There were some long stay guys who dove frequently. The shop offered pool courses and solicited resort course divers. The two boats were ok, comfortable for 10 plus gear. Staff brought them into shore and willing loaded tanks and gear. There was a ladder for entry into the boat. They staff were very considerate. On a few occasions when there was more surf around the reef they stopped in calmer water, people got suited up and then hit the water close to the reef without delay. I like this as I am somewhat prone to getting sick on the surface. They do not offer a price discount if you bring your own equipment. The equipment looked to be in fairly good shape. I didn't hear too many complaints. They have short wetsuits. I appreciated having my long 3mm, temperatures were around 78 in the water. They use steel tanks so be prepared to adjust your weights. Fills were generally good. Most of the sites are within a 15 min. max. boat ride. They take VISA but pay in cash and you get a better deal. I offered alternatives but they wanted Cuban convertible pesos. I expect they lose on the exchange if you tip or pay in Canadian dollars. Dives work out to about $40 per dive. The staff were excellent. Nice guys and they can't do enough for you. Make sure that you get them a lunch and a drink from the beach bar between and after diving. If you are so inclined people ask for items for their children and shoes, every one wants and needs good shoes. Make a trip to Value Village before you go and you will be much loved. Medicine is also vey much appreciated. Ask your GP for samples. If you want to leave behind any dive equipment know that it will be well used and much appreciated. Some clever soul at the hotel took a printer and paper. Cubans really appreciated having photos of their children and families. Nice touch that.
The dive master to diver ratio could have been better. I didn't like that one dive master took down a family of 4 for their first open water dive. I think a 2/1 ratio was called for. The seasoned divers could largely do their own thing.
I did a shore dive to a wreck, the Cristobal Colan from the Spanish American civil war with a another diver staying at the hotel. We paid 40 Cuban pesos for the taxi and extra for the dive. It's about 80 min. by taxi up the coast. Take fruit, juice etc. from the restaurant, you'll appreciate having it after the dive. The view was spectacular, the road was horrific. The wreck is an easy swim from shore though the surf can be a challenge. Thank you to Edgar the dive master for good advice, strong arms and for knowing exactly where the wreck was. It was almost freaky!!!
I saw several black lion fish, a large caribbean blue lobster, a large green moray eel, a large grouper and assorted schools of fish. I could identify them with some effort but I'm lazy. Generally I'd say it's easy, relaxed diving. The reefs have been beat up by recent hurricanes, Mitch hit this area very hard and the people fish close to shore. I'd return happily but not necessarily as a first choice. There are so many other places to visit in this world. Got questions try me at waterwoman2002@hotmail.com I'll try my best to answer them.
I loved the music at this hotel. Various artists performed nightly in the lobby bar and the show was generally well done. A syncro swimming group performed one night too, what a treat. Tip the artists, they deserve it. Go horseback riding to the falls. It is a good way to spend 2 hours. Take used tack if you have it, one guest did and made a friend for life. I got an ocean view room upgrade, nice. Ask, all they can do is say no. Book a dinner at the Ecological al la carte restaurant. Nice setting. We took the Catamaran tour over to an island and did a dive followed by a nice lobster/seafood lunch. Another nice way to spend a day. My friend got a massage and enjoyed it. I would have but massages get booked up quickly and only seem to happen Mon. Wed. and Fri.
What I didn't like. The main dining room is indoors. I found it a bit stuffy. We asked, they accommodated us and set up a table outside. I love to eat outdoors when I go south. I found the restaurants a tad claustaphobic. I also didn't like that I could hear the people in the adjoining room have loud clear discussions at 7 a.m. Or that the cleaning staff started work very early. I complained about the 7 a.m. start. The hotel needs some tarting up...it's a Cuba 3*. The water was always warm and the lights stayed on so that's impressive for Cuba. It's only 60 km from the airport but because of the poor condition of the road it is 1.5 hr drive. [Fortunately I did a city tour when I stayed at the Club Bucanaro a few years ago. This hotel is less than 45 minute drive from the city.] I was not prepared to spend 3 hrs on the bus to do the city tour again. Note to self, most of the staff do this trip every day...on a crowded bus likely with few of any shocks so I will stop complaining now. Food was Cuba 3*, it's generally good, not great. I don't like to cook and I don't like to complain when someone else does so for me.
I wanted a vodka...no go. I wanted a margarita...no go. Beer is good, mojitos are excellent. Wine...I drank the white but can't say I'm proud of that. My friend wanted pina coladas. They were mostly not available. Loved the 4:30 french fries at the pool bar! Ask for cappuccino or espresso rather than drink the coffee in the dining room.
I liked that they went diving every day. There were some certified divers ready and willing to go on a daily basis. The schedule, such as it was, be there at 9:30 hit the water...anytime up to about 10:30 or 11. Gather again at 1 hit the water around 2 or 2:30. I prefer more of a schedule. I like to dive, then relax which includes a beer or two. I can't drink or eat much before or between dives so by 3 I was famished and thirsty. I think if a group went down you could likely try and organize a schedule...if the bus that delivers the staff arrives on time which sometimes doesn't happen. I wouldn't go with a large group, they might be stretched to accommodate everyone. There were some long stay guys who dove frequently. The shop offered pool courses and solicited resort course divers. The two boats were ok, comfortable for 10 plus gear. Staff brought them into shore and willing loaded tanks and gear. There was a ladder for entry into the boat. They staff were very considerate. On a few occasions when there was more surf around the reef they stopped in calmer water, people got suited up and then hit the water close to the reef without delay. I like this as I am somewhat prone to getting sick on the surface. They do not offer a price discount if you bring your own equipment. The equipment looked to be in fairly good shape. I didn't hear too many complaints. They have short wetsuits. I appreciated having my long 3mm, temperatures were around 78 in the water. They use steel tanks so be prepared to adjust your weights. Fills were generally good. Most of the sites are within a 15 min. max. boat ride. They take VISA but pay in cash and you get a better deal. I offered alternatives but they wanted Cuban convertible pesos. I expect they lose on the exchange if you tip or pay in Canadian dollars. Dives work out to about $40 per dive. The staff were excellent. Nice guys and they can't do enough for you. Make sure that you get them a lunch and a drink from the beach bar between and after diving. If you are so inclined people ask for items for their children and shoes, every one wants and needs good shoes. Make a trip to Value Village before you go and you will be much loved. Medicine is also vey much appreciated. Ask your GP for samples. If you want to leave behind any dive equipment know that it will be well used and much appreciated. Some clever soul at the hotel took a printer and paper. Cubans really appreciated having photos of their children and families. Nice touch that.
The dive master to diver ratio could have been better. I didn't like that one dive master took down a family of 4 for their first open water dive. I think a 2/1 ratio was called for. The seasoned divers could largely do their own thing.
I did a shore dive to a wreck, the Cristobal Colan from the Spanish American civil war with a another diver staying at the hotel. We paid 40 Cuban pesos for the taxi and extra for the dive. It's about 80 min. by taxi up the coast. Take fruit, juice etc. from the restaurant, you'll appreciate having it after the dive. The view was spectacular, the road was horrific. The wreck is an easy swim from shore though the surf can be a challenge. Thank you to Edgar the dive master for good advice, strong arms and for knowing exactly where the wreck was. It was almost freaky!!!
I saw several black lion fish, a large caribbean blue lobster, a large green moray eel, a large grouper and assorted schools of fish. I could identify them with some effort but I'm lazy. Generally I'd say it's easy, relaxed diving. The reefs have been beat up by recent hurricanes, Mitch hit this area very hard and the people fish close to shore. I'd return happily but not necessarily as a first choice. There are so many other places to visit in this world. Got questions try me at waterwoman2002@hotmail.com I'll try my best to answer them.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
We went on our trip from February 17th to the 24th. As soon as we walked out of the airport in Cuba the travel agent was on site greeting us with our room key and info package. This is before we even seen the resort. Was a nice touch.
The bus ride to the resort is about 1.15 hours. Not the best way to start the vacation, but what can you do. The resort is said to be a 4 or 4.5. Ok I have been there and done that. its not a 4.5, however the accommodations are clean, as are the facilities.
The rooms are a nice size, not sure why people say they are small, and clean. I am a clean freak and I found them fine. Don’t expect a Hilton because you will be disappointed.
The Beach is nice, if you like to go diving, or snorkeling its great. For the swimmers try going to the other end of the dock. A nice 5 min walk past the locals and you have a nice sandy beach to swim in.
The Staff don’t expect English to so strong, you can get the point across and they are there to help. The bartenders are great. As far as drinks, I read there are only 7 or 8 types not sure what bar they were at? They have 7 or 8 drinks listed as the most popular for that area. Ask them to make you something and let them surprise you. Lots to drink trust me, try the Horney Monkey yummy!
The Entertainment this is the only thing I found to be a bit off. There was only one show I actually watched it was great, had fire gymnasts and nice dancers and a magician. Little tip, as all the people are watching the show go get some drinks, gives you a chance to get to know the bartenders to.
The Food All the basic needs are there. You will not starve. Great omelets if you can wake up in time to eat them Breakfast is done at 10am. The variety is not great but the food is good. No sore bellies in any way. Water is good to.
The Disco make of it what you will. Most of the people at the resort are older and although there are young couples good luck! The 50-year-old guests were more lively then them. So get up and start your own party.
Overall the surrounding area is great, really relaxing and lots to do if you know how to have fun. I would rate this a 7 out of 10. The only reason it’s a 7 because I have been to a 10 out of ten and that’s is hard to beat.
Great Bang for the buck !
The bus ride to the resort is about 1.15 hours. Not the best way to start the vacation, but what can you do. The resort is said to be a 4 or 4.5. Ok I have been there and done that. its not a 4.5, however the accommodations are clean, as are the facilities.
The rooms are a nice size, not sure why people say they are small, and clean. I am a clean freak and I found them fine. Don’t expect a Hilton because you will be disappointed.
The Beach is nice, if you like to go diving, or snorkeling its great. For the swimmers try going to the other end of the dock. A nice 5 min walk past the locals and you have a nice sandy beach to swim in.
The Staff don’t expect English to so strong, you can get the point across and they are there to help. The bartenders are great. As far as drinks, I read there are only 7 or 8 types not sure what bar they were at? They have 7 or 8 drinks listed as the most popular for that area. Ask them to make you something and let them surprise you. Lots to drink trust me, try the Horney Monkey yummy!
The Entertainment this is the only thing I found to be a bit off. There was only one show I actually watched it was great, had fire gymnasts and nice dancers and a magician. Little tip, as all the people are watching the show go get some drinks, gives you a chance to get to know the bartenders to.
The Food All the basic needs are there. You will not starve. Great omelets if you can wake up in time to eat them Breakfast is done at 10am. The variety is not great but the food is good. No sore bellies in any way. Water is good to.
The Disco make of it what you will. Most of the people at the resort are older and although there are young couples good luck! The 50-year-old guests were more lively then them. So get up and start your own party.
Overall the surrounding area is great, really relaxing and lots to do if you know how to have fun. I would rate this a 7 out of 10. The only reason it’s a 7 because I have been to a 10 out of ten and that’s is hard to beat.
Great Bang for the buck !
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
I have visited the Santiago area 6 times and stayed at the two other resorts, the third one was sadly destroyed by hurricane Sandy before I got around to visiting it, nevertheless Brisas Sierra Mar still remains my all time favorite in the area. The million dollar view is out of a dream! The staff is friendly and proffesional, the cleaning staff is top notch whether in our rooms or the public facilities. Never any overflowing garbage bins.
The beach is back! They have been working so hard at rebuilding the beach and it is coming in nicely. Some days the water was foggy due to storms at night but we had days where it was crystal clear. The nautical was up and running and I have a date with scuba diving when I return. The catamaran was out daily bringing people for free rides or you had the option of pedal boats or little kayaks...all free.
Tennis courts were operational and newly painted. People were using them daily.
The pool was very refreshing and when Anthony was there it was my favorite time! Music played by the pool and at 9:30ish he would announce the daily activities. Stretching, aquafitness which I love! Volleyball then history lessons, spanish lessons, dancing and bingo. It all depends on clientele participation but I loved it when he was there. When he wasn't there music was not on for some reason so I headed off to the beach.
This is a safe, quiet resort and I ran every morning undisturbed for 45 minutes. DIVINE!
The food is Amazing!! I love the Brisas chain- they never go wrong food wise. Not only was it delicious it was recognizable! Bonus!!
There's a little town across the street from the entrance of the resort- nice place to walk or jog through and a fantastic restaurant called Oceano is there. Delicious, very affordable food...no reservations required just walk on over.
I took in the eco walk with Anthony starting at 8:00am - he is a well of knowledge and fluent in 4 languages plus. He also does a bird watching tour and another walking tour. There are bike tours also available.
Our room was clean and hot water plentiful. Safe was at a cost of 14CUC for the week. Well worth the peace of mind.
The elevators were functional but I preferred using the stairs, cardio central!
I would recommend this resort anytime and am returning for scuba lessons with Manolito and Edgar. Can't wait!
There is nothing like a sunset on the Caribbean with the majestic mountains in the background...a truly magical sight.
The beach is back! They have been working so hard at rebuilding the beach and it is coming in nicely. Some days the water was foggy due to storms at night but we had days where it was crystal clear. The nautical was up and running and I have a date with scuba diving when I return. The catamaran was out daily bringing people for free rides or you had the option of pedal boats or little kayaks...all free.
Tennis courts were operational and newly painted. People were using them daily.
The pool was very refreshing and when Anthony was there it was my favorite time! Music played by the pool and at 9:30ish he would announce the daily activities. Stretching, aquafitness which I love! Volleyball then history lessons, spanish lessons, dancing and bingo. It all depends on clientele participation but I loved it when he was there. When he wasn't there music was not on for some reason so I headed off to the beach.
This is a safe, quiet resort and I ran every morning undisturbed for 45 minutes. DIVINE!
The food is Amazing!! I love the Brisas chain- they never go wrong food wise. Not only was it delicious it was recognizable! Bonus!!
There's a little town across the street from the entrance of the resort- nice place to walk or jog through and a fantastic restaurant called Oceano is there. Delicious, very affordable food...no reservations required just walk on over.
I took in the eco walk with Anthony starting at 8:00am - he is a well of knowledge and fluent in 4 languages plus. He also does a bird watching tour and another walking tour. There are bike tours also available.
Our room was clean and hot water plentiful. Safe was at a cost of 14CUC for the week. Well worth the peace of mind.
The elevators were functional but I preferred using the stairs, cardio central!
I would recommend this resort anytime and am returning for scuba lessons with Manolito and Edgar. Can't wait!
There is nothing like a sunset on the Caribbean with the majestic mountains in the background...a truly magical sight.
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This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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I have only done snorkeling off the beach. There is a dive shop operator on the beach, and I have heard some divers in the beach restaurant say the places the operator takes them are quite exciting. The snorkeling off the beach is pretty bland.
the snorkling close to the beach is fabulous, diving i heard is great - my husband/daughter went last year and they didn't see nearly as many fishes as you can snorkling by he beach at the location they went - there are many locations depending on level of diving - they went to the starter place. but there were people that did dive every day and they really loved it