Punta Gorda is an attractive waterfront suburb set on a peninsula in the south of the city of Cienfuegos. It’s a place to enjoy waterfront walks, marvel at spectacular sunsets and dine at restaurants with bay views. Spot French-inspired mansions and a display of public art. Established in the 19th century, Punta Gorda sits on the land donated by Havana-born aristocrat Augustine de Santa Cruz y de Castillo, the founder of Cienfuegos.
Cutting through the heart of the suburb, and linking it with the city center, is the elegant, palm-fringed Paseo del Prado. Sit on a bench and watch courting couples, cyclists, families and joggers go by. See the proud owners of vintage 1950s American cars cruise up and down the boulevard.
Continue along Paseo del Prado until you reach the suburb’s waterside esplanade, El Malecón. It springs to life in the evening when a mix of bohemians and tourists come to enjoy views over the Bay of Cienfuegos. Have your camera poised to capture shots of the spectacular sunsets. Drink in the scenery from the comfort of El Malecón’s handful of bars and restaurants.
Take a moment to appreciate the suburb’s architectural masterpieces. Most notable is the Palacio de Valle, which blends everything from Baroque to Italianate, Moorish and Romanesque designs. The bar on the rooftop terrace is a favorite location for sundowners. Another impressive landmark is the grandiose building of the marina, sports club and restaurant called Club Cienfuegos.
Also worth a visit is the Parque de las Esculturas, an open-air art gallery with 13 sculptures made from ceramics, concrete and steel. It features work by acclaimed Cuban artists such as Arcadio Capote Cabrera.
Punta Gorda is about a 10-minute drive from Cienfuegos’ historic center. A pleasurable way to get here is by sauntering along Paseo del Prado. Pause at prominent city attractions, including the Biblioteca Municipal and a monument to the Cuban singer Benny Moré. Punta Gorda is home to several guesthouses and hotels, should you wish to stay overnight in the suburb.
