What's the weather like in Havana in February
The winter months of January and February are considered an ideal time to visit the island of Cuba and its historic capital city, Havana. The weather of this coastal city is hot and humid all year long, making it a wonderful place for a holiday that combines culture, history and plenty of time on the beach. However, the month of February is consistently hot and sunny, without the overbearing heat of summer.
While many places in the northern hemisphere remain cold and wet during the month of February, in Havana the weather and culture align for a stellar winter getaway. The only layer visitors may need is a light jacket in the evening.
Rainfall
Havana is famous for its tropical climate (and cigars), however February is the driest month of the year. The Cuban capital receives an average 10 mm of precipitation throughout the month over an average of 5 wet days. In contrast, the wettest month of the year in Havana, July, has an average 14 wet days.
Sunshine Hours
There is an abundance of sunshine in February for visitors seeking winter sun. On average Havana receives 8 hours of bright sunlight a day, an increase from the 7 hours in January. The days are becoming longer in this island capital, which means more time to spend on the sand.
Sea Temperature
Although, most visitors will be enticed from the sand for a swim in the sea, given that the average sea temperature for the Gulf of Mexico in February is a stunning 26°C (79°F). The warm waters create perfect conditions for swimming and all sorts of beach activities.
Temperature
The average temperature in February is slightly higher than in January. The rising temperatures are a trend that will continue through the spring months of March, April and May. The average temperature in February in Havana is 22°C (72°F).
Similarly, midday and afternoon in Havana becomes slightly warmer than the preceding month, and the average high temperature reaches 27°C (81°F). The continued cool temperatures overnight mean the average low temperature for the month is 17°C (63°F); while cool, the lower evening temperatures are perfect for enjoying a cocktail or rum in one of Havana's paladares.
Havana Hotels in February
Many visitors to Havana choose to stay in the Cuban capital over quieter island towns because of the cultural and architectural history in Old Havana, also called Habana Vieja.
There are few hotels in Havana, or all of Cuba for that matter, that seamlessly and effortlessly provide a top-tier guest experience. The 5-star Hotel Saratoga is one of the few hotels that miraculously provides a timeless guest experience up to modern day standards. The hotel's interior is filled with enchanting spaces that combine contemporary design elements with bright and light spaces reminiscent of upscale Caribbean retreats of the past. The guest rooms are similarly striking, with dark woods set against pops of bright colour. However, the true stunner at Hotel Saratoga is the rooftop terrace and restaurant that offers views across Havana to the sea.
A hotel option located in Old Havana is Hotel Raquel. Hotel Raquel has a baroque façade and art-nouveau interior, with a stunning stained glass roof that distracts from the slightly worn interior. Guests should expect an old-world feeling that extends from the building's architecture to the manner and welcome of the staff. The 25 guest rooms at Hotel Raquel are basic, but adequate, and filled with interesting furniture and décor. The rooftop terrace offers wonderful views over the city center.
Often visitors on a budget are forced to sacrifice location to save a bit of cash, and Havana is not known for its budget-friendly accommodation. However, one well-situated option is the Hotel Islazul Caribbean. This budget option is perfectly located on the Prado in central Havana and is a short walk to the Parque Central and the Malecon. Visitors who want to explore all ends of Havana would be hard pressed to find a hotel with a better location.
Havana Beaches for February
The beach located closest to central Havana is Playa Bacuranao. The sand is nicer at other beaches along the Playas del Este, a stretch of 6 beaches located to the east of Havana, but the coral reef at Playa Bacuranao is great for snorkeling. Playa Bacuranao is also very popular with locals, given its proximity to the city.
Bars and Restaurants
Food is an important part of Cuban culture, and visitors will often find themselves eating in the traditional paladars across Havana, which provide a great local experience. However, the culinary scene in Havana is expanding and there are classy restaurants to be discovered.
O'Reilly 304 should not be difficult to find, as the name of the restaurant is the same as its address, and once there guests will be delighted by the Cuban and Latin American cuisine. Regularly named as one of Havana's best restaurants, it is certainly one of its trendiest. O'Reilly 304 keeps things simple for guests by serving a selection of cocktails and tapas.
Another stylish dining option located in Old Havana is Café de los Artistas. The exposed brick and high ceilings create a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere that is enjoyed by Cubans and visitors alike. Also, and very importantly, the food is excellent.
When it comes to happening and fashionable bars in the capital city, El Emperador is always on the list. The food at El Emperador, which is located in the lower level of La Torre, the restaurant in Havana's tallest building the FOCSA, is unimaginative and forgettable. However, the drinks are wonderful and worth a stop, particularly if guests are staying in the trendy Vedado neighborhood.
Things to do in Havana in February
Unlike many Caribbean capitals, Havana offers an abundance of things to do away from the sea and sand. The history and architecture of Havana has drawn visitors for a long time, and as the country sees a return to normal relations with the United States and other nations, more and more visitors are coming to experience the many sights of Havana.
For a cultural festival whilst you are in Cuba, February holds the International Book Festival, held in the early weeks of February, at San Carlos de la Cabana Fortress and ExpoCuba venues. You will be able to enjoy watching the presentations and readings and, the prestigious Premio Casa de las Americas award, will be given out.
Escape busy Havana and head out to Vinales to see the tobacco fields and caves. Tranquility and beauty is what you will get if you travel 3 hours out of central Cuba to Vinales. Hiring a bike is ideal here as you can cycle your way around the attractions and spot the iconic classic cars going past.
