Club Amigo Marea del Portillo

Very relaxing place. Rooms are clean (though some minor repair will make them even better), see warm, good weather. Beaches are cleaned every morning. Food is pretty much the same every day with some variation but we liked it since it was tasty and enough varieties for a week. Eggs in some kind every day. Red wine and coffee were always there, only one time there was no milk. Next time though we'll follow other's advise and will bring salt and pepper with us. Because of humidity salt did not come out of a shaker with tiny holes. We tried Italian restaurant a la carte and had to go to buffet after to have normal meal. Very few choices of pasta and pizza. Do not recommend. We truly enjoyed horseback riding tours with Chichi (ask any staff member and they'll help to connect with him). Horses are exceptionally well trained and have very smooth gait in both trot and gallop. However if you are a good rider tell Chichi straight ahead that you want to ride not walk. All staff and people around are very friendly. When you think of tipping keep in mind that lifeguards, security and other workers don't receive anything and their salary is very low. They do their job well and totally deserve some support from tourists. You can also bring them sandwiches from the bar. They can bring you coconuts as many as you want. We paid $1 for each. No mosquitoes or other bugs! Overall good experience.

Amazing place to be !

Cuban vibes & great staff waiting for you !

The hotel looks clean and great welcome with amazing beach side

The entertainment it’s great especially the beach parties & the events with the musicians

The food & drinks are good for the Cuban standards

We can tell you that the Rum was never missing !!!

Have a great stay in Marea

I will try to keep this short.
Before booking your trip, DO YOUR RESEARCH!
This is an older resort that was closed for 4 years and only reopened on december 6 2023.
Be kind and show patience with the workers and they will do all they can to meet your needs and requests. If you have high expectations, book elsewhere.
Bring your own drink containers to reduce waste. Bring some snacks in case you are not satisfied with the food. Bring your own meds as medication and first aid supplies are very limited in cuba, and leave them at the pharmacy on your departure or with workers. Vicks is very appreciated as they cannot get that in cuba. Bring coffee if that's something you cannot live without.
Expect interruptions in wifi, pretend you are camping off grid.
The only thing that should go down their toilets is human fecal matter. Please use the waste baskets for your paper and feminine hygiene products.
Gifts of 20lbs fishing line, lures, work gloves, educatiin supplies for children, running shoes of all sizes, candies, clothes and anything else you can think of go a very long way in helping the people.
The cubans love the happy, thoughtful, and caring Canadians. What goes around comes around.
Huge shout out to the entertainmet manager Anas for organizing an amazing new years eve party with an aquatics show i will never forget!
Mucho amora to all the lovely people we met and partied with.

This was my first trip to Cuba, and it was amazing. Relaxing, clean, friendly. The kids were bus all day, and we were able to reconnect with each other in an amazing environment. Staff were friendly and helpful. The rooms were clean and the air conditioner worked great. The bar staff were quick and friendly. Cappuccinos were amazing.

My boyfriend and I (23) were the youngest ones there. Which we actually really enjoyed. The resort is known to be a “repeaters resort” so mostly everyone there have been there 10+ times. It is an older crowd, generally 30-60+. Which we enjoyed as we wanted a layed back, kid free resort. Older people still know how to party!!! The resort is a fantastic destination for the price. It is at the very bottom of Cuba on the beach with the mountains surrounding it, the highest mountains in Cuba actually! Such a beautiful location and view.

The cabanas are down the hill from the main resort. Most of them are right on the beach, but you do not get the gorgeous view of both the mountains and the beach like you do from a the “superior rooms” is what they call the regular hotel rooms at the top of the mountain at the main resort.
The cabanas are more expensive, but more acessible as they are right on the ground.

The superior rooms were better because you got the amazing view and was in the main resort section. Cheaper too. All the superior rooms are ocean view but the higher the floor the better for the view. There are 4 floors.
We requested a higher floor WITH a balcony and WITH a king size as if you did not request you weee chancing to get two twin beds and no balcony. (Most rooms did have a balcony though the odd one did not)

The VIP upgrade is MORE THAN WORTH IT. I was very impressed with what it came with for the price of it.
Free safety deposit box with your room (regular $60+ for the week)
“Priority check in at the hotel” -does not exist
A gold bracelet compared to the normal white one everyone else gets
A sunset cruise (valued $50 per person)
A boat ride and day trip to Cayo Blanco which included a huge lunch (valued $85 per person, more on cayo blanco below)
A 30 minute massage ($10 value)
Free mini bar stock on the first day (2 bottles of rum, two bottles of wine, 4 beers, 4 colas, 2 peach juices, 2 1.5L water bottles.. over $50 value)
Priority reservation at the a la carte -does not exist
Exclusive VIP Hike and lunch
The rooms were average but updated, had a mini fridge and flat screen, AC.

The beach is a great size, has many beach chairs. The side close to the cabanas is best to swim so the chairs down there filled quickly in the mornings.
The sand is black so you cannot see the bottom in the sea but it is clear water.
Bring water shoes there are lots of sea urchins.
The beach was relatively clean but due to being in a horseshoe a lot of debris did often wash up on shore (ALOT of drug baggies washed in from sea.. no lie)

Cayo Blanco is an amazing excursion you should pay for if you do not get the VIP package.
It is the only place where you can snorkel as it is clear white sand.
Lots of amazing wild life to see. Saw many starfish here, many sea urchins, fish, sand crabs, thousands of hermit crabs, gorgeous shells to be discovered(we found a FULLY INTACT conch shell, of course we returned it back to the ocean after admiring it)
Again, wear water shoes though
The lunch was delicious. It was a lobster lunch which my boyfriend really enjoyed and I enjoyed the many vegetables and such as I am vegetarian. It was probably the best meal we had all week!
The bathrooms are very nasty though as there is no running water to them, no toilet paper too, so BRING SOME if you do not want to do your business in the ocean lol.
There is an all inclusive bar on the island as well. Lots of drinks and food to go around.

We payed for a Jeep excursion to a waterfall that turned out to be a waterfall we could have easily walked to or payed a local $4 to take us by horse and buggy. Still a beautiful tour regardless.

Overall if there was not so much of the world to see we would definitely go back to this resort. The Cubans are so friendly and so loving. VERY safe area
Bring them clothes, shoes, electronics, and books you do not use anymore. They truly appreciate anything. The locals way rather trade for goods than to take CUC as payment

Food was typical Cuban food. Bring hot sauce, peanut butter, pepper,

My Husband and I traveled their Christmas 2006. We stayed VIP Cabana. So worth the little extra. Staff were delightful. Lots to do. Bus trip to street party by bus in Pilon. $5/person. Booze cruise-so much fun. Steak and seafood Dinner at the hotel on the side of the hill. Sunsets spectacular. Walk up to the local community waterfalls. The locals are very nice. Many work in the resort. The village of Marea del Portillo is just a buggy ride or walk away. Your driver will take you to meet his ex-wife who will sell you souvenirs. LOL! Completely harmless. They are just trying to make a living. We took personal products to give to the families living near the water falls plus school supplies and candy and chocolate for the children. We went on a tour up into the hills. The little girl there makes out well...everyone brought her candy. The resort was clean, food plentiful. And so fresh and tasty. The farms around the resort is where the food comes from. I have never had eggs any where that tasted so good. Coffee was best I've had on any trip ever. Snorkeling is nothing to write home about but the trip to the island they take you to is fun. They do have lots of activities to keep you busy and you can just go out and explore on your own. The beaches are public but the security will keep people off the beach and away from you so no bother.

Loved it and I'd go back in a heart beat. It's a great place to get away if your want quiet and very few tours.

Well, let me tell ya, this place is something else! I have been in Cuba many times to many different places, but nothing compare to Marea del Portillo. It's a small resort nestled between Caribbean sea and Sierra Maestra mountains. Surroundings and nature are amazing. Lots to see around. You can take bikes from hotel and go and explore area on your own. You can also take horse and a buggy or you can simply walk. Nearby village of Marea has two restaurants you can go for lunch or dinner. I went to Dany's and had yummy octopus for $12 canadian. Hotel and rooms are spotelss clean. Beach is small and clean, water is warm. Food was plenty, nobody stayed hungry or lost any weight. Maybe not lot of choices of food but there was always more than enough to eat Plenty of Cristal beer and rum. Who can ask for more?! Staff is amazing, friendly and always there to help you with anything you need. Special shoutout to Mayra and Eloy from pool bar, Ioney (I don't think I sppeled her name correctly) the entertainer, Elena the Sunwing rep, Alex the life guard and Rafael who cleans the beach. I highly recomend this place. Hope to see you all soon. All the best and thank you for everything.

Let me share the incredible experience we had on our recent vacation to a remote, breathtaking part of Cuba in late January to early February 2024. This hotel, let me tell you, it's not your average three-star joint - it deserves a solid 4.5 stars, maybe even more. We've checked out plenty of Cuban resorts before, always aiming for the top-tier ones with 4.5 stars or higher. But this time, we took a leap of faith based on a friend's enthusiastic recommendation, and boy, are we glad we did.

Imagine this: nestled next to the majestic Sierra Maestra mountains, with the Caribbean Sea stretching out in front of you. The Sierra Maestra? That's where Fidel Castro set up camp during the Cuban revolution. Nowadays, it's a designated national park, and our hotel had the privilege of being right next to it.

Here's the setup: the hotel, Club Amigo, has two sections - Marea del Portilo and Farallon - about 800 meters apart. They're connected by golf carts, but you can also take a leisurely stroll along the connecting road or even the beach if you fancy. We opted for Hotel Farallon, perched up on the hill for those breathtaking views. And let me tell you, both sections had everything you could ask for - restaurants, pools, bars, you name it. Plus, you're free to roam between them as you please.

Now, about the internet - it's surprisingly fast, but it does have its moments, especially on windy or rainy days. And let me tell you, at Hotel Farallon, we were definitely among the younger crowd - it felt like a retirement haven up there! Marea del Portillo had a mix of ages, but not too many kiddos running around, which suited us just fine.

Now, onto the food. Given the whole food shortage situation in Cuba, our expectations weren't sky-high, but we were pleasantly surprised. The meals were decent, and with those stunning views as our backdrop, it felt like a true dining experience.

And the people? Absolutely lovely. The staff were friendly, and the locals? Simple, humble folks who appreciate the little things. Seriously, a small gift goes a long way. Do yourself a favor and pack some goodies to share with them - you'll make their day.

Oh, and here's a tip: stash some American $1 bills in your wallet. We brought along $150 in singles, and let me tell you, it made tipping a breeze. There's no currency exchange at the resort or anywhere nearby, and coins? Forget about 'em. Canadian loonies and toonies won't do the trick here.

From Manzanillo airport, brace yourself for a scenic two-hour drive along winding country roads. You'll be treated to picturesque views of sprawling farms, shimmering oceans, lush forests, and majestic mountains. It's a journey that truly encapsulates the natural beauty of the Cuban countryside.

As you draw closer to the resort, you might notice a time-warp effect. The surroundings seem frozen in time, with an old-world charm that's both intriguing and nostalgic. But then, as you arrive at the hotel, prepare to be pleasantly surprised. The atmosphere is vibrant, almost exuberant, welcoming you with open arms.

Sure, the resort has some years under its belt, but don't let that fool you. Thanks to meticulous stages of renovation, everything feels fresh and rejuvenated. The facilities gleam like new, and the rooms? Immaculately clean, offering a comfortable sanctuary after a day of exploration and adventure. It's a testament to the dedication and care put into maintaining this hidden oasis.

Overall, I'd give this resort a solid 9 out of 10. We're already planning our next trip back - that's how much we loved it. Trust me, you won't regret it!

Nice place, go for the view and the people. If you like the party circuit of Veradero, this is not the place to go. If you want amazing natural beauty and the ability to go off on your own look no further. The food, well it is a 3 star hotel, the food is pretty basic, like the star rating...

Great great great. Don't want to praise this place too much or it will be full year round. Good accomodations, good food and good service as well as a great price. Will go again. If u go take bags of toys 4 kids and clothes for all ages as well as meds, soaps and female items. Gum packs n candies n school supplies n teddy bears. Take the horse n buggy ride to Maria the closest tiny town and give it all away. Maybe even your own extra clothes. Go with full packed suitcases and return with empty ones. U will be glad u did. Great place to stay. Great weather. A rough 2 hr bus ride from airport to Hotel but a great experience.

Well where do I start. This place was just great. We picked the 7 day stay...you'll want 14 FOR SURE. To begin it is a relatively long commute.roughly 4 hrs by plane then a 2hrs bus. The bus ride I'll say is a challenge, rough roads , driver swerved for the  pot holes....advice..buy beers before you board. The driver is very good tho. He tries to get ya there asap.
You arrive in the evening so you can't see the scenery untill ur last day back to customs. Oh ya ..be patient at the airport..it's small
And they do process you asap..but it is a limited place.

Also we picked the CABANA VIP OPTION. Well worth the price..express check in the boys took our baggage with a smile and an "OLA AMIGO" 😁
THE ROOMS WERE CLEAN...2 DOUBLE but we just pushed together and voila a king.
The place is Beautiful.  Dated yes and in need of repairs and a paint job..but I wasn't complaining.
Everywhere you go is a gorgeous view. We were in  the older hotel but, there is a newer hotel up the hill..about a 5 to 10 minute walk with a nice interior ..nice pool..swim bar..etc. but I preferred the older hotel..more authentic and wide open.

The views were spectacular.  The staff courteous and friendly . MARCOS At the pool/snack bar..Elena the Sunwing Rep. Too many names to remember..all staff greeted you with smiles.
DENTIST on site good work for great price. Nice doctor on site too..had to treat me for an unfortunate run in with a sea urchin. Which reminds me..2 words..swim shoes...😊
BEACH IS BLACK SAND...beautiful but more grainy than anything..I still walked the beach no shoes ..midnite volleyball games ..but don't swim in ocean afterdark..(see above note regarding swim shoes lol)
Lots to do...lots to see...Thank you to horse back your guide CHI CHI..nicest guy in Cuba.
And make sure you visit DANNYS  restaurant by horse drawn carriage. Romantic scenery and awesome food...VERY CHEAP.. about 40 pesos for 2 of us for food 2 bottles of wine and horse and buggy ride to and fro.
Anyway...this is not a  real party spot ..but man we found our "DIAMOND IN THE ROUGH"
A 2.5 STAR RESORT BUT A 5 STAR for experience.
SEE YA NEXT YEAR 😉

Clean and well cared for. Water is perfect, food is good lots of options, nearby village is nice to visit. Beds are good, water pressure is good, warm shower is a Cuban crapshoot, lots of fun.

Wonderful spot!!! Old, but so very clean and very well taken care of. The views are amazing. The beach was amazing the staff is very friendly. I will definitely go back

Horse and carriage driver Roberto speaks excellent English and will take you to Marea for dinner at a local Cuban restaurant. Fantastic guy! Ask for him. Horse adventure is available from Diomedes. Ask Roberto to take you there to make arrangements.

Great place to visit and the people are very friendly. I also rode horse with Cuba Horseback Rides, a private company located right at the hotel and it was perfect.

If you're looking for peace, enjoy nature, and Caribbean coast this is an amazing place to go. 100% recommend

The people. It is the poorest area as it is furthest from Havana. But the generous hearts you will find there make up for any shortcomings.

Very laid back and quiet. Clean rooms ,nice beach ,great staff

Love the atmosphere and the friendly staff. Great get away if your looking for some quiet time .

Been here twice, absolutely love it. Truly amazing place.