Many years ago, when the Zapata Swamp was still a mystery, people started to set up all kinds of old train cars, bus frames and containers along the beach, to use them as summer cabins. Some claim that that is the reason this stretch is known as Machine Beach.
Ruben is one of many Cubans who every year book one of these makeshift trailers for 15 days to enjoy the crystal clear waters of the beach. Machine Beach is a good choice for families with kids because there is no swell and it’s possible to walk far into the sea without it getting any deeper.
Those who don’t like swimming can play dominoes, or exercise playing volleyball or soccer, bending the rules of the game to make it more enjoyable.
This remote place in the province of Matanzas welcomes people from different places, including some who come to sell food and provide other services that are always on demand here.