Things to Do in Havana in October
October weather, activities, events & insider tips
October Weather in Havana
Is October Right for You?
Advantages
- Hurricane season is winding down by October - you're past the worst of September's storm risk, though you'll still want to keep an eye on forecasts. The Atlantic hurricane season officially runs through November, but statistically, October sees fewer storms than August and September.
- Fewer tourists than winter high season means shorter lines at museums, easier restaurant reservations, and more authentic interactions with locals. You'll actually be able to photograph the Malecón without dodging tour groups every five minutes.
- Hotel prices drop 20-30% compared to December-March rates. A room that costs $200 in January might run you $140-160 in October, and you'll have more negotiating power for casas particulares.
- The heat is slightly less oppressive than summer months - still warm at 28°C (84°F), but you're not dealing with the brutal 32°C (90°F) days of July and August. Locals are out and about more in the evenings, which means better nightlife energy.
Considerations
- Hurricane risk still exists through October, particularly in the first half of the month. You might face flight cancellations or itinerary changes. Travel insurance with hurricane coverage is not optional - it's essential.
- The rainfall data showing 0.0 inches is misleading - October actually averages around 180 mm (7.1 inches) with those 10 rainy days. Expect sudden afternoon downpours that last 30-45 minutes. The streets flood quickly in Old Havana due to aging drainage systems.
- October sits in an awkward shoulder season where some cultural venues reduce hours or close for maintenance before the winter rush. The Ballet Nacional de Cuba, for instance, typically starts its season in late October or early November, so you might miss performances if you visit early in the month.
Best Activities in October
Old Havana Walking Tours
October's slightly cooler temperatures make this the ideal time to explore Habana Vieja's 5 square kilometers (1.9 square miles) on foot without melting into the cobblestones. The morning light between 8-10am is perfect for photography at Plaza de la Catedral and Plaza Vieja, and you'll beat both the heat and the cruise ship crowds. The humidity is still noticeable at 70%, but it's manageable if you start early. Worth noting that UNESCO restoration projects are ongoing, so some buildings have scaffolding - actually interesting to see the preservation work in action.
Viñales Valley Excursions
The tobacco harvest hasn't started yet in October - that begins in November - but you'll see farmers preparing fields and can visit curing houses with last season's leaves still hanging. The mogotes (limestone hills) are at their greenest after the rainy season, and the 25 km (15.5 miles) of trails are muddy but passable. October is actually perfect for this because you avoid the December-February crowds but still get lush scenery. The 3-hour drive from Havana is worth it, though the roads can be rough after heavy rains.
Classic Car Tours
The humidity in October means convertibles are actually comfortable - unlike the scorching summer months when leather seats become torture devices. A 1-2 hour cruise along the Malecón at sunset (around 6:30pm in October) gives you that iconic Havana experience with decent weather. The cars are genuine 1950s Chevys and Buicks, maintained through Cuban ingenuity with Soviet-era parts and whatever else works. It's touristy, obviously, but it's also genuinely fun and makes for incredible photos.
Playas del Este Beach Visits
The beaches 18 km (11 miles) east of Havana are quieter in October since European tourists haven't arrived yet for winter. Water temperature hovers around 28°C (82°F) - warmer than the air some days. Santa María del Mar is the most developed, while Boca Ciega is less crowded. That said, October's variable weather means some days are perfect beach days and others are overcast with choppy water. Locals tend to go on weekends, so weekdays are your best bet for space.
Live Music Venue Hopping
October is when Havana's music scene shifts back into high gear after the slower summer months. The jazz scene at La Zorra y el Cuervo and Fabrica de Arte Cubano picks up, and you'll find son and salsa at Casa de la Música venues. Shows typically start late - 10pm or later - which works perfectly because the evening temperatures drop to a comfortable 23°C (73°F). The energy is different from the tourist-heavy winter months; you'll see more locals actually out for the music rather than just visitors.
Fusterlandia Art Community Tours
José Fuster's mosaic neighborhood in Jaimanitas, about 20 km (12.4 miles) west of central Havana, is an outdoor experience that benefits from October's weather - warm enough to enjoy walking around but not the blazing heat of summer. The artist transformed his home and surrounding blocks into a Gaudí-inspired wonderland of tile mosaics. It's genuinely impressive and not overly crowded in October. The whole visit takes 60-90 minutes, and you can combine it with a beach stop at nearby Marina Hemingway.
October Events & Festivals
Havana International Ballet Festival
This major cultural event typically happens in late October (usually the last week) and runs into early November. The Ballet Nacional de Cuba hosts companies from around the world at the Gran Teatro de La Habana. Even if you're not a ballet enthusiast, the performances in that stunning building are worth experiencing. Tickets range from 10-50 CUC depending on seats, and the atmosphere is electric with both locals and international dance fans.