Southeast of town in the Parque Natural Majayara are a couple of magical hikes and swimming opportunities plus an archaeological trail in the grounds of a lush family farm. It's a very low-key, DIY diversion.
Passing the Fuerte Matachín, hike southeast past the baseball stadium and along the dark-sand beach for 20 minutes to the Río Miel, where a long low bridge crosses the river.
On the other side, bear left following a track up through a cluster of rustic houses to another junction. A guard-post here is sometimes staffed by a park official who will collect CUC$2. Turn left again and continue along the vehicle track until the houses clear and you see a signposted single-track path leading off left to Playa Blanca , an idyllic spot for a picnic.
Staying straight on the track, you'll come to a trio of wooden homesteads. The third of these houses belongs to the Fuentes family. For a donation, Señor Fuentes will lead you on a hike to his family finca , where you can stop for coffee and tropical fruit. Further on he'll show you the Cueva de Aguas , a cave with a sparkling, freshwater swimming hole inside. Tracking back up the hillside you'll come to an archaeological trail with more caves and marvelous ocean views.
Alternatively, you can organize a 'Ruta Taína' excursion with Ecotur for around CUC$14.
