The place is characterized by a lighthouse, known as La Concha, which dates from 1861 and from where, going up to its 144 steps, you can admire some impressive views. Its construction was authorized by the Queen of Spain and  began the construction of the lighthouse at Punta de Maisi in 1857, under the leadership of the Commander Engineer, Don Mariano Moreno. In the area you can enjoy the magnificent Maisí Terraces. Of the 24 emerged ones, some reach the height of 460 meters above the sea level; while in the underground levels can reach a depth of 180 meters. On cloudless days you will have the chance of sighting Haiti, located 70 kilometer far from Punta de Maisí Top. You can also relax in the best white sand beach that you will find below the lighthouse.

This fortress, which now houses the Hotel El Castillo, dominates a hill overlooking Baracoa. It is a former castle looking out over red-tiled roofs, the town’s expansive, oyster-shaped bay and the landmark mountain called El Yunque (The Anvil), named for its singular shape. Although construction on it started in 1739, the fort wasn't finished until nearly 200 years later. Even if you don't stay here, stop by for the views of El Yunque and the city.

One of Baracoa's three fortresses, Fuerte Matachín, was completed in 1802. In 1868 it became a guard post of the Spanish army for the recognition and registry of all those entering and departing from the city. After the installation of the pseudo-Republic, it was used firstly as a bastion against the pirates and later was used by the Spanish as a prison. Today it houses the Museo Histórico Matachín, whose displays discuss the city's history, including its Taíno roots. There are examples of Taíno pottery, sculpture, and other artifacts; exhibits on famous citizens; and displays explaining the community's role in the wars for independence and the Revolution.

In the Main Square is a bust of Hatuey, the brave Indian leader who resisted early conquistadores until he was caught by the Spanish and burned at the stake. There’s also a very lively Casa de la Trova here. It is worth wandering along the Malecón, the seaside avenue, from the snug Fuerte Matachín (an early 19th-century fort that has a small but informative municipal museum inside) to the Hotel La Rusa, which is named after a legendary Russian émigrée who over the years hosted celebrities such as Che Guevara and Errol Flynn.