Playa Negra
At the northwestern end of Cahuita, Playa Negra is a long, black-sand beach flying the bandera azul ecológica. This flag indicates that the beach is kept to the highest ecological standard. It’s rarely crowded, so you can stretch out and relax as the Caribbean Sea laps at your feet.
Swimming and surfing
This is undoubtedly Cahuita’s top spot for swimming due to the clean, calm water. However, when the swells are significant, this place also has a good beach break for newbie surfers. It’s an excellent option for those intimidated by the more popular surf locations; kids and adults alike can learn their surf skills peacefully.
Accommodation
Cahuita is just a 5-minute drive away or a 20-minute walk if you’d prefer to stretch your legs. The town has a great selection of hotels and guesthouses in both the bustling center and the quieter northern end of town close to Playa Negra. If you’re journeying between Playa Negra and the center at night, it’s best to cycle (with lights) or take a taxi, especially if traveling alone.
Food and drink
Cahuita offers the best Caribbean fare and surprisingly delicious Italian and French cuisine. There are good options closer to the beach, too.
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park: A Brief History
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a national park located in Sydney, Australia. It is Australia’s third oldest national park, known for its beautiful scenery, diverse wildlife, and rich Aboriginal heritage.
The Guringai people, an Aboriginal Australian tribe, first inhabited the area around Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park. The Guringai lived in the area for thousands of years, and their descendants still live in the region today.
The first European to visit the area was Captain Arthur Phillip, the commander of the First Fleet. Phillip landed at Manly Cove on January 26, 1788, and explored the surrounding area. He named the area “Ku-ring-gai Chase,” which means “place of the stingray” in the Guringai language.
In the colony’s early years, Ku-ring-gai Chase was used as a source of food and timber. The Guringai people were displaced from their land, and many died from diseases the Europeans brought.
In the late 19th century, Ku-ring-gai Chase became a popular spot for recreation. Several bushwalking trails were established, and the area became a popular destination for swimming, fishing, and boating.
In 1894, Ku-ring-gai Chase was declared a national park. This was the third national park to be established in Australia, after Royal National Park and Dandenong Ranges National Park.
Today, Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a popular tourist destination. It is home to various plant and animal life, including kangaroos, koalas, and platypus. The park has several historical sites, including Aboriginal middens and European homesteads.
Some of the notable events in the history of Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park include:
- 1788: Captain Arthur Phillip lands at Manly Cove.
- 1794: The first European settlers arrived in the area.
- 1894: Ku-ring-gai Chase is declared a national park.
- 1916: The Bobbin Head ferry service is established.
- 1958: The Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park Act is passed.
- 1967: The park is added to the Australian National Heritage List.
- 1988: The park celebrates its 100th anniversary.
Ku-ring-gai Chase National Park is a beautiful and essential part of Sydney’s history. It is a place where people can enjoy the area’s natural beauty, learn about its Aboriginal heritage, and explore its historical sites.
