The harbor channel and Bahía de la Habana (Havana Bay) separate Habana Vieja from the communities of Casablanca, Regla, and Guanabacoa. Although run-down, and with relatively few sights of interest, the latter two districts draw tourists interested in santería and Afro-Cuban music and dance, while Casablanca is an access point to the Parque Histórico Militar Morro-Cabaña.

Little ferries bob their way across the harbor, connecting Casablanca and Regla with each other and with Habana Vieja.