Varadero

Varadero is one of the most famous beaches in the world. Renowned for its turquoise sea, crystal-clear water, and fine white sand – for many, it represents that dream Caribbean beach. Most of the 50 hotels on this stunning peninsula offer all-inclusive packages, with bars, swimming pools, and lush gardens of tropical plants. Some of our Cuba tours  incluem estadias em Varadero como parte do roteiro.

Geography

Located approximately 140 km from Havana (about a 2-hour drive), Varadero occupies a narrow strip of land on the Hicacos Peninsula in northern Cuba. The resident population of Varadero is estimated at around 21,000 to 25,000 inhabitants. In total, it boasts 22 km of white sand beaches—one of the largest and most famous stretches of beach in the Caribbean.

The geography of Varadero is both beautiful and interesting:

• On one side, the Atlantic Ocean with its clear, calm waters, perfect for swimming;
• On the other side, a large bay with mangroves which forms a preserved ecosystem and shelters diverse species of birds and marine life.

Varadero Town

Despite being famous for its resorts, Varadero is also a town. At the beginning of the peninsula there is a small center with restaurants, shops, markets, bars and cafes where it is possible to walk around and experience the local side of life on the peninsula.

And for those who prefer a more authentic experience, this part of Varadero also offers accommodation in private guesthouses (casas particulares) — an alternative to resorts, ideal for those seeking contact with locals and something a little more affordable.

Hotel Resorts

Varadero is the largest hotel hub in Cuba. There are approximately 50 hotels along the peninsula, with an estimated 25,000 to 30,000 rooms available.

Note: To comply with the US laws regarding travel to Cuba, Americans visitors on one of the categories of legal travel to Cuba, are best not to risk a stay in one of the hotel resorts in Varadero. 

Most large resorts operate on an all-inclusive system, with direct beach access and a wide variety of restaurants, pools, and leisure activities. Many of them are located at the far end of the peninsula, where the beach is even quieter.

 

These resorts offer a range of services such as:

• Themed restaurants and international buffets
• Bars and snacks available all day
• Huge swimming pools, some with exclusive areas for children
• Spa with massages and wellness treatments
• Gym and sports activities
• Shows and nightly entertainment

Activities and attractions

Besides enjoying the beaches, Varadero offers various leisure options, such as:

• Catamaran tours and diving and snorkeling in coral reefs

Hotel agencies offer full day catamaran excursions to Cayo Blanco - a paradisiacal island off the coast of Varadero. The tour includes stops for snorkeling over coral reefs and free time on the island. 

• Visit to the natural caves of the peninsula

Beyond its idyllic beaches, Varadero holds an underground treasure: a cave system with impressive rock formations, crystal-clear lakes, and stories dating back to the island's ancient indigenous cultures. The most famous, Cueva de Saturno, offers a unique experience—a refreshing dip in turquoise waters surrounded by stalactites and stalagmites.