Guide to Varadero

"Varadero beach is often referred as the one of the best beaches in the world, so it's safe to say that if you like beaches you'll absolutely adore this slice of Cuban paradise."

Beach lovers come here in their droves to soak up the sun, on what is undoubtedly Cuba's top beach resort. But why's it so special? Well, Varadero certainly looks the part, set on a dramatic peninsula. There's also a gentle tropical breeze to ensure the temperature never gets too hot. What's more the beach boasts 21 kilometres of soft white sand and here the Atlantic Ocean actually feels warm for once. Its position also makes it a one of the best places in Cuba for watersports - and with an array of marinas and dive clubs, you'll be spoilt for choice. With such a great location you would expect Varadero to have its fair share of hotels. And sure enough, the seafront is lined with them- with such an enticing beach and so many AllInclusive hotels you could be easily tempted never set foot off the sand. However, at least one trip into town is recommended to give you a feel of what this place is all about. Downtown is where you'll get an opportunity to mix with the locals at the flea market and swish down the odd mojito or two at one of the bars. You'll also discover some great restaurants and nightclubs. A popular choice is the Casa de Al restaurant, which just happens to have been owned by Al Capone's family. And the romantics amongst you will definitely enjoy a buggy ride through the picturesque Josone Park, where if you'll lucky, you'll find some great live entertainment too.

Find the cheapest late deals to Varadero leaving in the next six weeks.

Recommended Varadero hotels and apartments

Sandals Royal Hicacos Resort And Spa

Playa De Oro

Sol Sirenas Coral All Inclusive Resort

Varadero hotels and apartments

Our hotels and apartments in Varadero include Beaches Varadero, Brisas Del Caribe, Club Kawama, Club Puntarena, Gran Caribe Club Barlovento, Hotel Iberostar Tainos, Iberostar Varadero, Mercure Cuatro Palmas, Palma Real, Paradisus Varadero, Playa De Oro, Riu Turquesa, Sandals Princesa Del Mar Resort And Spa, Sandals Royal Hicacos Resort And Spa, Sol Sirenas Coral All Inclusive Resort, Superclubs Breezes Varadero and Tryp Peninsula Varadero.

More Cuba holiday destinations

Looking for holidays in Cuba? Our Cuba holiday destinations include Guardalavaca, Havana, Playa Pesquero and Varadero.

Beaches

Lie back on the downy-soft white sand of the beach which stretches for an amazing 20km. Diving, sailing, fishing and a vast array of watersports are all available along the length of the beach.

Eating out

The large majority of the hotels on the peninsula are all-inclusive, so you may be inclined never to venture out for a meal. But if you fancy a change, the town of Varadero has several restaurants and cafes to choose from, including some in the picturesque Josone Park. Or try the gourmet Xanadu Restaurant, which was built as the Du Pont family mansion - a veritable display of 1930s opulence, overlooking the ocean and golf course. Another famous restaurant is the Casa De Al, Al Capone's former holiday home which is now a restaurant and bar.

Nightlife

While most of the nightlife, like the dining, is centred around the hotels, Varadero does have several good bars, discos and clubs on offer. Dance to the heady salsa beats and enjoy a Cuba Libre or Mojito, amongst many other cocktails at any one of these establishments.

Shopping

Whilst shopping in the town of Varadero is slightly limited it is still definitely well worth a visit. It has a few practical amenities such as shops, bars, cafes, banks and a post office, as well as lovely gardens, Cuban cigar and rum shops, boutiques and an outdoor market selling local handicrafts. For more comprehensive shopping, visit Havana, Cuba's exciting capital city.

Local information

Stroll or take a horse and buggy through the lovely Josone Park in the centre of Varadero. It is a nature area complete with restaurants and regular cultural events. Visit the Dolphin Aquarium, with their enthralling shows, or an adrenalin-fuelled jet ski Jungle Tour through the mangroves. There are caves, escarpments and a string of stunning cays to explore at the northern end of the peninsula. Or why not visit nearby Cardenas, Matanzas and the Zapata Peninsula for more cultural, historical and natural Cuban wonders.