Are you dreaming of a relaxing vacation on a Caribbean beach? On the north coast of Cuba, along the Hicacos peninsula, there is a sleek finger of land called Varadero. This is one of the most popular beach resorts in the Caribbean and boasts a wonderful 20km beach with crystal clear water. This peninsula is accessible by a bridge and is only 140km from Florida.
Due to its crystal clear waters, Varadero is the perfect place for those who love scuba diving, snorkelling, sailing and more. In fact, it is possible to explore caves, visit lush parks and meet dolphins at the Dolphinarium. Along this palm and sand paradise, there are more than 50 all-inclusive resorts and we have selected the best ten.
Before you start reading, you should know this. Varadero is very different from real Cuba in many ways. It is much more similar to Miami than any other place in Cuba. So if you are looking for real Cuba, visit other areas of the island. On the other hand, in Varadero, you’ll find your luxury getaway in a 5-star resort with every comfort. The price of one night is high there compared to other places in Cuba. Of course, there are also cheaper alternatives in Casa Particular.
#1 Melia Internacional
This majestic and innovative 5-star hotel is a novelty in Varadero. Located on the beachfront, it boasts modern facilities and more than 20 restaurants, cafeterias and drink bars. You can choose between the Japanese, Mexican, Italian and Cuban cuisine of its restaurants. It also offers several swimming pools located in the various areas of the resort and beaches with different services for its guests. This luxury resort also features its fabulous YHI Spa on the top floor with an infinity pool.
#2 Iberostar Selection Varadero
The resort is surrounded by tropical gardens between the crystal clear sea on one side and the Varahicacos nature reserve on the other. The beach is perfect for diving enthusiasts and guests can enjoy other activities such as water skiing, kitesurfing, water aerobics, salsa lessons, horseback riding and more. The resort has a dedicated kids program called Star Camp with some dedicated areas. Guests can choose from four different restaurants and seven bars. In addition, the resort boasts the beautiful Spa Sensation and different categories of rooms and suites for couples and families.
#3 Sol Varadero Beach
This tropical and modern resort enjoys a privileged location with access to the urban area of Varadero. The resort offers its guests seven restaurants with different types of cuisine and 5 bars. The rooms have a comfortable and contemporary design. In addition, it boasts a swimming pool, gym, and outdoor whirlpool bathtub a few steps from the sea. This resort is adult only.
#4 Melia Las Americas
This adults-only resort is perfect for relaxing and for golf lovers because it has direct access to the Varadero Golf Club. The resort includes a hotel and bungalows with rooms overlooking the sea. Guests can choose from various types of cuisine such as international, Italian, Japanese as well as bars and cafeterias. This 5-star resort also offers a swimming pool with jacuzzi, daily activities and golf tournaments.
#5 Sol Palmeras
Located on the beachfront, the resort is a palm paradise perfect for family vacations and couples. You can choose to stay in bungalows or comfortable rooms. The hotel has a large choice of restaurants, bars and other areas for enjoying snacks and ice cream. In addition, the resort offers its guests swimming pools, gym, outdoor jacuzzis and beach activities.
#6 Melia Varadero
The resort is located a few meters from the Varadero Golf Club. This paradise of beautiful gardens boasts direct access to the beach. It has a large choice of dining options for its guests and a 24-hour snack bar. The resort has a dedicated area for children with a kids club. In addition, it offers a swimming pool with jacuzzi, waterfalls and water sports on the beach. The Level Gran Suite on the top floor offers a truly magnificent view and many other exclusive comforts.
#8 Melia Las Antillas
Surrounded by an exotic garden, this resort is adults only. It offers its guests suites and junior suites with a beautiful view of the garden and lake. This hotel has several dining options, two à la carte restaurants, barbecue grill and bars. In addition, there is a beautiful gazebo perfect for those in search of romance.
#9 Be Live Experience Varadero
Located on the beachfront, this resort is 5km from the center of Varadero and 30km from the nearest airport. The resort has 365 rooms with all basic services. Guests can choose from numerous sports activities and three restaurants, bars and buffets. The resort has a beach with sunbeds and umbrellas for its guests.
#10 Starfish Cuatro Palmas Adults Only
This adults-only resort is located along the sandy beachfront of Varadero. The structure of the hotel has a typically colonial style with large patios and red roofs. The resort boasts a beautiful swimming pool, three restaurants and bars. Guests can choose from various sports activities such as beach volleyball, windsurfing, kayaking and others.
All of these resorts are all-inclusive.
But before booking, remember that in Cuba the hotel standards are not like in London, New York or Dubai to give you an idea.
Don’t forget a hat and sunscreen because in Varadero as in all the Caribbean it is always summer.
And if you’re heading to Cuba, check out our other posts on this beautiful island!