Varadero★★
Varadero is Cuba's most famous beach resort and one of the longest beaches in the Caribbean: 20 km of powdery white sand on the narrow Hicacos Peninsula, 140 km east of Havana. The water is shallow, warm, and in all shades from turquoise to emerald green. A dream beach — no question.
However, Varadero is also Cuba's most touristy place: Over 60 all-inclusive resorts line the peninsula. Here you experience pure Caribbean, but little Cuba. The hotels mostly belong to Spanish (Meliá, Iberostar) and Cuban chains. The beaches are public (also for non-hotel guests), but Cuban everyday life hardly takes place here.
Who is it suitable for?
- All-inclusive vacationers: The hotels offer solid standards (3–5★, from €80–200/night all-inclusive). Unlimited food and drink, pool landscapes, entertainment
- Families: Shallow water, well-organized hotels with kids' clubs
- Combination: 1 week round trip + 4–5 days Varadero to unwind is a popular combination
Away from the resort
Varadero also has corners worth a look: the Parque Josone (a pretty park in the city center with a lake and restaurants), the Cueva de Ambrosio (cave with pre-Columbian rock paintings, €5), and at the eastern end of the peninsula the Reserva Ecológica Varahicacos (small nature park with cacti and iguanas).
All-Inclusive Prices (per person/night, double room)
| Category | Low season | High season |
|---|---|---|
| 3★ | €50–80 | €80–120 |
| 4★ | €80–130 | €130–200 |
| 5★ (Meliá, Iberostar) | €120–180 | €180–300 |
💡 Tipp
The beach section east of Hotel Meliá Internacional (at Punta Hicacos) is the most beautiful and quietest part of Varadero — fewer hotels, fine sand, crystal-clear water. Perfect for snorkeling.
