Varadero Highlights
On the picturesque Hicacos Peninsula, 140km east of Havana, sits Cuba’s most popular beach resort Varadero. More than 13 miles of beautiful coastline lie, waiting to be enjoyed. The safe, crystal-clear turquoise waters and sun-drenched powdery, white sands amaze many, but, beyond the shores, there is also a growing number of bars, restaurants and local handicraft markets which will happily present a flavour of the Cuban culture.
Although it is a main resort in Cuba, Varadero is relatively peaceful, especially further up the peninsula, where the more desirable hotels are located. With its amazing beaches, appealing cultural activities and easy to reach location, it is easy to see the draw of Varadero.
Visitors can also enjoy various eco-trails leading to the Varahicacos Ecological Reserve, a protected area which houses the Cueva de Ambrosio, a large cave which features ancient wall paintings and the more macabre, Cueva de Musulmanes, a cave with human remains from over 2500 years ago. The flora and fauna and the aboriginal histories of Varadero are best appreciated here.
There are also a variety of water sports to enjoy and the only 18-hole golf course in the country, this PGA accredited links course holds a commanding position half way up the peninsula. Evening entertainment is beginning to develop in Varadero; there is enough to enable you to party until the early hours.
Visit nearby cities for more adventure. Close by, sits Matanzas, renowned for its folklore, poets and culture. Perhaps the beautiful landscapes of Yumuri Valley, seemingly untouched and unspoilt by tourism, in close proximity to Varadero, might appeal. The draw of Havana, approximately two hours away encourages tourists to make the journey to Santa Clara, Trinidad and Cienfuegos as they are also conveniently placed.
Accommodation in Varadero
Our Favourites
Our favourites are selected by us due to overall quality, hospitality, authenticity, location and also their consistently good customer feedback.
Hotels
A selection of the many hotels that we can book
Our Most Popular Varadero Experiences
We can organise before you travel to Cuba, a wide range of fantastic experiences that can be completely tailored for you.Take advantage of our friendly and knowledgeable pre-booking service and save time making arrangements during your holiday.
We can also pre-book Cuba's amazing private hidden away restaurants (paladars), which are highly recommended, extremely popular and get booked up well in advance. Talk to our team about adding experiences and restaurants to your booking.
Varadero Snorkelling Tour
Snorkelling to Coral Beach and Saturn Cave is the ultimate snorkelling adventure for those who want to enjoy a very relaxing trip and explore the best of both salt and fresh underwater worlds.
Speedboat or Jet Ski Adventure
A unique and exhilarating boating adventure travelling at speed through the ocean on a speedboat or jet ski.
Sunset Old American Car Tour
Enjoy a panoramic drive along the 20 km Varadero peninsula with great views across Cardenas Bay, making a stop at the former home of the legendary Mafia mobster Al Capone for a beachside Cuban cocktail.
3 Cities of Santa Clara Trinidad & Cienfuegos
Spend a long but rewarding day exploring Cuba’s historic colonial cities. Visit impressive Santa Clara, incredible Trinidad and fascinating Cienfuegos.
Historical Havana
For those who have not visited Havana on their Cuba holiday a day in Havana is a must as the city is one of the most fascinating and unique in the world.
Historical Havana and Tropicana Cabaret
This tour gives you the chance to enjoy the Historical Havana tour and then stay longer in the city with more free time and the chance to experience the world-famous Tropicana Cabaret.
VIP Departure Lounge Varadero Airport
For those flying home from Varadero airport, enjoy that extra comfort and avoid the hustle and bustle of the airport by gaining access to the Varadero Airport VIP Departure lounge.
Varadero Golf
The first 18-hole Golf Course in Cuba and covers a narrow 3.5 Km stretch in the popular resort of Varadero. Enjoy a round of golf on this links course offering fantastic coastal views, as well as a few interesting challenges, especially on the back 9.
A Day on a Catamaran
A fantastic day cruising the clear blue waters off the coast of Varadero. Enjoy snorkeling and swimming Enjoy an open bar onboard the catamaran and a lunch by the beach on a beautiful island!
Discovery Tour Jeep Safari
A short drive from the hotel will take you to the jeeps where you can drive yourself or be driven on a fascinating varied route to all the main sights of the area. Driving off road and along rural back roads past impressive royal palms, fruit plantations and tiny hidden local communities.
Matanzas City & 2 Caves
Matanzas City, not far from Varadero means ‘mass murder’ in Spanish and the folklore surrounding the name points to the battles between the Spanish colonisers and the indigenous Indian population that took place nearby.
Varadero Scuba Diving
Varadero offers a number of diving opportunities in the crystal-clear warm waters that surround the resort. There are many areas of coral reef with up to 500 species of fish in the local habitat as well as over 200 species of coral sponges, sea fans, molluscs, crustaceans and gorgonians.
Deep Sea Fishing
Cuba offers some of the best deep-sea fishing in the world and has over 3,000 miles of coastline and an abundance of marine life. Whether you are an experienced fisherman, or a beginner, this fishing excursion is an adventure not to be missed.
Pre-Booked Private Restaurants
Formerly known as 'paladars', Cuba's privately owned restaurants, are highly recommended and undoubtedly offer the best food. These sought after eateries range from hip to elegant, offer varying cuisines, creative menus, have passionate owners, and are great for foodies. If you're not in the know, eating out at mediocre restaurants in Cuba is easy to do. They get booked up well in advance, so we recommend our restaurant pre-booking service before travel. Talk to our team for reservations at our favourite recommendations.
Salsa Suarez, Varadero
Varadero 60, Varadero
Wacos Club, Varadero
Nonna Tina, Varadero
Bistro Bar Atlantida, Varadero
