Table of Contents
Introduction
With over 20 kilometers of pristine beach and turquoise waters, Varadero Beach is one of Cuba’s top beach destinations. Located on the Hicacos Peninsula in the province of Matanzas, Varadero draws visitors from around the world seeking relaxation, watersports, and the famous Cuban hospitality. From luxurious all-inclusive resorts to boutique hotels and private vacation rentals, Varadero has accommodation options for every budget and style. Read on to learn more about getting to Varadero, top attractions and activities, dining and nightlife options, the best times to visit, and tips for an unforgettable beach getaway.
Getting to Varadero Beach
Flights to Varadero arrive at Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport, located right in town just minutes from the hotels. Many major airlines offer direct flights to Varadero from cities across North America, Europe, and Latin America. You can also fly into Havana and drive to Varadero in about 3 hours.
Once in Varadero, getting around is easy. You can walk along the beach boardwalk to points of interest or take a bicycle taxi to farther flung attractions. Many hotels also offer shuttles around town. Rental cars are available but not always necessary given Varadero’s compact layout.
Accommodations
Varadero is famous for its all-inclusive beach resorts catering to every budget. These sprawling resorts line the peninsula and feature multiple pools, restaurants, bars, and kid-friendly amenities. For more intimate stays, boutique hotels and bed and breakfasts offer cozy, charming lodging options. You can also book a room or private rental through platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. These give you access to a local home or apartmentRental properties often provide kitchens and common areas for unwinding after a long day in the sun.
Main Attractions
It goes without saying that Varadero Beach is the star of the show here. With velvety white sand and crystal clear shallow waters, this stretch of Caribbean coast beckons sun worshippers and water sports enthusiasts alike. Lounge beneath a palm tree or join in the beach volleyball, sailing and windsurfing action.
Beyond the beach, top attractions include:
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Watersports like snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing, fishing, and boating tours to nearby cayes and reefs
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Championship golf courses including Varadero Golf Club and Paradisus Varadero Golf Club
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Museums and landmarks like Casa Natal del Mayor (Ignacio Agramonte House), Museo Municipal, and Varahicacos Ecological Reserve
Activities
Days on Varadero Beach are filled with sun, sand, and sea. Begin by swimming and sunbathing in the tranquil turquoise waters. For snorkelers and divers, over 30 scuba diving sites await exploration just offshore. The clear visibility reveals coral reefs and tropical fish.
Sailing, boating, and fishing excursions launch from Varadero’s three marinas. Try catching snapper, barracuda, or blue marlin on a sportfishing charter. For low-key cruising, rent a catamaran and sail to the nearby Cayo Piedras and Cayo Cruz del Padre islands.
After working up an appetite, book rejuvenating spa treatments at resorts like the Paradisus Varadero and Royalton Hicacos hotels. Signature services incorporate natural local ingredients like mud, aloe, rum, and coffee.
Dining and Nightlife
Varadero’s resorts, paladares, and restaurants dish up delicious Cuban cuisine. Traditional dishes like ropa vieja shredded beef, moros y cristianos rice and beans, and lechón pork star on menus across town. Seafood like lobster tails, shrimp, and ceviche satisfy cravings for fresh catch. Cuban cocktails like mojitos, daiquiris, and Cuba Libres complement any meal.
After dark, lively bars and nightclubs host live music and dancing. Salsa the night away or attend themed hotel shows. For a more low-key evening, stroll the town’s pedestrian-friendly streets and stop for a drink at the open-air Casa de la Música.
Best Times to Visit
Varadero sees the most ideal weather between December and April. During these drier months, temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit. The high season for tourism runs November through April, bringing bigger crowds and higher hotel rates.
Visiting in the summer low season from May to October means cheaper accommodations, fewer tourists, and temperatures in the 80s and 90s. Keep in mind June through November is hurricane season. Rains and storms occur more frequently this time of year.
Travel Tips
To make the most of a Varadero Beach vacation, keep these tips in mind:
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Pack reef-safe sunscreen, hats, and breathable clothing for full days under the Caribbean sun.
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Drink lots of water and non-alcoholic fluids to stay hydrated in the heat and humidity.
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Walk or take bicycles and public transport to reduce environmental impact.
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Practice basic Spanish phrases to better interact with locals.
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Try casa particulares for an authentic Cuban lodging experience.
Conclusion
With pampering resorts, dazzling watersports, and that famous Cuban hospitality, Varadero Beach immerses you in the best of island life. Miles of powdery sand, postcard-worthy vistas, and turquoise waves beckon you to slow down and unwind completely. Whether you’re seeking total relaxation or nonstop adventure, Varadero charms with its laidback, indulgent vibe. Let the worries of the world melt away as you embrace barefoot luxury on one of Cuba’s finest beaches.
FAQs
What is the best way to get around Varadero?
The best ways to get around Varadero are walking, bicycling, or taking a bicycle taxi. The town is very compact and walkable. Bicycles can be rented from many hotels and shops. Bicycle taxis offer inexpensive rides for farther trips.
What is there to do in Varadero besides go to the beach?
Top activities in Varadero beyond beaching include watersports like scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, fishing, and boating tours. There are also several golf courses, museums, ecological reserves, and day trips to nearby islands and attractions.
What is the weather like in Varadero?
Varadero enjoys a tropical climate with warm, sunny weather year-round. High season from December to April sees dry weather in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit. The low season summer months bring more heat and humidity, with temperatures in the 80s and 90s.
What are the best restaurants and bars in Varadero?
Top restaurants in Varadero serve delicious Cuban cuisine like Paladar Nonna, Restaurante Mallorca, and Restaurante Mesón del Quijote. Great bars for drinks and music are Casa de la Música, Bar Mirador del Cocodrilo, and Beatles Bar.
What are the best beach resorts in Varadero?
Leading all-inclusive beach resorts in Varadero include Melia Las Americas, Paradisus Varadero, Iberostar Varadero, Royalton Hicacos, and Blau Varadero. These sprawling resorts offer multiple pools, restaurants, bars, spas, and amenities.