Top beaches in Cuba to put on your bucket list
From sparkling sands to warm ocean breezes and leafy palms, Cuba is known for its breathtaking beaches. With so many beautiful spots around the island, it can be hard to decide where to book your Cuban beach getaway! We rounded up three of our favourite beaches in Cuba to put on your vacation bucket list.
Varadero Beach in Varadero
Varadero is one of the world’s most popular beach destinations and a long-time favourite for Canadian travellers. Located on the Hicacos Peninsula and surrounded by the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea, Varadero Beach is one of the best stretches of white-sand coast in the Caribbean, with top-rated resorts lining its shores. You can try out a variety of exciting water sports at this bustling beach like catamaran rides, snorkelling, kayaking and windsurfing.
Where to stay: Located right on Varadero Beach, the newly-renovated Iberostar Selection Bella Vista Varadero is just a short ride from the attractions of downtown Varadero. When you’re not relaxing on a comfortable beach chair, you can soak in views of the coast from around the resort including the sprawling pool oceanview complex and the rooftop adults only restaurant.
Playa Paraiso in Cayo Largo
Looking for a beach experience away from the hustle and bustle of popular resort areas? Playa Paraiso is nestled on the southern shores of Cayo Largo and is home to serene white-sand shores and crystal-clear waters. Translating directly to “Paradise Beach”, Playa Paraiso certainly lives up to its name – it was even voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world by TripAdvisor®! This serene beach is the perfect spot to get in touch with nature and admire the island’s untouched beauty.
Where to stay: Sol Cayo Largo is just a short walk from Playa Paraiso – plus it has a breathtaking white-sand beach of its own! The resort is known for its turtle rescue program in collaboration with the Commission for the Environment; if you visit between May and November, you can even help baby turtles make their journey into the sea.
Playa Pilar in Cayo Coco
The sparkling white sands and calm turquoise waters of Playa Pilar in Cayo Coco are so breathtaking that they inspired famous American novelist Ernest Hemingway’s Nobel Prize-winning book, Islands in the Stream. While the peaceful beach is celebrated for its link to Hemingway, it’s also known for its prime snorkelling conditions, with a colourful coral reef located just off the shore. Hop into the crystal-clear waters to swim alongside exotic marine life!
Where to stay: Stay just a short walk from the shores of Playa Pilar when you choose to vacation at Iberostar Selection Playa Pilar. When you’re not exploring the nearby famous beach area you can enjoy a wide range of activity options for all ages including catamaran rides and pedal boat rentals.
