There’s a certain magic to Varadero, where time slows down just enough to let you soak in the sun, the stories, and the sea. One moment you’re floating in water so clear it feels like glass, and the next, you're riding in a classic car past colorful homes and hidden cafés.
Varadero isn’t just a beach getaway—it’s a place where adventure waits quietly behind palm trees and culture hums in the background like a familiar tune. This Cuban treasure has something that sticks with you, long after the sand has washed off your feet. Let’s find out the things to do in Varadero, Cuba, in detail.
Varadero offers more than just postcard-perfect beaches - it's where Cuban culture meets Caribbean relaxation. From historic mansions to ecological wonders, this peninsula delivers unforgettable experiences beyond the shoreline. The best things to indulge in Cuba, Varadero are -
Varadero Beach, stretching over 20 kilometers along the Hicacos Peninsula, is the heartbeat of this town. Its soft, white sand and shallow, crystal-clear waters make it perfect for both swimming and lounging. Water sports like jet skiing, paddleboarding, and catamaran sailing are widely available. Sunsets here are unforgettable, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Whether you're after action or peace, this beach delivers both in abundance.
Parque Josone is a peaceful oasis right in the heart of Varadero. Originally a private estate, the park now welcomes visitors to enjoy its tropical gardens, arched bridges, and peaceful lagoon. You can rent paddle boats, feed the ducks, or just enjoy a shady afternoon stroll. The on-site restaurants serve Cuban and international dishes, making it a popular picnic and leisure spot. It’s a perfect place to slow down and soak in some local charm.
Housed in a traditional wooden beach house from the early 20th century, Museo Municipal Varadero offers insight into the town’s cultural and historical roots. Exhibits cover everything from colonial history to its evolution as a major tourist hub. Vintage photos, fishing tools, and household items tell the story of Varadero before resorts dominated its shores. This quiet museum is ideal for those who want to deepen their appreciation of Cuba’s coastal past.
The next thing to do in Varadero, Cuba, is Delfinario. The Delfinario is a family-friendly attraction nestled in a natural mangrove setting. It allows visitors to watch dolphin shows, swim with the dolphins, and even engage in interactive programs under the supervision of trained professionals. Conservation and education are key themes here, with efforts made to protect marine life and teach visitors about dolphin behavior. It’s a memorable experience, especially for kids and animal lovers.
Perched on a rocky cliff, Xanadu Mansion was once the lavish seaside retreat of American millionaire Irenee Dupont. Built in the 1930s with marble imported from Italy and fine woods from Cuba, the mansion still stands as a symbol of pre-revolution luxury. Today, it houses a small museum and a fine-dining restaurant with panoramic ocean views. It also serves as the clubhouse for the nearby Varadero Golf Club. A visit here feels like stepping into a glamorous past.
Plaza Las Morlas is one of Varadero’s main shopping and entertainment hubs. Located along the waterfront, it’s ideal for picking up local crafts, enjoying a cocktail, or catching live music. Restaurants here serve up everything from Cuban favorites to international cuisine. The plaza’s open-air layout and ocean breezes make it a relaxed yet lively place for an evening stroll or dinner by the sea.
Selecting the perfect accommodation is pivotal for an exceptional stay, and Varadero offers a diverse array of hotels catering to various preferences and budgets. Here is the list of the best hotels in Varadero, Cuba -
Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa is one of the best hotels in Varadero, Cuba.This upscale, all-inclusive resort is situated on a pristine beach, offering spacious rooms with balconies or terraces overlooking the sea. Paradisus Varadero boasts multiple pools, a spa, and a variety of dining options, including gourmet restaurants and themed buffets.
Location: Autopista Sur, Km. 18 Punta Hicacos, Varadero, Cuba
Ideal for families, Iberostar Selection Varadero features family-friendly amenities, such as a kids' club, water park, and entertainment programs. The resort also offers elegant rooms, a choice of restaurants, and access to a beautiful stretch of Varadero Beach.
Location: Carretera Las Morlas, km 16, Varadero, Cuba
Melia Varadero is a beachfront resort known for its comfortable accommodations, varied dining options, and excellent service. The resort caters to both couples and families, with a range of activities, including water sports, live entertainment, and multiple swimming pools.
Location: Autopista del Sur, Carretera Las Americas, Varadero 42200, Cuba
An adults-only, all-inclusive resort, Royalton Hicacos Varadero offers a sophisticated and romantic atmosphere. Guests can enjoy well-appointed rooms, upscale dining experiences, and access to exclusive amenities such as private beach areas and spa services.
Location: Carretera Las Morlas Km 15, Varadero 42200, Cuba
This modern and stylish resort, part of the Melia brand, boasts a prime beachfront location. Melia Internacional Varadero offers a range of the best things to do in Varadero, Cuba, in the form of a variety of dining options, spacious rooms with sea views, and multiple recreational activities, making it suitable for couples and families alike.
Location: Autopista Sur, Carretera Las Morlas, Varadero 42200, Cuba
Getting around Varadero is easy, laid-back, and even a little fun. From vintage convertibles to beach-friendly buses, transportation in Varadero is part of the experience itself.
This double-decker bus is the most popular and convenient way to see Varadero. It runs from one end of the Hicacos Peninsula to the other, stopping at major resorts, shopping areas, beaches, and attractions. For a small fee (usually around $5 for a day pass), you can hop on and off as many times as you like. It’s a scenic, affordable way to explore without the stress of planning.
For short distances, especially in the town center, coco taxis (yellow, egg-shaped scooters) and bike taxis are a quirky and fun way to travel. These are ideal for 1–2 passengers and are great for catching a breeze on a hot day. They're more eco-friendly and budget-friendly, though they’re better for short rides than long hauls.
One of the most reputable options to rent a car in Cuba, which provides a fleet of well-maintained vehicles for your Varadero exploration. From classic convertibles to modern sedans, Cubacar offers diverse options to suit your preferences, enabling you to traverse the picturesque landscapes surrounding Varadero with comfort and style. Whether you're in search of a compact car for city exploration or an SUV for off-the-beaten-path adventures, Rental Car Cuba ensures a seamless rental experience, allowing you to navigate Varadero and its surroundings with ease.
Many all-inclusive resorts offer complimentary or low-cost shuttle services to key attractions and shopping centers in town. Check with your hotel concierge for schedules. This is one of the most hassle-free options for guests staying at large resorts.
Varadero, Cuba, transcends the ordinary, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to diverse tastes. From the sun-drenched beaches and historical gems to the luxurious resorts and the freedom of exploration with a rented car, Varadero beckons travelers with the promise of an unforgettable journey. Embrace the warmth of the Cuban sun, immerse yourself in its rich culture, and let Varadero weave its magic, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Varadero is known for its stunning 20-kilometer stretch of white sandy beaches, clear turquoise waters, and luxurious all-inclusive resorts. It’s one of the most popular beach destinations in the Caribbean.
Yes, Varadero is considered one of the safest places in Cuba for tourists, with a strong police presence and low crime rates, especially in resort areas.
Enjoy the public beaches, walk the Varadero Boulevard, visit Josone Park, or catch a beautiful sunset from the beach—all free and scenic experiences.
Yes, car rentals in Varadero are available, but demand is high, so booking in advance is recommended. Be prepared for higher prices and limited availability.
Don’t miss the Saturno Cave (Cueva de Saturno), Varahicacos Ecological Reserve, and the Bellamar Caves—all offering nature, history, and adventure just a short drive away.
Yes, families can enjoy dolphin shows, safe beaches, horseback riding, and excursions to parks and caves, making it a fun and safe destination for all ages.
The best time to visit is between November and April, during the dry season when the weather is sunny and pleasant, ideal for beach activities and exploring.
Varadero is about 145 kilometers (90 miles) from Havana, roughly a two-hour drive, making it an easy and popular destination for day trips or weekend getaways.
Yes, even non-resort visitors can enjoy the public beaches, local eateries, and vibrant culture. There are also casas particulares (guesthouses) for budget-friendly stays.
Yes, Varadero has a range of restaurants and paladares (private eateries) offering Cuban and international cuisine, including seafood, Italian, and vegetarian options.
Credit cards are accepted in some places, but cash (preferably Cuban Peso) is still widely used. U.S. credit cards generally don’t work, so bring Cuban currency just in case.
Yes, Varadero is a great base for day trips to Havana, Matanzas, Cárdenas, or nearby caves and nature parks. A rental car gives you flexibility to explore.
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