Cuba, the Caribbean’s largest and perhaps most charismatic island, is a sun-seeker’s paradise, bursting at the seams with vibrant culture and some of the most idyllic beaches you’ll ever set foot on. Indeed, the island is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world. However, with over 300 to choose from, each with its own unique personality, picking the perfect sandy spot can be tricky—especially if you also need to factor in your choice of all-inclusive hotels.
From the province of Holguin to the northern coast and the Hicacos peninsula, here are our top picks. Pack your bags, bring your spirit of adventure and let Cuban beaches change you, one grain of sand at a time.
Which area of Cuba has the best beaches? It’s hard not to say Varadero Beach!
Imagine a stretch of sugar-white sand so long it seems to merge with the horizon. Welcome to Varadero Beach, Cuba’s beach belle. Spanning a whopping 20 kilometers, it’s not just a beach; it’s a destination in its own right. The azure waters here don’t just compete with the world’s best – they set the standard.
Varadero is more than just a pretty face; it’s versatile too! With its numerous luxury all-inclusive resorts, Varadero dances to the beat of every traveler’s drum. It’s a fantastic launchpad for exploring the rest of Cuba, including the rhythmic streets of Havana.
Some of our favourite hotels in Varadero:
Best beach vacation near Havana: Playa del Estes
Playa del Estes, affectionately known as Havana’s beach backyard, is a 10 km stretch where the city’s rhythm meets the sea’s tranquility. It might not be as postcard-perfect as Varadero, but its proximity to Havana and those dreamy Caribbean waters make it a star in its own right.
Santa Maria, the jewel of this beach collection, is where you can mingle with locals, especially when the weekend rolls around. Affordable beach lounging options and a $5 hop-on-hop-off bus from Havana make this an irresistible day trip for sun, sea, and sand.
Playa Ancon
Head south and discover Playa Ancon, a hidden gem near the charming colonial city of Trinidad. Here, the adventure goes beyond sunbathing – think snorkeling among black coral and exotic fish, or fishing and diving. While the temptation to stay beachside is real, consider basing yourself in Trinidad. With its vibrant culture and convenient beach bus service, Trinidad is where your Cuban story really comes to life.
Best beaches in the Cayos
Ah, the Cayos – Cuba’s tranquil northern treasure trove on the northern coast. A 13 km slice of paradise where all-inclusive luxury meets Mother Nature’s finest work. Ideal for those who love their beach time peppered with serenity, the Cayos offer stunning white sand beaches with blue waters and palm tree-lined shores. It’s the perfect place to relax for a few days, especially with the variety of resorts catering to every need. Temperatures here are warm year-round, so visitors can enjoy this beautiful beach destination at almost any time. Beyond the resort life, the Cayos are more about nature’s embrace than cultural escapades, making it the best time to switch off and unwind.
The best beaches in Cayo Coco
Cayo Coco, is often regarded as one of the best beach destinations in Cuba, with its beautiful white sand beaches on the northern coast. Located in the Jardines del Rey archipelago, it’s accessible thanks to the Pedraplén, a road connecting it to the mainland. Playa Pilar and Playa Prohibida are crowd-pleasers, offering a slice of paradise with shallow, calm blue waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Guests can also explore the lush areas around these beaches, rich with mangroves and wildlife.
The best beaches in Cayo Largo
From idyllic white sand beaches with crystal-clear blue waters to rocky shores lapped by turquoise waves, Cayo Largo offers a variety of experiences. It’s a top spot for those who love watersports or simply want to relax and enjoy the warm temperatures. Visitors can spend a few days soaking up the sun at Playa Blanca, Playa Sirena, or Playa Paraiso, some of the most beautiful beaches in the area.
The best beaches in Cayo Guillermo
Cayo Guillermo is home to stunning Caribbean panoramas and pristine beaches like Playa El Paso, Punta Rasa, and Playa Playuelas. This area, known for its white sand beaches and vibrant marine life, is a prime location for scuba diving and snorkeling. The Gran Muthu Rainbow Hotel., one of the top LGBTQ+ resorts in Cuba, flanks Playa Playuelas, offering a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
This area offers pristine white sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, and a welcoming atmosphere, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re lounging on the soft sands, exploring the vibrant marine life through snorkeling in the coral reefs, or enjoying the lively nightlife, you’ll find endless opportunities to create unforgettable memories.
The best beaches in Cayo Santa Maria
For those seeking quiet beauty, Playa Perla Blanca is a must-visit. It’s one of the best-kept secrets among Cuba’s northern beaches. Other options in Cayo Santa Maria include Playa Las Caletas, Playa Canon, and Playa Cuatro Punta, all offering soft sands and blue waters. Playa de las Gaviotas is ideal for more adventurous guests, with water activities like snorkeling and scuba diving on offer. And for a unique experience, why not book a catamaran excursion to see the beach from a different angle?
Some of our favourite hotels in Cayo Santa Maria:
Beautiful beaches near Holguin: Guardalavaca
And then, there’s Guardalavaca in the province of Holguin. If it was good enough to impress Christopher Columbus, it’s certainly worth a visit! This 1500-meter stretch of beach near Holguin is a picturesque postcard come to life. With rolling hills, lush greenery, and a mix of tourists and locals, it’s a beach that truly reflects the heart of Cuba.
And that’s just as well: the very pretty Gran Muthu Almirante is just down the road!
