Cuba, with its crystalline waters and powdery white sands, is a paradise for beach lovers. The island nation boasts an array of stunning beaches, each offering a unique slice of tropical heaven. From the secluded shores of Cayo Guillermo to the bustling sands of Varadero, Cuba’s beaches cater to every taste and preference. Here’s your ultimate guide to the best beaches in Cuba, detailing how to get there, nearest airports, and accommodation options.
The Best Beaches in Cuba
1. Cayo Guillermo
Getting There:
Cayo Guillermo is part of the Jardines del Rey archipelago on Cuba’s northern coast. To reach this stunning beach destination, you’ll typically fly into Jardines del Rey International Airport (CCC), located on the nearby island of Cayo Coco. From the airport, it’s about a 40-minute drive to Cayo Guillermo. However, there aren’t many flight to this airport and they have stopped the domestic flight from Havana (as of 2024).
The other option (and one you’ll most likely do) is to get a taxi transfer from whichever city you’re in. It’s a scenic but long journey of approximately 7-8 hours by car from Havana, so not the most ideal place to start the journey. We actually went from Santa Clara which took 4 hours by car. Trinidad is also a 4 hour drive and a popular town to visit, so this could be another option. Check out my 10 day itinerary in Cuba to see how to plan your route around Cuba and how tos maximise your beach time!
Cayo Guillermo was by far the BEST beach in Cuba and definitely one worth making the journey for. Given its secluded location, a lot of tourists will opt for Varadero which is closer to Havana rather than venturing further afield. This is what makes Cayo Guillermo so special, as it is still relatively untouched beauty which you’ll most likely have to yourself, or with very few people around.
Nearest Airport: Jardines del Rey International Airport (CCC)
Accommodation Options:
- Kempinski Cayo Guillermo: This is the BEST hotel in Cuba, with beautiful rooms, multiple dining options, and direct beach access. It’s perfect for families and couples looking for a hassle-free beach holiday. Check out my full hotel reviews on Kempinski Cayo Guillermo here and here.
- Melia Jardines de Rey: This is another luxury resort known for its stunning location and exceptional service, although this is more traditional luxury rather than modern. It features beautifully appointed rooms, a variety of restaurants, and a range of water sports.
- Villa Gregorio: For a more budget-friendly option, this guesthouse offers clean, comfortable accommodations and a friendly atmosphere.
2. Varadero Beach
Getting There:
Varadero is one of Cuba’s most famous beach destinations, located on the Hicacos Peninsula. It’s easily accessible from Havana, being just a two-hour drive east. There are also direct flights to Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport (VRA), which is about 30 minutes from Varadero’s main hotel zone.
As it is so close to Havana, Varadero beach is a complete tourist zone which locals avoid. You’ll find many all-inclusive hotels here on a resort strip, which reminds me of Cancun. This is great if this is the type of beach holiday you’re looking for and want something close by to Havana, but it’s definitely not the best beach in Cuba in my opinion due to how crowded it is. However, saying this it is still a beautiful white-sand beach with turquoise waters so you can’t really complain and it does make a great option if you’re short on time!
Nearest Airport: Juan Gualberto Gómez Airport (VRA)
Accommodation Options:
- Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa: One of the top all-inclusive resorts in Varadero offering suites, multiple dining options, and an array of recreational activities. The resort is situated directly on the beach, providing stunning ocean views.
- Royalton Hicacos Resort & Spa: An adults-only resort known for its exceptional service, gourmet dining, and beautiful beachfront location. Perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway.
- Hostal Karelia: For a more affordable stay, this charming guesthouse offers clean rooms and warm hospitality, just a short walk from the beach.
3. Playa Paraiso, Cayo Largo del Sur
Getting There:
Playa Paraiso is located on Cayo Largo del Sur, a small island off Cuba’s southern coast. To get there, you’ll need to fly into Vilo Acuña Airport (CYO) on Cayo Largo. Flights are available from Havana and other major Cuban cities. Once on the island, most resorts offer shuttle services to Playa Paraiso, and I would advise choosing a resort that does this to make transfers easier and hassle-free.
Again, given its secluded location and the only option to get here being by flight, this is a pure slice of paradise! If you didn’t know any better, it would be the equivalent scenes of the Maldives, so you should try and incorporate this into your itinerary if you can.
Nearest Airport: Vilo Acuña Airport (CYO)
Accommodation Options
- Sol Cayo Largo: An all-inclusive resort offering spacious rooms, a variety of dining options, and direct access to Playa Paraiso. It’s a great choice for those looking to relax and unwind in a beautiful setting.
- Villa Soledad: A more budget-friendly option, this guesthouse provides comfortable accommodations and is located close to the beach.
- Hotel Pelicano: Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, this all-inclusive resort offers a range of amenities, including multiple pools, restaurants, and entertainment options.
4. Playa Ancón, Trinidad
Getting There:
Playa Ancón is located near the historic town of Trinidad, on Cuba’s southern coast. To get there, you can fly into Jaime González Airport (CFG) in Cienfuegos, which is about a 1.5-hour drive from Trinidad. Alternatively, you can fly into Abel Santamaría Airport (SNU) in Santa Clara, which is about a two-hour drive.
From Havana, the drive takes approximately four hours. Bus services (with Viazul) are also available, providing an affordable way to reach Trinidad but this will be longer as there are quite a few stops.
Personally, I do think there are better beaches in Cuba but as it is only a 20 minute drive from Trinidad town this is a great option for those short on time and wanting a beach day. You can also arrange boat trips to smaller, nearby islands such as Cayo Blanco from the nearby marina as well as scuba diving. As a note, as it is so close to Trinidad you will find many tourists here, but it’s also a popular hang-out for the locals, especially on a weekend.
Nearest Airports:
- Jaime González Airport (CFG)
- Abel Santamaría Airport (SNU)
Accommodation Options:
- Iberostar Playa Ancon: A luxury hotel located in the heart of Trinidad, offering elegant rooms, excellent dining, and easy access to Playa Ancón.
- Hostal El Rintintin: A charming guesthouse offering comfortable accommodations and a friendly atmosphere. It’s located in Trinidad, a short drive from the beach.
- Hotel Las Cuevas: Situated on a hill overlooking Trinidad, this hotel offers stunning views, comfortable rooms, and easy access to both the town and Playa Ancón.
5. Guardalavaca Beach
Getting There:
Guardalavaca is located on Cuba’s northeastern coast, in the Holguín province. The easiest way to get there is by flying into Frank País Airport (HOG) in Holguín, followed by a one-hour drive to Guardalavaca.
From Havana, domestic flights to Holguín are available, making it convenient to reach this beautiful beach destination. Alternatively if you’re making your way around Cuba, this is roughly a 3.5 hour drive from Santiago De Cuba, which is another popular town to visit in Cuba. You can add it on to your itinerary in a way that you end in Santiago De Cuba as you’ll be able to catch domestic and international flights from there.
Nearest Airport: Frank País Airport (HOG)
Accommodation Options:
- Paradisus Río de Oro Resort & Spa: An adults-only, all-inclusive resort offering multiple room-types, dining, and a beautiful beachfront location. Perfect for couples seeking a romantic escape.
- Brisas Guardalavaca: A family-friendly, all-inclusive resort featuring spacious rooms, multiple dining options, and a range of activities and entertainment.
- Villa Cayo Saetía: For those looking for a more unique experience, this eco-resort is located on a nearby island and offers rustic accommodations and a range of outdoor activities, including wildlife safaris and snorkelling.
FAQs
WHERE IS THE NICEST BEACH IN CUBA?
This is purely down to personal opinion and I think Cuba has a number of stunning beaches. However my absolute favourite was Cayo Guillermo!
DOES VARADERO HAVE NICE BEACHES?
Varadero does have nice beaches BUT it’s full of tourists as it’s so close to Havana and in my opinion it is now too commercialised. It could pass as anywhere else in the world like Cancun, which is not what you want from a beach in Cuba!
stunning beaches. However my absolute favourite was Cayo Guillermo!
WHAT BEACH IS BETTER VARADERO OR CAYO COCO?
Hands down Cayo Coco is better, and going a step further Cayo Guillermo is better than Cayo Coco and only a 45 minute drive further along from it!
CAN YOU SWIM AT THE BEACHES IN CUBA?
ABSOLUTELY and you definitely should!
PARTING THOUGHTS…
Cuba’s beautiful beaches offer something for everyone, from the pristine sands of Cayo Guillermo to the lively shores of Varadero. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious all-inclusive resort or a budget-friendly guesthouse, you’ll find a variety of accommodation options to suit your needs. With their crystal-clear waters, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, these beaches provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable Cuban getaway. My personal favourite is Cayo Guillermo and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Cuba – I truly felt like I was in the Maldives but at a third of the price!
Pack your sunscreen, grab your beach towel, and get ready to explore some of the best beaches in Cuba. Whether you’re lounging under the Caribbean sun, exploring underwater coral reefs, or sipping a mojito at a beachside bar, the beauty and charm of Cuba’s coastlines are sure to captivate you. Enjoy your tropical adventure!
MORE ON CUBA
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Check out everything you need to know about visiting Viñales
Stay tuned for more tips and insights to enhance your travel experience in Cuba.