Explore Cuban Beaches
Cuba boasts stunning beaches just waiting for you to unwind and bask in their beauty. In Cuba, all beaches are public, and while some may have resorts and beach bars, many offer serene escapes from bustling crowds. With a little guidance, you’re sure to discover the idyllic beach you’ve been dreaming of.
Varadero Beach
Best All Around Beach
Varadero Beach sprawls as a vast, picturesque coastline in the northern part of Cuba. A mesmerizing spot, this beach stands uniquely without the backdrop of towering buildings. It’s an ideal location for various water activities, although caution is advised due to strong undertows at times. Popular among locals and tourists, Varadero offers amenities rarely found on other Cuban beaches: rows of thatch-roofed palapas, public facilities, a playground, and vigilant lifeguards. Moreover, it’s one of the few beaches with parking facilities and easy access via public transportation. If you seek a midday break from the sands, Varadero presents the most visited archaeological site in Cuba.
Playa Ancon
Best Quiet Beach
Families cherish the serene waters of Playa Ancon and Playa Maria la Gorda. The former, in the heart of Trinidad, offers convenience with restrooms and dining options, while the latter, a bit secluded from the lively areas, provides breathtaking vistas of pristine seascapes. Playa Pilar flaunts a sheltered lagoon amid its tranquil waters, along with loungers for rent and a relaxed dining spot. For the revelers and party enthusiasts, Playa Esmeralda becomes the go-to destination, hosting live music and exuberant dance floors.
Playa Ancon, tucked away in a small bay in the Zona Hotelera, entices locals seeking the serene turquoise waters and a laid-back atmosphere – perfect for leisurely sandcastle building. Basic amenities are sparse, so bringing along your beach gear, refreshments, and entertainment is a must. Unmarked routes keep this spot delightfully secluded; look for the public access path across from the prominent Cuban flag at the north end of the main thoroughfare.
Playa Guardalavaca
Hidden Gem
Guardalavaca Beach, located on the northeastern coast of Cuba, is a stunning expanse of ivory sands lapped by the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The soft, powdery shore invites visitors to stroll along the coastline and bask in the warm Caribbean sun. Embraced by lush, tropical vegetation, this idyllic beach offers a serene and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and unwinding.
Its calm, turquoise waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling, allowing visitors to explore the underwater world teeming with vibrant marine life and coral reefs. Guardalavaca Beach is renowned for its picturesque beauty, featuring gentle waves and breathtaking sunsets that paint the sky in a spectrum of colors. The area surrounding the beach is dotted with palm trees and offers various facilities, including beach bars and restaurants serving delectable local cuisine. Whether seeking a peaceful day by the sea or engaging in water sports, Guardalavaca Beach provides an enchanting retreat for travelers seeking natural beauty and a serene coastal escape in Cuba.
