Cuba, the largest island in the Caribbean, is renowned not just for its rich culture, vintage cars, and timeless architecture, but also for its stunning beaches.
Whether you’re a beachcomber looking for tranquility or an adventurer seeking water sports, these beaches promise an unforgettable escape. In this blog, we’ll dive into 12 of the most captivating beaches in Cuba to help you plan your perfect beach getaway.
1. Varadero Beach
Varadero is Cuba’s most iconic beach, often called the crown jewel of Cuban tourism. Stretching over 20 kilometers along the Hicacos Peninsula, it offers crystal-clear waters and soft, white sand, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and luxury relaxation.
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Address: Matanzas Province, approx. 140 km east of Havana
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Timings: Open 24 hours; beach access is unrestricted, though resort facilities follow standard hours.
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How to reach: Easily accessible by car or bus from Havana (about 2 hours), with regular Viazul buses and private taxis available.
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Things to Do: Snorkeling, catamaran tours, jet skiing
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Best time to visit: November to April offers sunny, breezy weather ideal for beach activities and avoiding hurricane season.
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Places to eat: La Gruta, Varadero 60
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Places to stay:Royalton Hicacos, Meliá Varadero
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2. Playa Ancón
Nestled near the colonial town of Trinidad, Playa Ancón offers a serene blend of culture and beachside bliss. This beach is known for its calm, clear waters and coral reefs just offshore, perfect for snorkeling and diving.
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Address: Sancti SpÃritus Province, near Trinidad
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Timings: Beach access is open all day, with nearby facilities typically operating from 9 AM to 6 PM.
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How to reach: A 15-minute drive from Trinidad, reachable by taxi, bike, or organized tour shuttles.
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Things to Do: Scuba diving, kayaking, beach lounging
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Best time to visit: December to April, when the sea is calm and the skies are clear.
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Places to eat: Restaurante Vista Gourmet, La Redacción
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Places to stay:Memories Trinidad del Mar, Hostal Lola
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3. Cayo Coco
Cayo Coco is a tropical haven known for its powdery beaches and thriving coral reefs. The island is a hotspot for water sports and is connected to the mainland by a scenic causeway.
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Address: Jardines del Rey archipelago
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Timings: Public areas are always open, while resorts and activities operate mostly during daylight hours.
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How to reach: Reachable via Jardines del Rey Airport or by car via a scenic causeway from the mainland.
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Things to Do: Kite surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving
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Best time to visit: Go from December to March for ideal weather and great visibility for water sports.
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Places to eat:Ranchón Las Dunas, La Cueva del Jabali
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Places to stay:Pullman Cayo Coco, Melia Jardines del Rey
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4. Cayo Guillermo
Known for its wild beauty and untouched charm, Cayo Guillermo is a peaceful alternative to the more developed Cayo Coco. It’s especially famous for Playa Pilar, named after Ernest Hemingway’s yacht.
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Address: Jardines del Rey archipelago
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Timings: The beach is accessible throughout the day; most tours and rentals wrap up by early evening.
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How to reach: Accessible via car or taxi from Cayo Coco (about 40 minutes), often included in resort transfers.
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Things to Do: Windsurfing, birdwatching, beachcombing
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Best time to visit: December to April provides the most pleasant beach conditions and lower humidity.
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Places to eat: Ranchón Playa Pilar, Lenny’s Bar & Grill
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Places to stay:Iberostar Selection Playa Pilar, Gran Muthu Imperial
5. Cayo Levisa
This small island off Cuba’s northwest coast is a peaceful escape accessible only by boat. Cayo Levisa is perfect for snorkeling and diving, with a beautiful coral reef just offshore.
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Address: Pinar del RÃo Province
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Timings: Day access is usually from 9 AM to 5 PM, with overnight stays available at the local hotel.
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Entry Fee: Ferry fee (~ $15)
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How to reach: Take a 30-minute boat ride from Palma Rubia port, reached by car from Viñales or Havana.
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Things to Do: Snorkeling, scuba diving, sunbathing
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The best time to visit: November to March offers comfortable temperatures and calm seas.
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Places to eat: Hotel Cayo Levisa Restaurant, El Olivo in Viñales
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Places to stay:Hotel Cayo Levisa
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6. Playa Santa Lucia
Located on Cuba’s northern Atlantic coast, Playa Santa Lucia offers a more local experience. Its shallow waters are perfect for families, and it’s one of the best spots for shark diving in Cuba.
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Address: Camagüey Province
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Timings: Open 24 hours; early mornings and late afternoons are quieter for relaxing walks or dives.
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Entry Fee: Free
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How to reach: Located in Camagüey Province, it’s reachable by car or bus from the city of Camagüey (around 2 hours).
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Things to Do: Shark diving, paddleboarding, swimming
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Best time to visit: December to April, when the water is clearest for snorkeling.
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Places to eat: El Batey, Restaurante RocÃo
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Places to stay:Club Amigo Mayanabo, Gran Club Santa LucÃa
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7. Playa Paraiso (Cayo Largo)
As the name suggests, Playa Paraiso is a true paradise. Located on Cayo Largo, it boasts baby-soft sand and calm, warm waters. Ideal for a romantic escape or peaceful retreat.
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Address: Cayo Largo del Sur
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Timings: Accessible all day; boat tours often include stops during mid-morning or early afternoon.
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How to reach: Fly into Cayo Largo’s Vilo Acuña Airport and take a short shuttle or taxi to the beach.
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Things to Do: Swimming, beach walking, relaxing
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Best time to visit: Visit between December and April for warm, dry weather and smooth sailing conditions.
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Places to eat: Ranchón Lindamar
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Places to stay:Sol Cayo Largo, Villa Iguana
8. Playa Sirena (Cayo Largo)
Another gem on Cayo Largo, Playa Sirena is often considered the best beach in all of Cuba. Its long stretch of pristine sand and ultra-clear waters make it postcard-perfect.
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Address: Cayo Largo del Sur
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Timings: Beachgoers arrive from sunrise to sunset; water activities usually wrap up by 5 PM.
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How to reach: Accessible by shuttle, boat taxi, or resort transport from other parts of Cayo Largo.
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Things to Do: Sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling
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Best time to visit: December to March is perfect for sunbathing and dolphin sightings nearby.
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Places to eat: Hotel Sol Cayo Largo buffet
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Places to stay:Hotel PelÃcano
9. Playa Maguana
For those looking to escape the tourist trail, Playa Maguana near Baracoa offers a peaceful experience with lush green surroundings and mountain views.
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Google Rating: 4.6
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Address: Guantánamo Province, near Baracoa
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Timings: Open access at all hours; beach bars and rentals run mainly during daylight.
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How to reach: About a 30-minute drive from Baracoa, reachable by taxi or organized local excursions.
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Things to Do: Swimming, hiking, kayaking
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Best time to visit: March to May is the driest and most scenic time for a quiet visit.
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Places to eat: Restaurante Maguana, Villa Paradiso
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Places to stay:Hostal Casa Yvonne, El Castillo Hotel
10. Playa Jibacoa
Halfway between Havana and Varadero, Playa Jibacoa is a hidden treasure. Its dramatic cliffs and coral reef make it a favorite for snorkelers and divers.
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Address: Mayabeque Province
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Timings: Beach open all day; dive shops and food stalls operate from around 9 AM to 6 PM.
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How to reach: Situated halfway between Havana and Varadero; accessible by rental car, taxi, or Viazul bus.
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Things to Do: Snorkeling, diving, yoga retreats
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Best time to visit: March to May offers mild temperatures and fewer crowds before peak season hits.
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Places to eat: El Cacique
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Places to stay:Memories Jibacoa, Villa Tropico
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11. Guardalavaca Beach
Guardalavaca is one of the top beach destinations in eastern Cuba, known for its golden sands and laid-back vibe. It’s less touristy than Varadero but just as beautiful.
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Address: HolguÃn Province
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Timings: Freely accessible 24/7, though beach amenities and shops close by sunset.
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How to reach: About an hour’s drive from HolguÃn Airport with taxis, hotel transfers, or rental cars available.
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Things to Do: Banana boating, snorkeling, swimming
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Best time to visit: January to April for cooler breezes and perfect sunbathing conditions.
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Places to eat: El Ancla, Restaurante Bucanero
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Places to stay:Brisas Guardalavaca, Hotel Club Amigo Atlantico
12. Cayo JutÃas
This tranquil beach is a hidden gem with mangroves, calm waves, and a wooden pier stretching into the sea. It’s perfect for a relaxing day in nature.
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Address: Pinar del RÃo Province
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Timings: Open daily, with most travelers arriving between 10 AM and 4 PM for day trips.
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How to reach: Reached by a bumpy but scenic 1.5-hour drive from Viñales via rental car or guided tour.
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Things to Do: Snorkeling, paddleboarding, photography
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Best time to visit: November to March, when the road is more reliable and the skies are clear.
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Places to eat: Ranchón Cayo JutÃas
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Places to stay: Casas particulares in Viñales
FAQs
1. Are Cuban beaches safe for tourists?
Yes, Cuban beaches are generally very safe. Petty crime is rare, and beach resorts often have their own security.
2. Can I camp or stay overnight on the beaches in Cuba?
Camping on the beach is not common or generally allowed unless it’s within a designated eco-lodge or permitted area. Hotels and casas particulares are the preferred lodging options.
3. What’s the best time of year to visit Cuba’s beaches?
The dry season from November to April is the best time, with pleasant temperatures and minimal rain.
4. Are there all-inclusive resorts on Cuban beaches?
Yes, especially in Varadero, Cayo Coco, and Cayo Largo, with many international hotel chains.
5. Can I snorkel or dive on beaches in Cuba?
Absolutely! Cuba has incredible coral reefs and marine life. Top spots include Playa Ancón, Cayo Levisa, and Cayo Coco.
6. Which beach is best for a quiet, romantic getaway?
Playa Paraiso or Cayo Levisa are the perfect beaches in Cuba for couples seeking peace and pristine beauty.
