Varadero

Cuba, The Caribbean

Varadero, known for its stunning white-sand beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters, is a tropical paradise on Cuba's Hicacos Peninsula. Visitors flock to its vibrant nightlife, luxurious resorts, and exciting water sports. Unique attractions include the Varadero Dolphinarium and the nearby Juan G. Gómez Beach, noted for its tranquil atmosphere. The town also offers cultural experiences such as local art markets and traditional Cuban music. With warm weather year-round, Varadero is the perfect retreat for sun-seekers and adventure-lovers alike.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Resort

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Juan Gualberto Gomez

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

14 Best Things to Do in Varadero

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax on Varadero Beach

Enjoy stunning white sands and crystal-clear waters.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Parque Josone

Explore beautiful gardens and a serene lake.

No booking required
3

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkeling at Coral Beach

Discover vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Varadero's Artisan Market

Shop local crafts and souvenirs from artisans.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Classic Car Tour

See Varadero in style from a vintage car.

Booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Varahicacos Ecological Reserve

Hike through lush nature and spot wildlife.

No booking required
7

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Varadero Jazz Festival

Experience vibrant music and culture in Varadero.

Booking required
8

Est. 4 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Dive at the Bay of Pigs

Experience world-class diving at a historic site.

Booking required
9

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Cueva de Saturno

Swim in a natural cave with crystal clear waters.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Delfinario

Watch entertaining dolphin and sea lion shows.

No booking required
11

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a Sunset Cruise

Enjoy breathtaking views of Varadero at sunset.

Booking required
12

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Museo Municipal de Varadero

Learn about the local history and culture.

No booking required
13

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Gastronomic Tour of Varadero

Taste the best of Cuban cuisine in local restaurants.

Booking required
14

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Participate in a Salsa Dancing Class

Learn to dance to lively Cuban rhythms.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10-15%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

6 (#32 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Cuban Peso

Majority religion

Christian

Language

Spanish

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Ropa Vieja

Shredded beef in tomato sauce. (National dish)

Moros y Cristianos

VE

Rice and black beans mixed together.

Lechón Asado

Slow-roasted marinated pork.

Cubano Sandwich

Cuban sandwich with pork and cheese.

Picadillo

Ground beef with spices and olives.

Phrases to learn

English

Spanish

Hello

Hola

(Oh-lah)

Yes/No

Si / No

(See / No)

Thank you

Gracias

(Grah-thee-ahs)

Excuse me

Perdón

(Per-dohn)

How much?

¿Cuánto?

(Kwan-toh)