Top 5: Beaches of Cuba

Cuba is a veritable paradise for beach lovers, with amazing stretches of sand all around the island. Here are some of the best spots to enjoy on your trip.

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Varadero

For convenience and sheer beauty, Varadero cannot be beat. Just a few hours drive from Havana, the area has been thoroughly developed, but it remains a popular choice.

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Guardalavaca

At the other end of the island, the beaches at Guardalavaca are less developed than Varadero and offer great snorkeling. It’s a fair way across the island and many visitors are discouraged by the journey, which leaves them as a more tranquil option for those on longer trips.

Cayo Jutia, Vinales, Cuba © Pablo Hidalgo | Dreamstime

Playa Perla Blanca

If you want to get away from it all, there is nowhere better than this beach at the end of Cayo Santa Maria. There are no facilities here at all, so you’ll have to bring camping gear if you want to stay the night.

Cayo Jutia, Vinales, Cuba © Pablo Hidalgo | Dreamstime

Cayo Jutias

To the west of Havana lies this small beach, popular with locals. Escape from the tourist crowds around Vinales and see how Cubans enjoy their time on the beach (Hint: It involves a lot of rum).

Playa Perla Blanca, Cayo Largo, Cuba © Samantha Ong | Dreamstime

Playa Sirena

Head off to the islet of Cayo Largo to enjoy this amazing beach on Cuba’s south coast. Conditions are mild thanks to the shelter provided by the Isla de Juventud and watersports are popular.