Best Beaches in Cuba

Varadero offers 20 km of ice-white sandy heaven and a brilliant blue sea to match. Varadero beach, also known as Playa Azul (Blue Beach), is one of the most spectacular beaches in the Caribbean. Lounge on a sun recliner under the shade of a parasol while you sip a fresh cocktail and watch the gentle waves roll in. Excellent beachfront resorts line the peninsula, including our favourites Royalton Hicacos Resort & Spa, Melia Varadero and Iberostar Selection Varadero.

Cayo Blanco is one of the best beaches in Varadero, with crystalline waters and soft sand. This isolated islet is located near Varadero on the northern coast of Cuba and is virtually untouched, and is even named for its fine, white sand. The coral reefs are great for exploration and offer a beautiful environment for diving.

Playa Coral is the place to go for all you adrenaline junkies looking to find your next thrill in the ocean. With guided tours and beautiful coral reefs, this is a great diving adventure. Spot colourful, tropical fish while you explore this magical underwater world.

Located on the northeast coast of Cuba, Guardalavaca beach stretches over 3 km. Unlike Varadero beach, this sandy stretch is relatively untouched by tourism and perfect if you prefer a more secluded spot. The gorgeous beaches are backed by jungle and gentle hills - a tropical paradise! There is a coral reef 300m from the coastline which creates a calm lagoon. Several stands are dotted along the beach selling drinks, food and renting snorkelling equipement.

Playa Larga can be found on Cayo Coco, and this is one of the beaches where you will find the best diving in the whole world. So, grab some gear and explore the unique underwater world and make some memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Memories Flamenco Beach, located on Cayo Coco offers not only a stunning beach with water activities galore, but stay in one of the best, all-inclusive resorts Cuba has to offer.

Perhaps one of the most beautiful beaches in Cuba, and even the Caribbean, is Playa Pilar on Cayo Guillermo. Surrounded by 16-meter-high dunes and palm trees that aid the paradisical image, this stunning beach is known for its fine sane, calm warm waters and an exciting seabed with a coral barrier, allowing visitors the chance to explore the beautiful, and colourful marine fauna.

Beautiful Playa Perla Blanca is located at the tip of Cayo Santa Maria and boasts fine, white sand and clear turquoise waters. It's one of the most natural beaches in the region and a tranquil place to escape. The shallow waters are great for kids and snorkelling. You'll be able to spot many colourful fish and starfish around the reef.

18 km east of Havana is where Playas del Este (Eastern Beaches) are found. Seven beaches make up this idyllic coastline that stretches from Bacuranao down to Playa Jibacoa. Each beach offers a different experience. Bacuranao and Playa Tarará are quieter, there's more going on in Playa Boca Ciega or Guanabo and Playa Santa Maria is lined with hotels. Playa Jibacoa is great for snorkelling and nearby walks.

Playa ancon is arguably one of the best strips of shoreline on the south coast. With calm, clear waters, and fine, white sand it serves as a great place to have a break from the exploration of the town. La Boca is nearby and for those looking to perhaps escape the buzz of the town, as it is a little fishing village with shady trees and a few quaint wooden villas.