Imagine gently swaying palms, warm golden sands and azure waters that stretch as far as the eye can see. That’s what a beach holiday to Cuba looks like, aka, the front of a postcard.
This sought-after destination has a diverse landscape that effortlessly blends tropical sands with exhilarating cities and countryside scenes made up of verdant rolling hills – an eclectic cocktail that allows for multiple holidays in one.
Whether you’re quite happy to while away the days lazing on Cuba’s soft, shelving sands (no judgements here) or want a central base for exploration, we’ve highlighted some of the best beach hotels in Cuba to put on your bucket-list.
Iberostar Selection Varadero
The all-inclusive Iberostar Selection Varadero hotel combines local charm and modern elegance in the heart of Cuba’s most popular tourist resort, Varadero. Set on the pristine beachfront and flanked by thick greenery – courtesy of the neighbouring Varahicaos Natural Reserve – this five-star resort offers a taste of tropical paradise with its first-class service, beautiful guest rooms, and wide variety of leisure services and facilities on offer.
From sumptuous treatments at SPA Sensations to learning how to salsa, delectable dining at the hotel’s gourmet restaurants, scuba diving experiences, and beyond, there’s entertainment on tap for all ages here. If you’ve got the little ones in tow, the children’s activity programme Star Camp is sure to please, with exciting and educational activities suitable for ages 4-17.
Melia Las Americas Adults Only Varadero
This exclusive adults only resort is a haven for couples seeking a romantic escape in paradise. The resort’s spacious and well-appointed guest rooms offer stunning ocean views, while the private stretch of beach beckons you to lounge and unwind. That’s if you can drag yourself away from the resort’s four twinkling swimming pools, sauna and fitness centre. Perfectly positioned for golf lovers, Melia Las Americas also provides direct access to Varadero Golf Club.
If you want to lap up the luxury, book a room at The Level and take advantage of exclusive personalised services and special touches – including superior comfort, access to private hotel areas such restaurants, bars, swimming pools, and a separate beach area.
As part of your all-inclusive package, be sure to indulge in the gastronomic delights available and savour international dishes at one of five restaurants; or enjoy a cocktail or two at one of six bars.
Royalton Hicacos Resort & Spa Varadero
Another exceptional adults only resort fringing Varadero’s tropical beach is Royalton Hicacos Resort & Spa Varadero. This all-inclusive resort boasts elegant rooms, a world-class spa, and a host of quality facilities and amenities, from the shimmering pools to direct beach access, evening entertainment, and more. The setting alone will make you feel as though you’re worlds away from home, with paradiscal thatched-roof huts, varied bridges, fountains, and beautiful vegetation sprinkled across the grounds.
Guests can experience a higher level of service at the Diamond Club, serving up a tranquil swimming pool, private stretch of beach, and exclusive dining areas for guests over the age of 18. For special occasions, indulge in added extras including private dinners, cigars, and premium alcohol, organised by the resort’s friendly staff.
It can be argued that this five-star oceanfront retreat surpasses many of the hotels on this stretch (though, we’re not biased), thanks to its tailored amenities helping to foster an ideal environment for total R&R.
Melia Internacional Varadero
With its contemporary take on Cuban hospitality, Melia Internacional offers families a luxury retreat on the beachfront, with modern guest rooms, a unique gastronomic proposal across its impressive collection of bars and restaurants, a serene spa that promises to melt away stresses, plus varied facilities suitable for all ages.
The hotel’s prime location on the glorious sands of Varadero isn’t the only draw for families; its availability of golf course facilities, elevated service from The Level and indulgent YHI Spa ensure a diverse range of luxury services are available for the whole family. Plus, the resort’s harmonious blend of family-oriented and adults only services is perfect for when parents fancy a spot of peace and quiet while little ones are looked after at the Kids’ Club.
With Mediterranean and Japanese cuisine at the in-house restaurants, a varied selection of activities including watersports, tennis, and even international cabaret shows, plus plenty of relaxation – it’s sure to be a hit.
Cayo Guillermo Resort Kempinski Cuba
Nestled amid the tranquility of Playa Pilar, guests will have no trouble embracing the opulence of Cayo Guillermo Resort Kempinski Cuba. This five-star resort has a front garden of white sandy beaches and offers elegant villas, sumptuous dining options, and a lavish spa.
You may have heard of Cayo Guillermo before, since it rose to fame in the 1960s when deep-sea fishermen – one of which being Ernest Hemingway – inhabited the cay, belonging to the Biosphere Reserve Jardines Del Rey aka King’s Gardens. Boasting five stars, this serene hideaway offers a refreshingly authentic Caribbean experience with irresistible culinary highlights beside the waves, healing spa traditions, and fantastic service.
Those eager to explore can track down the Lady In Red, the resort’s impeccable host providing unrivalled knowledge about the hotel and local area – whether you want to swim amongst the nearby mangroves or embark on exciting snorkelling adventures!
Paradisus Rio De Oro Hotel
If you’re passionate about travelling sustainably, Paradisus Rio De Oro is the hotel for you. Nestled on the shores of the turquoise Caribbean Sea, this eco-friendly resort offers an all-inclusive experience that truly embodies the essence of Cuba.
Located within the Bahía de Naranjo Natural Park, on the north coast of Holguín’s Playa Esmerelda, this adults only oceanfront retreat allows guests to enjoy maximum comfort in an intimate and beautifully natural setting. Unwind in the resort’s lush gardens, rejuvenate in the YHI Spa, and sample a taste of Cuban culture through fine dining and live entertainment.
Indulge in life-enriching experiences including swimming amongst one of the most gorgeous coral reefs in the world ( just steps from the resort), stay in style at one of the Royal Service rooms, and discover no less than 14 restaurants and bars to dine at.
Melia Trinidad Playa
This beachfront paradise offers visitors the best of both worlds thanks to its idyllic location close to the historic city of Trinidad. With panoramic views of the Escambray Mountains, guests at this five-star resort can lap up the surrounding natural beauty with a variety of top excursions and tours – when not busy enjoying the exclusive restaurants, swim-up pool rooms, wellness area, and massage rooms available within the hotel’s premium floor, The Level, that is.
Savour authentic Cuban dishes at the resort’s on-site restaurants, while its atmospheric bars overlooking the twinkling azure waters offer a range of spirits, cocktails, soft drinks and light snacks, accompanied by elegant music. There’s plenty of recreational activities to lap up when you’re feeling restless too, from guided scuba diving to island tours, not to mention the nearby cultural attractions of Valley of the Sugar Mills and the city of Cienfuegos.
Melia Buenavista
Sitting pretty on the shores of Cayo Santa Maria, the private and ecological setting of Melia Buenavista makes it a sought-after resort for those seeking an ambience of privacy and exclusivity. This adults only resort is best tailored to couples, honeymoons, weddings, and spa and wellness holidays, with enchanting natural surroundings including a nature reserve and three pristine beaches offering guests an away-from-it-all oasis.
The acclaimed Level Service delivers attentive amenities and well-deserved pampering, while a range of optional activities such as kayaking and marvelling at the rich flora and fauna at the neighbouring biosphere reserve promise fun. The Level’s variety of Junior and Grand Suites offer opulent guest accommodation, but it’s the Villa Zaida Del Rio that really shines – designed for guests over 18, this private hideaway is ideal for groups, with separate direct access to Playa Cañón Beach.
Sanctuary at Grand Memories Varadero
Experience the epitome of relaxation at the adults only Sanctuary at Grand Memories Varadero. Located within the Grand Memories Varadero complex, on the Hicacos Peninsula, this all-inclusive paradise provides a unique selection of services and amenities for guests aged 18+, including personalised butler service, a private beach area, and premium à la carte dining options. Well, when in Cuba…
Exclusivity is the name of the game at this all-suite resort, with elegant accommodation providing couples and solo travellers an opulent space to unwind after a day of exploring Cuba’s coastline. When you’re not busy experiencing thrilling aquatic pursuits or making use of the state-of-the-art fitness centre, restore your vitality at the exquisite spa or lazy by the shimmering pool.
With premier amenities and a host of additional indulgences, guests won’t forget about this resort in a hurry.
Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa
Nestled nearby an idyllic cove and fringed by beautiful gardens with swaying palms and luxurious sun loungers, Paradisus Varadero Resort & Spa offers guests a slice of paradise in Varadero.
This resort’s dreamy interior focuses around the lobby; decorated with tropical vegetation, water mirrors with walkways overhead, and panoramic views of the azure sea through an al fresco terrace, this five-star hideaway serves up an effortlessly harmonious atmosphere. The YHI spa boasts a menu of wonderful treatments sure to leave you melting, while the private beach, twinkling pool, and gardens are also popular pastimes around the resort.
As an all-inclusive resort, guests can indulge in the variety of culinary delights available from Creole to Mexican, Oriental, and fusion cooking across its restaurants, while ten swanky bars are also on hand for sun-kissed tipples and snacks. With Royal Service (adults only) plus a Family Concierge, every type of guest will receive first-class personalised service and the unmistakable stamp of exclusivity here.
Paradisus Los Cayos
Paradisus Los Cayos in Cayo Santa Maria, is a modern all-inclusive eco-resort, it’s located in one of the most spectacular natural landscapes on the north coast of Cuba. The hotel has been carefully designed with low buildings (three or four floors) with Junior Suite and Suite rooms with access to swim-up pools. The resort includes two other separate floors for Royal Service and The Reserve. The Royal Service at Paradisus los Cayos is an adult-only area. The Reserve at Paradisus los Cayos, however, is for all the family, with family concierge service in a special area for families. Paradisus Los Cayos offers an amazing range of bars and dining options, set by one of the Islands most beautiful unspoilt beaches, this hotel has something for everyone.
Iberostar Bella Vista
One of the newest additions to Varadero’s iconic beachfront, Iberostar Bella Vista juggles family-friendly activities with elegant adult-focused services, making it a suitable choice for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.
With five restaurants and five bars, swimming pools, a kid’s splash park, and bundles of activities – not to mention its enviable location right on the beachfront – this sought-after resort really has it all. The stylish rooms and suites are comfortable, airy, and boast a neutral palette with pops of colour that perfectly complement the sea, each of which is equipped with a balcony or terrace with gorgeous vistas to match.
It’s also ideally placed just ten minutes from the restaurants, bars, and shops in the town should you wish to explore.
Dhawa Cayo Santa Maria
The very first hotel of the Dhawa chain in the Americas and nestled on the north-central coast of Cuba, Dhawa Cayo Santa Maria is a destination where white-sand beaches and turquoise waters rub shoulders with themed restaurants, first-class service, and sustainability.
Part of the reputable Banyan Tree group of hotels located on Cayo Las Brujas, this property prides itself on its eco-friendly efforts, providing energy through a system of solar panels, recycling, water desalination units, and generic practices. A perfect choice if you prefer to go green on your travels.
Entertainment is in abundance at this resort, with everything from dedicated swimming pools for the adults and kids to games rooms, tennis courts, dance classes, watersports, kids activity programmes and beyond. Throw a wide-variety of culinary experiences, modern guest rooms, and private beach access into the mix and you’ve got a winning resort.
Paradisus Princesa Del Mar Resort & Spa
This five-star eco resort is another jewel in Varadero’s shoreline, where guests can immerse themselves in a world of elegance where contemporary suites meet tropical gardens and virgin white sands.
The perfect haunt for romantic couples, the resort is peppered with charming spaces to unwind, from the lagoon-style swimming pool and five outdoor hydromassage pools to the wellness facilities at the rejuvenating YHI spa – all surrounded by a naturally beautiful environment.
Foodies will be in their element too, thanks to the resort’s diverse restaurants with a medley of cuisines such as International, Caribbean, French, Oriental, and Italian – sure to please every palate. Surrender to the captivating allure of Paradisus Princesa Del Mar Resort & Spa and embark on a journey of unsurpassed bliss.
Melia Cayo Coco
Discover the idyllic charm of Melia Cayo Coco, an adults only sanctuary situated on a breathtaking island paradise. Revel in the serenity of over-water bungalows or unwind in the comfort of luxury contemporary suites, all designed with the discerning traveller in mind.
The tropical surroundings by a serene lake and powder white-sand beach make it an excellent choice for couples and honeymooners, with sun-kissed walks along the sand and exciting watersports high up on the agenda. Guests can also immerse themselves in diverse culinary experiences, with options from tasty tapas and beach-inspired BBQs to fine à la carte dining on the menu.
Melia Jardines Del Rey
This palatial gem set amidst lush tropical gardens and the shimmering turquoise waters of Cayo Coco is sure to leave you feeling as though you’ve stepped into a fairytale. Melia Jardines Del Rey offers a blend of comfort and adventure, with plush accommodations, diverse dining options, and thrilling activities – from invigorating watersports to fascinating cultural experiences.
Its stunning décor oozes authenticity, taking reference from a sugar plantation, while the main building is designed in a contemporary style with a boulevard that stretches from the lobby to the beach – where you’ll find the hotel’s main attractions, from restaurants to activities, handicrafts, and more.
Daily entertainment, lovely rooms, and ten restaurants are a few of the high-end facilities you can expect to benefit from upon your stay here, while the stunning swimming pool and palm-fringed Flamenco Beach are among the most popular pastimes for families. Equally, a clutch of nearby tourist spots are sure to entertain those who want to explore the surrounding area.
Melia Varadero
Last, but by no means least, this five-star all-inclusive resort in Varadero stands out as one of the premier beachfront destinations – and for good reason. Spectacularly shaped like a six-petalled flower in the style of a pyramid, this unique property boasts 490 elegant rooms with views over the twinkling Caribbean Sea, diverse international dining, and top-notch facilities such as a swimming pool, spa and fitness centre – allowing guests to indulge in luxury and leisure.
The resort itself is a sight to behold, complete with an artificial lake, pretty hanging gardens, a circular lobby and plenty of natural light. Well-versed for families, the Club Amigos activities programme for children is packed with exciting things to do, when they’re not busy building sandcastles at the sandy beach or making a splash in the expansive pool, of course.
Located between Meliá Las Americas and Sol Palmeras, and a few metres from the Varadero Golf Club, you won’t be lacking in entertainment.
Each of Cuba’s blissful beach hotels offer a captivating blend of luxury, relaxation, and adventure – which we believe are the right ingredients for a pretty delicious holiday. With direct access to some of the isle’s most sought-after stretches of sand and crystal-clear waters, any one of these hotels will make for an unforgettable experience for visitors seeking to explore the natural beauty of Cuba.
To plan your Caribbean escape today, contact our specialist team on 0207 071 3636 and we’ll get to work tailoring your next tropical retreat.
Love Cuba is the UK’s #1 Cuba holiday specialist, and multi British travel award winners.
For more information on Cuba holidays, Multi Centre Cuba Holidays, Cuba City & Beach Holidays, Cuba Beach Holidays or Tailor Made Cuba Holidays please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team of Cuba holiday specialists on 0207 071 3636 or email enquiries@lovecuba.com