Things To Do
in Varadero
Varadero is a sun-soaked resort town on Cuba's Hicacos Peninsula, renowned for its long, powdery beaches and turquoise Caribbean waters. The area blends all-inclusive hotels with opportunities to experience authentic Cuban culture, music, and cuisine just beyond the sand. Visitors come for water sports, sunbathing, and relaxed evenings, while nature reserves and palm-lined promenades offer quiet escapes.
With warm Cuban hospitality and scenic coastlines, Varadero invites both carefree beach days and gentle cultural explorations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the soft, white sands of Varadero Beach as the sun rises over the turquoise waters. Enjoy the gentle sound of waves lapping at the shore while sipping on a refreshing coconut water from a local vendor. Take a moment to soak in the vibrant colors of the sky and perhaps capture some stunning photos.
After a leisurely morning, indulge in a delicious seafood lunch at a beachside restaurant, where you can try the local grilled lobster or fish. Spend the afternoon lounging on the beach or engaging in thrilling water sports like jet skiing or parasailing for an adrenaline rush. As the sun begins to set, consider taking a swim in the warm Caribbean waters to cool off.
As night falls, enjoy a romantic dinner at one of Varadero's renowned restaurants, where you can savor traditional Cuban dishes paired with a local rum cocktail. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, lit by the moonlight, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Conclude your evening by visiting a local bar for some live music and dancing to the rhythms of salsa.
Begin your cultural journey with a visit to the nearby Josone Park, where you can stroll through beautifully manicured gardens and admire the vibrant flora. Explore the small lake at the center of the park, perhaps renting a pedal boat to enjoy the serene surroundings. Take a moment to relax at one of the quaint cafes within the park for a traditional Cuban coffee.
Head over to the Varadero Craft Market for an afternoon of shopping, where you can find handmade souvenirs, local art, and traditional Cuban crafts. Engage with local artisans, learning about their techniques and the stories behind their creations. After shopping, treat yourself to lunch at a local eatery, sampling Cuban sandwiches and fresh fruit juices.
In the evening, immerse yourself in the local culture by attending a performance of traditional Cuban music and dance at a local venue. The lively atmosphere and infectious rhythms will make it impossible to stay seated, so be prepared to join in the fun. After the show, unwind at a nearby bar with a mojito in hand, soaking in the vibrant nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-15 |
| 🏨Hotel night (mid-range double room) | $60-120 |
| ☕Coffee or pastry | $2-4 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride | $5-10 |
| 🧳Souvenir or snack | $3-12 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- World-class beaches and crystal-clear water
- Friendly locals and vibrant music scene
- Wide range of all-inclusive resorts and easy access to nature
- Convenient gateway to Cuban culture and seafood-focused cuisine
- Currency complexities and variable card acceptance in some places
- Limited authentic experiences outside tourist zones
- Prices can be higher during peak travel seasons
- Hurricane season brings potential weather disruptions
- "¿Dónde está el baño?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "¿Puede recomendarme un buen restaurante?" - Can you recommend a good restaurant?
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Con permiso" - Excuse me / pardon me
Places to Visit in Varadero
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide, powdery shoreline with soft light and long horizons—ideal for sunrise silhouettes and seascapes.
Dramatic coastlines, glistening water, and accessible caves—great for landscape and nature photography.
Lush gardens, cute bridges, and reflections on the pond—perfect for nature and family photography.
Harbor views with boats, yachts, and dusky skies—an atmospheric spot for evening financial and lifestyle shots.
Food in Varadero
Varadero Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting one-pot dish of saffron-inflected rice with tender chicken, peppers, and peas, commonly found in Cuban homes and eateries.
Must-Try!
Black beans and white rice combined and seasoned, a staple side or base for meats and fried plantains.
Shredded beef in a tomato-pepper sauce, typically served with rice and beans.
Ground beef with olives, raisins, and a tomato-based sauce, often served with rice.
Boiled cassava (yuca) with a garlicky mojo sauce, a common side dish.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Local market offering fresh fruit, vegetables, snacks, and occasional prepared bites; a good place to sample everyday Cuban fare.
Casual stalls and carts offering croquetas, tostones, fried fish, grilled seafood, and other quick bites.
Bright stalls selling mango, pineapple, papaya, and other tropical fruit—great for a fresh, on-the-go snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a friendly 'Buenos días' or 'Buenas tardes.' A handshake is common; smile and be courteous in conversation.
Ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural or intimate settings; a respectful approach earns goodwill.
Light, casual attire is fine for beachfront areas; modest dress in urban or village settings is appreciated. Avoid loud political discussions in public.
Safety
Tipping in Varadero
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in tourist areas: 1–2 USD for housekeeping per day, 1–2 USD per drink or round at bars, and 5–10% for waitstaff in restaurants. Consider rounding up taxi fares as a courtesy.
Cash is widely used; many places accept Cuban pesos (CUP) or convertible pesos (CUC) depending on the establishment. Credit cards are sometimes accepted at larger hotels and select tourist facilities, but not universally. Bring small denominations and be prepared for cash-only situations in some local spots; ATMs may be limited, and card acceptance can vary.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant temperatures, lower rainfall, and comfortable humidity. Ideal for beach days, snorkeling, and outdoor activities with less rain disruption.
Hot and humid with frequent afternoon showers; higher risk of tropical storms or hurricanes, especially Aug–Oct. Plan flexibility for outdoor plans and carry rain gear.
Varadero at Night
Hiking in Varadero
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal trail along the cape with viewpoints, wildlife viewing, and access to caves within the reserve.
Dune area offering easy walking routes and sea views; suitable for short nature strolls.
Airports
How to reach Varadero by plane.
International airport near Varadero, located in Matanzas; commonly used by visitors to reach Varadero by car or shuttle in about 30–40 minutes.
Main international gateway for Havana; a longer drive to Varadero (approximately 2–3 hours depending on traffic and routes).
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Cuban families and workers who support the tourism economy; many are multilingual and hospitable to visitors.
Tourists from Canada, Europe, Latin America, and other regions; resort staff and local guides who cater to international guests.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Cuba; local leagues and casual play are common throughout towns.
Widely followed and played, with local clubs and informal games on beaches and streets.
Snorkeling, scuba diving, windsurfing, and kayaking are popular along Varadero’s coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Varadero.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist, but outside resort buffets selections can be limited. Look for beans, rice, plantains, yuca, and salads; request vegetables or seafood dishes without meat, and use phrases like 'Sin carne, por favor' (No meat, please). Paladares and resort buffets typically offer vegetarian choices.