Cuba Beaches Holidays

As the Caribbean's largest island, you'd expect Cuba beach holidays to follow the lead of smaller Carib neighbours, and thankfully they do, even if Cuban culture is the understandable main draw. Varadero is home to a number of white sandy beaches, and sitting just 100 miles east of Havana, it makes an ideal combination with the capital. Further down Cuba's coast is Cayo Santa Maria, the largest and most northerly caye (island) in its archipelago. Unlike most Cuban islets, visitors avoid the slight tumults that often accompany Cuban ferry crossings - not to put you off, it's all part of the charm - as there is a road that connects the caye with the mainland. Cayo Santa Maria is all about the beach and there are plenty of activities to boot, such as kitesurfing, waterskiing and windsurfing. Beach life continues in the southern tip of Cuba in Guardalavaca - which literally translates as 'guard the cow'. The area is traditionally known for its sugar production, yet its powdery beaches and coral reefs have also helped put it on the map in recent years. Loop round to the other side of the island and reach Trinidad, ideally placed between the Escambray Mountains and the white beaches of Playa Ancon. Stay in Caribbean infused Trinidad and head to sandy stretches of Playa Ancon on a day trip.

Cuba is gifted with an expansive coastline (approximately 3,500 miles long) and its fair share of sun-bleached beaches (430 to be exact) that are waiting to be explored after you’ve ticked off the island’s timeless towns and verdant valleys. Varadero often hogs the limelight when it comes to Cuba’s beaches, and it’s easy to see why; its soft sandy stretches are often ranked among some of the best beaches in the world. Playa Varadero is undoubtedly the most famous and despite its popularity, the picturesque peninsula is expansive enough (at 15 miles long) to accommodate the crowds.

Playa Paraiso, which stretches across Cayo Largo del Sur off Cuba’s southern coast, remains relatively untouched by tourist crowds and its tranquil tone is ideal for disconnecting. Feel the sieved-flour sand between your toes, paddle in the shot-silk waters and enjoy the gentle murmuring of the waves, or plunge beneath them for some of the finest diving experiences in the Caribbean. Beaches can also be found near Trinidad, in central Cuba, and located a few miles from the enchanting town is Playa Ancon, another diving hotspot. Depending on how lively or laid-back you would like your beach stay to be, our travel experts can help select your own pocket of paradise along Cuba’s coastline.