Nr. 1: Varadero
One of the best-known beaches in Cuba, it is located near the capital, Havana, so it is very convenient for those who want to savor both Cuban daily life and the feeling of sea-sand-sun. Varadero is located on a peninsula and has a 20 km long white sand beach.
The second largest airport in the country is also located at the entrance to the city.
The peninsula is safe, comfortable and hygienic. The beach began to develop at the beginning of the 20th century when some families from Cárdenas built vacation homes here. Since then many foreign investors have arrived and more and more hotels are opening during these days as well. The location is perfect for a family vacation with countless different water sports activities.
Not to be missed is Villa Xanadu, which was built in 1929 for Alfred Dupont, a chemical engineer from the US Now the most elegant restaurant in Varadero (Las Américas) operates here and is surrounded by beautiful gardens and golf courses.
Nr. 2: Cayo Coco
One of the beautiful islands of the group of islands called Jardines del Rey (Garden of the Kings) in the province of Ciego de Avila, near the north coast of Cuba. The key named after a local bird is like paradise with crystal clear water. Cayo Coco is connected to the main island of Cuba with a 27 km long highway.
It is the perfect island for nature lovers and those who only need the sea, the sun and the natural silence during their vacations. Cayo Coco is very important to the Cuban government that would like to support the development of ecotourism. Some interesting places on the island are the Parador la Silla (ideal for spotting flamingos from April to November); Playa Prohibida (peace and quiet, no buildings, just nature); Playa los Flamencos (shallow and clean waters, 35,000 flamingos live nearby).
Nr. 3: Cayo Guillermo
One of the best beaches in Cuba, Playa Pilar is located on Cayo Guillermo, another Jardines del Rey island next to Cayo Coco. Playa Pilar got its name from Ernest Hemingway’s yacht. The highest sand dunes in the country are also found in Cayo Guillermo.
The island specializes in deep-sea fishing and is also perfect for divers, as a long coral reef protects it.
Nr. 4: Cayo Largo del Sur
This island is located in the south of Cuba. This small island is only 25 kilometers long and 3 kilometers wide. It is a true jewel of the country with the stunning beaches and greenish blue water. In the depths, divers will find the remains of 16th century ships.
No. 5: Guardalavaca
The Guardalavaca beaches (Playa Guardalavaca and Playa Esmeralda), located in the province of Holguín are very famous among divers. The seabed is full of caves, hills, valleys and different coral formations. The part around Guardalavaca Beach is the oldest with a village feeling. The other part, around Playa Esmeralda, is the newest with elegant hotels.