Overview: Cuba's premier beach resort and tourist Mecca, Varadero, is
situated on a spit of land that reaches out into the Atlantic, a
two-hour drive to the east of Havana. Varadero is internationally
known for its transparent waters and beautiful setting and is the
largest resort complex in the Caribbean, with more than 50 hotels.
Growing numbers of sun-seeking European, Canadian and American
tourists flock here for the warm aquamarine waters, sun and fun
that are afforded by all-inclusive packages. There are 23
world-renowned dive spots along this 13-mile (21km) stretch of
beach, not to mention numerous restaurants, cabaret spots,
nightclubs, water and land sport opportunities, skydiving centre,
golf courses, and much more.
Shopping: Varadero's largest shopping complex is Plaza America where fancy
boutiques and all manner of shops cater to American-style
consumerism. There are a number of artisan markets that sell a wide
variety of souvenirs along Avenue 1. For cigars the Casa del Habano
sells excellent quality cigars.
Restaurants: Most tourists take advantage of the all-inclusive tourist
packages offered by the hotel complexes where food is served
buffet-style, and many of these hotels offer their buffets to
non-guests as well. Outside of the resorts there are various
options. Private restaurants (paladares) in people's houses are not
allowed in Valadero and all restaurants are government-owned. In
Varadero town there is everything from market food stalls and fast
food outlets to sit-down restaurants.
Nightlife: There are many bars offering live music, cabaret shows are
popular, and dance clubs and discos in the town cater to Cubans and
tourists alike. The hotels have nightly entertainment, with lots of
Cuban music, dancing and cocktails on offer.
Activities: There are over 30 dive sites around Varadero and dive centres
offering dive courses. Deep sea fishing, windsurfing, parasailing,
kayaking and sailing are all offered. Land-based activities include
golf, skydiving and bowling.
Negatives: This is not the real Cuba, but an attempt to gain hard currency
by selling the very beautiful white sand beaches in a controlled
tourist environment. The resort is largely exclusive and Cubans are
generally not allowed to stay in the hotels. Many visitors do not
stray far from their package tour hotels, and miss out on many
opportunities to explore the town.
Travel Companies
Hike, bike and kayak your way around Cuba, or simply chill out
on one of our 8 or 15-day Cuban adventures.
Subscribe to Word Travels Professional: Email and print off customised travel guides for your clients.
Brand this guide with your logo and contact details.
Word Travels includes authorative and reliable information on thousands of destinations.
More info Apply for a free trial
