Cuba Beach Vacation Tips: Your Ultimate Guide To A Dreamy Trip

If you’re dreaming of a tropical escape, Cuba should definitely be on your radar. Beyond its stunning beaches that boast endless stretches of white sand and crystal-clear waters, the island is steeped in rich culture, history, and vibrant local life. Cuba offers something for everyone, whether you’re lounging in the sun, exploring colonial architecture, or immersing yourself in the local life. With a wide array of activities and experiences to enjoy, this guide will give you essential Cuba beach vacation tips to make the most of your time in this Caribbean paradise.

Cuba Quick Info Guide: Basic Info To Know

Language: Spanish

Capital city: Havana

Currency: the national currency is the Cuban Peso CUP, but in the tourism sector, CUC is used. It is known as Peso Convertible and is worth approx. one USD.

Visa: Traveling to Cuba has become a lot easier and safer in recent years. Starting in the 1960s, American leaders began to restrict travel to Cuba as a result of Fidel Castro’s rise to power. In the early 2000s, government officials worked to repair the country’s relationship with Cuba. In 2016, travel for United States citizens was restored. Nowadays, it is required for Americans to have a passport with at least 6 months of validity at the time of travel, along with a round-trip ticket.

Additionally, passports must have two empty pages for entry and exit stamps. Moreover, you need to have travel insurance. The last step of travel is acquiring a travel visa, the tarjeta de turista, that can be arranged through the Cuban consulate or a travel agent. Non-US travelers have similar entry requirements but must check them according to your nationality/residency.

Safety: Cuba is a relatively safe country to visit, even for single women and families with kids, but travelers should take precautions during their trips. Criminality rates in tourist areas are low, and individuals are not likely to be exposed to major crimes; they could fall victim to minor crimes such as currency scams, pickpocketing, and theft of personal belongings and money from suitcases. Additionally, other threats to one’s health consist of unsafe tap water, mosquito-borne illnesses, and dangerous driving conditions. While these safety issues exist, they are relatively avoidable if tourists take preventative action and are aware of their surroundings when vacationing in Cuba.

Why Is Cuba A Good Beach Vacation Destination?

Cuba is a beautiful country with a varied landscape that includes impressive historical sites, mountains, pine forests, and tobacco farms, but the most enticing aspect of it is definitely the beaches. People travel from all over the world here to experience them.

A beach vacation in Cuba is restful for a variety of reasons. You find here numerous fantastic beaches to relax under palm trees, play in the soft sand, or explore the undersea world while snorkeling in the clear, warm waters of the Caribbean Sea.

What beach lovers love the most about Cuba is that the country has a perfect beach for everyone. Whether you prefer a remote spot with privacy or a vibrant shoreline with activities and facilities, you will find paradise here. A Cuba holiday is a fantastic choice for anyone looking for an escape!

5 Best Beaches in Cuba: Must-Visit Shorelines

This paradise island offers endless beaches for travelers to visit. Some of Cuba’s beaches, like the famous Varadero or Paradise, are often mentioned among the world’s best beaches, with good reason. The list of the best beaches in Cuba is endless because they are all special and unique in a certain way, but let’s start now with the five most beautiful ones!

Varadero Beach

Stretching along the Peninsula de Hicacos on the north coast, Varadero Beach is a popular palm-fringed strip with magnificent white sand that draws visitors from all over the world, including rich high-rollers.

In addition to a breathtaking coastline, there is so much to do here: you can visit the nearby nature reserve here (Parque Natural Punta Hicacos), see large parks, explore caves, go snorkeling and diving or explore an abundance of museums. One notable attraction here is the Havana 60 Classic Car Tour. Additionally, there are also great restaurants nearby where you can taste the fantastic Cuban cuisine. Varadero is truly a place to be!

Playa Paraiso

Playa Paraiso on the island of Cayo Largo del Sur (known as Paradise Beach too) is a not-to-miss-out spot when in Cuba. Like Varadero Beach, this area has powdery white sand and baby-blue waters but is a bit more secluded and truly a sun seeker’s destination.

You can walk on the soft sand and play in the calm waters for hours without getting bored; you don’t witness such natural beauty every day! This beach is excellent for having a picnic with your loved one or kids. However, there aren’t many restaurants nearby, so be prepared to bring a packed lunch and cold drinks.

Cayos Blancos

Tucked away off Cuba’s northern coast, Cayos Blancos is a hidden gem that offers a slice of paradise for those seeking serenity and natural beauty. A short boat ride from the popular Varadero region, this unspoiled archipelago is known for its powdery white sand beaches and shimmering turquoise waters that seem to stretch on forever.

What sets Cayos Blancos apart is its sense of seclusion—there are no large resorts or crowds here, just pristine nature at its finest. Whether you’re lounging under the shade of a palm tree, snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, or exploring the small islands on foot, Cayos Blancos delivers a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience perfect for anyone wanting to escape the usual tourist scene.

Playa Pilar

Playa Pilar is another exotic beach in the Cayo Guillermo Province. If you happen to be on Cayo Coco, take a few hours to visit this wonderful area that is said to be one of the best beaches in Cuba with good reason. The area is a national park (Parque Nacional de Cayo Guillermo), so the wonderful views and amazing waters are guaranteed.

There are a few great hotels around and also good restaurants. The most popular is the Ranchon Cuba Libre, which offers generous portions at affordable prices. Coco Loco is a nearby bar that serves a wide variety of cocktails that are perfect for enjoying while lounging on the beach. Additionally, there is a water sports center where tourists can rent equipment for excursions.

Cayo Santa Maria

Cayos Santa María is a true gem on Cuba’s northern coast, offering some of the most stunning beaches the island has to offer. With its powdery white sands, gentle turquoise waters, and an overall sense of seclusion, it’s the perfect escape for those looking to unwind in paradise. The archipelago is part of a larger biosphere reserve, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers.

This picturesque place features some of Cuba’s best beach hotels like the Playa Cayo Santa Maria or Melia Buenavista. Therefore, it is a top spot for a family beach vacation in Cuba with something to do for everyone: there are spas, restaurants, and water activities like snorkeling and diving. No matter how you want to spend the day, getting bored is not an option here!

Top Beach Activities In Cuba

Thanks to the superb year-round weather and warm sea temperatures, you will have the opportunity to enjoy various water sports when vacationing in Cuba. Let’s see now what beach activities you should not miss out on!

Snorkeling

Who doesn’t love swimming among colorful fish and observing fascinating sea creatures? Well, in Cuba, you will be in the right place to explore the beauty of the undersea world! There are many beaches that offer excellent offshore snorkeling with crystal clear waters and beautiful coral reefs, but if you feel like it, you can sign up for a half-day or full-day boat snorkel trip, too!

Diving

If you wish to go deeper, then go diving too! Cuba is famous for its excellent dive sites, which have shipwrecks, caves, sharks, and rare coral colonies. Diving centers can be found along all main beaches where not only trips but also equipment rental and courses are offered. The incredible Cuban marine life is waiting for you to explore it; let’s dive in!

Fishing

Fishing has become increasingly popular in Cuba lately. The Caribbean Sea provides a variety of catches that are different in each season depending on the migration patterns. Moreover, visitors can try freshwater fishing in the country’s rivers and lagoons, which is also a fantastic outdoor activity.

Surfing

Cuba may not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of surfing, but it offers some fantastic, often overlooked spots for those in search of waves. The island’s northern coast, particularly around Playa Jibacoa and Playa Santa Lucia, offers consistent swells and relatively uncrowded breaks, perfect for beginners surfers.

The crystal-clear waters and dramatic coastal scenery add to the allure, providing a unique surfing experience. Whether you’re carving up the waves or simply soaking in the laid-back beach vibe, Cuba’s surf scene is a hidden treasure waiting to be discovered by adventurous riders

What Is The Best Time To Travel To Cuba For A Beach Vacation?

The good news is Cuba can be visited in any season depending on what activities you look for and which part of the country you like to visit. It enjoys a tropical climate with a relatively cool dry season from the end of November to mid-April and a rainy season from late April to early November. During this time, the daytime temperatures exceed 33°C/93 °F, and there is often intense rain that causes muggy heat everywhere.

From August to October, the risk of hurricanes is the highest. However, they are not frequent; the island is usually affected only by thunderstorms, mostly on its eastern part.

So then, when is the best time to visit Cuba to enjoy its beaches? In short, the sweet spot for a Cuba trip is from November to April, with November to mid-December and late April to early May being the most pleasant and less crowded times to go.

To check the current water temperatures, visit seatemperature.org.

How Much Does A Cuba Beach Vacation Cost?

Cuba is one of those Caribbean islands that is known to be affordable. Naturally, the cost of a beach vacation in Cuba depends on the resort you stay at and the activities involved, but here, it is easy to find places and programs that fit any budget, so if you ask if Cuba is expensive to visit, we say it can be done on a budget, but it is not difficult to find luxury that here actually costs less than at other places.

Of course, the popular resort areas work with high ‘tourist’ prices, whether it is accommodation or food, so expect to pay more if you decide to stay there. Should you go for the budget option, stay at family-owned bed and breakfasts and eat in local restaurants where you can taste more of the diverse Cuban cuisine.

Note that there are almost no ATMS in Cuba. Moreover, American credit and debit cards often do not work. Therefore, be sure to bring lots of cash for any expected or anticipated purchases. Tipping is another vital aspect of Cuban life. Always be sure to tip Cubans who help you during your Cuba beach vacation.

See below a rough guide on the daily budget per person (including accommodation and meals but excluding flights and transportation):

Where To Stay In Cuba: Accommodation Options You Can Choose

Cuba is a destination that features top beach resorts and decent hotels, but staying at private homes is also very common and gives a more authentic holiday experience. These so-called casas particulares (usually a double room with a private bathroom) offer a more local experience and allow you to see the real Cuban lifestyle. They are also cheaper than hotels and on top of this, for a small extra fee, many can be booked with meals included too.

Still, most tourists tend to choose hotels over local homestays for a simple reason: Cubans work mostly via phone and only a few casas particulares are listed on booking sites, therefore making a reservation at one is difficult, but not impossible. The easiest is asking for contact information from people who already visited Cuba and stayed at such places, or find recommendations on forums, then email or call them directly.

The cost of accommodation is always the biggest part of the holiday budget, so if you want to get value for your money, you are in the right place in Cuba. Of course, the popular areas have the highest accommodation prices, but they are still better than other popular Caribbean islands. Generally, Havana and Varadero are the most expensive along Trinidad and Santiago, while Baracoa and Cienfuegos are cheaper.

Average accommodation prices per night in Cuba:
Private room/casas particulares: 25-35 USD
Average hotel: 80-150 USD
5-star resort/luxury hotel: 200-400 USD

While it’s not strictly required to have your accommodation booked in advance to travel to Cuba, it’s highly recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons (November to April). Also, remember that while tourists can technically book accommodations once in Cuba, having a pre-arranged stay ensures you’re complying with the country’s tourist regulations; you might be asked to provide proof of accommodation upon entry, whether at a hotel or casa particular. To book your stay, choose a reliable booking website with 24/7 customer support so you can get help if needed! (We have good experience with Expedia.com and Booking.com)

Beach Etiquette In Cuba: Things To Keep In Mind

It is essential to be aware of the local etiquette to have a pleasant vacation in Cuba. The dress code is casual; shorts and bikinis are commonplace at the beach, especially in resort areas with many tourists. There isn’t so much information from the government side regarding clothing-optional sunbathing in Cuba, but Cubans don’t do it. However, in some places, for example, in Cayo Largo, Cayo Ensenachos, and Cayo Santa Maria, it is accepted to go topless or even nude, but always check the rules on the spot.

Be sure to wear modest clothing when not at the beach. Additionally, Cubans are highly courteous and value restaurant etiquette. It is important not to wear your hat or swimsuit at the dinner table! Women should dress up moderately, not provocatively. 

When visiting Cuba beaches, help to keep the environment clean and pick up garbage, glass or cigarette butts around your lounge chairs. Do not hog your lounge chairs or take photos of other people on the beach.

Food And Drink Specialties To Try In Cuba

If I had to describe how is the food in Cuba in two words, I would say it is good and cheap! Cuban cuisine has many dishes of Spanish origin but are prepared in the Cuban way, which means the chefs always add some extras, so the result is a lot tastier, always unique, making with very fresh ingredients.

If you want to experience the best Cuban dishes along with the most delicious drinks, our tip is to skip the state-run restaurants and eat in paladares. These are privately owned restaurants, often located in people’s homes or small, independently operated spaces. They provide a more personal and authentic dining experience compared to and can give you the opportunity to try homemade Cuban food, often with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.

Churros

This deep-fried dough is found anywhere in Cuba and can be savory and sweet, too. Typically, it is served sprinkled with sugar as a dessert, but also for breakfast, along with a cup of hot chocolate. Such a perfect way to start the day!

Cuban Sandwich

Can you imagine something more authentic than eating a real Cuban sandwich when in Cuba? Although it is similar to what you can buy in Miami Florida, but the fresh local ingredients (Cuban bread filled with ham, sliced roast pork, cheese, pickles, and mustard) make it super delicious!

Tamales

Tamales is one of the simplest yet delicious Cuban foods you must try! Stuff ground corn and seasonings in corn leaves, cook and serve, that’s it! Using just these few fresh ingredients, Cubans know how to turn a few simple ingredients into a tasty snack!

Paella

Cubans have their own version of the famous Spanish dish, paella. It has saffron-flavored rice with meat (chorizo, chicken, ham) and seafood (shrimp, lobster, shellfish). In Cuba, paella is usually served in ceramic dishes, not in a flat metal pan like in Spain.

Seafood In Coconut Sauce

This Cuban dish is typical in Guantanamo Province, Baracoa. Seafood (usually shrimp, but it can be lobster, too) is cooked in a tomato-coconut milk sauce and served with rice. Yumm!

Yuca con Molo

Cuba’s national dish is the cooked and sautéed cassava, the Yuca con Molo, which is usually the side dish of roast pork. After peeling the yuca (cassava), they cook it with garlic. When it’s ready, they mash it and then mix it with salt, pepper, butter, and milk until they get a creamy result. An absolute must-try!

Mojito

You might think it is easy to find a good Mojito anywhere in the world, but nothing is as good as an authentic Cuban Mojito. This popular cocktail is made up of rum, lemon or lime, mint, and mineral water. Originally, it was made a predecessor of rum, a cane brandy, and its story goes back to the 16th century. At that time, it was named El Draque after Francis Drake, English pirate. The name Mojito came in the 19th century when a ‘little mojo’, pieces of lime were added to the recipe. There is no doubt that drinking a Mojito (or 2-3) must be one of your Cuba beach vacation things to do!