Best Cuba beaches

Fling off your flip-flops, grab a towel, a good book, and collapse onto soft sands next to the Caribbean. From tiny tropical islands to vast white beaches, hidden bays and untamed coves, Cuba’s beaches are stunning. Ranked among the best in the world, these blissful beach escapes hit all the right buttons. Here’s a little selection of our favourites.

Cayo Levisa Island

A dreamy little Caribbean island, Cayo Levisa is a great alternative for those seeking something on a smaller scale to the large resorts. With a small complex of rustic wooden cabañas scattered across a perfect white beach, it’s all about the simple bare necessities.

Baracoa

Cuba’s most remote region, Baracoa is on the eastern tip and was cut off from the rest of the island until the ’60s. The culture and cuisine here are unique, and the black sand beaches are wind-swept, wild and fit to burst with romance. Beautifully abandoned, you’ll feel as though you have the coastline all to yourself.

Varadero

If you’re looking for something authentically Cuban, then this isn’t really it. However, Varadero boasts one of the world’s best and most famous beaches, clear waters and some of the most popular all-inclusive resorts in the country. For something more local, you can also stay in a casa particular outside of Varadero town.

Boca de Camarioca

You won’t find any big all-inclusive hotels here at Boca de Camarioca, and the beach is fairly small with a few umbrellas and a little bar serving cold beer and seafood. This is a genuine Cuban coastal town which is yet to be fully discovered by mainstream tourism. You’ll find a relaxed atmosphere, a couple of nice restaurants and a location just a short ride from the bright lights and long beaches of Varadero.

Maria la Gorda

Located in the far western tip of Cuba, this is widely regarded as the country’s best diving spot. The accommodation options are on the basic side, and it lacks many of the big resort facilities you’ll find elsewhere, but the area is beautiful to explore if you have a hire car.

Playa Larga

A great ‘off the beaten track’ option for the more intrepid traveller, you won’t find much in the way of all-inclusive resorts here. The beach is rugged, yet relaxing and is situated in the Zapata National Park, meaning there are some great options for nature lovers within reach, including bird watching and diving.

Playa Pesquero

The slightly quieter, more upmarket neighbour to Guardalavaca. The beach here in Playa Pesquero is stunning and has excellent snorkelling spots. You’ll also find good hiking trails nearby if you’re feeling active, and some interesting little towns within driving distance if you fancy seeing some of the real Cuba.

For even more Cuba travel tips, head to our inspiration page below.