Varadero
Where turquoise water meets timeless Cuban soul
From
$799
per person
About Varadero
Varadero is Cuba's crown jewel — a 20km peninsula of talcum-powder sand and translucent turquoise water. Home to 50+ all-inclusive resorts, it's the most popular beach destination in the Caribbean for Canadian travellers.
It's the most popular beach destination in the Caribbean for Canadian travellers.
The water stays 28–30°C year-round, with no jellyfish season to worry about. May is ideal — rainy season hasn't begun, crowds are thinner, and prices are at their best.
What to Experience
Snorkelling
Clear reef
from $35
Old Havana day trip
Full day
from $75
Catamaran cruise
Sunset sail
from $55
Golf at Varadero
18-hole course
from $90
Weather in May
Top Resorts
Meliá Las Americas
Adults only · 5-star
$1,899
/couple 7 nights
Blau Varadero
Adults only · 5-star
$2,049
/couple 7 nights
Meliá Las Americas
Adults only · 5-star
$1,899
/couple 7 nights
Traveller Tips
Bring Cuban convertible pesos
Most resorts are cashless but local vendors, taxis, and tips work best in CUP. Exchange at the airport.
Book beach beds early
Chair reservations fill up fast. Get to the beach by 9am or ask your concierge to pre-book the night before.
UV is intense in May
SPF 50+ and a rashguard for snorkelling. The midday sun (11am–2pm) burns fast on white sand.
What Canadians Say
Sarah K.
Toronto · Meliá Las Americas · May 2024
“Absolutely stunning. The beach here puts any Mexican resort to shame. Water is so clear you can see the bottom at 4m depth. Would go back every year.”
Mike T.
Ottawa · Blau Varadero · April 2024
“Great value for money compared to Mexico or Dominican. Food was surprisingly good — way better than we expected from Cuba. Staff incredibly warm and welcoming.”
Mike T.
Ottawa · Blau Varadero · April 2024
“Great value for money compared to Mexico or Dominican. Food was surprisingly good — way better than we expected from Cuba. Staff incredibly warm and welcoming.”
Ready for Varadero?
Prices just dropped. Spots filling for May long weekend.