22 Best Things to Do in Varadero, Cuba (and 2 You Should Avoid)

Varadero is often one of the first places travelers hear about when planning a trip to Cuba. While it’s best known for its long stretch of beach resorts, there are still plenty of worthwhile things to do in Varadero if you know where to look.

Beyond the popular Varadero beaches, you’ll find a mix of natural spots, cultural sites, and laid-back activities. Although it’s more touristy than other parts of Cuba, some Varadero attractions are worth visiting, especially if you enjoy a slower pace.

If you’re curious about the best things to see in Varadero, we’ve put together a list that covers both the highlights and a few lesser-known spots. Here’s what you can expect when exploring this part of Cuba.

The Best Things to Do in Varadero, Cuba

So are you ready to explore all of the best things to do in Varadero? We're going to share all of the highlights, and tell you what we think is worth visiting, and what we'd personally skip on.

Relax on Varadero Beach

It might be obvious, but relaxing on Varadero Beach is still one of the top things to do while visiting Varadero. The water is calm and clear, and the white sand stretches for miles. It's a great spot to unwind, even if parts of it can get crowded near the big resorts.

Pro Tip: Go further down the peninsula for more secluded beach spots.

Snorkel or Dive at Coral Beach

If you’re into snorkeling or diving, Coral Beach (Playa Coral) offers colorful reefs not too far from shore. It’s not the most pristine coral you’ll ever see, but it's a fun and easy way to explore marine life close to Varadero.

Snorkel at Cayo Piedra Underwater Park

Looking for something a bit more adventurous than Coral Beach? Well, this underwater park is home to sunken ships and colorful fish, making it one of the most unique areas to explore around Varadero.

Take a Catamaran Trip to Cayo Blanco

Looking for one of the best areas of Varadero? There are day trips to Cayo Blanco, a small island with beautiful beaches. These usually include a catamaran ride, lunch, and some snorkeling stops.

We honestly skipped this one because it was outrageously expensive for Cuban standards, and we learned that the company doesn't even allow Cubans to join the catamarans since it is government-run and only for tourists.

While we didn't find it ethically-correct to join the catamaran tour, we'd definitely recommend seeing if you can find a locally-owned boat ride to visit this gorgeous area.

Enjoy a Sunset Sail

Varadero has some spectacular sunsets, and one of the best ways to enjoy them is out at sea. A sunset sail along the Varadero coastline is a relaxing way to end the day, and some tours include drinks and live music onboard.

Check out Cueva de Ambrosio

Looking for some unique spots that highlight the cool nature and history of the area? Well, one of the top things to do in Varadero is to visit Ambrosio Cave, which is home to special geological formations, ancient art, and a big population of bats!

Visit Cueva de Saturno

Just outside Varadero, Saturn Cave (Cueva de Saturno) is a natural cave with a deep, clear swimming hole. It's great for a refreshing dip and a nice break from the beach scene. Located just 20 minutes from Varadero, this was definitely one of the top highlights for us.

Day Trip to Matanzas and Bellamar Caves

If you're looking for a bigger adventure, take a day trip to Matanzas, known as the "Athens of Cuba" for its cultural heritage. Nearby you'll also find Bellamar Caves, which offer impressive underground formations. There are also tours that include. both Bellamar and Saturn Caves, to complete a fun day trip from Varadero.

Explore Yumurí Valley

While you're visiting Matanzas don't miss out on the nearby Yumuri Valley, which offers some great outdoor adventures. Whether you're in the mood for hiking, horseback riding, or boat rides along the river, this area is a peaceful contrast to the beaches, and makes for an excellent area to spend a few hours.

Adventure at Rio Canimar Park

Right between Matanzas and Saturn Cave is Rio Canimark Park, a nature reserve located right on the river. The most popular activity here is to rent a motor boat and self-drive along the river- definitely one of the most fun and unique things to do in Varadero!

Browse the Markets

One of the best things to do in Varadero to connect with locals and contribute to the hardworking people of the area is to go to the different craft markets.

There are a few of them around Varadero, and they have some incredible products to take home! Whether you're looking for handmade crochet dresses or hand-carved wood creations, there is something for everyone at the markets here! Just remember to bring some cash with you.

Explore Varahicacos Ecological Reserve

For a change of pace, head to Varahicacos Ecological Reserve. It’s a small but interesting nature preserve with short walking trails, cactus gardens, and even a cave with ancient drawings.

Wander Through Josone Park

Right in town, Josone Park offers a peaceful setting in Varadero with gardens, ponds, and paddle boats. It may be small, but it's the perfect spot for a quiet afternoon if you're looking for something low-key in the area.

Don't have time to read the whole article and want to save it for later? Just pin it!

Visit Museo Municipal de Varadero

This small museum is set in a historic beach house and offers a glimpse into the history of Varadero and its early development as a tourist town.

Explore Cárdenas

If you want to see a more authentic Cuban town, Cárdenas is just a short drive away. It’s a little gritty, but it's full of character, and you’ll find fewer tourists, making for a unique place to check out outside Varadero.

Enjoy Local Shows at the Varadero Cultural Center

Varadero has several venues offering live music and cabaret shows. While they’re designed for tourists, some performances are lively and showcase Cuban rhythms and dance- making for a fun night out!

Stop by Casa del Chocolate

Looking to satisfy your sweet tooth? Head over to Casa del Chocolate for some chocolatey treats!

Relax at a Spa

Many resorts in Varadero have on-site spas offering massages and wellness treatments. It’s an easy way to treat yourself during your stay, and one of the best things to do in Varadero to relax during your visit.

Play Around at Parque Acuatico

If you're planning to travel to Varadero with kids, then Parque Aquatico is a great option. While you hang out and relax at the beach they can enjoy a fun aquatic park with inflatable slides and obstacle courses.

The park is open from 9:30-4:30 and tickets are for 40 minutes. It's 300 CUP for kids 4-11, and 600 CUP for anyone 12+.

Tour the Casa Dupont (Xanadu Mansion)

Originally built by a wealthy French-American, this old mansion dates back to 1927, and has been converted into a hotel and restaurant. It’s worth visiting the estate for the views alone, but you can also grab a drink at the bar overlooking the ocean.

Go Golfing

If you love golfing then you're in for a treat - right in the heart of Varadero is the Varadero Golf Club. Part of Xanadu Mansion, this course offers several packages, and has special discounts if you are also staying at the hotel.

Visit Havana for a Day

If you are flying straight in and out of Varadero, Havana may not have been on your itinerary. But being just a two-hour drive from Varadero, it is well worth a visit if you have the time! 

Walking the old city streets of Havana provides a completely different experience from Varadero's resort atmosphere, and has so many beautiful areas to visit.

Things NOT to Do in Varadero

While there are plenty of things to do in Varadero that are worth it, there are also a couple of things that we don't necessarily recommend.

 Delfinario

There's honestly nothing worse than dolphin excursions in the Caribbean! While you may think it's cute, these poor animals are being abused for human entertainment. Please please please do not go to Delfinario- there are plenty of other great things to do in Varadero for the whole family!

Horseback Riding

Some resorts and local tours offer horseback rides along the beach or through rural areas outside of Varadero. While it may seem like a fun way to explore the area, it's really not something pleasant for the horses- remember that it's very hot in the Caribbean, and exploiting animals in the heat is definitely not one of the animal encounters we support.

So are you ready to explore all of the top things to do in Varadero? We hope this guide helps you plan a fun beach getaway in Cuba's most popular resort town.

Want to learn more about traveling throughout Cuba? We have a ton of other Cuba Travel Guides, as well as plenty of others coming up! Make sure to subscribe to our newsletter so you can get all of our most recent article updates, as well as exclusive content saved just for our subscribers.

Ready to start planning your trip to Cuba but need more help? Now with Scratch Your Mapa Travel Planning you can sit back and relax while we take care of the hard part. Want more info? Take a peak at some of our travel planning packages, or email us to get started today.

Here are some other articles you'll love: